Psalm 50 shows us that God at times rejected the people's sacrifices when their hearts were in the wrong place. Psalm 50 also shows God saying he doesn't really desire sacrifice, he desire thankfulness and faith. It reminds me of Hosea 6:6 that says, "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings." Ultimately people were not made right with God because of sacrifices. We have always been made right with God through the death and resurrection of Jesus. People in the Old Testament looked forward and believed in his coming, we look backward and believe he's already been here. Jesus is the only way to salvation. #shorts #faith #god #forgiveness ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dWnP7ShhfU

In Isaiah 44, the prophecy emphasizes the sovereignty of God and denounces idolatry. Isaiah condemns the foolishness of creating and worshiping idols, contrasting the lifeless and powerless nature of man-made gods with the living and all-powerful God of Israel. He exposes the absurdity of crafting idols from the same materials that people use for everyday necessities, reminding the people that these idols can do nothing to save or protect them. Moreover, in a remarkable display of prophetic foresight, Isaiah reveals God's knowledge of the future, including events that would happen around 150 years later. Isaiah speaks of a ruler named Cyrus, who would come from the east to fulfill God's purpose by liberating Israel from Babylonian captivity. This detailed prediction of Cyrus's role in history showcases God's omniscience and control over the course of events long before they occur. Chapter 45 proclaims God's sovereignty over all nations, demonstrating that He is not only the God of Israel but also the ruler of the entire world. Isaiah reiterates the foolishness of relying on idols, emphasizing that there is no other God but Yahweh, who alone has the power to save and bring about deliverance. It is within this context that Isaiah prophesies about Cyrus, the Persian king, and his instrumental role in setting the exiled Israelites free and enabling them to return to their homeland. Isaiah 46 continues to expose the absurdity of idol worship, highlighting the helplessness of idols and contrasting them with the true God who actively sustains His people. God declares that He alone carries His people from birth to old age and will continue to be their support and deliverer in times of trouble. This chapter underscores the distinction between the Almighty God, who can truly act on behalf of His people, and the powerless idols that people foolishly put their trust in. Isaiah 47 pronounces judgment on Babylon, a dominant power in Isaiah's time, which symbolizes the oppressive nations throughout history. Despite their arrogance and pride, God reveals that He will bring about their downfall as a consequence of their wickedness and unjust treatment of others. The fall of Babylon would serve as a testament to God's faithfulness to His promises and His ability to bring about justice for His people. The final chapter in this section, Isaiah 48, addresses Israel's stubbornness and disobedience. Despite their knowledge of God's law and prophecies, they repeatedly turned away from Him to follow their own desires. Isaiah highlights the contrast between God's reliability and the fickleness of Israel, who often disregarded His guidance. Despite their transgressions, God shows mercy and reveals His enduring purpose to refine and purify His chosen people for their own good. The prophecies in Isaiah 44-48 serve as a powerful reminder of the foolishness of idolatry and the reliability of God's word. Isaiah's foreknowledge of Cyrus's future actions demonstrates God's sovereignty and His ability to work through human history to fulfill His purposes. These chapters not only call for repentance and obedience but also provide hope for Israel's eventual restoration and deliverance. ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1n7t-F9n1bA

For the full reading go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gods-plan-your-part/id1662005086 In 2 Samuel 13-15, a series of tragic events unfolds within the family of King David. The story begins with Amnon, David's eldest son, who becomes infatuated with his half-sister Tamar. Overwhelmed by his desires, Amnon cunningly lures Tamar into his quarters and forcibly violates her. The aftermath of this heinous act leads to deep anguish and shame for Tamar. Meanwhile, Absalom, Tamar's full brother, harbors intense anger and resentment towards Amnon for his sister's violation. In an act of vengeance, Absalom meticulously plans and executes a plan to murder Amnon two years later, avenging his sister's honor. This bloodshed deeply troubles David, who grieves over the loss of his sons. Despite Absalom's actions being driven by a sense of justice, it also marks the beginning of a turbulent period for David's reign. As time passes, Absalom grows in popularity and starts conspiring against his father, David. He gradually turns the hearts of the people away from David and stages a rebellion to seize the throne. Filled with sorrow and uncertainty, David decides to flee Jerusalem to avoid a devastating conflict within his own kingdom. These chapters highlight the consequences of sin within a family and a nation. Amnon's sinful actions towards Tamar led to a chain of events that culminated in bloodshed, grief, and division. Sin has a way of unraveling relationships, causing pain and destruction. David's family and kingdom suffered as a result of the sins committed by his sons, reminding us that our actions have repercussions that we must confront. As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging the consequences of our own sins and working through them. Sin may bring temporary satisfaction or gratification, but it ultimately leaves a trail of brokenness and hardship. Just as David had to grapple with the repercussions of his family's sins, we must take responsibility for our own actions and seek forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration. It is through repentance and a genuine desire to change that we can begin the journey towards healing and rebuilding what has been damaged by sin. ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTdFbp3EltI

David showed kindness to Mephibosheth when everyone would have assumed that he was going to kill him. David made an outcast a King's son. Jesus enables us, people who are naturally against God, to enter into relationship with God. Just like Mephibosheth we are sons and daughters of a King, even when no one would expect that. #shorts #kindness #god ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLa9XXhWlhg