Issue: 2025 March

From Ascension to the Final Atonement

by

April 20 – 26, 2025

Key Text

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 323–332, 352

Introduction

“The miracles of Jesus are a proof of His divinity; but the strongest proofs that He is the world’s Redeemer are found in the prophecies of the Old Testament compared with the history of the New.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3, 211

Sunday

1 FIRST FRUITS

1. What was symbolized by the sheaf of grain waved before the Lord at the beginning of the harvest (Leviticus 23:9–11)? Matthew 27:50–53; 1Corinthians 15:17–20

Note: “Christ arose from the dead as the first fruits of those that slept. He was the antitype of the wave sheaf, and His resurrection took place on the very day when the wave sheaf was to be presented before the Lord. For more than a thousand years this symbolic ceremony had been performed. From the harvest fields the first heads of ripened grain were gathered, and when the people went up to Jerusalem to the Passover, the sheaf of first fruits was waved as a thank offering before the Lord. Not until this was presented could the sickle be put to the grain, and it be gathered into sheaves. The sheaf dedicated to God represented the harvest. So Christ the first fruits represented the great spiritual harvest to be gathered for the kingdom of God. His resurrection is the type and pledge of the resurrection of all the righteous dead.” The Desire of Ages, 785, 786

“He [Christ] presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming.” Ibid., 834

Monday

2 PENTECOST

2.a. In Hebrew times, there was a celebration of the harvest 50 days after the offering of the wave sheaf. What harvest of souls was gathered at Pentecost (“fiftieth” in Greek)? Acts 2:1, 4, 7, 8, 41

Note: “The Jewish leaders had supposed that the work of Christ would end with His death; but, instead of this, they witnessed the marvelous scenes of the Day of Pentecost. They heard the disciples, endowed with a power and energy hitherto unknown, preaching Christ, their words confirmed by signs and wonders. In Jerusalem, the stronghold of Judaism, thousands openly declared their faith in Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah.

“The disciples were astonished and overjoyed at the greatness of the harvest of souls.” The Acts of the Apostles, 44

“What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost parts of the inhabited world. As the disciples proclaimed the message of redeeming grace, hearts yielded to the power of this message. The church beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners united with believers in seeking the pearl of great price. Some who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions. …

“They could not be restrained or intimidated by threatenings. The Lord spoke through them, and as they went from place to place, the poor had the gospel preached to them, and miracles of divine grace were wrought.

“So mightily can God work when men give themselves up to the control of His Spirit.” Ibid., 48, 49

2.b.  How can the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost be an inspiration to us in our day? Acts 5:30–32

Note: “The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. Christ declared that the divine influence of His Spirit was to be with His followers unto the end. From the Day of Pentecost to the present time, the Comforter has been sent to all who have yielded themselves fully to the Lord and to His service. To all who have accepted Christ as a personal Saviour, the Holy Spirit has come as a counselor, sanctifier, guide, and witness. The more closely believers have walked with God, the more clearly and powerfully have they testified of their Redeemer’s love and of His saving grace.” The Acts of the Apostles, 49

Tuesday

3 THE BLOWING OF TRUMPETS

3. In the Hebrew system, trumpets introduced the solemn day of final atonement. How was the anti-typical day of atonement introduced? Leviticus 23:23–25; Matthew 24:32, 33

Note: “He [God] sent chosen messengers to make known the nearness of the final judgment.” The Great Controversy, 339

“In nearly every town, there were scores, in some, hundreds, converted as a result of his [William Miller’s] preaching. In many places Protestant churches of nearly all denominations were thrown open to him, and the invitations to labor usually came from the ministers of the several congregations. It was his invariable rule not to labor in any place to which he had not been invited, yet he soon found himself unable to comply with half the requests that poured in upon him. Many who did not accept his views as to the exact time of the second advent were convinced of the certainty and nearness of Christ’s coming and their need of preparation. In some of the large cities his work produced a marked impression. Liquor dealers abandoned the traffic and turned their shops into meeting rooms; gambling dens were broken up; infidels, deists, Universalists, and even the most abandoned profligates were reformed, some of whom had not entered a house of worship for years. Prayer meetings were established by the various denominations, in different quarters, at almost every hour, businessmen assembling at midday for prayer and praise. There was no extravagant excitement, but an almost universal solemnity on the minds of the people. His work, like that of the early Reformers, tended rather to convince the understanding and arouse the conscience than merely to excite the emotions.

“In 1833 Miller received a license to preach, from the Baptist Church, of which he was a member. A large number of the ministers of his denomination also approved his work, and it was with their formal sanction that he continued his labors.” Ibid., 331, 332

“Those who accepted the advent doctrine were roused to the necessity of repentance and humiliation before God. Many had long been halting between Christ and the world; now they felt that it was time to take a stand. ‘The things of eternity assumed to them an unwonted reality. Heaven was brought near, and they felt themselves guilty before God.’ … Christians were quickened to new spiritual life. They were made to feel that time was short, that what they had to do for their fellow men must be done quickly. Earth receded, eternity seemed to open before them, and the soul, with all that pertained to its immortal weal or woe, was felt to eclipse every temporal object.” Ibid., 340

Wednesday

4 A TIME AND A MESSAGE

4.a. What time period was fulfilled when Jesus began to preach? Mark 1:14, 15; Luke 4:21

Note: “The gospel message, as given by the Saviour Himself, was based on the prophecies. The ‘time’ which He declared to be fulfilled was the period made known by the angel Gabriel to Daniel.” The Desire of Ages, 233

4.b.  What Bible prophecy verifies William Miller’s prophetic research? Daniel 9:24–27

Note: “The time of the first advent and of some of the chief events clustering about the Saviour’s lifework was made known by the angel Gabriel to Daniel. ‘Seventy weeks,’ said the angel, ‘are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most holy.’ Daniel 9:24. A day in prophecy stands for a year. See Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6. The seventy weeks, or four hundred and ninety days, represent four hundred and ninety years. A starting point for this period is given: ‘Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks’ (Daniel 9:25), sixty-nine weeks, or four hundred and eighty-three years. The commandment to restore and build Jerusalem, as completed by the decree of Artaxerxes Longimanus, went into effect in the autumn of 457 B.C. See Ezra 6:14; 7:1, 9. From this time four hundred and eighty-three years extend to the autumn of A.D. 27. According to the prophecy, this period was to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One. In A.D. 27, Jesus at His baptism received the anointing of the Holy Spirit and soon afterward began His ministry. Then the message was proclaimed, ‘The time is fulfilled.’ Mark 1:15.

“Then, said the angel, ‘He shall confirm the covenant with many for one week [seven years].’ For seven years after the Saviour entered on His ministry, the gospel was to be preached especially to the Jews; for three and a half years by Christ Himself, and afterward by the apostles. ‘In the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease.’ Daniel 9:27. In the spring of A.D. 31, Christ, the true Sacrifice, was offered on Calvary. … The time had come for the earthly sacrifice and oblation to cease.

“The one week—seven years—ended in A.D. 34. Then by the stoning of Stephen the Jews finally sealed their rejection of the gospel.” Prophets and Kings, 698, 699

Thursday

5 A SURE PROPHETIC BASIS

5. Although William Miller did not fully comprehend all the phases of Christ’s ministration, on what theme did he base his call to repentance? Daniel 8:14. What is the call for us today? 1Peter 1:15, 16

Note: “The seventy weeks—490 days—having been cut off from the 2300, there were 1810 days remaining. After the end of 490 days, the 1810 days were still to be fulfilled. From A.D. 34, 1810 years extend to 1844. Consequently the 2300 days of Daniel 8:14 terminate in 1844. At the expiration of this great prophetic period, upon the testimony of the angel of God, ‘the sanctuary shall be cleansed.’ ” The Great Controversy, 328

“[William] Miller … adopted the generally received view that the earth is the sanctuary, and he believed that the cleansing of the sanctuary represented the purification of the earth by fire at the coming of the Lord. When, therefore, he found that the close of the 2300 days was definitely foretold, he concluded that this revealed the time of the second advent. His error resulted from accepting the popular view as to what constitutes the sanctuary.” Ibid., 352

“The great day was at hand, and in His [God’s] providence the people were brought to the test of a definite time, in order to reveal to them what was in their hearts. The message was designed for the testing and purification of the church. They were to be led to see whether their affections were set upon this world or upon Christ and heaven. They professed to love the Saviour; now they were to prove their love.” Ibid., 353

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How had the resurrection of Christ and those with Him been symbolized?

2    What evangelistic event revealed the most valuable harvest we can reap?

3    What characterized the meetings of William Miller?

4    Why is it vital for us to understand the Bible prophecies based on time?

5    What discovery was made as a result of William Miller’s research, and how was this a test of the church’s attitude?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Understanding the Symbols

by

April 13 – 19, 2025

Key Text

“And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” Matthew 27:50, 51, first part

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 273–279, 352, 353

Introduction

“The rending of the veil of the temple showed that the Jewish sacrifices and ordinances would no longer be received. The great Sacrifice had been offered and had been accepted.” Early Writings, 259, 260

Sunday

1 DAILY CONSECRATION

1. Why was it necessary for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross to replace the sacrificial offerings? Hebrews 10:9–14. How is the morning and evening sacrifice of ancient times relevant to us today? Acts 3:1

Note: “Christ was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. The types and shadows under which the Jews worshiped, all pointed forward to the world’s Redeemer.” The Signs of the Times, February 25, 1897

“The hours appointed for the morning and the evening sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed as the set time for worship throughout the Jewish nation. … In this custom Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. While God condemns a mere round of ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening to seek pardon for sins committed and to present their requests for needed blessings.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 353, 354

“If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Like the patriarchs of old, those who profess to love God should erect an altar to His worship wherever they pitch their tent. The father, as priest of the household, should offer the morning and evening sacrifice, while the wife and children unite in prayer and praise. In a home where God is thus honored, Jesus will love to tarry.” The Bible Echo, December 15, 1893

Monday

2 PURIFYING THE HEART

2.a. What is the significance of the Passover to us as Christians? 1 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 7:26, 27

Note: “The Passover was to be both commemorative and typical, not only pointing back to the deliverance from Egypt, but forward to the greater deliverance which Christ was to accomplish in freeing His people from the bondage of sin. The sacrificial lamb represents ‘the Lamb of God,’ in whom is our only hope of salvation. Says the apostle, ‘Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.’ 1 Corinthians 5:7. It was not enough that the paschal lamb be slain; its blood must be sprinkled upon the doorposts; so the merits of Christ’s blood must be applied to the soul. We must believe, not only that He died for the world, but that He died for us individually. We must appropriate to ourselves the virtue of the atoning sacrifice. …

“The lamb was to be prepared whole, not a bone of it being broken: so not a bone was to be broken of the Lamb of God, who was to die for us. John 19:36. Thus was also represented the completeness of Christ’s sacrifice.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 277

2.b.  What did the hyssop symbolize in the Passover? Psalms 51:2, 7

Note: “The hyssop used in sprinkling the blood was the symbol of purification, being thus employed in the cleansing of the leper and of those defiled by contact with the dead.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 277

“We want something besides Sabbath religion. We need the living principle, and to daily feel individual responsibility. This is shunned by many, and the fruit is carelessness, indifference, a lack of watchfulness and spirituality. Where is the spirituality of the church? Where are men and women full of faith and the Holy Spirit? My prayer is: Purify Thy church, O God.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 99

“The religion that comes from God is the only religion that will lead to God. In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind, giving us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us a willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.” The Desire of Ages, 189

“The people of God must purify their souls through obedience to the truth, and be prepared to stand without fault before Him at His coming.” Evangelism, 695

Tuesday

3 A HOLY LIFE, A HOLY ORDINANCE

3.a. Explain how Christ’s sacrifice was symbolized in the Passover. Exodus 12:46; John 19:36

3.b. The Passover lamb was not only to be slain, but also eaten. How does the fact relate to Christ our Passover? Exodus 12:8; John 6:53, 54, 63

Note: “It is not enough even that we believe on Christ for the forgiveness of sin; we must by faith be constantly receiving spiritual strength and nourishment from Him through His word. … The followers of Christ must be partakers of His experience. They must receive and assimilate the word of God so that it shall become the motive power of life and action. By the power of Christ they must be changed into His likeness, and reflect the divine attributes. They must eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, or there is no life in them. The spirit and work of Christ must become the spirit and work of His disciples.

“The lamb was to be eaten with bitter herbs, as pointing back to the bitterness of the bondage in Egypt. So when we feed upon Christ, it should be with contrition of heart, because of our sins.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 277, 278

3.c. What specific ceremony replaced the Passover, and what additional ordinance was added to it? Mark 14:16, 22–25; John 13:1–5, 13–15

Note: “The act of Christ in washing the feet of His disciples was a sacred one; His motive in so doing was to bring about, through their remembrance of what Christ had done for them, a state of feeling where no exaltation of one above another should find place. This ordinance was to bring brother to an understanding of the feelings of his brother. …

“This ordinance does not speak so largely to man’s intellectual capacity as to his heart. His moral and spiritual nature needs it. If His disciples had not needed this, it would not have been left for them as Christ’s last established ordinance in connection with, and including, the last supper.” The Review and Herald, June 14, 1898

Wednesday

4 SET APART

4.a. When the Passover was originally established, what restriction had God placed on who was allowed to partake of it? Exodus 12:43–48

Note: “He [the Lord] required of Abraham and his seed, circumcision, which was a circle cut in the flesh, as a token that God had cut them out and separated them from all nations as His peculiar treasure. By this sign they solemnly pledged themselves that they would not intermarry with other nations; for by so doing they would lose their reverence for God and His holy law, and would become like the idolatrous nations around them.

“By the act of circumcision they solemnly agreed to fulfill on their part the conditions of the covenant made with Abraham, to be separate from all nations, and to be perfect. If the descendants of Abraham had kept separate from other nations, they would not have been seduced into idolatry. By keeping separate from other nations, a great temptation to engage in their sinful practices, and rebel against God, would be removed from them. They lost in a great measure their peculiar, holy character, by mingling with the nations around them.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 1, 262, 263

4.b.  As circumcision had been in the Old Testament, what New Testament ordinance is an emblem of separation from the world and consecration to God? Colossians 2:6, 10–12

Note: “Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. …

“Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: ‘Come out from among them, and be ye separate, … and touch not the unclean thing.’ And to them is fulfilled the promise: ‘I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.’ 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 91

Thursday

5 A SOLEMN SEPARATION FROM SIN

5.a. What provisions did Jesus make for the Passover? Who partook of this feast with Him? Mark 14:12–15

Note: “The Lord’s Supper was not to be observed only occasionally or yearly, but more frequently than the annual Passover. This solemn ordinance commemorates a far greater event than the deliverance of the children of Israel from Egypt. That deliverance was typical of the great atonement which Christ made by the sacrifice of His own life for the final deliverance of His people.

“This ordinance is not to be exclusive, as many would make it. Each must participate in it publicly, and thus bear witness: I accept Christ as my personal Saviour. He gave His life for me, that I might be rescued from death.” The Faith I Live By, 302

“I was pointed back to the time that Jesus took His disciples away alone, into an upper room, and first washed their feet, and then gave them to eat of the broken bread, to represent His broken body, and juice of the vine to represent His spilled blood. I saw that all should move understandingly, and follow the example of Jesus in these things, and when attending to these ordinances, should be as separate from unbelievers as possible.” The Present Truth, November 1, 1850

5.b.      What did the unleavened bread symbolize? 1 Corinthians 5:6–8

Note: “At the time of the Passover the people were directed to remove all the leaven from their houses as they were to put away sin from their hearts.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 95, 96

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What reveals our daily need of atonement now as much as ever?

2    How does the hyssop in the Passover service have its parallel today?

3    Why is the ordinance of humility so important for us in these last days?

4    How is the ancient mingling with the uncircumcised repeated today?

5    From what and whom is the Lord’s Supper to be separate?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Sacrifices and Solemn Feasts

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April 6 – 12, 2025

Key Text

“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29, last part

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 537–542

Introduction

“God had chosen Israel. He had called them to preserve among men the knowledge of His law, and of the symbols and prophecies that pointed to the Saviour. He desired them to be as wells of salvation to the world.” The Desire of Ages, 27

Sunday

1 THE LAMB OF GOD SYMBOLIZED

  1. In the plan God gave to the Hebrews, what had to be done every day in order to atone for sin? Exodus 29:38–41

Note: “The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering, the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offerings for individual sins. …

“Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar, with its appropriate meat offering, thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to Jehovah, and their constant dependence upon the atoning blood of Christ. God expressly directed that every offering presented for the service of the sanctuary should be ‘without blemish.’ Exodus 12:5. The priests were to examine all animals brought as a sacrifice, and were to reject every one in which a defect was discovered. Only an offering ‘without blemish’ could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as ‘a lamb without blemish and without spot.’ 1 Peter 1:19.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352, 353

“The great lesson embodied in the sacrifice of every bleeding victim, impressed in every ceremony … was that through the blood of Christ alone is forgiveness of sins.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 913

Monday

2 HOLY UNTO THE LORD

2.a. How is God’s seventh-day Sabbath distinct from the annual convocations that would symbolize His plan for deliverance from sin? Colossians 2:16, 17

2.b.      What miraculous experience distinguished the Hebrews from ancient Egypt, a rebellious nation that had defiantly rejected God? Exodus 12:3–13

Note: “Here was a work required of the children of Israel, which they must perform on their part, to prove them, and to show their faith by their works in the great deliverance God had been bringing about for them. In order to escape the great judgment of God which he was to bring upon the Egyptians, the token of blood must be seen upon their houses. And they were required to separate themselves and their children from the Egyptians, and gather them into their own houses; for if any of the Israelites were found in the houses of the Egyptians, they would fall by the hand of the destroying angel. … When the destroying angel went forth in the night to slay the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast, he passed over their houses, and not one of the Hebrews that had the token of blood upon their doorposts was slain.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 1, 200

2.c. How was this event to be memorialized? Exodus 12:14; Leviticus 23:5

Note: “On the fourteenth day of the month, at even, the Passover was celebrated, its solemn, impressive ceremonies commemorating the deliverance from bondage in Egypt, and pointing forward to the sacrifice that should deliver from the bondage of sin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 539

2.d.      What followed the Passover? Exodus 12:15–20; Leviticus 23:6–8

Tuesday

3 PROVIDER OF HARVEST—AND HOPE

3.a. What offering to the Lord acknowledged Him to be the divine Provider of every morsel of food? Exodus 23:19, first part; Leviticus 23:9–14

Note: “On the second day of the feast, the first fruits of the year’s harvest were presented before God. Barley was the earliest grain in Palestine, and at the opening of the feast it was beginning to ripen. A sheaf of this grain was waved by the priest before the altar of God, as an acknowledgment that all was His. Not until this ceremony had been performed was the harvest to be gathered.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 539

3.b.      What commemoration occurred on the fiftieth day? Leviticus 23:15–22

Note: “Fifty days from the offering of first fruits, came the Pentecost, called also the feast of harvest and the feast of weeks. As an expression of gratitude for the grain prepared as food, two loaves baked with leaven were presented before God. The Pentecost occupied but one day, which was devoted to religious service.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 540

3.c. Which feast, preceded by the solemn introductory Feast of Trumpets, brought hope to the people that their sins would be remembered no more? Leviticus 23:23–32

Note: “Only once a year could the high priest enter into the most holy place, after the most careful and solemn preparation. No mortal eye but that of the high priest could look upon the sacred grandeur of that apartment, because it was the especial dwelling place of God’s visible glory. The high priest always entered it with trembling, while the people waited his return with solemn silence. Their earnest desires were to God for His blessing. … If he remained an unusual time in the most holy, the people were often terrified, fearing that because of their sins or some sin of the priest, the glory of the Lord had slain him. But when the sound of the tinkling of the bells upon his garments was heard, they were greatly relieved. He then came forth and blessed the people.” The Story of Redemption, 155, 156

Wednesday

4 THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES

  1. What happened during the final feast of the Jewish year, and why was this a joyous occasion? Leviticus 23:33–36, 39–43

Note: “The Feast of Tabernacles was celebrated to commemorate the time when the Hebrews dwelt in tents during their sojourn in the wilderness. While this great festival lasted, the people were required to leave their houses and live in booths made of green branches of pine or myrtle. These leafy structures were sometimes erected on the tops of the houses, and in the streets, but oftener outside the walls of the city, in the valleys and along the hillsides. Scattered about in every direction, these green camps presented a very picturesque appearance.

“The feast lasted one week, and during all that time the temple was a festal scene of great rejoicing. There was the pomp of the sacrificial ceremonies; and the sound of music, mingled with hosannas, made the place jubilant. At the first dawn of day, the priests sounded a long, shrill blast upon their silver trumpets; and the answering trumpets, and the glad shouts of the people from their booths, echoing over hill and valley, welcomed the festal day. Then the priest dipped from the flowing waters of the Kedron a flagon of water, and, lifting it on high, while the trumpets were sounding, he ascended the broad steps of the temple, keeping time with the music with slow and measured tread, chanting meanwhile: ‘Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem!’

“He bore the flagon to the altar which occupied a central position in the temple court. Here were two silver basins, with a priest standing at each one. The flagon of water was poured into one basin, and a flagon of wine into the other; and the contents of both flowed into a pipe which communicated with the Kedron, and was conducted to the Dead Sea. This display of the consecrated water represented the fountain that flowed from the rock to refresh the Hebrews in the wilderness. Then the jubilant strains rang forth:—

“ ‘The Lord Jehovah is my strength and song;’ ‘therefore with joy shall we draw water out of the wells of salvation!’ All the vast assembly joined in triumphant chorus with musical instruments and deep-toned trumpets, while competent choristers conducted the grand harmonious concert of praise.

“The festivities were carried on with an unparalleled splendor. At night the temple and its court blazed so with artificial light that the whole city was illuminated. The music, the waving of palm-branches, the glad hosannas, the great concourse of people, over which the light streamed from the hanging lamps, the dazzling array of the priests, and the majesty of the ceremonies, all combined to make a scene that deeply impressed all beholders.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 2, 343–345

Thursday

5 SYMBOLIC OF SALVATION

  1. In considering the feasts of ancient Israel, what should we realize? Romans 15:4; John 1:29

Note: “It is impossible to enumerate the advantages the Lord prepared for the world in making the Jewish nation the repository of His rich treasures of knowledge. They were the subjects of His special favor. As a people who knew and worshiped the true God, they were to communicate the principles of His kingdom. They were instructed by the Lord. He withheld from them nothing favorable to the formation of characters which would make them fit representatives of His kingdom. Their feasts, the Passover, the Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles, and the ceremonies attending these gatherings, were to proclaim the truths that God had entrusted to His people. At these gatherings the people were to show gladness and joy, expressing their thanksgiving for their privileges and the gracious treatment of their Lord. Thus they were to show to a world that knew not God that the Lord does not forsake those who trust in Him. With joyful voices they were to sing, ‘Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God’ (Psalm 43:5).

“The history of the children of Israel is written for our admonition and instruction upon whom the ends of the world are come. Those who would stand firm in the faith in these last days, and finally gain an entrance into the heavenly Canaan, must listen to the words of warning spoken by Jesus Christ to the Israelites. These lessons were given to the church in the wilderness to be studied and heeded by God’s people throughout their generations forever.” The Upward Look, 232

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Why did a lamb need to be offered up every morning and evening?

2    What protected the children of Israel on the night of the Passover?

3    Which ceremony was designed to acknowledge the Lord of the harvest?

4    Why was the Day of Atonement so important?

5    What was the general purpose of the feast days?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Our Need for Atonement

by

Living in the Day of Atonement

March 30 – April 5, 2025

Key Text

“And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” Romans 5:11

Study Help: Steps to Christ, 23–35

Introduction

“Calvary stands as a memorial of the amazing sacrifice required to atone for the transgression of the divine law.” Steps to Christ, 33

Sunday

1 A PERFECT START

1.a. Describe the spiritual state that God originally bestowed upon Adam and Eve, the first members of the human race. Genesis 1:27, 31

Note: “There were no sin and no signs of decay in glorious Eden. Angels of God conversed freely and lovingly with the holy pair. The happy songsters caroled forth their free, joyous songs of praise to their Creator. The peaceful beasts in happy innocence played about Adam and Eve, obedient to their word. Adam was in the perfection of manhood, the noblest of the Creator’s work.

“Not a shadow interposed between them and their Creator. They knew God as their beneficent Father, and in all things their will was conformed to the will of God. And God’s character was reflected in the character of Adam.” The Adventist Home, 26, 27

1.b.      What greeted the eye of Adam and Eve in Eden? Genesis 1:28; 2:8, 19

Note: “To Adam and Eve in their Eden home nature was full of the knowledge of God, teeming with divine instruction. Wisdom spoke to the eye and was received into the heart; for they communed with God in His created works.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 18

Monday

2 PERFECTION TAINTED

2.a. What changed the delight of the Eden dwellers? Genesis 2:16, 17; 3:6

Note: “Adam and Eve persuaded themselves that in so small a matter as eating of the forbidden fruit there could not result such terrible consequences as God had declared. But this small matter was the transgression of God’s immutable and holy law, and it separated man from God.” Steps to Christ, 33

2.b. How has this problem affected our whole planet? Romans 8:22

Note: “It [the matter of eating the forbidden fruit] … opened the floodgates of death and untold woe upon our world. Age after age there has gone up from our earth a continual cry of mourning, and the whole creation groaneth and travaileth together in pain as a consequence of man’s disobedience. Heaven itself has felt the effects of his rebellion against God.” Steps to Christ, 33

2.c. What has been the tendency of our race ever since that seed of rebellion entered to corrupt the natural human heart? Romans 7:18–25

Note: “Let us not regard sin as a trivial thing.

“Every act of transgression, every neglect or rejection of the grace of Christ, is reacting upon yourself; it is hardening the heart, depraving the will, benumbing the understanding, and not only making you less inclined to yield, but less capable of yielding, to the tender pleading of God’s Holy Spirit.

“Many are quieting a troubled conscience with the thought that they can change a course of evil when they choose; that they can trifle with the invitations of mercy, and yet be again and again impressed. They think that after doing despite to the Spirit of grace, after casting their influence on the side of Satan, in a moment of terrible extremity they can change their course. But this is not so easily done. The experience, the education, of a lifetime, has so thoroughly molded the character that few then desire to receive the image of Jesus.” Steps to Christ 33, 34

Tuesday

3 THE SIN PROBLEM

3.a. How does Scripture explain the existing crisis within humanity and throughout our entire planet? 1 John 3:4; 1:8

Note: “There is no one, however earnestly he may be striving to do his best, who can say, ‘I have no sin.’ ” The Upward Look, 53

“Nothing is more plainly taught in Scripture than that God was in no wise responsible for the entrance of sin; that there was no arbitrary withdrawal of divine grace, no deficiency in the divine government, that gave occasion for the uprising of rebellion. Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it. Could excuse for it be found, or cause be shown for its existence, it would cease to be sin. Our only definition of sin is that given in the word of God; it is ‘the transgression of the law;’ it is the outworking of a principle at war with the great law of love which is the foundation of the divine government.” The Great Controversy, 492, 493

3.b.      What painful reality must every human being face? Romans 3:23; Isaiah 1:5, 6

Note: “The work of apostasy begins in some secret rebellion of the heart against the requirements of God’s law. Unholy desires, unlawful ambitions, are cherished and indulged, and unbelief and darkness separate the soul from God. If we do not overcome these evils they will overcome us.” God’s Amazing Grace, 333

3.c. How does God view the lack of justice caused by sin, and what is His solution? Isaiah 59:15, 16

Note: “In Eden, man fell from his high estate and through transgression became subject to death. It was seen in heaven that human beings were perishing, and the compassion of God was stirred. At infinite cost He devised a means of relief. … There was no hope for the transgressor except through Christ.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 25

Wednesday

4 ATONEMENT BY BLOOD

4.a. What plan had God devised in advance to rescue fallen humanity, and why was it necessary? Job 33:24; Genesis 3:17–21

Note: “The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave Themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption. In order fully to carry out this plan, it was decided that Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, should give Himself an offering for sin.” Counsels on Health, 222

“As Adam’s transgression had brought wretchedness and death, so the sacrifice of Christ would bring life and immortality.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 66, 67

4.b.      What system was given to symbolize the sacrifice of Christ? Genesis 4:4; Leviticus 17:11

Note: “The sacrificial offerings were ordained by God to be to man a perpetual reminder and a penitential acknowledgment of his sin and a confession of his faith in the promised Redeemer. They were intended to impress upon the fallen race the solemn truth that it was sin that caused death. To Adam, the offering of the first sacrifice was a most painful ceremony. His hand must be raised to take life, which only God could give. It was the first time he had ever witnessed death, and he knew that had he been obedient to God, there would have been no death of man or beast. As he slew the innocent victim, he trembled at the thought that his sin must shed the blood of the spotless Lamb of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 68

“Without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of sin; and they [the children of Adam] were to show their faith in the blood of Christ as the promised atonement by offering the firstlings of the flock in sacrifice.” Ibid., 71

“The blood of the Son of God was symbolized by the blood of the slain victim, and God would have clear and definite ideas preserved between the sacred and the common. Blood was sacred, inasmuch as through the shedding of the blood of the Son of God alone could there be atonement for sin.” God’s Amazing Grace, 55

Thursday

5 GRATITUDE FOR GOD’S PROVISION

  1. What should we realize about the atonement made in our behalf, and how should we respond to it? Hebrews 9:22; Romans 5:8–11

Note: “Jesus is our atoning sacrifice. We can make no atonement for ourselves, but by faith we can accept the atonement that has been made.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 321, 322

“As one is drawn to behold Jesus uplifted on the cross, he discerns the sinfulness of humanity. He sees that it is sin which scourged and crucified the Lord of glory. He sees that, while he has been loved with unspeakable tenderness, his life has been a continual scene of ingratitude and rebellion. He has forsaken his best Friend and abused heaven’s most precious gift. He has crucified to himself the Son of God afresh and pierced anew that bleeding and stricken heart. He is separated from God by a gulf of sin that is broad and black and deep, and he mourns in brokenness of heart. …

“God reveals to us our guilt that we may flee to Christ, and through Him be set free from the bondage of sin, and rejoice in the liberty of the sons of God. In true contrition we may come to the foot of the cross, and there leave our burdens.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 9, 10

“The salvation of human beings is a vast enterprise, that calls into action every attribute of the divine nature. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have pledged themselves to make God’s children more than conquerors through Him that loved them. The Lord is gracious and long-suffering, not willing that any should perish. He has provided power to enable us to be overcomers.” The Review and Herald, January 27, 1903

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Name some of the best features of the Eden lifestyle.

2    Why does God test our faithfulness and devotion in seemingly small ways?

3    Why is it wrong to blame God and others for the sins in our life?

4    Describe the depth of Christ’s sacrifice in our behalf.

5    How should I respond to the atonement made by Jesus on the cross?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Recipe – Garlicky Creamed Spinach

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Spinach

Splendid Facts

There are three different types of spinach – savoy, flat-leaf, and semi-savoy.
It is comprised mostly of water. Raw spinach is 91% water, which is just 5% less than cucumbers.
100 grams of spinach contains 3.57 mg of iron. Iron helps create hemoglobin, which brings oxygen to body tissues.
It contains 15 different vitamins and minerals that are crucial for prime health.
Liquefying fresh spinach or chewing it into a cream is the absolute best way to consume spinach. This releases beta-carotene stored in the leaves, which enables the body to absorb its nutrients. Half a cup of spinach is one of the five servings of fruits and vegetables that one should eat daily.
Packed full of antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress, the spinach helps reduce the damage stress causes.
It helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and strong bones, eye health and cancer prevention. Because it is rich in heart-healthy nutrients like potassium, folate, and magnesium, it also helps to lower blood pressure levels.
It contains vitamin K1, which is essential for blood clotting. One leaf contains over half of a body’s daily needs. The amount of vitamin K in spinach could interfere with blood thinning medication if eaten in large amounts.
In medieval days, artists extracted the green pigment to use as ink or paint.
Even though they look nothing alike, spinach is a relative of beets.

Sources: thefactsite.com/spinach-facts; healthline.com/nutrition/foods/spinach#bottom-line; drfarrahmd.com/2020/03/spinach-and-blood-pressure

Recipe – Garlicky Creamed Spinach

Ingredients

Cream Sauce

1/2 cup raw cashews

1 cup water

1 tsp. white miso paste

1/2 Tbs. nutritional yeast

1 Tbs. lemon juice

1/4 tsp. sea salt or to taste

Spinach

2 Tbs. vegan butter or olive oil

5 cloves or 3 Tbs. garlic, minced

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes, optional

16-20 oz. baby spinach

Process

Blend all sauce ingredients until smooth. Add butter or olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes to a large pot, and bring to low-medium heat. Cook until garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the spinach, stirring occasionally, until wilted. Add the cream sauce and bring to a simmer. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the spinach is very tender, about 5 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with caramelized onions or shallots. Delicious served with mashed potatoes and nut loaf.

The Lying Tongue

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On January 26, 1998, the American people heard these now famous and historic words: “I want to say one thing to the American people. I want you to listen to me. I’m going to say this again: I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky. I never told anybody to lie, not a single time, never. These allegations are false, and I need to go back to work for the American people.” Seven months later on August 27, 1998, President Bill Clinton made the following confession, “I did have a relationship with Miss Lewinsky that was not appropriate, in fact, it was wrong.” This action by President Clinton helped to solidify lying as a major character trait of this nation.

According to an article entitled, “The Destructive Effect of Deception:”

“The average American lies 11 times per week. To most of us, lying may seem easier than telling the truth.” (Ben Gustafson, January 26, 2017, Zephyrus, the official student-run news publication of Edina High School.)

According to a recent poll, “By the age of four, 90% of children have learned the concept of lying. Based on studies performed in the past, it is estimated that 60% of adults cannot have a ten-minute conversation without lying at least once. Within those ten minutes, an average of three lies were told. … Most people lie an average of 4 times a day which equates to 1,460 lies every year.” (Brandon Gaille, 25 Nose Growing Statistics on Lying, May 20, 2017)

“These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.” Proverbs 6:16–19

As we continue our study of the seven deadly sins that God hates, let’s look at the second deadly sin, the lying tongue.

12% of adults admit to telling a lie often or sometimes
80% of women admit to telling harmless half-truths occasionally
31% of people admit to lying on their resumes
13% of patients lie to their doctor
32% of patients stretched the truth to their doctor
30% lie about their diet and exercise regiments
6 lies/day men tell lies to their partner, boss, or colleagues
3 lies/day women tell to their partner, boss, or colleagues
more common to lie during phone calls than face-to-face chats
1 lie in 7 is discovered as far as liars can tell
10% of lies are just exaggerations and 60% were outright deceptions
70% of liars claim they would tell their lies again

Speaking false statements in our contemporary society is not only habitual, it is also an acceptable behavior. Nevertheless, God hates lying.

It is interesting that even though the Lord hates lying, there are those who see lying as something beneficial to mankind. In Psychology Today, May 1, 1997, Allison Kornet wrote an article titled “The Truth About Lying,” in which she quoted a psychologist who admits, “a certain amount of self-delusion—basically, lying to yourself—is essential to good mental health.” Also, that “… lies are life sustaining.”

Leonard Saxe, Ph.D., a polygraph expert and professor of psychology at Brandeis University, says, “Lying has long been a part of everyday life. We couldn’t get through the day without being deceptive.” Ibid.

Allison Kornet also remarked, “Incidentally, when researchers refer to lying, they don’t include the mindless pleasantries or polite equivocations we offer each other in passing, such as ‘I’m fine, thanks’ or ‘No trouble at all.’ An ‘official’ lie actually misleads, deliberately conveying a false impression. So complimenting a friend’s awful haircut or telling a creditor that the check is in the mail both qualify.” Ibid.

In our modern era, we have learnt to accept what we call “white lies” and “kind lies.” Dr. Bella DePaulo says, “Though some lies produce interpersonal friction, others may actually serve as a kind of harmless social lubricant. ‘They make it easier for people to get along.’ ” Ibid.

Many people will admit that they have come to the point in their lives where they cannot live without lying. The common cliché is “Everybody lies.” Heads of state, politicians, CEOs, security officials, doctors, religious leaders, professors, attorneys, husbands and wives, adults, children—everyone, it seems, lies.

The ninth commandment forbids us to lie, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” Exodus 20:16

“False speaking in any matter, every attempt or purpose to deceive our neighbor, is here included. An intention to deceive is what constitutes falsehood. By a glance of the eye, a motion of the hand, an expression of the countenance, a falsehood may be told as effectually as by words. All intentional overstatement, every hint or insinuation calculated to convey an erroneous or exaggerated impression, even the statement of facts in such a manner as to mislead, is falsehood. This precept forbids every effort to injure our neighbor’s reputation by misrepresentation or evil surmising, by slander or tale bearing. Even the intentional suppression of truth, by which injury may result to others, is a violation of the ninth commandment.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 309

Regardless of how human beings feel about lying, God’s attitude regarding lying will never change. As far as He is concerned, the act of lying demands the death penalty. This is evidenced when He literally killed a husband and a wife for simply lying. “But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, ‘Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back part of the price of the land for yourself?

“While it remained, was it not your own? and after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in thine heart? You have not lied to men but to God.’  

“Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down, and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.

“Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, ‘Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?’ She said, ‘Yes, for so much.’ Then Peter said to her, ‘How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.’ Then immediately she fell down at his feet, and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband.” Acts 5:1–10. (See also The Acts of the Apostles, 71–73.)

Jesus tells us the definition of a lie and who is the originator of it in John 8:44, “You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it.”

The phrase “does not stand in the truth” defines a lie; it is antithetical (opposite) to truth. In Greek, the word lie that Jesus used to describe the devil means “a falsehood, to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood.” Therefore, lying has much to do with deception. It is not only the opposite of truth but also anti-truth; it stands against the truth and seeks to take the place of it.

The dictionary defines a lie as “a false statement made with deliberate intent to deceive; an intentional untruth.” John agrees with Jesus that deception is Satan’s nature, “So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” Revelation 12:9. God hates lying because it originated with Satan, who specifically crafted lies to lead God’s creatures completely out of the way of truth, completely away from the Lord who is the truth.

Inspiration tells us, “The rebellion which took place in heaven under the power of a lie, and the deception which led Adam and Eve to disobey the law of God, opened the floodgates of woe upon our world.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 190. “It was by a lie that he first gained control over men, and thus he still works to overthrow God’s kingdom in the earth and to bring men under his power.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 37, 38

According to Jesus, lying is the chief weapon Satan uses to overthrow human beings and to destroy God’s kingdom on earth. Consequently, all those who practice lying are children of the devil.

How does lying affect our health?

“According to a 2015 review article, constant lying is associated with an array of negative health outcomes including high blood pressure, increased heart rate, vasoconstriction, and elevated stress hormones in the blood.” (Bill Sullivan, Psychology Today, January 5, 2020)

According to U.S. News and World Report, “Lying is thought to trigger the release of stress hormones, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Stress reduces your body’s number of infection-fighting white blood cells, and over the years, could contribute to lower-back pain, tension headaches, a rapid heartbeat, menstrual problems, and even infertility.” (Angela Haupt, How Lying Affects Your Health, August 20, 2012)

What are the spiritual implications for lying?

  1. “Every lying tongue will be silenced. Angels’ hands will overthrow the deceptive schemes that are being formed.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1647
  2. “Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death.” Proverbs 21:6
  3. “The truthful lip shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.” Proverbs 12:19
  4. “Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.” Proverbs 10:18
  5. “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight.” Proverbs 12:22
  6. “A righteous man hates lying, but a wicked man is loathsome and comes to shame.” Proverbs 13:5

A person who loves and practices lying will suffer the penalty for lying. This was the case of Gehazi, Elisha’s servant. “But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, ‘Look, my master has spared Naaman this Syrian, while not receiving from his hands what he brought; but as the Lord lives, I will run after him and take something from him.’ ” 2 Kings 5:20 (Also read verses 21–27.) Gehazi suffered the consequence of lying.

Common Reasons for Lying
To save face
Shift blame
Avoid confrontation
To get one’s way
To be nice
To make oneself feel better

Study participants admitted to lying the most to:

86% parents

75% friends

73% siblings

69% spouses

Source: thetreetop.com/statistics/lying

“Let not one soul think that he can hide from God’s wrath behind a lie, for God will strip from the soul the refuge of lies.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 182

Heaven has no place for liars.

“But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8

“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.” Revelation 22:14, 15

“Satan offers to men the kingdoms of the world if they will yield to him the supremacy. Many do this and sacrifice heaven. It is better to die than to sin; better to want than to defraud; better to hunger than to lie. Let all who are tempted meet Satan with these words: ‘Blessed is everyone that feareth the Lord; that walketh in His ways. For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.’ Here is a condition and a promise which will be unmistakably realized. Happiness and prosperity will be the result of serving the Lord.” Testimonies, Vol. 4, 495

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at 718-882-3900.

Salt of the Earth

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Salt processing dates back thousands of years. Salt was extracted by boiling spring water. China had salt works dating back to that same period. The ancient Hebrews, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Hittites, Egyptians, and American Indians prized salt. It was important in trade as “currency” and was transported by boat across the Mediterranean Sea, camel caravan across the Sahara, and along specially built salt roads. Wars were waged over its scarcity and universal need; it was used to raise tax revenue and in religious ceremonies and other cultural traditions.

Salt is a mineral composed primarily of sodium chloride. It is made into table salt and rock salt. Salt is essential to life because it supplies the vital dietary minerals sodium and chloride. Saltiness is one of the basic human tastes. As one of the oldest food seasonings, it can give an otherwise unpalatable food an acceptable flavorful. Salting, brining, and pickling are essential methods of preserving food. Not only does salt flavor and preserve food, but it is also a good antiseptic.

Processed from salt mines, the evaporation of seawater, and mineral-rich spring water, salt is most commonly used to produce chemicals, plastics, and paper pulp. It is also used for de-icing highways and airplanes and used in agriculture. The annual global salt production is three hundred million tons, of which humans consume only a small portion. Salt is found in almost all processed foods.

Did You Know? Salt mines worldwide are located in Canada, Pakistan, Romania, Chile, Poland, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Peru, Columbia, Germany, and even the United States.

Essential for human health, sodium is an electrolyte. In liquid form, potassium, chloride, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate are also electrolytes. Electrolytes help to maintain the balance of various fluids in the body. Electrolytes help keep the body hydrated and maintain a balanced blood PH level. Blood pressure is under the control of our electrolytes. Insufficient levels of critical electrolytes can result in muscle weakness or severe muscle contractions. Serious electrolyte disturbances, such as dehydration or over-hydration, leading to too many or not enough electrolytes, can cause cardiac and neurological complications, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Did You Know? A 1-teaspoon serving of table salt contains about 2,400 mg of sodium.

As essential as salt is for human health, we must monitor how much we consume. Excessive consumption increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, kidney disease, and stroke. The recommended daily consumption for an adult is 2,000 mg of sodium. Reducing your sodium intake by 1,000 mg daily can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as 30 percent, and maintaining a low-sodium diet will lower blood pressure. African Americans, middle-aged, and older adults should limit consumption to 1,500 mg per day and meet the recommended amount of potassium (4,700 mg daily) with a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables.

For the ancient Jews, salt served as a preservative, was used to remove blood from meat, and symbolized the eternal covenant between God and Israel.

Did You Know? The word salary comes from the Latin word salarium (sal is Latin for salt) and means “salt money.” The sayings “not worth his salt” or “not worth his weight in salt” come from using salt as currency. A Roman soldier’s salary was often paid, in part, with salt; if he didn’t do a good job, his salary (salt) would be cut. The Greeks and Romans bought slaves with salt, but if he wasn’t a good slave, they would say that he wasn’t worth the salt paid for him.

The Bible uses salt to symbolize several things.

Covenant of Salt – perpetual and not to be broken (2 Chronicles 13:5; Leviticus 2:13).

Long-Lasting Friendship and Loyalty – Immutable, God’s everlasting love for us (Psalm 136).

Adds Flavor – Jesus tells us that we are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13). He means that we are to enhance the beauty of the world around us, to uplift and glorify God in a world in darkness. As the salt of the earth, we are to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ so that God’s grace and love can be experienced.

As a Preservative – Just as salt preserves the freshness of food, it represents Jesus who preserves and sustains life and faithful in keeping His promises to us.

Sources: wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrolyte; wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt; americanmineservices.com/top-10-largest-salt-mines-in-the-world; time.com/3957460/a-brief-history-of-salt; thebiblicalnutritionist.com/salt-in-the-bible

Cats – How Do They Do That?

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Felis Catus, a domesticated, carnivorous mammal.

Why can cats turn over when they fall and humans can’t? Cats have an extremely flexible spine and no clavicle (collarbone). This is how the righting reflex in cats is possible. Man, on the other hand, has a collarbone and his spine is less flexible which prevents him from having the righting reflex. A cat’s righting reflex begins to appear at 3-4 weeks of age and is perfected by 6-9 weeks. The cat’s tail may help the righting reflex, but cats without tails still have the reflex and primarily use their legs while twisting their spine in a specific sequence to effect the turn.

DID YOU KNOW? Large cat species like lions and tigers have the righting reflex, but it doesn’t guarantee they will always land on their feet.

And this righting reflex isn’t exclusive to cats. Other small vertebrates—rabbits, rats, lizards—and certain invertebrates like Anthropoda (stick insects)—can also do it.

Here is how the righting reflex works:

  • The cat visually determines down from up, although it can also use its vestibular apparatus (fancy words for the inner ear).
  • It bends in the middle, allowing the front half of its body to rotate on a different axis from the rear half.
  • It tucks its front legs, reducing the moment of inertia of the front half, and extends the rear legs, increasing the moment of inertia on the rear half of the body. The result is that the front half rotates in one direction as much as 90 degrees while the rear half rotates in the opposite direction as little as 10 degrees.
  • Then, by extending its front legs and tucking its rear legs, the cat switches; rear legs rotate more in one direction, as the front legs rotate less in the opposite direction. This process may be repeated two or three times to complete a full 180-degree rotation, all before it reaches the ground.

Cats also use terminal velocity (the maximum speed attainable by an object as it falls). When falling, particularly from heights above five stories, a cat will horizontally extend out all of its limbs, and its small size, light bone structure, and thick fur will cause drag to increase until terminal velocity has been reached. In simple English, the cat uses its body to slow itself down. Cats can still be hurt depending on just how far they fall. Studies have found that falls from seven stories or higher would result in severe injury and death.

Unlike the cat and the myriad of creatures God made with unique abilities to protect and help themselves, we cannot rely on ourselves nor keep ourselves upright for one minute. Solomon wrote, “I do not know how to go out or come in.” 1 Kings 3:7, last part. We must rely solely and entirely upon our heavenly Father.

Sources: wikipedia.org/wiki/Cat_righting_reflex

Patience

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Recently, I read a Facebook post written by a gentleman with whom I attended academy some years ago. He has a profound depth of understanding of different aspects of life and spirituality. I was so impressed with this one, I wanted to share it:

Our inner self can be trained to wait on God, even though our outer self is stressed and anxious for answers. This is difficult in our fast-paced society, where the spiritual discipline of waiting on the Lord is often lacking.

We want everything—right now. But if we are always in a hurry, we will miss out on the close fellowship with God that takes time to develop. He will speak to our hearts if we are patient enough to listen.

After slaying the prophets of Baal, Elijah learned a valuable lesson about waiting on God. The Lord told him to stand on a mountain. A great wind came, followed by an earthquake, then a great fire, but the Lord was in none of these.

It was only after the wind, the earthquake, and the fire had all died away that the Lord spoke in a still, small voice. Had Elijah been impatient he would not have heard the Lord’s voice.

If we are to pray effectively, we must choose to wait patiently and listen for His word. Waiting and listening takes the focus off us and places it on Him, who is the answer to all our needs.

It is often in the silence that follows turmoil that the power of God is moving most mightily. Allow the Holy Spirit to teach us to wait in His presence.

Gaylen Healzer

No Time to Lose

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We have no time to lose. The end is near. Everything will be placed to obstruct our way, so that we shall not be able to do that which is possible to be done. I know from the light given me of God, that the powers of darkness are working with intense energy from beneath. We have warnings now which we may give, a work which we may do, but soon it will be more difficult than we can imagine. The Southern Review, September 12, 1899

In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent . … Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.

We have no time to lose. We know not how soon our probation may close. Christ is soon to come.

When probation ends, it will come suddenly, unexpectedly—at a time when we are least expecting it. But we can have a clean record in heaven today, and know that God accepts us; and finally, if faithful, we shall be gathered into the kingdom of heaven. The Faith I Live By, 215