Opposition Is a Sign of Opportunity, Preparing You for the Fall Feasts

The month of August begins in the middle of the Hebrew month of Av and ends in the middle of Elul. 

As August begins, you have likely faced the opposition that often comes in Av. But remember, whenever there’s opposition, it is a clear sign of an opportunity to grow in wisdom and trust as you humbly come before the Lord. 

This August, remember: the spiritual sensitivity you cultivate in Av becomes the foundation for hearing God’s voice more clearly in Elul. 

Be Aware…

If you are new to the biblical calendar, Av is known for its tragedies. There have been significant destructive events that have occurred in the Hebrew month of Av. This remarkable pattern culminates at Tisha B’Av (the Ninth of Av). From the destruction of the First Temple all the way through the evacuation of Gush Katif in 2005, the historical evidence of tragedies is undeniable.

But God never reveals a pattern to produce fear. He reveals it to prepare His people. The purpose of understanding Av isn’t to dwell on destruction but to recognize our need for the One who redeems. Every warning in Scripture carries an invitation to draw near, humble ourselves, and receive His mercy.

But the Blood…

Scripture teaches that “the life of the flesh is in the blood” (Leviticus 17:11), and Hebrews reminds us that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 9:22).

Everything God designed to sustain physical life flows through the blood. In the same way, our spiritual life is sustained through the blood of Yeshua, the source of cleansing, forgiveness, covenant, and restoration. So in Av, keep applying the blood! 

In August, don’t focus on mourning the past or rehearsing hurts. Instead, remember the power of the blood of Yeshua. Come before the Father in genuine repentance; His blood speaks a better word than your failures. Mercy triumphs over judgment, and what the enemy intended for destruction becomes an opportunity for redemption.

What Lays Before You in August…

One of the greatest opportunities in the month of Av is allowing the blood of Yeshua to do what only the blood can do. The blood doesn’t simply forgive sin; it cleanses the conscience, removes spiritual clutter, and restores fellowship with the Father. As you humble yourself in repentance, the blood cleanses your heart so that when you enter the month of Elul, your spiritual ears are open and your heart is sensitive to the voice of God. 

Av prepares you through repentance; Elul prepares you through intimacy. Together, they position you to encounter the Lord at His appointed times during the Fall Feasts.

We’ve Been Praying… 

Christie and I have been praying during these summer months that even though tests and trials come, you will emerge stronger than ever. May you hear God’s voice with greater clarity, trust His protection more deeply, and walk confidently under the covering of the blood of Yeshua. May He increase your generosity, lead you in paths of love, and draw you into wholehearted repentance.

The blood still speaks mercy, forgiveness, and life. As you humble yourself before the Father this month, may you experience complete transformation. For where true repentance is found, His mercy flows, and where His mercy flows, miracles follow.