One of the most favorite verses to quote, from either a secular or Biblical position, is found in the Messiah’s “Sermon on the Mount.” I believe it has become a favorite for some because it gives a free pass to those who want to ignore poor decisions and not come under judgment. Maybe you too…
Category: Rollyn’s Reads
Are You Able to See the Real Battle?
The study of Re’eh means to see or behold. So, what are we to see, and what are we to behold? Deuteronomy 11 tells us that we will receive blessings by following YHWH and cursing if we follow any other god. This makes sense in that YHWH is life-giving. He is spirit, and Spirit gives…
Hornet Anyone?
YHWH told Israel that He would send “The Hornet” against their enemies. (Duet. 7:20) He made this promise to assure Israel that there would be nothing to fear when taking “The Land.” Hornets, of course, pack a pretty big sting. So, is Yah actually referring to a hornet that may inflect actual pain against Israel’s…
What’s Your View Like?
What happens when things don’t go according to your plans? Will Yahweh still allow you to see? This week’s Torah selection begins with, “I pleaded with the Lord at the time, . . . Let me, I pray, cross over and see the fair land that is beyond the Jordan”. These are the words of…
Does YHVH Not Answer Prayer?
You might have heard a saying that goes like, “God does answer prayers. it’s either yes, no, or wait.” But is this always the case? This week’s Torah study is called Devarim, or Words, Matters. So, do the Sages believe words matter, or do they believe in words and matters? In either case, our prayers…
A Little Zealous?
A Little Zealous? When coaching for sporting events, I have witnessed the zealousness of parents. Their passion for their child to win would many times overlook the rules of the game or a call made by a referee. To be “right” in their physical world, these parents would step on others. It was embarrassing. To…
Looking for Wisdom?
Looking for Wisdom? The story of King Balak highlights the concept of seeking the services of a “prophet for hire.” But if we look closer, there is an example of how YHWH warns an unbeliever to turn from foolish ways and become wise. In Numbers, chapters 23-24, Yah uses four attempts to turn Balak away…
A Battle for Truth
Giants, kings of the past, and the “Book of YHWH’s Battles,” what possible relevance do they have on us today? We often gloss through the books of Torah and the Writings and are met with names and events that we can’t even recognize, let alone pronounce. Consequently, we give them little credit. But in the…
Who’s In Charge Anyway?
Are the kings of this earth a reflection of ourselves? Are “we the people” the ones being held accountable for current world events? We read in Daniel 2:21: “And it is He (YHWH) who changes the times and the epochs, He removes kings and establishes kings.” If this is true, then is there any reason…
What’s Stopping You?
Have you ever been afraid to move forward in life? Maybe some obstacles seemed too big, and you decided to play it safe. It’s more common than you think. Moses led Israel out of Egypt with the sole promise of entering a promised land. But when finally confronted, Israel got scared. Even after seeing the…