Psalm 135-136; 2nd Corinthians 11:1-15

Psalm 120-134 are "Psalms of Ascent" that were recited either on the annual journey as they ascended to Jerusalem or as they climbed the temple steps (there were 15 steps). 135:2 talks about standing in the courts of the Lord. This supports that view. We are part of the descendants of Jacob and all the blessings apply to the believers in Christ through the covenant of our Lord with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-4).

Psalm 136 talks of the mercy of God. How can we fully understand His mercy? He remembers us in our low estate, He defends us daily to our opposition, He moves obstacles out of our way and has made every good thing for our daily provision. Spiritually we should get to the place where we spontaneously give thanks for the great things He has done.

2nd Corinthians 11 is a very difficult passage to relate, but it must be done. The Lord warns us to watch out for deception and things that have the appearance to be harmless and genuine on the surface, but like many things that we have encountered, they are not. Paul establishes the relationship set in place by the Lord. Others came in with another message that was dividing the fellowship and putting different ideas in their heads. This is an old tactic by Satan to cause strife among believers. Some are false apostles, deceitful workers who pose as workers of the Lord. Vs14 "That comes as no surprise. Even Satan himself pretends to be an angel of light. 15 So it doesn't surprise us that those who serve Satan pretend to be serving God. They will finally get exactly what they should." Many times we sin by doubting or trying to second-guess the Lord by letting the deceiver speak discontent to our hearts, and at times even a sense of exhaustion and helplessness. Sometimes, these feelings will come to us through "well meaning,” caring believers who may be trying to justify their own apathy or agenda. God's plan is to establish and grow loving relationships within the body of believers He has built as a church. Let's not let anything get in the way of what Christ intends to accomplish in His bride. Take comfort in the fact that our “Heavenly Father knows best!”