Friday, October 8, 2010

Daily Word: Meditating on the Hebrew Alphabet (Gimmel)

Today, we will examine the third letter in the Hebrew alphabet, Gimmel. In ancient Hebrew, the letter meant a camel. The picture of a camel symbolizes: (1) a camel or beast; (2) something benefited or lifted up (like a camel rising from his knees); and (3) self will or pride (like a stubborn camel). When meditating on Gimmel, consider how following Yeshua has lifted you from where you used to be, to where you are now. If you are a follower of Him, your actions will have changed. This is not to emphasize you or focus on yourself; instead, it is to focus on what He has done for you.

Each of the verses in the third stanza (17-24) of Psalm 119 start with Gimmel. Since Gimmel means to lift up, or reward and can symbolize a lifting up, in pride, revelation or exaltation, these eight verses tell us that it is ADONAI who will lift us up in either reward or rebuke. We that understand this truth will trust Him and His word. Read the verses and focus on the fact that it is ADONAI that lifts us and not we ourselves.

Today, choose to meditate on Gimmel. Focus on what ADONAI has done for you. Do not fall for the new age trap that you are the author of your own destiny. It is true that obedience brings blessings, but it is ADONAI that has provided the instruction (Torah) so you will know how to obey. It is no accident that the modern church has so many problems, sexual sin, and greed; it is a direct result from the abandonment of the Torah. Focus on Elohim's lifting power. Focus on Torah as the way to blessing through obedience.

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