I firmly believe that Yahweh speaks to us through His Word – the Bible, the Scriptures. Trusting in Yahweh is something that I think I need to continually remind myself to do. When situations like what happened to me the other day happen, my initial reaction is to stress out about it. Yes, maybe even have some anxiety kick in. In that moment, my heart rate went up, I thought, “Oh no, what do I do?” and literally, for a few seconds (which seemed much longer than that but was literally only a few seconds), I had no idea what I could do about it, how to solve this problem.

After I took some deep breaths and calmed down, I prayed, then called brethren to please pray for me. (Those were some great conversations, more on that in a bit.) I did what I was guided to and what I could do, in order to move things along, then the rest was up to Yahweh. …

Obviously, those prayers were answered because Yahweh took care of it. He resolved it in a much better way than neither myself, nor any other person, possibly could have! HalleluYah! As I was writing this article, I thought, “The problem is I wonder how to solve the problem. The answer to how to solve any problem is to trust in Yahweh.”

This message of “Trust in Yahweh” has been salient for days now. It has come up several times: in a poem for a special offering that my husband Daniel Stern was inspired to write titled “The Answer Is Yahweh” (offered in the Sabbath service for March 2, 2024); in a Bible verse that I saw posted by a sister on social media; in some phone conversations with brethren; in Scriptures that came to mind in and after those conversations; and in the Psalms from the Bible reading portions I read on the day I was inspired to write this article.

Yahweh tells us in His Word of His power. In my conversation with a sister the other day, she mentioned “Job trials” and I agree, when we think of trials, we can read about what they look like in this book. What also came to mind from the book of Job is how Yahweh speaks of His power and mighty works in chapters 38-41. Yahweh is a wonderful and Almighty Father and Elohim!

In a phone conversation with a brother, where we spoke about how sometimes it is hard for us to remember to trust in Yahweh, and we feel like we are in a tight/rough spot (financially, physically, mentally/emotionally), the following Scripture came to mind: 1Corinthians 10:13 – There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but Elohim is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Over the last several days, additional Scriptures came up to confirm that if we truly trust in Yahweh, He will help us:

Psalm 46:10a – Be still, and know that I am Elohim: (I saw this posted on social media by a sister.)

2 Samuel 22:2-4 – And he said, Yahweh is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; The Elohim of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. I will call on Yahweh, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

(From the Song of David in 2Samuel 22, which was in the Bible reading portion of the day before this article was written.)

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in Yahweh with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

(My conversation with my brother jogged my brain and this Scripture came to mind, one of my favorites, right after we hung up.)

Psalm 57:1 – Be merciful unto me, O Elohim, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.

(On the day I was inspired to write this article, the portion of the day according the to the 52 Week Bible Reading Plan was Psalms 60-62; for some reason I felt like I had to also read the prior week’s Bible reading portion, Psalm 57-59. …)

Psalm 62:11-12 – Elohim hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto Elohim. Also unto thee, O Yahweh, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work. (These powerful verses were the last verses of my Scripture reading portion of the day.)

We see from Scriptures quoted above that Yahweh is our refuge. The word “refuge” is Strong’s H2620 chacah and means “to flee for protection; figuratively, to confide in.” And, since the word “trust” keeps coming up, I looked it up on biblebub.com; the word “trust” is Strong’s H982 batach and means “to trust”; Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance states: be bold confident, secure, sure, careless one, put confidence, make to hope, put, A primitive root; properly, to hide for refuge figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure.”

Yahweh tells us in His Word, in numerous Scriptures, to trust in Him, and so I believe we need to pay attention to that! See article on YRM site: https://yrm.org/trust-in-yahweh-fear-not/ In addition, in the verses from the Psalms that book-ended my Scripture reading of the day, I think I heard a powerful message, to really drive home what has been coming through for days now:

Trust in Yahweh (as David did). Yahweh is powerful. He can help us get through every situation, every trial. And Yahweh renders to every man according to his work.

So, when trials come up and we try to figure out how to proceed, what do we do? I think it’s important to consider: Are we still, or are we leaning on our own understanding? Do we trust in Yahweh?

~Submitted by Judy Stern

Oh, ABBA, FATHER, who are in Heaven,
May YOUR Holy name be honored.
May it never be hidden,
Though if so, High EL, soon recovered.
May YOUR Kingdom come,
And YOUR will be done,
Not our will, ABBA,
But that of YOU and YOUR Son,
For HIS will is YOUR will,
And YOUR will, must be ours.
YOU sent Him to us FATHER,
Filled with all of YOUR powers.
So that we may see,
YOUR eyes in Him,
YOUR compassion,
And our dreadful sin.
On earth, as it is in Heaven.
YOUR will, will always be.
No matter our denial,
Nor how far we try and flee.
Give us, FATHER, our daily bread.
The bread for our bellies,
The bread for eternal life,
The bread we need to breathe,
The bread to be YOUR wife.
For eternity.
But not before YOU forgive us of our sins,
And YOU cleanse us white as snow;
Teach us how to come before YOU,
And confess what YOU already know.
Humble us so that we may humble ourselves.
Humble us so that we may know our High EL.
So we may fear YOU.
Obey YOU.
Believe in YOU.
And that every word YOU say is ALWAYS true.
For the earth is not lifting itself up,
Lighting itself bright every day.
Watering itself,
Creating itself.

It is YOU, FATHER, always making a way.
Please, ABBA,
Make a way for us to also see,
That we must forgive our family,
And guide them to THEE.
Lifting one another in YAHSHUA the Messiah,
As He Himself commanded when He
Forgave us of our sins,
And healed our leprous skins,
Even fasted for 40 days,
And never did HE bring
Division.
For He was, and is, our KING.
He FED His enemies,
No matter their felonies.
May we be more like Him.
Through the same Spirit calling
Calling
Us All …
to be
MORE loving.
Lead us not into temptation, ABBA, FATHER,
Who are in Heaven, may YOUR Holy name be honored.
But deliver us from the evil one,
For without YOU, we are no longer armored.
For YOURS is the Kingdom,
The power,
And the glory.
Now
and
Forevermore.
Thank YOU, ABBA, FATHER, for everything.

~Submitted by Mirla Murillo

Yahweh Eloheinu
Wonderful Sovereign
You are glorious in Majesty
Avinu Malkeinu, Our Father Our King!
It’s amazing, you know the end from the beginning
Right after sin came in, Your perfect plan
For salvation, restoration,
And redemption of man.
Your Son Yahshua was right there from the beginning,
And was with You in Creation;
He was your spokesman, your Dabar,
The Messiah who was sent for our salvation.
His human genealogy started in Genesis –
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, Pharez;
Then we see the continuation in Ruth –
From Pharez to Boaz, Obed, Jesse, David.
Even the Sanhedrin knew
Messiah would be born from the line of David.
We learn in the Evangels, prophecy fulfilled!
Messiah came, we can read what he taught, said, and did.
Thank you, Yahweh, for the grand design
We see right in Your Word
You think of every last little detail
Leaving for us no stone unturned.
That stone the builders rejected
Is become the headstone of the corner
This is your doing Almighty Yahweh
Marvelous in our eyes; my cup runs over! (Psalms 118 & 23)
And that Spiritual Rock that followed your people
The cloud with them in the wilderness
That was Messiah, Your Son (1Corinthians 10:4)
Whom you sent in the flesh, as you promised.

You loved us so much, you sent Yahshua (John 3:16)
You rescued us from darkness
And transferred us into the Kingdom of Your Son
Who purchased our freedom, forgave our sins. (Colossians 1:13-14)
As prophesied and Yahshua taught

Your Holy Spirit was poured out, the Comforter came!
Now the Temple resides within those
Who are baptized in Yahshua’s saving name.
Father, we know you keep Your word,
Almighty Yahweh, You are loving and faithful
And these end times were prophesied
So like the five wise virgins, we keep our lamps full.
My hope and prayer is that we can endure
Until the very end, and not go astray,
Because Yahshua will bring the Kingdom
And grant a place to those found worthy, who love you and obey.

~Submitted by Judy Stern, inspired by Yahweh

“And it came to pass, when Yahshua had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:” Matthew 7:28 (RSB) Was it Yahshua’s doctrine? Let’s find out.

“Yahshua answered them, and said My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of Elohim, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:16-17 (RSB)

Okay, now that we’ve established it as Yahweh’s doctrine, what was the doctrine the people were astonished at in Matthew?

“Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 5:12 (RSB)

“Law” is G3551 and is defined by Strong’s as “the Mosaic law,” aka “Torah,” which in turn this word is defined as “instructions.” Instructions for His children to live a righteous life to be counted worthy of His Kingdom. HalleluYah!

Sound doctrine IS the teaching of Yahweh’s instructions or Torah. The Torah is the first five books of the Scriptures (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy). The Torah is also where we find Yahweh’s will for His set-apart children. If you are listening to other pastors (outside of YRM) who are not teaching the doctrine of Yahweh, they should be avoided at all cost; if not, it may be the cost of your spiritual life.

“For they that are such serve not our Master Yahshua Messiah, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:18 (RSB)

Wow!!!! The hearts of many have been deceived by false pastors! These false pastors are teaching the law/instructions have been done away with, using Colossians 2:14 as their proof: “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his stake;”

Upon further investigation of this verse, we find that “ordinances” is G1378, and Strong’s defines this word as “a civil, ceremonial, or ecclesiastical law.” This verse is DEFINITELY not referring to Yahweh’s instructions to live a righteous life but to man-made traditions and commandments as found in verse 22: “Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?” (Context is always key.)

Let’s not forget what the Messiah said in Matthew 5:17-19: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

I’d like to focus on the word “fulfill” in verse 17 because many who are deceived and unlearned will say, “I don’t have to obey because the Messiah did it for us.”

Wait … whaaaat?

That’s so erroneous and far from the truth! Yes, the Messiah obeyed His Father’s law/instructions right down to the jot and tittle for two reasons: 1) For our example to walk in righteousness, and 2) To be that perfect, sinless, without blemish Lamb to lay down His life for mankind, for our wretched miserable sinful lives! Walk in Messiah, do as He did and taught (1Peter 2:21). He was Yahweh’s salvation brought forth and there’s only ONE name under heaven which man can be saved by (Acts 4:12) and that is Yahshua, which in the Hebrew means “Yahweh is salvation.” (Names matter.) HalleluYah!

Back to the word “fulfill” which is G4137 and Strong’s defines this word as “to make full, to cause to abound, to render perfect, to carry out.” Yahshua Messiah did all of those to show us how to do it, HalleluYah! We also fulfill His laws/instructions by obeying them.

Let’s look at Romans 8:4 and see what Paul has to say… “That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” This is powerful because those who obey Yahweh’s law/instructions are fulfilling righteousness like the Messiah did AND walking after the Spirit, not after the flesh.

It’s very foolish to believe the Messiah did away with His Father’s law/instructions that lead to a righteous life, but instead He made them more applicable and binding as seen in the rest of Matthew 5.

How will the Messiah judge all men at the second resurrection? It will be by Yahweh’s law/instructions as seen in James 2:10-12 (RSB): “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.”

This is very eye-opening because it’s essentially saying we don’t get to cherry-pick His law/instructions. For example, one could say, “I have committed no adultery”; but if you have not kept the Sabbath, you have become a transgressor of the law.

ALL of mankind will be judged by the law, end of story, no ifs, ands, or buts about it; it’s not your will but Yahweh’s! (Revelation 20:12-13)

So, again, is a pastor you are listening to teaching Yahweh’s doctrine (established above) or the doctrines of men? I would seriously ponder that question and test EVERY doctrine with Scripture (1Thessalonians 5:21) because your spiritual life depends on it.

One of my favorite things to say when I speak to others, is: “If it’s not in Scripture I ain’t doing it!” I strive every day to follow Yahshua’s example in obeying Yahweh’s law/instructions to be counted worthy of His Kingdom, lest I be thrown in the outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30).

Ask Yahweh to remove the salve from your eyes and unstop your ears so YOU may see, hear, and do Yahweh’s commandments to walk WITH Him and not against Him.

A word from our Messiah: “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” (Revelation 22:14)

By Rebecca Wallace inspired by Yahweh

Praise Yahweh for His Word and for what He shows us!
As we know, Yahweh knows all, and as such He knows the end from the beginning.

One Sabbath morning, as I was reading the Torah portion for that Sabbath (Bereshith – the
Hebrew word meaning “in the beginning”), I was amazed at what I noticed, that I had not seen
before.

In the verses of Genesis 3, I noticed a big part of Yahweh’s plan and purpose for the Son and for
the end, in the beginning!

Genesis 3:14-15 – And [Yahweh Elohim] said unto the serpent: ‘Because thou hast done this,
cursed art thou from among all cattle, and from among all beasts of the field; upon thy belly shalt
thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life. And I will put enmity between thee and
the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; they shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise
their heel.’ (JPS Tanakh)

I recalled learning from Bible Studies and sermons that the “woman” is the assembly of Yahweh
under the leadership of Yahshua Messiah. We see a reference to this “woman” and “her seed” in
Revelation 12:17. We also see in Revelation that the devil will be destroyed (Rev. 20:10). This is
the first connection I saw of the end from the beginning, and plan and purpose for Messiah, just
in this Torah portion. …

The weekly Sabbath Reading Torah portions are different from the Bible Portions according to
the 52 Week Reading Plan (which is on a chart in the back of the Restoration Study Bible) that I
follow during the week. Based on the outline in the JPS Tanakh, the portion for this particular
Sabbath was Bereshith – Genesis 1:1-Genesis 6:8. So I continued to read on from Genesis 3. …

The second set of verses that stood out to me from this Torah Portion are in Genesis 5, which is
the genealogy from Adam to the sons of Noah. What stood out to me is how, repeatedly, the
Scriptures mention one man begot one son, stating the names of that man and then his son. Then,
the Scriptures tell us that same man had sons and daughters, but does not state their names.

For example, Genesis 5:3-5 – When Adam had lived 130 years, he begot a son in his likeness
after his image, and he named him Seth. After the birth of Seth, Adam lived 800 years and begot
sons and daughters. (JPS Tanakh)

I thought on the significance of the men named in the chapter of Genesis 5, and asked myself
why were only certain men and certain sons named? In the aforementioned verses, Cain (the first
son of Adam and Eve) was not mentioned, even though the chapter begins by saying “This is the
record of Adam’s line.” (Genesis 5:1, JPS Tanakh)

What came into my mind next was to read the genealogy of Yahshua Messiah in the New
Testament, which we see outlined all the way back to Adam, in Luke 3. I wondered, will I see
the same names as in Genesis 5?

So, while keeping my JPS Tanakh opened to Genesis 5, I opened up my Restoration Study Bible
to cross check those names with the names in Luke 3. And, while reading backwards in Luke 3
from verse 38 into verse 36, comparing those names to the ones I saw while reading forwards
from Genesis 5:1-32, I read the same names!

This is the second connection I saw of the end from the beginning, and plan and purpose for
Messiah, just in this Torah portion.

Yahweh knows the end from the beginning. Yahweh is all-knowing and wise. And so, in the
beginning, immediately after the fall of mankind into sin, we see that Yahweh put into place a
plan and a purpose for His Son: through the seed of the woman would come the one who will put
an end to the adversary (Genesis 3:9-15).

Note for Genesis 3:15: This is a reference of prophetic importance referring to the future
destruction of Satan the devil by Yahshua the Messiah (Rom. 16:20). See Psalm 91:13. (Footnote
in Restoration Study Bible, page 11).

As mentioned above, I am following a 52 Week Bible Reading Plan during the week. So, I had
the opportunity to re-read Genesis 5 (the portion of that day was Genesis 4-7) and meditate on
what Yahweh put into place right after the fall of mankind into sin. As we know, there is mention
of Yahshua Messiah throughout the Scriptures, but this time in my personal reading, I noticed
how early in human history, and how quickly, the wheels were set into motion for the plan of
redemption and salvation through Yahshua Messiah.

In addition, other Scriptures from the New Testament, confirming the plan that was set and the
purpose for Yahshua Messiah, in the beginning, came to mind. We see that Yahshua is the Son
of Yahweh, the salvation of Yahweh (Matthew 1:21; Luke 1:31-33). Yahshua has been with
Yahweh since beginning and the creation, is the head of the body of the assembly, and through
him we have redemption (John 1:1-13; Colossians 1:12-18).

How loving, glorious, and wonderful is our Heavenly Father Yahweh! He has a plan of
redemption and salvation for mankind that had fallen into sin, the penalty for that sin being
death, but redemption to life is through Yahshua Messiah (Romans 5:12-15; 1Corinthians 15:22).
HalleluYah!

As a follow-up study, and for more information on the names of the lineage mentioned in
Genesis 5 and the meanings of those names, you can check out the YRM sermon by Lucas Cecil
“What’s in a Name?”. I have heard the sermon, it is very well done, praise Yahweh!
There will be more discussion on Yahshua in a Part 2 article. I’m so excited and looking
forward to completing it!

~Submitted by Judy Stern

I have started this article so many times, with so many different ideas, and then got stuck. I got very frustrated and disappointed in myself. I finally realized I was trying to come up with something that would be impactful. It didn’t need to be impactful, just honest and from me. So here it goes: I am still new on this walk in my life, so it is okay; maybe someone else out there is in the same situation and just needs to know they are not alone. I am focusing on what I have learned and building on that, focusing on what I have gained/learned.

What have I gained and learned?

• I have learned our Heavenly Father and our Savior’s real names.

• I have a closer relationship with Yahweh and Yahshua by using their names. I pray and talk with them all day long (very satisfying).

• I feel they hear me more now, feel a very powerful connection that I did not have before, when I used G-d and Jes-s.

• I was raised in another faith. Most of my tough questions were answered with, “It is a mystery, you will understand at the end, after judgement.” YRM has taught me that the Bible answers my questions. They will direct me to appropriate verses and if I still have questions, they explain it to me. It is not a mystery unless you are learning man-made doctrine and being taught pagan beliefs. Ex: Predestination, the Trinity as well as pagan holidays like Xmas and Easter.

• I have gained a new family in the assembly, so enriching to study, congregate and talk with people of like-minded faith.

• I was using the Strong’s Concordance some, before YRM, but they encouraged and directed me to use it more. Again, the Bible has so much information and if you are encouraged and confident, it will have such a deeper meaning than ever before.

• With the confidence I am gaining, I am able to answer questions from family and friends. If I am not sure, I know it is okay to say, “Let me research that and get back to you,” and I do as Romans 15:14 tells us to.

• I am also learning to keep in mind the time period of when the Word was written, and the Hebrew mindset, as it is different from what and how we think now in modern times. Ex: The Bible mentions divorce and what context it is allowed in, Matt 19:8-9. Many people apply this to today’s way of thinking and say okay, if my spouse is unfaithful, I can get a divorce: not true. Back in that time, an engagement was a legal binding contract and during the engagement period if there was sexual immorality, then a divorce was allowed.

There is so much more to learn! I am eager to learn it as Philippians 4:13 tells me I can do all things through Messiah which strengthens me.

Yes, I have lost some family and friends, but that is okay as I have gained so much more. The Bible tells us in Luke 21:16-18 and Matthew 10:21-42 that family and friends will betray us.

Psalm 9:10 says “And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou Yahweh, has not forsaken them that see thee.” Proverbs 14:26 says “In the fear of Yahweh is strong confidence and his children shall have a place of refuge.” Blessing and Prayers to you on your journey and growth in Yahweh and Yahshua.

Submitted by Lynne Gerulski

Does the Apostle Paul teach us in the book of Galatians that the Law is done away with?

It is said by many folks who love the apostle Paul’s writings that he taught that the Law was done away
with. The purpose of this article is to show that embracing the Fruits of the Spirit does NOT mean the
Law was done away with.

The inspiration for this article, Praise Yahweh, came from reading His Word, specifically in Galatians 5.
Many are familiar with the verses that speak of the Fruits of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit
of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance:
against such there is no law.”

As we see, there are no laws against the Fruits of the Spirit. But does that mean that if we embrace and
live by Fruits of the Spirit there is no law for us to follow any more?

Let’s take a look at preceding verses. In Galatians 5:16-21, Paul talks about the Flesh versus the Spirit,
and how they are contrary to each other. Paul teaches that if we engage in those lusts of the flesh, we
shall not inherit the kingdom of Yahweh, and that if we live by the Spirit we are not under the law.

Are we not to obey the law if we live by the Spirit? For clarification, we can look to Paul’s letter to the
Romans, where he teaches that if we yield to Yahweh in righteousness then sin is no longer our master
(Romans 6:11-15). A righteous person is not under the influence of sin and is free from the penalty of
breaking the law, and by grace we may obtain eternal life through Yahshua Messiah our Master
(Romans 6:18-23; see also Ephesians 2:1-8). This is consistent with what Paul says in Galatians 5:1-5
about how Messiah has made us free, and how through the Spirit we can obtain righteousness by faith.
Paul again mentions the Spirit, urging us to live and walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). This is
consistent with the teaching of Yahshua that we need to follow the law and also focus on matters of the
heart, the “weightier matters” (Matthew 23:3, 23).

Two of the often-emphasized Fruits of the Spirit are love and faith, that these are all we need and
therefore the law is done away with. But is that what Paul teaches here? Is that what the Scriptures tell
us?

First, let us take a look at what Paul says about love and the law: Galatians 5:14. “For all the law is fulfilled in
one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”

These verses are consistent with what Yahshua teaches about love and the law (Matthew 22:36-40) and
what Paul says in Romans: Romans 13:8-10. “Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth
another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal,
Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly
comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to
his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”

So, if we love, we fulfill the law; therefore, if we love, the law done is away with? Does that make
sense?

This same word “fulfill” used by Paul in Romans 13:8 is used by Yahshua in Matthew 5:17, a verse
many use to “prove” that Yahshua did away with the Law. Not only does Yahshua say he “did not come
to destroy the law,” but also, the Greek word for fulfill is pléroó which is Strong’s # 4137, and means
“to fill, complete, to make full.” Yahshua came not to destroy the law, but to make it full; and in
Matthew 5:18-19 we see that Yahshua teaches how not one detail of the law will pass away, and that we
are to do and teach them.

In addition, Yahshua says He was baptized by John the Baptist in order to “fulfill” all righteousness
(Matthew 3:15). Did Yahshua do away with righteousness? Certainly not!

Now let us take a look at what Paul says on faith: Galatians 5:6, “For in Yahshua Messiah neither circumcision
availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.”

This is consistent with what Paul says in his first letter to the Corinthians: 1Corinthians 7:9, “Circumcision is
nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of Yahweh.”

We see here how Paul urges us to keep the commandments of Yahweh; therefore, the idea that Paul says
the law is done away with by faith does not make sense, as he said in this verse that keeping the
commandments of Yahweh is important to all believers, both to the Jews (the circumcised) and the
Gentiles (the uncircumcised).

Ah yes, but doesn’t say in Romans 1:16-17 that to all who believe, the Jews and Gentiles, “the just shall
live by faith…”

Notice Paul does not say that we need faith alone. In Romans 3, Paul describes how we absolutely do
need to keep our faith in Yahshua Messiah, who was sent to us by the grace of Yahweh, and that if we
believe in Him we are justified; both Jew and Gentile believers are justified by faith. However, Paul
makes it very clear at the conclusion of this chapter that this faith in Yahshua Messiah does NOT void
the law, but “we establish the law” (Romans 3:31). The Greek word for “establish” is histemi, which is
Strong’s # 2476 and means “to make stand, to stand”.

In summary, Paul did not teach that the Law was done away with, but taught that love and faith are in
harmony with the Law. In fact, Paul calls the law “holy, just and good” and “spiritual” (Romans 7:12,
14).

Let us continue to show obedience to the law of Yahweh as Paul did (Acts 24:14) and as Yahshua taught
us to do (Matthew 5:19; 7:21). And may we embrace the Fruits of the Spirit and live by them.

by: Judy Stern

PART 1 – Are We Putting The Kingdom And Yahweh’s Righteousness First?

Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of Elohim, and his righteousness; and all these
things shall be added unto you.”

The first time I read Yahshua’s words, I realized that, of course, this is important. However, it
took reading Yahshua’s words several times and building up a daily practice over time, before
my actions reflected my desire to seek the Kingdom and Yahweh’s righteousness first.

It is useful, for deeper understanding, to read the Scripture in context. Matthew 6:33 is part of
what is known as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7:29), a significant sermon from
Yahshua. It is important to follow Yahshua’s examples and teachings (1Peter 2:21); therefore, I
believe the Sermon on the Mount is precious Scripture. This Sermon contains key concepts and
guidelines that Yahshua teaches us, including:

1) the mindset, behavior and attitudes that we are to embrace and engage in as believers;
2) Yahweh’s laws as found in the Torah are still relevant and endure forever;
3) how to treat others and how we ourselves are to live righteously;
4) expounding on the definitions and spiritual intents of the Law;
5) prayer;
6) key principles about serving Yahweh with complete devotion and obedience.

(These topics will be covered in future parts of this series.)

The focus of this article is on “seek ye first the kingdom of Elohim and his righteousness”
specifically, and what this may look like in day-to-day life. I found the footnote in the
Restoration Study Bible, 4th edition, helpful in understanding the importance of this verse: “These
likely represent the promise of eternal life and the perfection of Yahweh’s holy Word. By these
two attributes a believer finds Yahweh’s blessed assurance and provision.”

The promise of eternal life is certainly a promise I would like to be part of! Living a life of peace
and harmony on earth forever without pain and suffering, living with Yahweh and with Yahshua
and with my spiritual family, is a big motivator to keep me walking this walk and enduring
whatever trials and challenges come ahead! (Matthew 24:13; Revelation 21:1-7) The perfection
of Yahweh’s holy Word is definitely something I agree with, as when I continue to read and
study the Bible, it is continually reinforced that Yahweh’s Word is “perfect, sure, right, and
pure” (Psalm 19:7-11), and that it is inspired by Yahweh (2Timothy 3:16-17).

These two attributes in Matthew 6:33 help us comprehend the “big picture” of what Yahweh’s
kingdom and righteousness bring us, both in daily life and in the future. (Big picture is defined in
the Meriam Webster Dictionary as “the entire perspective on a situation or issue”.)

(www.meriam-webster.com) In the Torah, Yahweh gives us His Laws, which are clear
expectations of how to live righteously and do His will. In the prophetic books and chapters of
the Bible, Yahweh gives us valuable lessons and information so we can learn His ways, live
righteously, be prepared for what the future holds, and potentially be a part of the Kingdom to
come. The New Testament reinforces and expounds on Old Testament Scriptures. Those who
obey and follow Yahweh’s Word are blessed (Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Psalm 119; Matthew 5:19).
I also felt compelled to look up the definition of the word “first” to further discuss Matthew 6:33.
According to the Meriam Webster Dictionary, “first” means: “preceding all others in time,
order, or importance: before another in time, space, or importance: one that is number one in a
series: something that is first: at the beginning.” (https://www.merriam-
webster.com/dictionary/first) As we see in this definition, “first” has to do with importance
and with sequential order. Therefore, according to Yahshua’s teaching, if we seek Yahweh’s
Kingdom and righteousness “first”, meaning we place those first both in importance and
before other aspects of daily living, then “all these things shall be added unto you” – referring
to what Yahshua spoke of in preceding verses i.e. what to eat, drink, wear (things we need daily
for living).

Now that the big picture and the significance of this Scripture became clearer, I was left with the
question, how can I show by my actions that I am seeking first the Kingdom of Elohim and his
righteousness?

It is important to have faith in Yahweh and Yahshua, AND to obey (Romans 3:31). We show our
faith by our actions (James 2:14-18). Therefore, it is important to keep the Sabbaths and the
Feasts according to the biblical calendar, and obey the Commandments, as this is important for
our very salvation! (Leviticus 23; Deuteronomy 4:40; Matthew 7:21; 1John 5:1-3; Revelation
22:14).

I also asked myself, what actions can I do daily to express to Yahweh that I love Him
(Deuteronomy 6:5), want to worship only Yahweh (Exodus 20:2-3), and want to obey Him,
because I trust in that He knows what is good for me? (Deuteronomy 10:12-15; Proverbs 3:5-6)
How do I spend time with Yahweh, my Heavenly Father, day to day, because our relationship is
important to me?

To me, the answer is to develop and engage in a daily spiritual practice. Over time, I have put the
following in place:

Daily morning practice:

 First thing in the morning, before I get out of bed, I pray and give thanks to Yahweh.

 I have an app on my phone with which I see a Bible quote of the day. I check it and read
it, think on it, and then share it.

 After breakfast, I spend time reading the Bible every day. I am following the 52-week
Bible reading plan in the back of the Restoration Study Bible, so I read the portion of the
day based on that plan. (I like the structure of it, and it works well for me. My son reads a
few chapters at a time in sequence, which works well for him.) After I finish reading the
portion of the day, I record in my journal a Scripture that I find inspiring and think on
what the words in those pages could mean. On Sabbath mornings, my family and I read
together for about 45 minutes and then discuss what we read. (Psalm 143:8)

During the day:

 If something happens where I feel very blessed by Yahweh and it is a joyous event, I say
a prayer of thanks to Yahweh for His blessings, and I like to share my joy with others
(Psalm 9:1).

 I also like to sing songs of praise and to listen to devotional music, at varied times (ex.
while commuting, after dinner, whenever I need a “pick me up”, etc.) (Psalm 100).

 If something happens that is sad, stressful, challenging, etc., I do my best to remember
that Yahweh is there, and I go to Him in prayer first. I have other tools to use as well if
needed to get me through challenges, but I find that going to Yahweh first is important
(Psalms 55:16-17, 22; Philippians 4:6-7).

 If I feel like I have erred/sinned, I go to Yahweh in prayer for forgiveness and ask for
help with how I can change and do better (Psalm 103; Matthew 6:12-13; Luke 11:4).

 Pray for others (James 5:16).

Night time before bed:

 My husband, son, and I sing and say prayers to Yahweh at night before bedtime
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Numbers 15:40-41; 1Thessalonians 5:17-18).

These are things I have built into my life and my routines over time. I am not saying that folks
need to engage in a daily routine as I have done it; I am merely listing what I currently do as a
practice, just as an example of what spending time with Yahweh every day and putting His
Kingdom and righteousness first, means to me.

There have been days in the past that I did not read the Bible in the morning, for whatever
reason, and became busy with day-to-day things like work, cleaning, cooking, and life-stuff in
general; looking back, those days did not go very well and were stressful! I felt a big difference
in how my day went when I started with prayer and Scripture, my days went much smoother! I
definitely feel like starting my day with prayers to Yahweh and with Scripture reading set up my
mindset and heart with faith, love, hope, and inspiration, and I feel better overall and ready to go
about my day and whatever it brings.

I believe we can see in Scripture that Yahweh loves His children and wants a relationship with us
(Proverbs 8:17; John 3:16-17; Romans 8:28; 1John 4:7-16). Therefore, in order to nurture that
relationship, and because we need to seek the Kingdom and Yahweh’s righteousness first, it
stands to reason that need to spend time daily with Yahweh Our Father in Heaven, and read His
Word, every day (Psalm 143:10; Proverbs 2:6, 3:1-6, 4:13; Acts 17:11; 1Thessalonians 5:17-21).
If ye then be risen with Messiah, seek those things which are above, where Messiah sitteth on the
right hand of Yahweh. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
(Colossians 3:1-2)
~ Submitted by Judy Stern

A Collection of Poetry and Scriptures

Praise Yahweh! The Bible is full of so much inspiration!

I was reading the Bible one day and was inspired to write poetry. In addition, I felt inclined to
find and list related Scriptures.

This is the Scripture that moved me:
1Samuel 12:22, 24
For Yahweh will not forsake his people for his great name’s sake: because it hath pleased
Yahweh to make you his people.

Only fear Yahweh, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he
hath done for you.

Yahweh has indeed done so much for us!

Yahweh Elohim
King, Holy, Savior, Father,
In Him I will trust.
(Psalm 99; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 12:2-6; Jeremiah 10:6-7; Matthew 6:9 and Luke 11:2)

Yahweh Elohim
In Him all is possible
Love, have Faith, Obey.
(Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; 1John 5:1-4)

Yahweh hears our prayers
Glory and Praise to Yahweh
He does wondrous things!
(Psalm 40:1-5)

Yahweh answers prayers
If you Love Him and Obey
Then He will bless you!
(Deuteronomy 28; John 9:31)

Yahweh’s Commandments
Can be summed up in this: Love
Yahweh, neighbors, self.
(Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-31; Luke 10:25-28)

Yahshua Messiah
Our Rabbi, our example,
Obey his teachings.
(Matthew 23:8; John 14:15; 1Peter 2:21)

Study Yahweh’s Word
Read, Be Inspired, Learn! It’s
Perfect, sure, right, pure.
(Deuteronomy 29:29; Psalm 19:7-8; Romans 15:4; 2Timothy 3:16-17)

Read, study and think on the Scriptures for your own edification and inspiration!
~Submitted by Judy Stern

What is a “strong woman”?

If you were to ask my 8-year-old self, a good example would have been “Sheena – Queen of the Jungle.” Sheena was television’s female counterpart to Tarzan. She was beautiful and brave, conversed with animals, and was very proficient at tree-swinging in her mission to protect the innocent. But that was then and now, many years later, I have changed my perceptions. Over the years I have been fortunate to know, and in some cases form lasting friendships with, many whom I consider to be strong women. So, what exactly are the properties or characteristics that determine whether a woman is “strong”?

Throughout the Scriptures there are many examples of women displaying various aspects of strength. The women differ in age, country, and economic circumstance. And while each displays a unique type of strength, all of the women had at least one thing in common – each fearlessly took action when confronted with hard situations.

Rahab: Hebrews 11:31, “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.”

Living the life of a prostitute in Jericho, Rahab was drawn to the Elohim of the Hebrews who surrounded the city. She sheltered and protected the lives of the Hebrew spies who had been sent to assess the city’s defenses, all at the risk of her life and that of her family. Because of this, Rahab and her family were rescued when the walls of Jericho fell. She later married one of the original spies and became the great-great-grandmother of King David.

Ruth: Ruth 1:16, “Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after thee; For whither thou goest, I will go; And wherever thou lodgest, I will lodge; Thy people shall be my people, And thy Elohim, my Elohim.”

Ruth was the daughter-in-law of Naomi, who, when their respective husbands died, journeyed with Naomi to her native Bethlehem. Instead of going back to the safety of her own Moabite family, Ruth endured many dangers and hardships to protect and provide for Naomi. Ruth later won the love of and married Boaz, a Hebrew, who admired her kindness and diligence. Ruth became one of five women mentioned in Matthew’s genealogy of Yahshua.

Deborah: Judges 5:7, “The [inhabitants of] the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel,
Until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel.”

The fourth judge and a prophetess of Israel, Deborah provided civil and spiritual leadership when it was most needed. She inspired the Israelites to a mighty victory over their Canaanite oppressors. Barak, Israel’s military commander, refused to go into battle unless Deborah went with him. Through her courage and leadership, Deborah was a light to her people and turned many back to faith in and service to their Elohim.

Esther: Esther 4:14, “…and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Esther was a Jewish queen of a Persian king. King Ahasuerus was convinced by Haman, his advisor, to kill all of the Jews in the country. Esther, after fasting and praying, and at great danger to herself, approached the king to ask for mercy on her people. The result is that the king not only spared the Jews in his empire, but also decided to kill all of the enemies of the Jews, Haman included. Esther’s courage saved her people.

Abigail: 1 Samuel 25:35, “So David received of her hand [that] which she had brought him, and said unto her, ‘Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice, and have accepted thy person’.”
Abigail was the wife of Nabal, a churlish, drunken, and selfish fool who refused to help King David and his army with needed provisions. David was readying to kill Nabal and all of his household when Abigail saved them by hastily gathering all that was needed and taking them to David with an apology for her husband’s rebuff. Through Abigail’s quick thinking and courage, Nabal’s household was saved. Nabal died soon after and Abigail became a wife to David.

Phoebe: Romans 16: 1, “I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.”

A wealthy woman, Phoebe used her wealth to serve others. She was referred to as a “sister” in the faith by Paul. She was also a deacon of the church in Cenchreae, teaching and helping the sick and administering to the poor. As a spiritual sister, she was entrusted with the task to carry Paul’s Epistle to the Romans to the city of Rome, quite a distance from Corinth in Greece. While there, she also represented Paul and his gospel message to the Roman assembly. Due to her first-hand knowledge of Paul’s message, after serving alongside him as a co-worker, Phoebe was able to explain and answer their questions. Phoebe was not only a generous person, but a skilled leader in proclaiming the gospel.

If we look around us today, we see many women struggling with the contentions of the world. In our assembly alone, there are women who have lost husbands or are caring for husbands who will never get well. There are women who have suffered the unimaginable sorrow of having lost unborn, young, or adult children. Then, there are the women who are struggling with their own handicaps or health problems, yet manage to make it to Sabbath services. Many women lack a provider, yet are raising and teaching their children with much love in lieu of money. Widows and other single women living alone, uncomplainingly manage to make ends meet while faithfully following Yahweh’s commands, including tithing each month. Despite hardships, these women have drawn their strength to endure and go forward from their obedience to and faith in Yahweh and Yahshua, His Son. It’s not always the outspoken and opinionated voices that pinpoint tenaciousness, but often the unnoticed, humble, and faithful women who demonstrate the most endurance. These are the truly strong women.

By Debbie Reed

Be sure to check out the other wonderful articles in the Come to the Garden blog!