Today we come to Omer Count – Day 14. We learn that our Gevurah, or our discipline and judgements in life, must show dignity and respect toward others.
That is where the connection to malchut is needed.
MALCHUT
In Omer Count – Day 14, malchut recognizes a person’s sovereignty. In doing this we must also learn how to restrain the urge to shower goodness upon those who are unworthy. A good study of these combinations of discipline would be found in the actions of Boaz in the story of Ruth. Boaz was respectful of Ruth. He showed her dignity and honor. He recognized that she was worthy and a child of the sovereign God. Ruth’s reciprocal response to the love of Boaz eventually brought us a Messiah. https://theinseasonlifestyle.com/boaz-discovers-ruth/.
Those who chose to misuse their God-given gifts, or the gifts of others are not the ones we want to recognize and place higher. Think; Pharisees and Sadducees. Jesus has explained to us that they do not display the proper traits of righteousness. As we consider Omer Count – Day 14 we come to realize, if we are not careful, we will fall under these false narratives instead of The Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you need to know how to recognize a Pharisee or Sadducee, check out this link: https://careynieuwhof.com/pharisee/. Further, if you recognize yourself in these traits, read the book they recommend. There is a way to solve the problem. This requires good judgement, discernment and the use of malchut, which is found as part of Omer Count – Day 14.
Malchut is the intersection between the higher worlds and the every day world; or the heavenly and the earthly. It is a type of discernment that helps us know which is which and act accordingly. Malchut is the place where our thoughts get translated into actions. For instance I might think a candidate is good in an election. Malchut would be me placing my vote for that person. Actions speak higher than words sometimes.
A PARABLE THAT ILLUSTRATES
This aspect or connection to good judgement (the use of proper discernment) reminds me of a parable of Jesus which is recorded in Matthew 21:28-32.
In this parable; one son listened to instruction and said he would obey but didn’t. The other son listened to instruction and said he would not obey; but eventually changed his mind and did obey. We are encouraged to ponder which son was truly righteous.
We know that Jesus was making the point that Israel was not being fruitful; but those who were tax-collectors and prostitutes were changing and learning how to obey God’s instructions quicker and better than their well-educated and deeply respected rulers and leaders of that time.
PROPER JUDGEMENT IN ACTION
The judgement he used here (after he told the parable); and the discipline that he portrayed when he entered the temple and overturned the money-changers and then cursed the fig tree, are all examples of malchut of gevurah in action. It is correct judgement and righteous discipline with concern.
The concern here would be for the true worshipers at the temple. Jesus knew they were being taken advantage of. His actions which may have seemed harsh to some were actually merciful considering the sins involved.
FACING MODERN DAY SITUATIONS
We may face more and more such situations as time continues and evil raises its ugly head during our own times. Hence; we must follow in the footsteps of Jesus and have the discernment of malchut of gevurah in our actions.
When we begin to let malchut of gevurah work in our actions we must ask ourselves how to display these powerful connections for the benefit of all the world around us.
Are we consistent with our actions?
Will others respect our judgements and see our actions as fair?
Do we aim to help; not to break?
LEARNING HOW TO BRING OUT THE BEST FOR ALL
Healthy discipline should bring out the best in people; not just tear down the worst of humanity. This would mean not making a public scene unless it was completely necessary. Many times this IS necessary; but we must consider the best ways in all circumstances.
In the above parable; the way the correction was done was the only way to stop the injustice that was happening. Many had tried without success. Most of the people were afraid or intimidated. Jesus was the One authority that could make this judgement. It needed to be done in a timely manner that would not be questioned. He stepped in for the helpless worshipers and corrected the wrong actions.
Sometimes we have alternatives to handle things in a different manner and when possible; other methods should be used. Part of the development of this trait is being able to understand our own authority, it’s limitations, and knowing not to abuse our own power over others.
We must make sure that our actions do not cripple the human spirit; but encourage those looking on to be able to rise higher. Jesus accomplished this feat by helping correct the requirements that were unfair and unrighteous for the true worshipers at the Temple. He was addressing those who did not have sincere concern for others.
LEADING WITH ACTION
Sometimes we might have to discipline or criticize or correct someone who means well; but just doesn’t understand the full impact of what they are doing. In this case it is better to proceed quietly and kindly and lead with our own actions so that they can have a good example to follow. This link from our Deuteronomy Study might come in handy in such situations: https://theinseasonlifestyle.com/be-careful-how-you-care-for-the-creatures-of-the-earth-reflect-your-fathers-love-to-you/.
It is far better to show the way with kindness and a soft voice, without crushing the spirit of the person; than to embarrass a sincere person who just doesn’t understand their own mistakes.
If you can do that; you have gained a brother.
We’ve all been on both sides of this fence. When confrontation must take place, having and achieving malchut of gevurah in such matters makes all the difference.