Bo - Reading #3

Bo, בֹּא - Come!

Exodus:10:1-13:16

Reading #3 - Exodus 10:24–11:3

My Thoughts:

With this reading I think about the times Pharaoh is going back on his word. He says he will let them go, then always changes his mind. You may say this is because Hashem “hardened” his heart. And I am sure this is a large part of it all. But, regardless, he is not a man of his word. Today we have many people who are not “people of their word”. We say a lot of things, but we don’t stand behind what we say. In fact, many times, we don’t even do what we promise. How many times have you said, “I will be praying for you”. Only you walk away and never do? Or you say “I will call you soon”. But, you never do. Make sure when you tell someone you are going to do something -- you do it! You are representing Hashem and His faithfulness. Be careful.

Challenge:

In the last verse we see Moses was great in the sight of the people. What made him great? The miracles, his bravery, his strength, perseverance -- what? Maybe all those things. I challenge you today to think about what makes you “great” in the sight of others? What kind of traits do you have that others respect and admire? If you can’t think of many things then maybe it is time to change. Become a “light” to the nations. It is our purpose.

Reading #3 - Exodus 10:24–11:3

24 Pharaoh called to Moses, and said, “Go, serve Hashem. Only let your flocks and your herds stay behind. Let your little ones also go with you.”

25 Moses said, “You must also give into our hand sacrifices and burnt offerings, that we may sacrifice to Hashem our Elohim. 26 Our livestock also shall go with us. Not a hoof shall be left behind, for of it we must take to serve Hashem our Elohim; and we don’t know with what we must serve Hashem, until we come there.”

27 But Hashem hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he wouldn’t let them go. 28 Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me! Be careful to see my face no more; for in the day you see my face you shall die!”

29 Moses said, “You have spoken well. I will see your face again no more.”

11 Hashem said to Moses, “I will bring yet one more plague on Pharaoh, and on Egypt; afterwards he will let you go. When he lets you go, he will surely thrust you out altogether. 2 Speak now in the ears of the people, and let every man ask of his neighbor, and every woman of her neighbor, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold.” 3 Hashem gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh’s servants, and in the sight of the people.

Va'eira - Reading #3

Va'eira  וָאֵרָא - And I Appeared

Torah Portion: Exodus 6:2-9:35

Reading #3 - Exodus 6:29–7:7

My Thoughts:

Hashem tells Moses to go ahead with His plan even though the Pharaoh won’t listen to him. Can you imagine what went through Moses' mind? He already does not feel adequate for the mission and now Hashem is telling him the Pharaoh isn’t going to listen to him. But, most important, we have to realize that Hashem does say He will be with him through it all. Ultimately, it is going to be Hashem delivering the people and not really Moses. Moses is just His instrument. His messenger. So, when Hashem calls you to do the impossible, remember this. It is Hashem working through you -- not you!

Challenge:

We read in 7:2 “Speak what I command you.” Here’s my challenge for today. Listen and look for how Hashem is directing you -- particularly with other people. Pray and listen for His voice. You will know it, it will give you peace. Then as you listen, speak out what you believe He is saying. Take a risk. You will be so amazed. Sometimes I will do this and say, “I think the L-rd is telling me to tell you ...this.” I don’t think it would be wise to say “Thus sayeth the L-rd.” The important part is to start listening to His voice and then tell others what you think He is saying. Give Hashem the glory for the results!

Reading #3 - Exodus 6:29–7:7

6:29 Hashem said to Moses, “I am Hashem. Tell Pharaoh king of Egypt all that I tell you.”

30 Moses said before Hashem, “Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips, and how shall Pharaoh listen to me?”

7 Hashem said to Moses, “Behold, I have made you as God to Pharaoh; and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet. 2 You shall speak all that I command you; and Aaron your brother shall speak to Pharaoh, that he let the children of Israel go out of his land. 3 I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, and multiply my signs and my wonders in the land of Egypt. 4 But Pharaoh will not listen to you, so I will lay my hand on Egypt, and bring out my armies, my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great judgments. 5 The Egyptians shall know that I am Hashem when I stretch out my hand on Egypt, and bring the children of Israel out from among them.”

6 Moses and Aaron did so. As Hashem commanded them, so they did. 7 Moses was eighty years old, and Aaron eighty-three years old, when they spoke to Pharaoh.

Shemot - Reading #3

Shemot, שְׁמוֹת - Names

Torah Portion: Exodus 1:1-6:1

Reading #3 - Exodus 2:11–25

My Thoughts:

Hashem hears our cries. This Scripture today proves it. In verse 24 it says, “Elohim heard their groaning, and Elohim remembered His covenant…”. Sometimes I know we feel like giving up because we don’t think Hashem is going to help us when we are in trouble or fighting a battle. But He does! It is just all in His timing not ours. We must remember this powerful story of His people. They were oppressed and were down trodden, they cried out to Hashem and He heard them. And most importantly, He did something about it! He raised up a deliverer in Moses -- and took them out of their hardship to the Land of milk and honey. Of course, that is another story...

Challenge:

Are you or someone you know going through a really tough time? Cry out to Hashem (pray and seek His face) and ask Him to help you/them. Write your prayer down on paper, and then when He answers you in His very special way -- write down how He blessed you! Maybe keep a prayer journal with other requests and answers. It will become a lifelong blessing and testimony of Elohim and His love for you!

Reading #3 - Exodus 2:11–25

2:11 In those days, when Moses had grown up, he went out to his brothers and saw their burdens. He saw an Egyptian striking a Hebrew, one of his brothers. 12 He looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no one, he killed the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.

13 He went out the second day, and behold, two men of the Hebrews were fighting with each other. He said to him who did the wrong, “Why do you strike your fellow?”

14 He said, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you plan to kill me, as you killed the Egyptian?”

Moses was afraid, and said, “Surely this thing is known.” 15 Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and lived in the land of Midian, and he sat down by a well.

16 Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters. They came and drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father’s flock. 17 The shepherds came and drove them away; but Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock. 18 When they came to Reuel, their father, he said, “How is it that you have returned so early today?”

19 They said, “An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the shepherds, and moreover he drew water for us, and watered the flock.”

20 He said to his daughters, “Where is he? Why is it that you have left the man? Call him, that he may eat bread.”

21 Moses was content to dwell with the man. He gave Moses Zipporah, his daughter. 22 She bore a son, and he named him Gershom, for he said, “I have lived as a foreigner in a foreign land.”

23 In the course of those many days, the king of Egypt died, and the children of Israel sighed because of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up to Elohim because of the bondage. 24 Elohim heard their groaning, and Elohim remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. 25 Elohim saw the children of Israel, and Elohim was concerned about them.

Vayechi - Reading #3

Vayechi, וַיְחִי - And He Lived

Torah Portion: Genesis 47:28-50:26

Reading #3 - Genesis 48:17–22

My Thoughts:

How does Ephraim’s offspring become greater than his brother’s (verse 19)? Ephraim became a powerful tribe in northern Israel -- but in 721 BC this tribe and nine other “northern” tribes lost a war with Syria and were taken away. Eventually this tribe is disbursed and becomes one of the “lost ten tribes”. Read: Britannica Article.

Here is a curious thought. What if the tribe of Ephraim, through dispersion and intermarriage, although assimilated, has become the largest tribe of peoples? What if all over the world, particularly the United Kingdom and the United States -- millions of people with Jewish heritage tied to the tribe of Ephraim -- exist? Some people think this is true. And that this may be the reason for the huge “Messianic Movement” throughout the earth. Many, many thousands of “gentile” people have had a sudden interest in their possible Jewish heritage and have found a certain special attachment to the Torah. It could certainly be an explanation of why some people are leaving churches and forming “Messianic Synagogues''. Maybe Hashem is calling us to get ready to return to Israel -- for the end times. Just a thought.

Challenge:

If you are a gentile, following and studying Torah, I challenge you to examine your ancestry (if you haven’t already done so). If you have older relatives that are alive, ask them about their history and if there are any ties to Judaism. Go on websites like www.ancestry.com and look up your family roots. You may be pleasantly surprised. And if you are like me and can not find any answers, but lots of substantial hints -- just accept that Hashem has called you “out” to find Truth in His Word through the Torah. Be grateful and praise Him.

Reading #3 - Genesis 48:17–22

48:17 When Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand on the head of Ephraim, it displeased him. He held up his father’s hand, to remove it from Ephraim’s head to Manasseh’s head. 18 Joseph said to his father, “Not so, my father, for this is the firstborn. Put your right hand on his head.”

19 His father refused, and said, “I know, my son, I know. He also will become a people, and he also will be great. However, his younger brother will be greater than he, and his offspring will become a multitude of nations.” 20 He blessed them that day, saying, “Israel will bless in you, saying, ‘Elohim make you as Ephraim and as Manasseh’” He set Ephraim before Manasseh. 21 Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am dying, but Elohim will be with you, and bring you again to the land of your fathers. 22 Moreover I have given to you one portion above your brothers, which I took out of the hand of the Amorite with my sword and with my bow.”

Vayigash - Reading #3

Vayigash וַיִּגַּשׁ - And He Drew Near

Torah Portion: Genesis 44:18-47:27

Reading #3 -  Genesis 45:8–18

My Thoughts: 

I’m thinking about how Joseph’s brothers are rewarded. Simply for being his brothers. What is interesting is that they thought about killing Joseph and then allowed him to be sold into slavery. I am sure their consciences bothered them throughout the years, but now they are super gifted by Joseph -- even after all they have done. 

Would you do that? Have you had a situation where someone has “wronged” you, and instead of taking revenge on them you treat them with kindness and generosity? What a better and healed world we would live in if we did this.

Challenge: 

Think back on anyone you may have wronged. Maybe they are not acting forgiving and generous like Joseph did, so what can you do to repair what you have done? Pray about it. Maybe Hashem will show you something special you can do for them. If He does, do not delay in carrying out the task. The sooner the better. By doing so you will feel freedom.

Reading #3 - Genesis 45:8–18

8 So now it wasn’t you who sent me here, but Elohim, and He has made me a father to Pharaoh, lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt. 9 Hurry, and go up to my father, and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says, “Elohim has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me. Don’t wait. 10 You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you will be near to me, you, your children, your children’s children, your flocks, your herds, and all that you have. 11 There I will provide for you; for there are yet five years of famine; lest you come to poverty, you, and your household, and all that you have.”’ 12 Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth that speaks to you. 13 You shall tell my father of all my glory in Egypt, and of all that you have seen. You shall hurry and bring my father down here.” 14 He fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. 15 He kissed all his brothers, and wept on them. After that his brothers talked with him.

16 The report of it was heard in Pharaoh’s house, saying, “Joseph’s brothers have come.” It pleased Pharaoh well, and his servants. 17 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do this: Load your animals, and go, travel to the land of Canaan. 18 Take your father and your households, and come to me, and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and you will eat the fat of the land.’

Miketz - Reading #3

Miketz מִקֵּץ - At the End Of

Genesis 41:1-44:17

Reading #3 - Genesis 41:39–52

My Thoughts:

Names have meaning and can set your destiny. Look in verses 51 and 52; “Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh, “For”, he said, “Elohim has made me forget all my toil, and all my father’s house.” The name of the second, he called Ephraim; “For Elohim has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.”” Clearly, his sons names have relevant and purposeful meanings -- as is played out in the future.

Names are important. What we name our children will carry with them and become a part of their identity for their whole life. Sometimes people will name their children after someone they know. It is really important that this is given careful thought. You may want to ask yourself if that person is kind, reputable, generous, G-dly, and fair. Do not name your child after someone just because it is cool at the time. 

Do some research. See what your own name means. See what your children’s names mean. Try to fit in the definitions with what Hashem has planned for you and for them. Throughout Scripture we see the meaning of names. Pay attention.

Challenge: 

Joseph’s last statement in this reading is that Hashem has made him fruitful during his affliction. How can we relate to that in today’s world? When we feel afflicted either in health, finance, emotions or spiritually -- can Hashem make us fruitful? That doesn’t necessarily mean that you will be rich like Joseph and have “influence”. Maybe it means that you can still be “fruitful” in displaying the love of Hashem during difficult times in your life. I challenge you today, that if you are going through a rough time to try and be “fruitful” by showing love and kindness to others around you. If you can do this (and it is possible that you are able), you will see the quality of your life improve dramatically. Give it a try.

READING #3 - Genesis 41:39-52

41:39 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Because Elohim has shown you all of this, there is no one so discreet and wise as you. 40 You shall be over my house. All my people will be ruled according to your word. Only in the throne I will be greater than you.” 41 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Behold, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.” 42 Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand, and put it on Joseph’s hand, and arrayed him in robes of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck. 43 He made him ride in the second chariot which he had. They cried before him, “Bow the knee!” He set him over all the land of Egypt. 44 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I am Pharaoh. Without you, no man shall lift up his hand or his foot in all the land of Egypt.” 45 Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-Paneah. He gave him Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On as a wife. Joseph went out over the land of Egypt.

46 Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt. Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt. 47 In the seven plenteous years the earth produced abundantly. 48 He gathered up all the food of the seven years which were in the land of Egypt, and laid up the food in the cities. He stored food in each city from the fields around that city. 49 Joseph laid up grain as the sand of the sea, very much, until he stopped counting, for it was without number. 50 To Joseph were born two sons before the year of famine came, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, bore to him. 51 Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh, “For”, he said, “Elohim has made me forget all my toil, and all my father’s house.” 52 The name of the second, he called Ephraim; “For Elohim has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.”

Vayeshev - Reading #3

Vayeshev וַיֵּשֶׁב - And He Settled
Genesis 37:1 - 40:23
Reading #3 - Genesis 37:23–36

My Thoughts: 

Doesn’t Hashem always provide a way of escape? Here is Joseph thrown into a water-less pit, left to die. And along comes a caravan of men to rescue him. The brothers see this and seem to be alright with it. In fact, they devise a plan to prove to their father that he is dead (blood on his tunic). The Torah is full of people, just like you and me, that are not perfect by any measure and who make distinctly bad choices. The point is, Joseph is rescued and sold. He lives. Maybe not the life he had, but he is given another chance at life. Hashem is like that. I can think of so many times in my life when He “saved” me from a really bad situation. Sometimes miraculously. If you need “rescuing” right now, lift your eyes up to Him and ask Him to save you!

Challenge: 

Today look around you and see if you know of anyone who has “fallen into a pit”. Someone who may be suffering from loneliness, depression or hopelessness. See if you can find a way to “lift” them out of their darkness. Pray for them and ask Hashem how you could be of help. You may be surprised. Your first step may be to simply go and visit them and talk and listen. Hashem will show you what is next. They will be blessed and so will you!

Reading #3 - Genesis 37:23–36

23 When Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped Joseph of his tunic, the tunic of many colors that was on him; 24 and they took him, and threw him into the pit. The pit was empty. There was no water in it.

25 They sat down to eat bread, and they lifted up their eyes and looked, and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites was coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing spices and balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt. 26 Judah said to his brothers, “What profit is it if we kill our brother and conceal his blood? 27 Come, and let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites, and not let our hand be on him; for he is our brother, our flesh.” His brothers listened to him. 28 Midianites who were merchants passed by, and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver. The merchants brought Joseph into Egypt.

29 Reuben returned to the pit, and saw that Joseph wasn’t in the pit; and he tore his clothes. 30 He returned to his brothers, and said, “The child is no more; and I, where will I go?” 31 They took Joseph’s tunic, and killed a male goat, and dipped the tunic in the blood. 32 They took the tunic of many colors, and they brought it to their father, and said, “We have found this. Examine it, now, and see if it is your son’s tunic or not.”

33 He recognized it, and said, “It is my son’s tunic. An evil animal has devoured him. Joseph is without doubt torn in pieces.” 34 Jacob tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his waist, and mourned for his son many days. 35 All his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted. He said, “For I will go down to Sheol to my son, mourning.” His father wept for him. 36 The Midianites sold him into Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh’s, the captain of the guard.

Vayishlach - Reading #3

Vayishlach, וַיִּשְׁל - And He Sent

Genesis 32:4-36:43

Reading #3 - Genesis 32:31–33:5

My Thoughts: 

Jacob’s fears were for naught. Hashem answered his prayers and he was greeted with love from Esau. Verse 4 says, “Esau ran to meet him, embraced him, fell on his neck, kissed him, and they wept.” Doesn’t this sound like the most wonderful reconciliation? Jacob must have felt such incredible relief and peace. That is just what making amends with someone you love does. Each of us have people in our life that we have offended or that have hurt us. Some cases are huge and some are small. Either way it is time to reconcile and receive the same peace that Jacob got that special day. The shalom peace that can only come from Hashem and our obedience to make things right. Whether you have been hurt, or you have hurt someone else -- it’s time to take care of it.

Challenge: 

Traditions are important. Jews today do not eat this part of an animal because of this story of Jacob “wrestling” G-d. And as we are learning there are many more Biblical traditions. Tradition may not be a commandment you have to follow, but it is important to recognize because of its memory and previous impact on souls. We are coming up on the season of Hanukkah. A time in history where men saw a huge miracle of Hashem (the victory of reclaiming the Temple and the lights of the Menorah). We recognize it and celebrate it because it reminds of Hashem’s miraculous love of His people. Think about the traditions in your family this time of year. Instead of taking advantage of them, take time to ponder their importance. Make them special again and pass them on to your children. It’s important to do so.

Reading #3 - Genesis 32:31–33:5

32:31 The sun rose on him as he passed over Peniel, and he limped because of his thigh. 32 Therefore the children of Israel don’t eat the sinew of the hip, which is on the hollow of the thigh, to this day, because he touched the hollow of Jacob’s thigh in the sinew of the hip.

33 Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, Esau was coming, and with him four hundred men. He divided the children between Leah, Rachel, and the two servants. 2 He put the servants and their children in front, Leah and her children after, and Rachel and Joseph at the rear. 3 He himself passed over in front of them, and bowed himself to the ground seven times, until he came near to his brother.

4 Esau ran to meet him, embraced him, fell on his neck, kissed him, and they wept. 5 He lifted up his eyes, and saw the women and the children; and said, “Who are these with you?”

He said, “The children whom Elohim has graciously given your servant.”

Vayetze - Reading #3

Vayetze וַיֵּצֵא - And He Went Out

Genesis 28:10-32:3

Reading #3 - Genesis 29:18–30:13

My Thoughts: 

Jacob is an interesting Bible character for sure. It was clear that he loved Rachel from the beginning, yet he ended up with three more wives. He has multiple children and some inside bickering between the women. What went wrong, or did everything go right? It’s hard to say what would have happened if Jacob would have just married Rachel. Would she be the mother of the twelve tribes of Israel or did Hashem have it in His plan to have four mothers? It’s very interesting. Again, I would suggest that when we have a desire and prayer request for Hashem, it’s better to wait. His way is definitely higher than ours!

Challenge: 

Would you sacrifice seven years to get a prayer answered? We are so used to “instant” results in all we do. How many of us would actually sacrifice something to achieve the answer of the prayer? It seems that Jacob did not hesitate. He knew right away that he would work and give up things so that he could marry Rachel. Would you do this? My challenge today is to spend some time thinking about what you would have done if you were Jacob.

Reading #3 - Genesis 29:18–30:13

18 Jacob loved Rachel. He said, “I will serve you seven years for Rachel, your younger daughter.”

19 Laban said, “It is better that I give her to you, than that I should give her to another man. Stay with me.”

20 Jacob served seven years for Rachel. They seemed to him but a few days, for the love he had for her.

21 Jacob said to Laban, “Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in to her.”

22 Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast. 23 In the evening, he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to Jacob. He went in to her. 24 Laban gave Zilpah his servant to his daughter Leah for a servant. 25 In the morning, behold, it was Leah! He said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? Didn’t I serve with you for Rachel? Why then have you deceived me?”

26 Laban said, “It is not done so in our place, to give the younger before the firstborn. 27 Fulfill the week of this one, and we will give you the other also for the service which you will serve with me for seven more years.”

28 Jacob did so, and fulfilled her week. He gave him Rachel his daughter as wife. 29 Laban gave Bilhah, his servant, to his daughter Rachel to be her servant. 30 He went in also to Rachel, and he loved also Rachel more than Leah, and served with him seven more years.

31 Hashem saw that Leah was hated, and he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren. 32 Leah conceived, and bore a son, and she named him Reuben. For she said, “Because Hashem has looked at my affliction; for now my husband will love me.” 33 She conceived again, and bore a son, and said, “Because Hashem has heard that I am hated, he has therefore given me this son also.” She named him Simeon. 34 She conceived again, and bore a son. She said, “Now this time my husband will be joined to me, because I have borne him three sons.” Therefore his name was called Levi. 35 She conceived again, and bore a son. She said, “This time I will praise Hashem.” Therefore she named him Judah. Then she stopped bearing.

30 When Rachel saw that she bore Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister. She said to Jacob, “Give me children, or else I will die.”

2 Jacob’s anger burned against Rachel, and he said, “Am I in Elohim’s place, who has withheld from you the fruit of the womb?”

3 She said, “Behold, my maid Bilhah. Go in to her, that she may bear on my knees, and I also may obtain children by her.” 4 She gave him Bilhah her servant as wife, and Jacob went in to her. 5 Bilhah conceived, and bore Jacob a son. 6 Rachel said, “Elohim has judged me, and has also heard my voice, and has given me a son.” Therefore she called his name Dan. 7 Bilhah, Rachel’s servant, conceived again, and bore Jacob a second son. 8 Rachel said, “I have wrestled with my sister with mighty wrestlings, and have prevailed.” She named him Naphtali.

9 When Leah saw that she had finished bearing, she took Zilpah, her servant, and gave her to Jacob as a wife. 10 Zilpah, Leah’s servant, bore Jacob a son. 11 Leah said, “How fortunate!” She named him Gad. 12 Zilpah, Leah’s servant, bore Jacob a second son. 13 Leah said, “Happy am I, for the daughters will call me happy.” She named him Asher.

Toldot - Reading #3

Toldot, תּוֹלְדֹת - Generations

Genesis 25:19-28:9

Reading #3 - Genesis 26:13–22

My Thoughts: 

Isaac was re-digging wells and trying to reclaim what his father had. Apparently, after Abraham died the Philistines covered them up. When his servants go to re-dig them, the Philistines argue and it looks like they prevent them from opening them. Then finally in verse 22 “For now Hashem has made room for us...” they find a successful well to dig. Isaac does not give credit to himself, but to Hashem for this! Sometimes in life we search and search for an answer to a problem. When we find the answer we will tend to give the credit to ourselves or someone else. When all the glory should go to Hashem! Let’s try and remember all gifts come from the Father of Lights (James 1:17)!

Challenge: 

Are you looking for an answer or solution and NOT allowing Hashem to “make room” for your result? What does that look like to have Him “make room”? To me it means, praying and worshiping Him daily, minute by minute. Then when there is a problem, really look to Him for the answer. Watch Him move. Watch Him “make room” for your solution. And there will be the answer before your eyes! The only thing left to do is to give Him all the thanksgiving and glory for helping you! Your missing ingredient may only be - patience. 

Reading #3 - Genesis 26:13–22

26:13 The man grew great, and grew more and more until he became very great. 14 He had possessions of flocks, possessions of herds, and a great household. The Philistines envied him. 15 Now all the wells which his father’s servants had dug in the days of Abraham his father, the Philistines had stopped, and filled with earth. 16 Abimelech said to Isaac, “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.”

17 Isaac departed from there, encamped in the valley of Gerar, and lived there.

18 Isaac dug again the wells of water, which they had dug in the days of Abraham his father, for the Philistines had stopped them after the death of Abraham. He called their names after the names by which his father had called them. 19 Isaac’s servants dug in the valley, and found there a well of flowing water. 20 The herdsmen of Gerar argued with Isaac’s herdsmen, saying, “The water is ours.” So he called the name of the well Esek, because they contended with him. 21 They dug another well, and they argued over that, also. So he called its name Sitnah. 22 He left that place, and dug another well. They didn’t argue over that one. So he called it Rehoboth. He said, “For now Hashem has made room for us, and we will be fruitful in the land.”

Chayei Sarah - Reading #3

Chayei Sarah חַיֵּי שָׂרָה- Life of Sarah 

Genesis 18:1-22:24

READING #3 - Genesis 24:10–26

My Thoughts:

Can we pray specific prayers to Hashem? Abraham’s servant prayed this very specific prayer -- that the woman for Isaac will offer him water and also offer to water his camels! What are the chances of that? And yet that is exactly what happens. Rebekah comes out, offers the servant a drink and then offers to give water to his camels and continues until they are filled.

A wonderful example of how we can ask Hashem for detailed issues of need. Some people think that is not right, or that we don’t need to do that because Hashem knows what we need before we ask. But, with my experience it is good to ask for specific things, mainly because when you do and He answers -- it will build your faith in a huge way. What a glorious and wonderful Hashem we serve!

Challenge:

Think of something you have been praying for. Now, edit your prayer to include some specifics. Of course, when you pray, pray in humility and with worship to the Almighty One. Repent and make restitution to those you have offended. And give thanks to Him ahead of time for what you believe He is going to do. Then wait and watch our Elohim do miracles! Amen!

READING #3 - Genesis 24:10–26

10 The servant took ten of his master’s camels, and departed, having a variety of good things of his master’s with him. He arose, and went to Mesopotamia, to the city of Nahor. 11 He made the camels kneel down outside the city by the well of water at the time of evening, the time that women go out to draw water. 12 He said, “Hashem, the Elohim of my master Abraham, please give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham. 13 Behold, I am standing by the spring of water. The daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water. 14 Let it happen, that the young lady to whom I will say, ‘Please let down your pitcher, that I may drink,’ then she says, ‘Drink, and I will also give your camels a drink,’—let her be the one you have appointed for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master.”

15 Before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham’s brother, with her pitcher on her shoulder. 16 The young lady was very beautiful to look at, a virgin. No man had known her. She went down to the spring, filled her pitcher, and came up. 17 The servant ran to meet her, and said, “Please give me a drink, a little water from your pitcher.”

18 She said, “Drink, my lord.” She hurried, and let down her pitcher on her hand, and gave him a drink. 19 When she had finished giving him a drink, she said, “I will also draw for your camels, until they have finished drinking.” 20 She hurried, and emptied her pitcher into the trough, and ran again to the well to draw, and drew for all his camels.

21 The man looked steadfastly at her, remaining silent, to know whether Hashem had made his journey prosperous or not. 22 As the camels had done drinking, the man took a golden ring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold, 23 and said, “Whose daughter are you? Please tell me. Is there room in your father’s house for us to stay?”

24 She said to him, “I am the daughter of Bethuel the son of Milcah, whom she bore to Nahor.” 25 She said moreover to him, “We have both straw and feed enough, and room to lodge in.”

26 The man bowed his head, and worshiped Hashem.

Vayeira - Reading #3

Vayeira וַיֵּרָא - And He Appeared

Genesis 18:1-22:24

READING #3 - Genesis 19:1–20       

My Thoughts:

Lot went to warn his future son-in-laws to leave Sodom, that Hashem was going to destroy the city. But Scripture says they thought Lot was “joking”. They didn’t go. The city burned and they were killed. How sad because they were told ahead of time, they just doubted him. It makes me think about people in our life that try to “warn” us of pending disasters. People that are honorable and good. But, do we heed their warnings or just jump into what could be sinking sand? I think of the times people have warned me, but out of stubbornness I did not listen. Then something bad happens and they were right. We need to learn to listen well to those around us who love and care for us -- and want us to be safe!

Challenge:

Think of something in your life that you are doing or have done that you know is wrong! I challenge you today to correct it. Even seek advice from someone wise that you know, share your concern and see how they instruct you in the situation. Pray and seek Hashem. Then do what they say. Whether it was something you did, or something you are contemplating -- fix it today! You will be glad and you will hopefully avert what would have been a negative outcome.

Reading #3 - Genesis 19:1–20

19 The two angels came to Sodom at evening. Lot sat in the gate of Sodom. Lot saw them, and rose up to meet them. He bowed himself with his face to the earth, 2 and he said, “See now, my lords, please come into your servant’s house, stay all night, wash your feet, and you can rise up early, and go on your way.”

They said, “No, but we will stay in the street all night.”

3 He urged them greatly, and they came in with him, and entered into his house. He made them a feast, and baked unleavened bread, and they ate. 4 But before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, surrounded the house, both young and old, all the people from every quarter. 5 They called to Lot, and said to him, “Where are the men who came in to you this night? Bring them out to us, that we may have sex with them.”

6 Lot went out to them through the door, and shut the door after himself. 7 He said, “Please, my brothers, don’t act so wickedly. 8 See now, I have two virgin daughters. Please let me bring them out to you, and you may do to them what seems good to you. Only don’t do anything to these men, because they have come under the shadow of my roof.”

9 They said, “Stand back!” Then they said, “This one fellow came in to live as a foreigner, and he appoints himself a judge. Now we will deal worse with you than with them!” They pressed hard on the man Lot, and came near to break the door. 10 But the men reached out their hand, and brought Lot into the house to them, and shut the door. 11 They struck the men who were at the door of the house with blindness, both small and great, so that they wearied themselves to find the door.

12 The men said to Lot, “Do you have anybody else here? Sons-in-law, your sons, your daughters, and whomever you have in the city, bring them out of the place: 13 for we will destroy this place, because the outcry against them has grown so great before Hashem that Hashem has sent us to destroy it.”

14 Lot went out, and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were pledged to marry his daughters, and said, “Get up! Get out of this place, for Hashem will destroy the city!”

But he seemed to his sons-in-law to be joking. 15 When the morning came, then the angels hurried Lot, saying, “Get up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be consumed in the iniquity of the city.” 16 But he lingered; and the men grabbed his hand, his wife’s hand, and his two daughters’ hands, Hashem being merciful to him; and they took him out, and set him outside of the city. 17 It came to pass, when they had taken them out, that he said, “Escape for your life! Don’t look behind you, and don’t stay anywhere in the plain. Escape to the mountains, lest you be consumed!”

18 Lot said to them, “Oh, not so, my lord. 19 See now, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have magnified your loving kindness, which you have shown to me in saving my life. I can’t escape to the mountain, lest evil overtake me, and I die. 20 See now, this city is near to flee to, and it is a little one. Oh let me escape there (isn’t it a little one?), and my soul will live.”

Lech-Lecha - Reading #3

Lech-Lecha לֶךְ-לְךָ Go Forth Yourself!

Torah Portion Genesis 12:1-17:27

Reading #3 - Genesis 13:5–18

My Thoughts:

Was Lot looking out for himself? He thought he was choosing the “better” land, but he actually got some polluted and corrupt land - Sodom. And look at the end result of that! Sodom was destroyed! And in the end Abram was blessed by Hashem with a promise of receiving ALL of the land.

Maybe the next time someone gives us the first opportunity to choose, we may go to Hashem and ask Him what we should do. Also, it might be advantageous and righteous to choose the “lesser” and give the other person the best!

Challenge:

I have a friend who is like Abram. She is always letting me have the best in all situations. I have learned so much from her. Here is my challenge for today. The next time you are given an opportunity to make a choice with someone else - choose the lesser and give your friend the best! You will be blessed even greater for doing so! 

Reading #3 - Genesis 13:5–18

13:5 Lot also, who went with Abram, had flocks, herds, and tents. 6 The land was not able to bear them, that they might live together; for their possessions were so great that they couldn’t live together. 7 There was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock. The Canaanites and the Perizzites lived in the land at that time. 8 Abram said to Lot, “Please, let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen; for we are relatives. 9 Isn’t the whole land before you? Please separate yourself from me. If you go to the left hand, then I will go to the right. Or if you go to the right hand, then I will go to the left.”

10 Lot lifted up his eyes, and saw all the plain of the Jordan, that it was well-watered everywhere, before Hashem destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, like the garden of Hashem, like the land of Egypt, as you go to Zoar. 11 So Lot chose the Plain of the Jordan for himself. Lot traveled east, and they separated themselves from one other. 12 Abram lived in the land of Canaan, and Lot lived in the cities of the plain, and moved his tent as far as Sodom. 13 Now the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinners against Hashem.

14 Hashem said to Abram, after Lot was separated from him, “Now, lift up your eyes, and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, 15 for I will give all the land which you see to you and to your offspring forever. 16 I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if a man can count the dust of the earth, then your offspring may also be counted. 17 Arise, walk through the land in its length and in its width; for I will give it to you.”

18 Abram moved his tent, and came and lived by the oaks of Mamre, which are in Hebron, and built an altar there to Hashem.

Noach - Reading #3

Noach נֹחַ - Rest

Torah Portion Genesis 6:9-11:32

Reading #3 - Genesis 7:17–8:14              

My Thoughts: 

Water has great significance in the Bible. The flood, the crossing of the Red Sea, the commandments of washing, the water from the rock, Yeshua as the “living water” and more. And we must remember that our bodies are made up of about 60% water. We just read last week about how Hashem separated the waters. Bottom line water is an important part of our existence. We can’t live without it. 

In today’s reading Hashem uses water to “cleanse” the earth. Just like when you go into a mikvah before you enter the Temple area. You must be cleansed to enter into the presence of Hashem. So, what do we do today? Some will still use mikvahs in synagogues, some get “water baptized” and some of us think about how we can be cleansed daily simply by true repentance. Whichever way you choose, it is important to be cleansed from sin and renewed daily by repentance.

Challenge:

Take some time today to think about active sin in your life. Or even sin that you have held on to. See if you can find a way to be cleansed of your sin. Come clean before Hashem today.

Reading #3 - Genesis 7:17–8:14

7:17 The flood was forty days on the earth. The waters increased, and lifted up the ship, and it was lifted up above the earth. 18 The waters rose, and increased greatly on the earth; and the ship floated on the surface of the waters. 19 The waters rose very high on the earth. All the high mountains that were under the whole sky were covered. 20 The waters rose fifteen cubits higher, and the mountains were covered. 21 All flesh died that moved on the earth, including birds, livestock, animals, every creeping thing that creeps on the earth, and every man. 22 All on the dry land, in whose nostrils was the breath of the spirit of life, died. 23 Every living thing was destroyed that was on the surface of the ground, including man, livestock, creeping things, and birds of the sky. They were destroyed from the earth. Only Noah was left, and those who were with him in the ship. 24 The waters flooded the earth one hundred fifty days.

8 Elohim remembered Noah, all the animals, and all the livestock that were with him in the ship; and Elohim made a wind to pass over the earth. The waters subsided. 2 The deep’s fountains and the sky’s windows were also stopped, and the rain from the sky was restrained. 3 The waters continually receded from the earth. After the end of one hundred fifty days the waters receded. 4 The ship rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, on Ararat’s mountains. 5 The waters receded continually until the tenth month. In the tenth month, on the first day of the month, the tops of the mountains were visible.

6 At the end of forty days, Noah opened the window of the ship which he had made, 7 and he sent out a raven. It went back and forth, until the waters were dried up from the earth. 8 He himself sent out a dove to see if the waters were abated from the surface of the ground, 9 but the dove found no place to rest her foot, and she returned into the ship to him, for the waters were on the surface of the whole earth. He put out his hand, and took her, and brought her to him into the ship. 10 He waited yet another seven days; and again he sent the dove out of the ship. 11 The dove came back to him at evening and, behold, in her mouth was a freshly plucked olive leaf. So Noah knew that the waters were abated from the earth. 12 He waited yet another seven days, and sent out the dove; and she didn’t return to him any more.

13 In the six hundred first year, in the first month, the first day of the month, the waters were dried up from the earth. Noah removed the covering of the ship, and looked. He saw that the surface of the ground was dry. 14 In the second month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month, the earth was dry.