Replacing Lies with God’s Truth
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Getting Rid of Errors in Our Thinking
Have you ever believed something about yourself that just wasn’t true?
Maybe you’ve thought:
- I’m not good enough.
- I’ll never find real love.
- God must be disappointed in me.
- I’ve made too many mistakes for God to use me.
These thoughts can feel real, but that doesn’t mean they are true. The enemy is a master of deception, and his lies are designed to keep us stuck in fear, regret, and insecurity. If he can control our thoughts, he can keep us from experiencing the freedom and purpose God has for us.
But here’s the good news: We don’t have to believe the lies!
The Battle Begins in Our Minds
Long before our actions reflect doubt or fear, our thoughts do. That’s why Scripture reminds us:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Our mindset matters. The way we think shapes our choices, and our choices shape our lives. If we don’t take our thoughts captive, they will take us captive.
Identifying the Lies We Believe
The first step in overcoming errors in our thinking is to recognize them.
Ask yourself:
- What negative thoughts repeat in my mind?
- Do my thoughts align with what God says about me?
- Would I say these same things to a friend?
Lies often disguise themselves as self-doubt, fear, or comparison. Maybe you grew up hearing you weren’t smart enough, pretty enough, or lovable enough. Maybe a past mistake has convinced you that God can’t use you. But these are not the words of a loving Father.
Replacing Lies with Truth
The only way to correct errors in our thinking is to replace them with truth.
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32
For every lie, God has a better word:
- Lie:I’m not good enough.
- Truth: You are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)
- Lie:I’ve messed up too much for God to use me.
- Truth: God works all things together for good for those who love Him. (Romans 8:28)
- Lie:I’ll never find love.
- Truth: God’s plans for you are good, with a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)
- Lie:I have to figure everything out on my own.
- Truth: The Lord will guide you continually. (Isaiah 58:11)
When we replace lies with God’s truth, our entire outlook changes. Instead of living in fear, we walk in confidence. Instead of doubting, we trust.
Taking Every Thought Captive
One of the biggest errors in our thinking is believing we are powerless over our thoughts. But the Bible says differently:
“We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:5
Taking thoughts captive means:
- Recognizing lies quickly.
- Rejecting them in Jesus’ name.
- Replacing them with truth.
When a thought enters your mind that doesn’t align with God’s Word, stop it immediately. Speak truth over yourself. Say it out loud if you have to!
Example:
- Lying Thought: No one loves me.
- Truth Response: I am loved by God with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3), and He has placed people in my life who care about me.
Filling Your Mind with Truth
To get rid of errors in our thinking, we must saturate our minds with truth.
Here’s how:
- Read Scripture daily – Let God’s Word reshape your mind.
- Pray for wisdom – Ask God to reveal lies and replace them with truth.
- Surround yourself with truth-givers – Spend time with people who speak life into you.
- Speak truth over yourself – Write down who God says you are and read it every morning.
- Reject negative influences – Be mindful of the media, conversations, and habits that reinforce false thinking.
The Freedom of Right Thinking
When we renew our minds, we start living in the freedom God has called us to. Our confidence grows. Our faith deepens. And our decisions align with God’s best for us.
So today, I challenge you—pay attention to your thoughts. Do they reflect God’s truth, or are they keeping you from His best?
Let’s choose to reject the lies and fill our minds with the life-giving truth of our loving Father.
A Simple Prayer:
“Lord, I surrender my thoughts to You. Reveal any lies I’ve believed and replace them with Your truth. Renew my mind so that I can walk in freedom. Fill my heart with confidence in who You’ve created me to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Resources to Look Into:
Before You Meet Your Future Husband
Praying for Your Future Husband
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 10
Exodus 29-31
Unveiling the Pattern
"Then anoint him by pouring the anointing oil over his head," Exodus 29:7
This verse speaks of Aaron, a very ordinary man for whom God had a divine plan. First, as a mouthpiece for Moses, and then as a holy priest.
As we journey through the pages of Exodus 29, we encounter a profound pattern in God’s instructions. A pattern that reflects the intricacy of His plan for His dwelling place among His chosen people. This pattern, as noted by Hebrew scholar Robert Altar, is arranged in concentric circles.
First, we witness the donation of materials and instructions for the structure. Then, we delve into the directions for the inner sanctum and the altar. Next, we explore the vestments and sacred ornaments of the priests. As the circle continues, we encounter the priests’ dedication and instructions for animal sacrifices. We proceed to the provisions for the tabernacle and daily supplies, including the washbasin for cleansing, anointing oil, and incense. These concentric circles lead us to the culmination of the holy day of the Sabbath.
This pattern, as explained by Douglas Stuart in his commentary, represents Yahweh’s house among the Israelites. It symbolizes God dwelling with His people in concentric circles, as seen in Numbers 2.
But you might wonder, “What does this have to do with me?”
The bigger picture is crucial. God’s desire is to dwell with His chosen people, and layer by layer, circle by circle, He is allowing this to come to pass.
In Exodus 31, we witness an extraordinary moment where God calls two very ordinary men, Bezalel and Oholiab, to craft His sanctuary. God fills them with the Spirit of God, granting them great wisdom and expertise in various crafts. This emphasizes God’s personal involvement and empowerment of those He chooses.
As we delve deeper into Exodus, we encounter detailed instructions, such as those for the basin. These details matter because of who God has made us now.
Revelation 1:6 states, "He has made us a Kingdom of priests for God his Father."
We are priests chosen by God for a special purpose.
Word of the Day: Anoint
To consecrate or make sacred in a ceremony that includes the token applying of oil; to dedicate to the service of God; to select for an honor, a particular role, or office.
Anointing, as described in Exodus 29:7, involves pouring oil abundantly upon the anointed. It signifies God pouring His divine grace upon His chosen ones. In the New Testament, Acts 10:38 reveals that God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 further confirms that God enables us to stand firm for Christ and identifies us as His own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts. This Spirit, the anointing of God, is given to dwell in us.
As we reflect on these concentric circles and the anointing of God’s Spirit, we are reminded of the intricate plan God has for us to dwell with Him. The Old Testament rituals paved the way for God to be with His people, and in the New Testament, the Holy Spirit resides within us, guaranteeing the promises of God.
The pattern of God’s dwelling place continues to unfold, and as we journey through Exodus, let us embrace the significance of God’s plan and the anointing of His Spirit in our lives.
February 11
Exodus 32-34
The Golden Calf and God’s Unwavering Faithfulness
While Moses was on the mountain, receiving instructions from God, the Israelites grew restless and impatient. They turned to Aaron and demanded gods to lead them. What follows is a tale of disobedience, idolatry, and God’s compassion.
Aaron, tasked with appeasing the impatient crowd, asked them to contribute their gold rings. From these precious materials, he fashioned a golden calf—a grievous violation of God’s commandments. This act of idol worship provoked God’s anger, and He was ready to destroy the Israelites. But Moses, interceding on their behalf, reminded God of His promise and His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Remarkably, God relented, sparing His people from destruction.
The incident with the golden calf serves as a stark reminder of the Israelites’ tendency to stray from God’s path when left unchecked. Even in the absence of Moses, they stumbled into sin. Their enemies watched, amused by their downfall.
Moses, in his righteous anger, threw the stone tablets containing the commandments to the ground. This symbolic act represented the shattering of the covenant due to the Israelites’ disobedience.
But Moses didn’t stop at one intercession. He pleaded with God on multiple occasions, revealing his deep desire to understand God’s ways more fully. In response, God declared, “I know you by name,” emphasizing the personal relationship between God and Moses.
Word of the Day: Must
To be obliged or bound to by an imperative requirement; to be or feel urged to; ought to.
God’s compassion shines through even in the midst of the Israelites’ failures. He provided Moses with a second set of stone tablets and reiterated the importance of the Israelites being set apart. God emphasized the word “must” eleven times, highlighting the necessity of their obedience.
The emotional rollercoaster continues as we witness Aaron’s fall from grace. From being anointed as the high priest, Aaron took a grievous misstep by crafting the golden calf. The consequences were severe—a great plague was sent upon the people as punishment.
Despite these challenges, God’s faithfulness remained unwavering. He sent the Angel of the Lord to guide them, continued to meet with Moses in the Tent of Meeting, and allowed His goodness to pass before him. God rewrote the stone tablets, reaffirming His covenant with His people.
As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God’s ways, interceding for one another, and recognizing the depth of God’s compassion. The journey through Exodus reveals God’s high standards and the consequences of disobedience, but it also showcases His willingness to forgive and His desire to dwell with His people.
In Exodus 34:6-8, God declared Himself as "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."
These attributes were not just words but were displayed through His interactions with Moses and the Israelites.
Moses’ radiant face after meeting with God serves as an inspiration. It reminds us that spending time in God’s presence can transform us, making us shine with His glory. Just as Moses had been with the Lord, people noticed the difference in him. In Acts 4:13, we see a similar impact when Peter and John, unschooled and ordinary, were recognized as those who had been with Jesus.
Ultimately, these chapters in Exodus teach us that God’s glory is not limited to moments of divine visitation. His presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, is a constant reminder that He desires to dwell among His people. Despite our shortcomings, God still seeks to visit and abide with us.
As we journey through Exodus, may we strive to understand God’s ways, intercede for one another, and allow His presence to transform us. Let us be like Moses, shining with the radiance of God’s glory, and boldly proclaim what the Lord has done in our lives.
February 12
Exodus 35-36
The Joy of Giving
As we dive into Exodus 35 and 36, we encounter familiar themes wrapped in profound truths. The narrative begins with a repeated emphasis on the Sabbath – a theme that resonates throughout these chapters. This repetition isn’t mere redundancy; it’s a call to reflect deeply on the essence of Sabbath. The phrase “A Holy Day Dedicated to the Lord” leaps out, reminding us that the Sabbath isn’t just about rest; it’s about acknowledging and celebrating God’s holiness.
The Spirit of Willingness and Generosity
The chapters revisit the offerings for the Tabernacle, a topic we’ve already seen. But there’s something different this time: the actualization of God’s instructions. Exodus 35:21 beautifully captures this spirit: “All those whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord…” This isn’t just about obedience but a heartfelt response to God’s call.
The insights from EnduringWord shed light on this aspect: the offerings were not a result of clever fundraising but a genuine response to God’s command. It’s a reminder that God’s work is often funded through His people’s voluntary and heartfelt gifts. This reflects a deep truth: we’re not just called to be obedient but to be giving – both in material and service.
The Joy in Serving
The narrative takes a beautiful turn when we read about Bezalel and Oholiab, who were “eager to get to work.” Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s a testament to the joy found in serving God. Their eagerness, combined with the overwhelming generosity of the people, leads to a heartwarming moment where the craftsmen tell Moses, “The people have given more than enough…”
This generosity and eagerness to serve were even more remarkable considering their circumstances. They crafted linens and built golden frames, not in ideal conditions, but in the desert. It’s a powerful reminder that serving God isn’t contingent on perfect conditions.
Lessons Beyond the Tabernacle
As we ponder over these chapters, a few thoughts stand out. Firstly, the formation of a team – skilled, eager, both men and women, working in unison for a divine purpose. Secondly, the attention to detail – the command to do things “exactly” as instructed. These elements are not just about building a physical structure but about the precision and dedication required in God’s work.
Word of the Day: Crafted
To make or manufacture (an object or product) with skill and careful attention to detail.
This word sums up the essence of these chapters. It’s about skill, dedication, and purpose. God didn’t just want the Tabernacle built; He wanted it crafted by people equipped and called for this purpose.
A Personal Reflection
This brings us to a poignant question: If you could do anything and know it would succeed, what would it be? This question isn’t just about personal ambition; it’s about discovering our God-given purpose. Often, we focus on what’s wrong or wait for the perfect timing. But, perhaps, God is calling us to serve in the midst of our struggles and imperfections.
A Call to Serve in Unity and Skill
Exodus 35 and 36 don’t just narrate the construction of a Tabernacle; they invite us into a journey of rediscovering the holiness of Sabbath, the joy of giving, and the fulfillment in serving. They call us to be part of a skilled,
February 13
Exodus 37-39
A Glimpse of the Heavenly
In the heart of the Exodus narrative, we find a fascinating story of craftsmanship and symbolism centered around the figure of Bezalel. His role in constructing various sacred items is a tale of religious obedience and a reflection of a deeper spiritual truth.
Bezalel: The Master Artisan in Exodus
Bezalel, mentioned for the third time in Exodus, emerges as a significant character.
Exodus 38:27 tells us, "Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything just as the Lord commanded Moses."
This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about bringing a divine vision into reality with meticulous skill.
Symbolism in Craftsmanship
The details of Bezalel’s work are rich in symbolism. For instance, the ephod with onyx stones set in gold, each stone engraved with the names of the Israelite tribes (Exodus 39:6), is a directive from God (Exodus 28), symbolizing God’s eternal connection with His people. This is mirrored in scriptures like Isaiah 49:16 (“I have engraved you on the palms of my hands”) and Revelation 2:17 (promising a white stone with a new name to the victorious).
The Sacred Medallion and the High Priest
Another exquisite piece crafted by Bezalel is the sacred medallion for Aaron’s turban, described in Exodus 39:30. Engraved with “HOLY TO THE LORD” and made of pure gold, it symbolizes the sanctity and consecration of the high priest to God’s service.
Word of the Day: Gold
A precious yellow metallic element, highly malleable and ductile, and not subject to oxidation or corrosion; something likened to this metal in brightness, preciousness, superiority, etc.
The frequent use of gold in these items is significant. Gold, derived from the Indo-European “ghel” (meaning yellow), is unique in its color and malleability. Its presence in the Tabernacle provides a glimpse of the divine, echoing God’s command in Exodus 25:8-9 to build a sanctuary reflecting heavenly patterns. This connection is further highlighted in Hebrews 8:5 and the depiction of golden streets in Revelation 21:21.
The Greater Narrative: Christ as the Ultimate High Priest
Reflecting on these chapters, especially through the lens of the book of Hebrews, we understand that these Old Testament figures and symbols point to a greater reality. Christ is depicted as the ultimate High Priest, surpassing Moses, Abraham, and Melchizedek. The craftsmanship of the Tabernacle and its intricate details are not just historical artifacts but representations of Christ’s eternal priesthood and the heavenly dwelling place God has prepared for us.
A Story of Redemption and Eternal Hope
Studying Exodus, especially through the intricacies of the Tabernacle’s construction, we are reminded of the grand narrative of redemption and hope. Every gold thread, every engraved stone, and every crafted item speak of a deeper spiritual truth – a reminder of God’s eternal presence and the ultimate fulfillment in Christ as our High Priest.
In exploring these ‘weeds’ of the Old Testament, we realize we’re not just uncovering ancient history but discovering the layers of an incredible story God is writing, a story that culminates in the eternal dwelling place He has prepared for us.
FFebruary 14
Exodus 39, 40; Numbers 9:15-23
Embracing Divine Direction in Our Lives
In a momentous chapter of the Israelites’ journey, the Tabernacle stands completed, marking not just the culmination of a grand project but also symbolizing the profound relationship between God and His people. The completion of the Tabernacle, as detailed in Exodus and Numbers, resonates with lessons of guidance, obedience, and divine presence.
The Final Touches and the Divine Presence
The Israelites, under Moses’ leadership, meticulously followed God’s commands in building the Tabernacle. From setting up the structure on the first day of the new year, two years after the Exodus, to placing the ark, the table for the bread of the Presence, and the lampstand – every detail was attended to with reverence.
The altar of burnt offerings, the washbasin, the courtyard, and the veil – each element was put in place as per God’s instructions. When Moses finished the work, something miraculous occurred: God’s glory filled the Tabernacle, a powerful manifestation that even prevented Moses from entering.
Guided by the Cloud
The completion of the Tabernacle marks the beginning of a new phase of guidance. The cloud over the Tabernacle and the fire within it at night became the physical representation of God’s guidance. As described in Exodus 40:38 and echoed in Numbers 9, this divine phenomenon directed the Israelites’ journey. They traveled and camped according to the movement of the cloud, a tangible symbol of God’s presence and direction.
Reflections on Guidance and Obedience
This historic accomplishment was not just about constructing a physical structure; it was about adhering to divine guidance. The feeling of accomplishment for Moses and the Israelites was immense. They had undertaken a massive project for God, complete with precise measurements and specifications, and saw it through to completion.
Word of the Day: Guide
To assist (a person) to travel through, or reach a destination in, an unfamiliar area, as by accompanying or giving directions to the person; to supply (a person) with advice or counsel, as in practical or spiritual affairs.
God not only guided Moses and the Israelites in building the Tabernacle but also in their subsequent journey. The movement of the cloud was a constant reminder of their reliance on God’s direction.
Applying the Lessons Today
While we may not be called to build a physical tabernacle, the principle of divine guidance remains relevant. The Bible provides instructions on how to live – from loving others to caring for the vulnerable. In my book “Walk It Out,” I emphasize the importance of not just reading God’s Word but doing what it says. This is where we find joy and purpose.
It’s not about deciphering our future but trusting that God is directing our paths. Even when the path doesn’t make sense, we can look back over the years and see God’s guidance.
Embracing Divine Direction in Our Lives
The story of the Tabernacle’s completion is a powerful reminder of the importance of following God’s guidance. As we navigate our journeys, let’s seek to listen and obey, trusting that God guides us every step, just as He did with Moses and the Israelites.
FFebruary 15
Numbers 7
Diligence in the Desert
In the heart of the wilderness, amidst the dust and the divine, the Israelites marked a significant occasion. It was a time of offerings and dedication, a grand celebration where each tribe, starting with Judah, presented their gifts over two weeks. Imagine the air thick with excitement and reverence as each tribe brought forth their offerings.
A Cascade of Offerings
The offerings were elaborate and symbolic. Nahshon son of Amminadab from the tribe of Judah set the tone with his generous gifts: a silver platter, a basin filled with grain offerings, a gold container with incense, and animals for various offerings. The list continues, with each tribe – Issachar, Zebulun, Reuben, and others – bringing their unique contributions.
The Practicalities of a Nomadic Sanctuary
Any building project demands effort, more so in a desert. But this was no ordinary construction; it was the Tabernacle, a mobile dwelling place for the Divine. As God directed, the Israelites would set up the Tabernacle, stay as long as commanded, and then pack up and move. This required not just spiritual dedication but also logistical precision.
The Role of the Levites
In this narrative, we encounter an intriguing detail in Numbers 7:7, “Moses took the wagons and oxen and presented them to the Levites.” This allocation of resources was vital for the movement of the Tabernacle. The Gershonites and the Merarites each received what they needed to accomplish their tasks. These divisions among the Levites – including the Kohathites and the Aaronites – represent a well-organized system of service.
Faithfulness Across Generations
What stood out strikingly in this narrative was the recurring theme of “The son of …” This wasn’t just about lineage but faithfulness. These sons fulfilled promises made to their ancestors, embodying the faithfulness of God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was also a testament to Moses’ faithfulness, as he regularly met with God in the Tabernacle.
The Word of the Day: Diligence
Constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken; persistent exertion of body or mind; the degree of care and caution required by the circumstances of a person.
Diligence is about careful and persistent work or effort. The tribes showed diligence in bringing their offerings, and Moses exemplified it in his regular communion with God. Diligence isn’t just about big gestures; it’s found in the daily, sometimes challenging, acts of devotion and service.
The Importance of Being Diligent
I think about the diligence of those in our community, those who try to connect with God daily, despite the chaos of life. From waking up at odd hours, finding quiet time with God, and persistently attending church even when things don’t go as planned. Your diligence, in whatever form it takes, is a beacon of faith.
The Legacy of Faithfulness
As we close this chapter, we reflect on Moses’ leadership and the impact of our examples on others. The passage in Numbers 7:89 reminds us of Moses’ intimate conversations with God, setting a precedent for future generations. It’s an honor to be an example, to teach and guide, just as Moses did.
Ultimately, it’s about the legacy we leave, not just in grand achievements but in the quiet, diligent steps we take in our faith journey. Sometimes, promises are fulfilled beyond our sight, but our role is to remain faithful and diligent, inspiring future generations.
February 16
Numbers 8; Numbers 9:1-14; Leviticus 1-3
Offering Your Light to God
Today we’re introduced to a seemingly simple directive from the Lord to Moses: to arrange the seven lamps on the lampstand in the Tabernacle so their light shines forward. This detail, nestled between significant events, might easily be overlooked. Yet, it beckons a deeper reflection, particularly in the context of the offerings brought by the tribes of Israel and the dedication of the Levites.
Offerings and Dedication
The narrative of Numbers unfolds with each tribe presenting offerings. Interestingly, the Levites themselves offer no material gifts. Instead, their offering is one of service and light, a poignant symbol of their role within the community.
The dedication of the Levites is described as a special offering to the Lord. Their commitment to serve represents the firstborn sons of Israel presented to the Lord. This act of substitution is significant. As the Levites assume their duties, we see the transition from material offerings to offering one’s life and service.
As the narrative shifts to celebrating the Passover, the text pauses. This “stop motion” in the action invites readers to understand the rituals that define and direct their faith.
Leviticus extends the exploration of offerings, detailing the rituals associated with burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings. It’s important to see within these details the themes of surrender, thanksgiving, peace, and forgiveness. The meticulous requirements for these offerings highlight God’s desire for men to offer the best. Most importantly, his principle of substitution reaches its culmination in the New Testament, where the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross offers forgiveness and new life to all.
The Word of the Day: Substitution
A person or thing acting or serving in place of another; to take the place of; replace.
The Ultimate Substitution
Whether through daily acts of surrender and thanksgiving or recognizing Christ’s sacrificial role as our substitute, today’s reading invites us to find meaning and purpose in our relationship with God. The call to bring “the best of the best” transcends time, urging us to offer our best in service, devotion, and love.
