Beit Midrash, a house of study

Beit Midrash, a house of study We are a house of study were everyone knows your name. To participate, you need a bible, a dictionary, notebook, pen or pencil and an open mind.

There are different levels of partaking of water. Some people only seeking to wade in and splash around. Others seek to snorkel and stay near the surface. Then there are those of us who seek to dive deep to see the wonders of god’s creation. This is what Beit Midrash is about. Where others seek to only talk about the Word of God by reading and discussing the chapter, we seek to understand His Word

fully by letting His Word explain itself. There is a line going through the Word like a puzzle. It connects the beginning to the end. Yes, a person can figure out a puzzle by themselves but when a group works on it together with a skilled facilitator, then wonderful truths are discovered (see Proverbs 20:5). This takes a willingness and commitment (see Hebrews 10:19-25). If this is what you seek, then you are welcomed. Al that you need is a bible, dictionary, concordance and pen and paper. This is a school, not a church gathering. At Beit Midrash we not only sing and give praise, but we study and learn to grow together as per Yahshua’s prayer (see John 4:20-24 and John 17:14-23). We do more than drink milk here (see1 Corinthians 3:2-8, 1 Corinthians 13:9-13. And Hebrews 5:12-14

05/28/2026

The Word for Today: Do people stifle you?

Mark 6:5-6
Complete Jewish Bible

“So He could do no miracles there, other than lay His hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of trust.”

Contrary to popular belief, supernatural events are not miracles because God can create and control almost everything; He can do almost anything, except one thing. As illustrated in Luke 15:10, a true miracle occurs when a person changes. As we have free will, God cannot force a person to change. Thus, as our hearts and minds are under our dominion, only when a person changes their mind can a miracle happen.

As illustrated in the opening scriptures, in dealing with people who need help, no matter how much effort is put into them, unless they are open and willing, no change will occur. Thus, they stifle all who seek to assist them. This occurs in most occupations that seek to help people. Areas in which direct interaction, such as education, social work, and the medical-based fields.

Not only do the "clients" that need service stifle efforts to assist them, but the bureaucracy also stifles those who seek to help. People with limited vision or insecurities set various boundaries disguised as oversight. This not only hinders creativity but also saps motivation. This leads to burnout.

To address burnout, a person needs a change not only in their environment, but also in their understanding. Recognizing powerlessness can help ground a person's thinking. The fact that even Yahshua gets rejected should lessen the frustration in dealing with the resistance of others. Acknowledgement of this fact alone will open a mind to restore and enhance creativity.

As illustrated by Shaul in Acts 13:44-48, knowing that there are those who not only have a need but are open and willing to accept help opens the door for change. As illustrated in Luke 13:6-9, as you seek to give your all, learn to set boundaries so that you can decrease your frustration. As illustrated by Matthew 7:6, remember that not everything is for everybody. Find your true field to plow in.

05/27/2026

The Word for Today: What develops within a poor system is inner strength.

John 9:18-23
Complete Jewish Bible

“The Judeans, however, were unwilling to believe that he had formerly been blind, but now could see, until they had summoned the man’s parents. They asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” His parents answered, “We know that this is our son and that he was born blind; but how it is that he can see now, we don’t know; nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him, he’s old enough, he can speak for himself!” The parents said this because they were afraid of the Judeans, for the Judeans had already agreed that anyone who acknowledged Yahshua as the Messiah would be banned from the synagogue. This is why his parents said, “He’s old enough, ask him.””

Dysfunctional families are breeding grounds for poor support systems. This is due to fear-based codependent expectations. Especially when abuse and domestic violence are present. People who grow within these systems develop defenses that may appear self-defeating but are, in actuality, strength-based.

They develop inner strength through the realization of the lack of support from others. Especially when parental support is inconsistent or absent. As Proverbs 22:6 states, what a person learns in childhood prepares them for adulthood. Thus, as they develop skills for self-preservation, these skills continue into their adulthood.

As adults, these skills can create problems due to a lack of trust or inconsistencies that create triggers. When these individuals become aware that they are "alone," the defensive skills they develop instinctively kick in. Intuitively, they identify options and alternatives to cover and protect themselves from perceived harm. Both emotional and physical harm. Although these skills can create distance from others, they can be redeveloped into positive and effective social skills. This requires a patient, compassionate, and understanding person who knows how to develop trust. The key is developing awareness of the needs of others.

As Proverbs 31:8-9 states, this is a primary quality of leaders. Leaders who develop or possess spiritual discernment are the best allies of those who are victims of a poor support system. As illustrated by Solomon in 1 Kings 3:4-27, a leader who desires to be a true support must seek to acquire the wisdom to assist those in need. Are you such a leader? If so, then you will assist in the transformation of those who have an inner strength that needs enhancement. As exhorted in Matthew 10:6-9, give them your support so that they can grow.

05/26/2026

The Word for Today: The best way to deal with your past is to confront it.

Galatians 1:13
Complete Jewish Bible

“For you have heard about my former way of life in [traditional] Judaism, how I did my best to persecute God’s Messianic Community and destroy it.”

To those who struggle with the guilt and shame of their past, it is time to stop living imprisoned by it. As illustrated in scriptures such as Acts 9:10-14, the factual gossip of others hangs around your neck like a chain. Because of this, many fear exposure, judgment, and ridicule. Especially in this technological world, secrets can be easily discovered and exposed.

Reentry programs are designed to assist people in transitioning back into society. Although these programs provide support and resources, they cannot erase the judgmental minds of others. As illustrated by Luke 18:10-14, the bias and misconceptions of people regarding those whose behaviors are contrary to their "wholesomeness" hinder them from understanding humility, which is the basis of forgiveness. What many who claim to be believers fail to understand is that in their self-righteousness and judgmental view of others, they literally erase the grace they have received. This is illustrated in the parable in Matthew 18:21-35, for as the man who was forgiven of his debt did not forgive another, his debt was placed back on him.

To those who run to and fro, trying to hide because of guilt and shame, stop. As stated previously, those who seek to destroy you will dig up your skeletons. As illustrated in Luke 23:39-43, the best way to handle your past is to first confront it and accept it. Then examine what you have learned from it. As illustrated by David in Psalms 51, in doing so, you can teach others the right way to live. As stated in Proverbs 24:16-18, when a person acknowledges their weaknesses and grows from them, then they are perfectly righteous. Trees grow when pruned, for it lets the light get in deeper.

Today, receive what you want so that you can stop hiding from others. As eyes that are accustomed to darkness need time to adjust to the light, come into the light and see what you have been hiding from. Not all of the world is full of darkness. Seek out those with light within. They have life within that you can grow from.

05/25/2026

The Word for Today: Do you suffer from "dry eyes?"

Acts 9:17-18
Complete Jewish Bible

“So Hananyah left and went into the house. Placing his hands on him, he said, “Brother Sha’ul, the Lord, Yahshua, the one who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Ruach HaKodesh.” In that moment, something like scales fell away from Sha’ul’s eyes; and he could see again. He got up and was immersed.”

The translation for the word "scales" in the opening verse is "flakes." Flakes are the result of a lack of moisture. The human eye needs moisture to see properly. Thus, the reason we have tear ducts. Unfortunately, many have taught themselves to block up their tear ducts, which blocks up their ability to see with compassion.

Beginning in Genesis 4:6-9, as a person avoids God's exhortations, they lose His compassion for others (Genesis 9:5-6). As illustrated in Genesis 4:23-24, this becomes a family trait, for as stated in Ezekiel 16:44-50, “like mother, like daughter” (Proverbs 22:6). As shown in Genesis 19:1-9, a lack of compassion results in loss of honor and respect for others, which reflects a lack of healthy spirituality.

As illustrated in Acts 9:1-5, as Shaul's eyes were dry, he could not see the true target of his attacks (Acts 9:3-5 and 1 John 4:20-21). As he lost spiritual compassion, he had no true vision of his actions. As stated in Proverbs 29:18, once this occurs, adherence to God's ways is impossible. As illustrated in Romans 1:18-32, dry eyes lead to engaging in selfish behaviors that develop due to the loss of God's Spirit. As stated in Matthew 24:6-12, this affliction is prominent in our world today. Especially among those who consider themselves as followers (John 8:39-44).

As Shaul had to have his eyes opened, many will need to do the same. As stated in Psalms 51, where David states that only a broken heart will open God's ears, unless a person becomes a true follower as outlined in Romans 2:23-29, they are like a dry, lifeless tree that is described in Luke 13:6-9. Read Revelation 2:2-4 to understand that a person who claims to follow Yahweh but has dry eyes must examine the roots that created this to occur. As stated in Proverbs 20:5, they must allow someone to help them open their eyes so that they can become naturally moist again (Acts 9:10-18 and James 5:16). Remember, followers of Yahshua, the He easily wept.

05/24/2026

The Word for Today: How to make a faith-based decision.

Acts 1:21-26
Complete Jewish Bible

“Therefore, one of the men who have been with us continuously throughout the time the Lord Yahshua traveled around among us, from the time Yochanan was immersing people until the day Yahshua was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us to His resurrection.” They nominated two men, Yosef Bar-Sabba, surnamed Justus, and Mattityahu. Then they prayed, “Lord, You know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over the work and the office of emissary that Y’hudah abandoned to go where he belongs.” Then they drew lots to decide between the two, and the lot fell to Mattityahu. So he was added to the eleven emissaries.”

The adage "hindsight is 20/20" refers to the fact that most would change their decisions they made based on the results. How many regrets do you have? Unfortunately, most of the decisions that we regret, we have very little power to change them. This is because we made decisions using flesh-based stimuli which is feeble and focuses on only the 2 areas that give us facts; the past and present.

When it comes to decisions, what value would knowing the outcome be in decisions-making? Regarding finances, relationships, career choices, if a person knew in advance how their decisions would turn out, would they make the same decisions? Again, since no one can know the future of their decisions, they seek advice, rely upon self, or stress themselves as they procrastinate regarding making a decision. What is the connection with faith?

As faith is having hope in what is not seen, most believers make decisions based more on hopeful guesses. This creates just as much stress as non-faith-based decision making. What most do not do is trust in the unseen God. As stated in 2 Peter 3:16, this is due to false or inaccurate biblical teaching. As stated in scriptures such as Exodus 28:30 and Proverbs 16:33, God speaks people not through personal exchange as many claim to receive but through "proofs" that most do not consider as valid.

Consider the examples found in Genesis chapter 34 and Judges 6:36-40. In each the faith-based person sought signs and wonders to assist them in their decision-making. This, as stated in Acts 1:24, as trusting God, who knows all, then ask Him to give direction through approved signs. Through these "objects," as shown throughout scriptures, decisions were made that led to successful outcomes. Thus, the question is why don't more use this proven method to make decisions?

It comes down to the need to control outcomes. The core of humanity is self-will and self-determination. These 2 aspects hinder true faith and trust. Thus, many force themselves to lie in the bed they have made instead of developing true trust and faith. Thus, as stated in Matthew 7:21-23, many will lose out due to placing themselves in God's place. As stated in 1 Peter 5:6-9, stop giving in to the false perception of control and trust Him who knows the beginning to the end. As stated in James 4:2-3, unless a person changes how they ask, they will continue to receive what they do not want.

05/23/2026

The Word for Today: Do blind people see color?

Acts 21:37-39
Complete Jewish Bible

“As Sha’ul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “Is it all right if I say something to you?” The commander said, “You know Greek! Say, aren’t you that Egyptian who tried to start a revolution a while back, and led four thousand armed terrorists out into the desert?” Sha’ul said, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of an important city; and I ask your permission to let me speak to the people.”

Joshua 24:14-15 exhorts believers to make a choice. The choice is to continue in the moral ways taught through childhood, the moral ways taught by many today, or to follow in the ways of Yahweh. The word "idol" in the text refers to "people in authority" and not statues. Thus, the question is whose mindsets and beliefs do you choose to follow and adhere to? Especially regarding others who, as stated in Genesis 1:26-27 and Genesis 9:5-6, for humans are formed in the image of God.

Recently, Elon Musk expressed his feelings about a young woman of “color” playing the mythical role of "Helen of Troy." He expressed that it is insulting due to Helen being the most beautiful woman in "history," only a person with European features can play her. Many are unaware that Julia Roberts was originally selected to play "Harriet Tubman” in the movie "Harriet," as the producers expressed that it doesn't matter the face but the talent. In addition, Leonardo DiCaprio's character in the "Titanic" was actually based on a man of African descent. Throughout the history of the use of media, the issues of racial identity have been at the forefront, especially when it focuses on telling the ways of God.

As stated in Matthew 6:22-23, what we see determines how we interact with others. As Proverbs 22:6 states, what we have been taught in our homes is reflected and validated by the media. Many express that they are "color blind" in dealing with others, but how true and realistic is this statement? How many truly see others without the preconceived teachings we all have received through both our families and the media? For instance, even though there are no specific or accurate descriptions of Yahshua (the person mistakenly called "jesus"), what image first appears within the mind when His name is spoken? This fact alone indicates inner bias. Now expand this bias to how others are seen and judged, as illustrated by Numbers 12:1 (Song of Solomon 1:5-6).

Are there differences in skin color throughout the scriptures? The answer is "yes." But, as stated in 1 John 4:17-21 and illustrated in Revelation 7:9, only those whose eyes are spiritually open will stand with and walk with God (Acts 9:1-19). As stated in Amos 3:3, walking with God requires adhering to His ways of perfection as illustrated in Matthew 5:43-48. Thus, unless a person honestly confronts their inner bias, they will meet the fate of many as expressed in Matthew 7:21-23 and Matthew 25:31-46. Learn to become "people blind" by following Romans 12:2.

05/22/2026

The Word for Today: The best proof of teaching is living the lesson.

Acts 16:22-28
Complete Jewish Bible

“The mob joined in the attack against them, and the judges tore their clothes off them and ordered that they be flogged. After giving them a severe beating, they threw them in prison, charging the jailer to guard them securely. Upon receiving such an order, he threw them into the inner cell and clamped their feet securely between heavy blocks of wood. Around midnight, Sha’ul and Sila were praying and singing hymns to God, while the other prisoners listened attentively. Suddenly, there was a violent earthquake which shook the prison to its foundations. All the doors flew open and everyone’s chains came loose. The jailer awoke, and when he saw the doors open he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, for he assumed that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Sha’ul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We’re all here!”

As exhorted in Matthew 5:11-16, the best "witness" of faith occurs when experiencing stress and lack of control. As illustrated by Rahab in Joshua 6:20-25, staying calm in the midst of calamity demonstrates mature faith and trust. This is what people need to see to show others how to trust. Unfortunately, as stated in Matthew 7:21-23, many fail in this because they only claim to trust God. This is best illustrated in how they speak.

Using James 3:11-18 as the template, the question that many non-believers ponder is why so many who claim trust and faith in God engage freely in using profanity and cussing. Many claim to struggle with their mouths by claiming that "nobody's perfect," yet I have observed "believers" using profanity in their writing. As writing requires attention, the use of profanity through writing eliminates the excuse of having a lack of control.

As illustrated by Shaul, as he and his companion were beaten, arrested, and jailed, instead of fussing and cussing, they remained calm. In doing so, as illustrated by Acts 16:27-33, they "freed" others. By living what he taught, Shaul proved that his faith was sincere and effective.

As long as actions are contrary to words, hypocrisy will flourish. Instead of leading, people will be repulsed. As stated in scriptures such as 1 Peter 1:5-7, true metal is purified and established through fire (1 Peter 4:12). Falling is not a sign of failure. Not getting up is. Being perfect is not being flawless but changing and growing past the mistakes. This is what gives witness to others of spiritual strength.

05/21/2026

The Word for Today: Do you realize that your children have become your parrot?

Proverbs 22:6
Complete Jewish Bible

“Train a child in the way he [should] go; and, even when old, he will not swerve from it.”

Before children attend school, they learn at home. Their language, behaviors, and moral understanding develop through observation, direct instruction, and experiences they acquire from their families. Thus, as "parrots," they give what they receive.

As children are full of wonder and curiosity, as they observe both negative and positive interactions within their families, questions develop. Within dysfunctional families in which the parents rebuke children with the statement, "Do as I say. Don't say as I do," children develop shame-based and secretive mindsets that can develop into resentment and rebellion. Yet, for many others, the children tend to speak and act towards others by "parroting" their parents. This is especially seen when the children become parents, for as the adage states, "the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree."

Comparing the scriptures using Exodus 20:5 and John 14:15, as parents ignore the directives found in Deuteronomy 6:5-7 and Ephesians 6:4, they do not live and teach healthy morals. In essence, they teach their children hate. As exampled by 2 Kings 2:23-24, as parents do not teach proper respect, their children parrot them to disastrous results. Especially when it comes to creating their own families.

To the parents who struggle with the unhealthy behaviors of their children, have you taken a "fearless and searching moral inventory" of yourself? Instead of the shaming of your children through religious clichés, you need to look deeply, using God's "mirror" to see that your children are just "parroting" you. As you are the "god" in their life as they grew and developed, cease in your amazement at the results. Where there is no honest accountability, there cannot be redemption, healing, and change. As exhorted within Psalms 139:23-24, true change begins within.

05/20/2026

The Word for Today: An example of powerlessness, trying to control what people say behind your back.

Proverbs 27:5-6
Complete Jewish Bible

“Better open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend are received as well-meant, but an enemy’s kisses are insincere.”

Many need to realize that unnecessary stress develops when they try to control what people say and think about them. Especially those who are considered loved ones. As stated in both Micah 7:1-6 and Matthew 10:34-36, hidden feelings occur more from those you trust than from those you don't (John 6:70-71).

The inability to respect loved ones by disclosing and discussing true feelings eventually will cause pain and hurt. As exampled in 2 Samuel 6:12-23, hiding feelings such as shame and resentment leads to consequences and separation. The dysfunctional excuse of not seeking to hurt others with love-based honesty is a deceptive trait associated with a serpent.

The need for the injured to control this is dysfunctional. The core of dysfunctionality is to control the uncontrollable. The ways of others are the most uncontrollable area of life. Not even God can control the hearts and minds of others because of free will. Thus, the way to health and sanity is in accepting that others are flawed. This frees a person from the illusion of control.

In becoming aware of this internal revelation, I have developed another level of peace. It is not that I need to separate from others, but remember that not everything that "glitters is gold." Thus, as Yahshua illustrated in Luke 22:48, healing is seen not as being surprised when the betrayal comes, but rather, being surprised at how the betrayal occurs. Thus, the need to incorporate the wisdom found in both 2 Corinthians 11:12-14 and 1 Peter 5:6-9. To paraphrase David's warning to his wife in 2 Samuel 6:22, heal so you can really give people something to talk about (Matthew 5:11-16).

05/19/2026

The Word for Today: As you are attracted to one parent, you become the other.

Genesis 24:62-67
Complete Jewish Bible

“Meanwhile, Yitz’chak, one evening after coming along the road from Be’er-Lachai-Ro’I, he was living in the Negev, went out walking in the field; and as he looked up, he saw camels approaching. Rivkah too looked up; and when she saw Yitz’chak, she quickly dismounted the camel. She said to the servant, “Who is this man walking in the field to meet us?” When the servant replied, “It’s my master,” she took her veil and covered herself. The servant told Yitz’chak everything he had done. Then Yitz’chak brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent and took Rivkah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. Thus was Yitz’chak comforted for the loss of his mother.”

Most who read this may become cynical and ignore this reality. However, like the existence of God, things are true, whether you believe them or not. Thus, based on familiarity, we will gravitate to that which we are familiar with. Especially when we have unresolved family issues.

Consider the following metaphor. If a person gets into cold water and stays in it, they become accustomed to it. They become so accustomed to the "cold" that when they get out of it, the warm air feels unnatural. Thus, they seek to return to their comfort zone. This is best illustrated throughout the scriptures. As people became introduced to a better, healthier life, rather than facing their issues, they sought a return to what was comfortable. This is especially true regarding dysfunctional families. Like a turtle carrying its shell, dysfunctional people always carry their family values with them. This is explained through the proverb, "birds of a feather flock together," for dysfunctional people are only comfortable with dysfunctional people.

Proverbs 20:5 states that therapy brings this reality to the surface. However, as stated earlier, most avoid this "surgery" due to denial, which is the reason for ongoing struggles within marriages and families. Dysfunctional families pass on their generational beliefs and concepts, which set up their offspring to continue the cycle of dysfunctionality. As illustrated in Psalms 51:1-6, instead of confronting the family pattern, many live in fear-based blindness. The fear is facing the reality of how sick the family is. As illustrated by Matthew 23:27, as many seek to exhibit prosperity on the outside, they ignore their emptiness within. They learn to cover up through various external "leaves" that eventually lead to addictive tendencies for comfort (Genesis 3:7-8). As illustrated by Proverbs 31:3-7, addiction is not what a person does but why they do it. As they grow to depend upon escapes from reality, it becomes a vortex that pulls them into a circular lifestyle that becomes normal. Until this is identified and addressed, the family patterns will continue.

Are you open to an honest and fearless examination of your morals? Your morals are established first within your immediate family, for they give you the template through which you see life. As stated in Matthew 6:22-23, you were taught to "see" and gauge all through your family vision. Consider the exhortation of Isaiah 51:1-3, for if you truly seek to turn your "desert into a garden," examine your heritage. As stated in Genesis 12:1-3, promised in both Micah 7:4-7 and Matthew 10:34-37, and illustrated in Matthew 12:46-50, finding and creating a healthy family, it requires spiritual work. But, as stated in Matthew 7:13-14, not everyone is open to this journey.

05/18/2026

The Word for Today: Never underestimate the patience of a predator.

Luke 4:13
Complete Jewish Bible

“When the Adversary had ended all his testings, he let him alone until an opportune time.”

Most people misread John 10:10 due to the word "kill" because they assume that an evil person seeks the physical death of their victim. Quite the contrary, their goal is to kill their victim's vitality to subdue and control them. Predatory thieves like to keep their victims alive so they can manipulate them to do their bidding. This is especially true regarding domestic violence and abuse.

As illustrated by 2 Corinthians 11:13-15, predators easily appear "good" so they can lure their prey in. This is first observed in Genesis 3:1-6. People who are abusive predators will change their "attack" and appear to have a changed heart, but this is just a tool they use to fool their victim. Predators plan carefully and are patiently vigilant. Many do not realize that they have honed their tactics since childhood.

The cycle of domestic violence consists of some form of one of 9 abusive behaviors, then the honeymoon/make-up events, then a new round of building up reasons to attack. Due to the patience of the abusive predator, this cycle can take months to develop. But, as illustrated in 1 Peter 5:6-9, only a sober person is able to see it. I emphasize that the goal of the predator is not the destruction of the body but of the mind. Thus, they are masters at mind games.

To those who have loved ones who you see involved with a predator, your patience is their greatest strength. You must remove your frustration because this plays into the predator's plan. As their goal is to separate the victim from support, when you "write off" the victim, their prison becomes stronger. You must become like a parachute and be there when they reach for you. Otherwise, the victim, when ready, will find themselves stranded and alone, which makes it easier for the predator to recapture them. As stated in Matthew 10:16, to free a person from a predator, you must learn to think like a predator.

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