1 Kings 11:1--"King Solomon, however . . . ." However is loaded with meaning here. We have just concluded reading about the splendor and wisdom of Solomon. Now this little word "however" introduces us to Solomon's other life, a life in stark contrast to the blameless life God had called him to live. Dear Jesus, I do not know if anyone will ever write my life story, but I pray there will not be any "howevers" included. Ladies, whenever it is in within our power to choose, let's lead a life without regrets. May our lives bring glory to God.
1 Kings 11:4--"As Solomon grew old . . . ." I'm sorry, but my expectation was that Solomon would grow even wiser with age. With age comes wisdom, right? As I lay in bed last night, I asked God, "Why? Why couldn't Solomon be the perfect king? Why couldn't he have learned from his father David's mistakes?" God's reply? "No man can be perfect."
I was so disappointed in Solomon. Guess what, people will always disappoint us. "No man can be perfect." We all need a Savior. Solomon needed a Savior.
1 Kings 11:9-10--"The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. Although he had forbidden Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did not keep the LORD's command." God had appeared to Solomon TWICE. I want to put on my judge's robe and condemn Solomon for his disobedience, but I can't because I do the exact same thing. Sure, my sin may look different than Solomon's, but at the core it is the same. When things are rocking along smoothly in my life, I get my eyes off of God, and I start listening to the advice of other people. I get distracted from worshiping the One True God. All sin comes back to selfishness and pride. Although it shows up in our lives in different forms, all of it is a slap in the face for our Savior.
To sum up the remainder of Solomon's days, God raised up three enemies: Hadad, Rezon, and Jeroboam. Solomon's 40 year reign of peace ends in disappointment.
1 Kings 12--Solomon's son Rehoboam was doomed to failure from the beginning. In Chapter 11 Ahijah had already prophesied that Jeroboam would be king of Israel instead. I want to ask the "what if" questions. What if Rehoboam had listened to the advice of the elders? What if Rehoboam had studied the history of his nation and chosen to seek advice from God? But 1 Kings 12:15 says, "this turn of events was from the LORD." While David had handed his son a successful kingdom, Solomon did not continue the tradition. In one generation the dynasty had fallen apart. Ladies, we should pray for our children and our grandchildren and our great grands and so on. We must be intentional about training our families to be followers of Jesus.
1 Kings 12:25-33--Okay, I have real issues with God's choice of Jeroboam as the leader of Israel. Why would God appoint a man who was going to lead the people to worship golden calves? I don't get it. Does anyone have any insight here?
Let's end on a positive note. Will you write and tell me what your prayer is for your family today? You can post a comment on my blog or you can send me an email. I am praying God will surround my husband and children with godly people. I pray all of their friends will encourage them to fall more in love with Jesus.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
1 Kings 9-10, 2 Chronicles 7-9
Again the 1 Kings and 2 Chronicles accounts of King Solomon run parallel. We will hit a few high points today.
When the Lord appeared to Solomon, he gave him some choices. Do it God's way, and be blessed, or do it your own way and be ridiculed. "Walk before me in integrity of heart and uprightness, and I will establish your royal throne forever." (1 Kings 9:4) "But if you turn away from me, then I will cut you off, and all who pass by will be appalled." (1 Kings 9:6 & 8) Verses 8 & 9 give the Why and Because. People would ask Why the LORD had done such a thing to Israel, and people would answer Because they have forsaken the LORD their God. 2 Chronicles 7:14 is a verse I hear quoted often, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
Okay, this next comment won't be very spiritual. Did you notice what Pharoah king of Egypt gave his daughter for a wedding gift in 1 Kings 9:16? Thanks a lot, daddy.
1 Kings 10 and 2 Chronicles 9 tells the story of the queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon. Solomon answered all her questions, and she was overwhelmed by his hospitality. She said Solomon far exceeded her expectations. And I would think it would be difficult to impress a queen. The climax of the story is when the queen of Sheba says, "How happy your men must be! How happy your officials, who continually stand before you and hear your wisdom! Praise be to the LORD you God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel. Because of the LORD's eternal love for Israel, he has made you king, to maintain justice and righteousness." Did you catch that? Because God loved Israel, he gave them a good and wise king. Dear Jesus, please give our nation good and wise leaders. Help us to pray and seek your face. Please forgive our sin and heal our land.
The queen brought gifts to Solomon, but then he gave her even more than she had brought to him. (2 Chron. 9:12) The remainder of the chapter describes the wealth of Solomon. He was greater in riches and wisdom than all other kings, and the whole world sought audience with him to hear God's wisdom. (1 Kings 10:23-24) Of all the kings in history, Israel's King Solomon is one of the most famous of all time.
Monday, August 25, 2008
1 Kings 8, 2 Chronicles 5-7:10
This reading is quite extensive, but these two passages are almost identical. There are a number of places in these Scriptures that should cause you to break out in praise and thanksgiving to the God of Israel, who is also the God of the foreigner (you and me)!
Can you just imagine the enormous celebration Solomon and his people held? Can you hear the people shouting and the instruments playing? Can you see the children running about giggling and playing, their mothers standing in huddles smiling with pride? Can you see each father bringing the sacrificial animal for his family, so many cattle, sheep and goats that no one could count them? Can you sense the excitement? The Israelites had not participated in central, corporate worship for quite some time. Now they had a temple for Name of the One True God, Yahweh! The Israelites knew how to celebrate! Girls, we should throw a party when we worship Christ!
And then the priests carried the ark of the covenant on its poles and placed the throne of the Living God in the sanctuary. Can you imagine the awestruck faces of the people who may not have seen the ark since David had moved it? How nervous would you be if you had been assigned the task of opening the ark to verify that its contents were still there? Then what if you had to be the one to report that only the stone tablets remained? Where were the manna and Aaron's staff? (Heb. 9:4)
1 Kings 8:10-11 "When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the LORD. And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled his temple." Girls, I am on my face before God, and I hope you are too! I wanna see God's glory fill my church, my house, and my life. I want people to know I have been with God! We should not be able to go on about our routine business because God's presence is so overwhelming in our daily lives. Whew!
I hope you will allow me a little side trip to take a look at the word "glory." I am fascinated by this little word, and I have been for the past ten years or so, ever since Beth Moore touched on it in one of her Bible studies. The glory of God is the presence of God, and when you and I glorify God, we are making His presence evident to the people around us. I used to get so worried about whether or not I was bringing glory to God because I thought I had to perform perfectly for Him to receive glory in my life. That is too much pressure! Through that Bible study, I came to understand that just by being real, I could show God to others. I didn't have to put on a show; I just had to be transparent, and God would shine through me. I tell you, it was a freeing thought! Now my entire goal in life is to invite others to "Come glorify the Lord with me, let us exalt His Name together!" (Psalm 34:3) I'm so glad you accepted the invitation!
1 Kings 8:17-19--I am so thankful that God planted it in David's heart to build the temple. And I am very grateful that David's dream did not die with him. God allowed his son Solomon to bring it to fruition. Praise the LORD! Are you leaving a godly legacy for your children to pick up when you are gone? What work for God are you doing that your kids will want to take up in your absence? Please do not make the mistake of simply willing your material possessions to your descendants. Pass on your love for Jesus to those who will follow you.
1 Kings 8:27 "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!" Amen!!
Can you just imagine the enormous celebration Solomon and his people held? Can you hear the people shouting and the instruments playing? Can you see the children running about giggling and playing, their mothers standing in huddles smiling with pride? Can you see each father bringing the sacrificial animal for his family, so many cattle, sheep and goats that no one could count them? Can you sense the excitement? The Israelites had not participated in central, corporate worship for quite some time. Now they had a temple for Name of the One True God, Yahweh! The Israelites knew how to celebrate! Girls, we should throw a party when we worship Christ!
And then the priests carried the ark of the covenant on its poles and placed the throne of the Living God in the sanctuary. Can you imagine the awestruck faces of the people who may not have seen the ark since David had moved it? How nervous would you be if you had been assigned the task of opening the ark to verify that its contents were still there? Then what if you had to be the one to report that only the stone tablets remained? Where were the manna and Aaron's staff? (Heb. 9:4)
1 Kings 8:10-11 "When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the LORD. And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled his temple." Girls, I am on my face before God, and I hope you are too! I wanna see God's glory fill my church, my house, and my life. I want people to know I have been with God! We should not be able to go on about our routine business because God's presence is so overwhelming in our daily lives. Whew!
I hope you will allow me a little side trip to take a look at the word "glory." I am fascinated by this little word, and I have been for the past ten years or so, ever since Beth Moore touched on it in one of her Bible studies. The glory of God is the presence of God, and when you and I glorify God, we are making His presence evident to the people around us. I used to get so worried about whether or not I was bringing glory to God because I thought I had to perform perfectly for Him to receive glory in my life. That is too much pressure! Through that Bible study, I came to understand that just by being real, I could show God to others. I didn't have to put on a show; I just had to be transparent, and God would shine through me. I tell you, it was a freeing thought! Now my entire goal in life is to invite others to "Come glorify the Lord with me, let us exalt His Name together!" (Psalm 34:3) I'm so glad you accepted the invitation!
1 Kings 8:17-19--I am so thankful that God planted it in David's heart to build the temple. And I am very grateful that David's dream did not die with him. God allowed his son Solomon to bring it to fruition. Praise the LORD! Are you leaving a godly legacy for your children to pick up when you are gone? What work for God are you doing that your kids will want to take up in your absence? Please do not make the mistake of simply willing your material possessions to your descendants. Pass on your love for Jesus to those who will follow you.
1 Kings 8:27 "But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built!" Amen!!
I love Solomon's boldness as he makes requests of God. Solomon knew he and the people would sin (v. 46), and he knew they would need God's mercy and grace; so he boldly asked for it. He asked God to judge between right and wrong, to hear and forgive sin, to teach them the right way to live, to forgive and act, and to deal with them as individuals. Solomon begged God to hear their plea and to uphold their cause, to forgive all their offenses, and to cause their conquerors to show them mercy. He asked God to listen to them because God had singled them out as his chosen people. Solomon also asked God to make allowances for any foreigners because he knew God's fame would spread to other lands and that people would come seeking to worship the One True God. Wow! I think he covered all the bases, don't you? Solomon ended his prayer with praise and a final request that all people may know that the LORD is God and that there is no other. (v. 60)
1 Kings 8:63--After he dedicated the temple, Solomon sacrificed 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats. If they could count that many animals, then I cannot even fathom how many animals were sacrificed in verse 5!!!!!! Verse 64 says the bronze altar was too small to hold it all. I'm pretty sure our offering plates are rarely overflowing like that.
1 Kings 8:65--Fourteen days. When was the last time you went to church for a 14-day celebration? I remember when I was little Vacation Bible School lasted two weeks, and I have heard people talk about revivals lasting that long. Our attention spans fizzle out too soon in our day and time. Actually, I think that's a cop-out. Do you agree?
I will end today's post by quoting the end of Solomon's prayer that is recorded in 2 Chronicles 6:40-42. "Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. Now arise, O LORD God, and come to your resting place, you and the ark of your might. May your priests, O LORD God, be clothed with salvation, may your saints rejoice in your goodness. O LORD God, do not reject your anointed one. Remember the great love promised to David your servant."
Friday, August 22, 2008
1 Kings 3, 6-7
When you hear the name of Solomon, what Bible stories come to mind? When I asked Trent this question, he said Solomon's wives, the Queen of Sheba coming to ask Solomon for wisdom, and the building of the temple. The stories in chapter 3 are what I think of, Solomon asking for wisdom and applying that wisdom when he decided whose baby was still living. King Solomon was the wisest and wealthiest man of his day, and the kingdom of Israel enjoyed peace and prosperity during his reign.
1 Kings 3--Okay, if God asked you what you wanted from him, would you ask for wisdom or wealth? I'm thinking Solomon was already a wise man since he knew how to respond to God's question. It makes me wonder if Solomon's father David had trained him how to pray. David had set an example for his son in praying unselfish prayers, prayers that would benefit others more than himself, prayers that would bring glory to God. Solomon recognized that the people belonged to God, and he wanted God's wisdom to be able to govern them. So God not only granted Solomon's request, but also gave him great riches and honor. Wow! What a blessing.
Verse 15 makes me ponder--Solomon realized he was dreaming. I don't know about you, but I have never had an intelligent conversation in my dreams. When I do remember my dreams, they are so disjointed and weird that it is hard to make any sense of them. A couple of nights ago, I dreamt that a former colleague of mine was eating a hamburger at a retirement party for a junior college president. Ummm.... Okay.... It would seem sacrilegious for me to try to discern a word from God out of that dream. I did pray for my former coworker though. Middle Eastern cultures, however, put much more stock in their dreams than we westerners do. In fact, some missionary friends of mine ask for special prayer during the Holy Days where they serve. They pray that Jesus will show himself in visions to the people there during their days of fasting and prayer.
The remainder of Chapter 3 is a terrific story demonstrating the wisdom God gave to Solomon. I love his creative problem solving! Verse 28 tells us the people were in awe of their king, and they recognized the wonderful gift God had given him.
1 Kings 6--Wow! Look at all the details! Once again I am thankful that God enjoys details as much as I do. Did I ever tell you that details are my love language? If Trent will come home after work and tell me all about what he did that day, I feel very loved. Reading this chapter makes me think of Melissa's question about why David listed all the items that were offered for the temple. Solomon's temple was one of the wonders of the ancient world, and it took them seven years to build (v. 38), and it was built in silence (v. 7). I think it is significant that so much was recorded about the structure of the temple. When we take on a task for God's glory, we should perform the task with excellence. Our completed project should leave people in awe of the amazing God we serve.
1 Kings 7--Solomon took 13 years to build his own palace. I don't really know what to say about that. The first verse of Chapter 3 mentioned that Solomon built his palace, the temple, and the wall of Jerusalem. 1 Kings 9:10 says it took 20 years to build the temple and the palace. Then 9:24 says Solomon's wife didn't come to Jerusalem until the palace was built. What do you think about that, girls? Do you think you could live with your mama until your husband finished building your house? Maybe it took Solomon 20 years to finish the construction projects because he was so distracted with accumulating his harem (1 Kings 11). His palace had to be humongous to house that many women! That makes you question his wisdom, doesn't it?
The rest of 1 Kings 7 describes all the furnishings created to be used in the temple worship. Again, the details are overwhelming. Do I take my worship of the One True Living God that seriously???
1 Kings 3--Okay, if God asked you what you wanted from him, would you ask for wisdom or wealth? I'm thinking Solomon was already a wise man since he knew how to respond to God's question. It makes me wonder if Solomon's father David had trained him how to pray. David had set an example for his son in praying unselfish prayers, prayers that would benefit others more than himself, prayers that would bring glory to God. Solomon recognized that the people belonged to God, and he wanted God's wisdom to be able to govern them. So God not only granted Solomon's request, but also gave him great riches and honor. Wow! What a blessing.
Verse 15 makes me ponder--Solomon realized he was dreaming. I don't know about you, but I have never had an intelligent conversation in my dreams. When I do remember my dreams, they are so disjointed and weird that it is hard to make any sense of them. A couple of nights ago, I dreamt that a former colleague of mine was eating a hamburger at a retirement party for a junior college president. Ummm.... Okay.... It would seem sacrilegious for me to try to discern a word from God out of that dream. I did pray for my former coworker though. Middle Eastern cultures, however, put much more stock in their dreams than we westerners do. In fact, some missionary friends of mine ask for special prayer during the Holy Days where they serve. They pray that Jesus will show himself in visions to the people there during their days of fasting and prayer.
The remainder of Chapter 3 is a terrific story demonstrating the wisdom God gave to Solomon. I love his creative problem solving! Verse 28 tells us the people were in awe of their king, and they recognized the wonderful gift God had given him.
1 Kings 6--Wow! Look at all the details! Once again I am thankful that God enjoys details as much as I do. Did I ever tell you that details are my love language? If Trent will come home after work and tell me all about what he did that day, I feel very loved. Reading this chapter makes me think of Melissa's question about why David listed all the items that were offered for the temple. Solomon's temple was one of the wonders of the ancient world, and it took them seven years to build (v. 38), and it was built in silence (v. 7). I think it is significant that so much was recorded about the structure of the temple. When we take on a task for God's glory, we should perform the task with excellence. Our completed project should leave people in awe of the amazing God we serve.
1 Kings 7--Solomon took 13 years to build his own palace. I don't really know what to say about that. The first verse of Chapter 3 mentioned that Solomon built his palace, the temple, and the wall of Jerusalem. 1 Kings 9:10 says it took 20 years to build the temple and the palace. Then 9:24 says Solomon's wife didn't come to Jerusalem until the palace was built. What do you think about that, girls? Do you think you could live with your mama until your husband finished building your house? Maybe it took Solomon 20 years to finish the construction projects because he was so distracted with accumulating his harem (1 Kings 11). His palace had to be humongous to house that many women! That makes you question his wisdom, doesn't it?
The rest of 1 Kings 7 describes all the furnishings created to be used in the temple worship. Again, the details are overwhelming. Do I take my worship of the One True Living God that seriously???
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Psalms 1, 8, 19, 23, 51, 100, 103, 139
My original plan was to blog the first four psalms on the list and then do the others on another day. Well, it has been so long since I have been able to blog, that I am going to have to cover them all at once.
I hope you have enjoyed spending time with David as he worshiped God. I know I have. The Psalms are where I gravitate to whenever I don't have a structured reading plan. Typically they speak to me in whatever life circumstances I find myself.
In this blog, I will comment on my favorite verse from each of the eight Psalms listed in the title. I hope you will comment on your favorite verses in response!
Psalm 1--When I was in high school, one of my Bible study leaders taught us a chorus for this psalm. We learned it in the King James Version; so that's how I know it best. Did you notice that this psalm is divided into two parts--the blessed man and the wicked man? I want to be the blessed man! How do I do that?
I hope you have enjoyed spending time with David as he worshiped God. I know I have. The Psalms are where I gravitate to whenever I don't have a structured reading plan. Typically they speak to me in whatever life circumstances I find myself.
In this blog, I will comment on my favorite verse from each of the eight Psalms listed in the title. I hope you will comment on your favorite verses in response!
Psalm 1--When I was in high school, one of my Bible study leaders taught us a chorus for this psalm. We learned it in the King James Version; so that's how I know it best. Did you notice that this psalm is divided into two parts--the blessed man and the wicked man? I want to be the blessed man! How do I do that?
- Do not seek counsel from ungodly people.
- Do not align yourself with sinners.
- Do not become one who mocks and ridicules God and His people.
- Delight in God's law.
- Think about God's Word day and night.
My favorite phrase from Psalm 1 is at the end of verse 3, "Whatever he does prospers." That is my prayer for me, for my family, and for you my Christian sisters.
Psalm 8--Lots of songs have been written using words from this psalm. Verse 1 is my favorite, "O LORD, our Lord, how majestics is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens." I most identify with verse 4, "What is man that you are mindful of him?"
Psalm 19--This psalm echoes the ideas from Psalm 8. "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." (v. 1) I love how David personifies the heavens and skies by saying "they pour forth speech." Did you notice in verses 3 & 4 that the skies speak to people in every language in every part of the earth? Fabulous! Psalm 19:14 should be our daily prayer, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
Psalm 23--Do you have this psalm memorized? If not, start hiding it in your heart today. This is the most well-known psalm, and it brings true comfort to many people. Commit it to memory and then ask God to allow you to speak it to someone who needs to know His peace. My favorite is verse 2, "He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters."
Psalm 51--This has long been one of my favorite psalms. When I was in high school, our youth group performed a musical, and the narrator read this psalm in his deep, booming voice. Reading it takes me back. This psalm was written by David as a plea for forgiveness after he had committed adultery and murder. I am so thankful that God is able to forgive all even when we feel unforgiveable.
The verse that speaks the most to me is verse 12, "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me." I like the fact that David does not ask for restoration solely for himself. Verse 13 goes on to say, "Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you." David asked God to restore him so that he in turn could encourage others to reconcile themselves to God. I believe God answers unselfish prayers such as this. May we all get to the mature point in our lives where we can ask God to act on our behalf so that we can bless others.
Psalm 100--Verse 5, "For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." I so want the generations that follow me to know the faithfulness of my LORD!!!
Psalm 103--This psalm is packed with good stuff! I hope some of you will comment on the numerous ways God has shown you his compassion. Verse 17 stands out to me, especially in relation to my favorite verse from Psalm 100. "But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children." I am so tremendously thankful for the Christian heritage passed down to me from my parents and grandparents. I want to continue that tradition and instill a love for Jesus in my own children. I realize that too often I am either too busy or too lazy to speak about God's love to my children. God forgive me! I also assume that my children know how to study their Bibles. I was reminded this morning that if I am not training my children in regular Bible study, then no one else will train them for me.
Psalm 139--Again, a psalm loaded with God's goodness. We cannot get away from God's love. He is everywhere we go if we will only recognize him wooing us into his arms. He knows us better than anyone else does, and yet he longs to be with us. "Search me, O God, and know myheart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (v. 23-24).
Friday, August 15, 2008
1 Chronicles 28 & 29
Sorry I took a couple of days off. My computer didn't get packed, but I am temporarily homeless, which is a bit stressful as you might imagine. They packed up our house on Wednesday, and we drove to my parents' house on Thursday. We will be here until Sunday after church. Then we will drive to our new house. Our moving van won't be there until next Thursday, however. Go ahead and say it . . . "Waaahh!" I'm a big baby, I know.
The chapters we are reviewing today, I believe, show us David's finest hour. He is passing the baton to his son after a successful reign as king of Israel. He is understandably proud of his ability to make provision for the building of the temple, and David's own generosity inspires his people to give abundantly as well.
1 Chronicles 28:4-5 and 1 Chronicles 29:14-17 demonstrate David's amazement that God would choose him. "Who am I, and who are my people . . .?" At first when I read the listing of all that David donated to the temple, I wondered if he was bragging and saying, "Look at what I did!" But he acknowledges that everything he gave came directly from God. I definitely want that to be my life philosophy. Absolutely nothing I have is a result of my own efforts. Everything in my life came from God's hand, and all of it belongs to Him.
Why do I hold so tightly to it then? As I watched all my worldly possessions being loaded onto a semi, it was overwhelming. Do I really need all that stuff? And I thought I had already cleaned out a boat load of junk too. I am so totally spoiled. Am I honoring God? Sometimes I don't know, especially when I spend too much time trying to maintain material wealth. Would I have responded as the leaders did in 1 Chronicles 28:6? Would I have given willingly? Would I have been included in verse 8? Would I have given all my precious stones to the treasury of the LORD's temple?
Verse 19 of Chapter 28 is very reassuring to me. God is so a detail man! I love it! I think it is terrific that God shared all those details with David. During our drive this week, I heard Psalm 25:14 quoted as the verse of the day, "The LORD confides in those who fear Him; He makes His covenant known to them." I just looked it up in the Message version on www.biblegateway.com "God-friendship is for God-worshipers; they are the ones He confides in." Isn't that awesome? I'm hiding that Word in my heart!
Don't skip over David's prayer in Chapter 29. It is so totally fabulous!
Did you cry at the death of David? I believe his family and friends did, and Psalm 116:15 tells us that the death of the LORD's saints is precious in His sight.
1 Chronicles 29:29 lists David's mentors: Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. They were the prophets who served during his reign. They were his spiritual advisors. Will you tell me who has been a spiritual mentor for you? I could list several, but the ones who stand out the most are Loretta Arthaud (my mom), Brother Billy Rammage (my pastor when I was young), and Nick Howard (my BSU director from college). These people helped disciple me, and like David did for Solomon, they helped me to be strong and courageous. They reminded me not to be afraid or discouraged, and they helped me to believe that God would not fail me or forsake me until my work for Him on earth is done.
We will read some of David's psalms before we delve into the reign of Solomon. See you soon!
The chapters we are reviewing today, I believe, show us David's finest hour. He is passing the baton to his son after a successful reign as king of Israel. He is understandably proud of his ability to make provision for the building of the temple, and David's own generosity inspires his people to give abundantly as well.
1 Chronicles 28:4-5 and 1 Chronicles 29:14-17 demonstrate David's amazement that God would choose him. "Who am I, and who are my people . . .?" At first when I read the listing of all that David donated to the temple, I wondered if he was bragging and saying, "Look at what I did!" But he acknowledges that everything he gave came directly from God. I definitely want that to be my life philosophy. Absolutely nothing I have is a result of my own efforts. Everything in my life came from God's hand, and all of it belongs to Him.
Why do I hold so tightly to it then? As I watched all my worldly possessions being loaded onto a semi, it was overwhelming. Do I really need all that stuff? And I thought I had already cleaned out a boat load of junk too. I am so totally spoiled. Am I honoring God? Sometimes I don't know, especially when I spend too much time trying to maintain material wealth. Would I have responded as the leaders did in 1 Chronicles 28:6? Would I have given willingly? Would I have been included in verse 8? Would I have given all my precious stones to the treasury of the LORD's temple?
Verse 19 of Chapter 28 is very reassuring to me. God is so a detail man! I love it! I think it is terrific that God shared all those details with David. During our drive this week, I heard Psalm 25:14 quoted as the verse of the day, "The LORD confides in those who fear Him; He makes His covenant known to them." I just looked it up in the Message version on www.biblegateway.com "God-friendship is for God-worshipers; they are the ones He confides in." Isn't that awesome? I'm hiding that Word in my heart!
Don't skip over David's prayer in Chapter 29. It is so totally fabulous!
Did you cry at the death of David? I believe his family and friends did, and Psalm 116:15 tells us that the death of the LORD's saints is precious in His sight.
1 Chronicles 29:29 lists David's mentors: Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. They were the prophets who served during his reign. They were his spiritual advisors. Will you tell me who has been a spiritual mentor for you? I could list several, but the ones who stand out the most are Loretta Arthaud (my mom), Brother Billy Rammage (my pastor when I was young), and Nick Howard (my BSU director from college). These people helped disciple me, and like David did for Solomon, they helped me to be strong and courageous. They reminded me not to be afraid or discouraged, and they helped me to believe that God would not fail me or forsake me until my work for Him on earth is done.
We will read some of David's psalms before we delve into the reign of Solomon. See you soon!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
1 Chronicles 21-22
The Bible calls David "a man after God's own heart." (Acts 13:22) So, how did he screw up so many times? I think his life proves that no one except Christ was capable of living a sinless life. It also proves that the only perfect King is Christ Jesus. David really was a successful ruler who conquered surrounding nations and established a kingdom for Israel. Yet, the things we remember him most for are his weaknesses. Unfortunately, this is true of most leaders. While they may have accomplished much, they typically exit their roles on a down note. It should certainly keep us humble!
The following is a quote from Matthew Henry's commentary found at http://biblecommenter.com/1_chronicles/21-1.htm. "Now, when Satan meant to do Israel a mischief, what course did he take? He did not move God against them to destroy them (as Job, ch 2:3), but he provoked David, the best friend they had, to number them, and so to offend God, and set him against them. Note, 1. The devil does us more mischief by tempting us to sin against our God than he does by accusing us before our God. He destroys none but by their own hands, 2. The greatest spite he can do to the church of God is to tempt the rulers of the church to pride; for none can conceive the fatal consequences of that sin in all, especially in church-rulers."
So, after David's sin of pride in numbering the people, they suffer a plague and 70000 people died. To stop the angel of terror, David purchased a threshing floor where he could offer sacrifices. When the man tried to give the property to David, he replied, “No, but I will surely buy it for the full price; for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, or offer a burnt offering which costs me nothing.” (1 Chronicles 21:24) What have I sacrificed for God lately?
1 Chronicles 22 describes how David orchestrated the details so that his dream of building a temple for God would be accomplished by his son Solomon. Quite often God gives us a vision of what He wants to accomplish, but it is our duty to pass the vision on to the generation that follows us. When we take on a ministry, we should always be mentoring someone else to take on the task when we can no longer carry it out. If we are the only ones with the vision, then it will die with us. If we successfully pass the vision on to someone else, it will live on when we are gone. What legacy am I leaving for those who follow me?
Did you notice in verses 9 & 18 that Solomon's kingdom is described as one of peace and rest? Remember that Solomon means peace. I think that's cool.
I really wanted to blog 1 Chronicles 28-29 today, but the moving company is coming to pack boxes in a couple of hours; so I guess I better get ready. Pray for me, and I will pray for you today, okay!! If my computer doesn't get packed, I'll see you tomorrow!
The following is a quote from Matthew Henry's commentary found at http://biblecommenter.com/1_chronicles/21-1.htm. "Now, when Satan meant to do Israel a mischief, what course did he take? He did not move God against them to destroy them (as Job, ch 2:3), but he provoked David, the best friend they had, to number them, and so to offend God, and set him against them. Note, 1. The devil does us more mischief by tempting us to sin against our God than he does by accusing us before our God. He destroys none but by their own hands, 2. The greatest spite he can do to the church of God is to tempt the rulers of the church to pride; for none can conceive the fatal consequences of that sin in all, especially in church-rulers."
So, after David's sin of pride in numbering the people, they suffer a plague and 70000 people died. To stop the angel of terror, David purchased a threshing floor where he could offer sacrifices. When the man tried to give the property to David, he replied, “No, but I will surely buy it for the full price; for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, or offer a burnt offering which costs me nothing.” (1 Chronicles 21:24) What have I sacrificed for God lately?
1 Chronicles 22 describes how David orchestrated the details so that his dream of building a temple for God would be accomplished by his son Solomon. Quite often God gives us a vision of what He wants to accomplish, but it is our duty to pass the vision on to the generation that follows us. When we take on a ministry, we should always be mentoring someone else to take on the task when we can no longer carry it out. If we are the only ones with the vision, then it will die with us. If we successfully pass the vision on to someone else, it will live on when we are gone. What legacy am I leaving for those who follow me?
Did you notice in verses 9 & 18 that Solomon's kingdom is described as one of peace and rest? Remember that Solomon means peace. I think that's cool.
I really wanted to blog 1 Chronicles 28-29 today, but the moving company is coming to pack boxes in a couple of hours; so I guess I better get ready. Pray for me, and I will pray for you today, okay!! If my computer doesn't get packed, I'll see you tomorrow!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
2 Samuel 13, 15, 18
David's naughty, naughty children! King David definitely needed to read a copy of Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend. His children manipulated him like crazy! I just want to scream at him, "Are you out of your mind? What were you thinkin'?"
Amnon fell in love with Tamar, who was his brother Absalom's sister. Doesn't that make Tamar Amnon's sister too? This is another example of why multiple wives was a bad deal. Amnon's "cousin friend" Jonadab didn't help matters either. Lord, please surround my children with godly friends who will offer them godly advice! I just can't believe King David fell for the stupid scheme. Poor, naive Tamar. She was just obeying her father. Amnon's rejection of Tamar after the incest is very typical of perpetrators. I just cried for Tamar, who lived as a desolate woman after she was violated.
2 Samuel 13:21 makes me sick. David was furious? And then what? Nothing! He did absolutely nothing about his son's crime. Aaaahhhhhhhhhh! This drove Tamar's brother Absalom to plot Amnon's murder. Two years later he succeeds. Again, David is manipulated by his children. Good grief! 2 Samuel 13:32-33 shows Jonadab meddling again. He knew all along that Absalom was planning to kill Amnon. I thought he was Amnon's friend! Can anyone say, "Soap opera?" Verses 37-39 leave me dumbfounded. David didn't deal with Absalom's crime either. His passive fathering is just horrifying to me. Parents, step up and be the parent. Comfort your children when they need it, but never be afraid to discipline them when they need it. Aaahhh!
2 Samuel 15 proves that Absalom lost complete respect for his father. I have to wonder how drastically different things would have been if David had handled Tamar's victimization wisely. But since David avoided confrontation when his children were young adults, he had to face their opposition later in life. 2 Samuel 15:6 tells us Absalom, "stole the hearts of the men of Israel." He was very shrewd! It almost makes me admire him for being a man with a plan. David falls for the plan once again (surprise, surprise) when Absalom asks his permission to worship at Hebron. Remember Hebron is where David was first proclaimed as king. Absalom was no dummy.
David fled Jerusalem in fear of his own son. Verse 16 of 2 Samuel 15 should cause you to reflect back on the judgments Nathan pronounced against David in Chapter 12. Absalom will publicly defile David's concubines at the end of 2 Samuel 16.
Did you notice that David kept telling people to go back to Jerusalem? I'm not sure I get that. I would want as many people on my side as possible. Do you have any thoughts about this? I'm not sure I understand what David was thinking. I do think it's funny that he prayed in 2 Samuel 15:31 that God would ruin Absalom's counselors. Then he sends Hushai to make sure Absalom's plan will be thwarted. 2 Samuel 17 gives those details.
2 Samuel 18 leaves me shaking my head again. David was totally confused. Did he want Absalom alive or dead? What if Joab had not killed Absalom? Then what? As a parent, I understand that David had to mourn the loss of his son, but Joab wisely tells him to snap out of it in 2 Samuel 19:1-8.
Ick! These were not fun chapters. I think today's reading will spur me on to be a better parent and to pray daily for my children. How about you?
Amnon fell in love with Tamar, who was his brother Absalom's sister. Doesn't that make Tamar Amnon's sister too? This is another example of why multiple wives was a bad deal. Amnon's "cousin friend" Jonadab didn't help matters either. Lord, please surround my children with godly friends who will offer them godly advice! I just can't believe King David fell for the stupid scheme. Poor, naive Tamar. She was just obeying her father. Amnon's rejection of Tamar after the incest is very typical of perpetrators. I just cried for Tamar, who lived as a desolate woman after she was violated.
2 Samuel 13:21 makes me sick. David was furious? And then what? Nothing! He did absolutely nothing about his son's crime. Aaaahhhhhhhhhh! This drove Tamar's brother Absalom to plot Amnon's murder. Two years later he succeeds. Again, David is manipulated by his children. Good grief! 2 Samuel 13:32-33 shows Jonadab meddling again. He knew all along that Absalom was planning to kill Amnon. I thought he was Amnon's friend! Can anyone say, "Soap opera?" Verses 37-39 leave me dumbfounded. David didn't deal with Absalom's crime either. His passive fathering is just horrifying to me. Parents, step up and be the parent. Comfort your children when they need it, but never be afraid to discipline them when they need it. Aaahhh!
2 Samuel 15 proves that Absalom lost complete respect for his father. I have to wonder how drastically different things would have been if David had handled Tamar's victimization wisely. But since David avoided confrontation when his children were young adults, he had to face their opposition later in life. 2 Samuel 15:6 tells us Absalom, "stole the hearts of the men of Israel." He was very shrewd! It almost makes me admire him for being a man with a plan. David falls for the plan once again (surprise, surprise) when Absalom asks his permission to worship at Hebron. Remember Hebron is where David was first proclaimed as king. Absalom was no dummy.
David fled Jerusalem in fear of his own son. Verse 16 of 2 Samuel 15 should cause you to reflect back on the judgments Nathan pronounced against David in Chapter 12. Absalom will publicly defile David's concubines at the end of 2 Samuel 16.
Did you notice that David kept telling people to go back to Jerusalem? I'm not sure I get that. I would want as many people on my side as possible. Do you have any thoughts about this? I'm not sure I understand what David was thinking. I do think it's funny that he prayed in 2 Samuel 15:31 that God would ruin Absalom's counselors. Then he sends Hushai to make sure Absalom's plan will be thwarted. 2 Samuel 17 gives those details.
2 Samuel 18 leaves me shaking my head again. David was totally confused. Did he want Absalom alive or dead? What if Joab had not killed Absalom? Then what? As a parent, I understand that David had to mourn the loss of his son, but Joab wisely tells him to snap out of it in 2 Samuel 19:1-8.
Ick! These were not fun chapters. I think today's reading will spur me on to be a better parent and to pray daily for my children. How about you?
Thursday, August 7, 2008
2 Samuel 11-12
King David is almost as well-known for his adulterous affair with Bathsheba as he is for his successes as King of Israel. The sin he committed in secret brings David public disgrace.
2 Samuel 11:1 tells me that David had become complacent. He must have believed he deserved some time off since he had been working so hard at conquering the surrounding nations. This verse tells us it was time for David to go back to work, but he chose to send Joab to take his place instead.
Verses 2-5 just blow me away. Why did David fall to the temptation? Why didn't he heed the warning signals? One of my grade school teachers had a saying, "A chicken may land on your head, but you don't have to let it roost." David's sin is no different from my sin, however. I am just as guilty at times of disregarding the people in my life who try to speak up against what I am choosing to do, and I just keep trudging along into the muck and mire. LORD, help me be sensitive today to your Holy Spirit. Help me to find the way of escape You provide whenever I am tempted. (1 Corintians 10:13)
David is such a manipulator. I mentioned a few days ago that I am reading Cloud & Townsend's book "Boundaries." David was not respectful of anyone's boundaries in this situation. I am very impressed with Uriah's integrity! What man wouldn't take the opportunity to go home to his gorgeous wife, especially since the king had given him permission? But Uriah said, "As surely as you live, I will not do such a thing!"
I was so disappointed that Joab became David's co-conspirator. Then the messenger gets in on the deal. And you know the messenger told other messengers who told other messengers. Word definitely got around.
Verse 27 in the NIV says that what David did "displeased" the LORD. Understatement? Other versions say that God was angry and that what David did was evil in the sight of Jehovah. I don't think "displeased" is a strong enough word for David's sin. "Displeased" is not a strong enough word for my sin.
In 2 Samuel 12 the prophet Nathan confronts the king. He uses a great word picture to get David's attention. I think the reason David "burned with anger" was because he subconsciously saw himself in the man Nathan described. The things that anger us about other people are usually the things we hate about ourselves. Verse 7, "Then Nathan said to David, 'You are the man!'"
Verses 8 & 9 must have ripped David's heart out. God gave David everything, and He would have given him even more if he needed it. Why did he despise God's gifts by taking what wasn't his?
Nathan pronounces several punishments for David
2 Samuel 11:1 tells me that David had become complacent. He must have believed he deserved some time off since he had been working so hard at conquering the surrounding nations. This verse tells us it was time for David to go back to work, but he chose to send Joab to take his place instead.
Verses 2-5 just blow me away. Why did David fall to the temptation? Why didn't he heed the warning signals? One of my grade school teachers had a saying, "A chicken may land on your head, but you don't have to let it roost." David's sin is no different from my sin, however. I am just as guilty at times of disregarding the people in my life who try to speak up against what I am choosing to do, and I just keep trudging along into the muck and mire. LORD, help me be sensitive today to your Holy Spirit. Help me to find the way of escape You provide whenever I am tempted. (1 Corintians 10:13)
David is such a manipulator. I mentioned a few days ago that I am reading Cloud & Townsend's book "Boundaries." David was not respectful of anyone's boundaries in this situation. I am very impressed with Uriah's integrity! What man wouldn't take the opportunity to go home to his gorgeous wife, especially since the king had given him permission? But Uriah said, "As surely as you live, I will not do such a thing!"
I was so disappointed that Joab became David's co-conspirator. Then the messenger gets in on the deal. And you know the messenger told other messengers who told other messengers. Word definitely got around.
Verse 27 in the NIV says that what David did "displeased" the LORD. Understatement? Other versions say that God was angry and that what David did was evil in the sight of Jehovah. I don't think "displeased" is a strong enough word for David's sin. "Displeased" is not a strong enough word for my sin.
In 2 Samuel 12 the prophet Nathan confronts the king. He uses a great word picture to get David's attention. I think the reason David "burned with anger" was because he subconsciously saw himself in the man Nathan described. The things that anger us about other people are usually the things we hate about ourselves. Verse 7, "Then Nathan said to David, 'You are the man!'"
Verses 8 & 9 must have ripped David's heart out. God gave David everything, and He would have given him even more if he needed it. Why did he despise God's gifts by taking what wasn't his?
Nathan pronounces several punishments for David
- The sword would never depart from his house
- David's wives would be violated in broad daylight (by his own son Absalom!)
- David's sin would become public knowledge
- His new son would die
God forgave David's sin, but David still suffered all the consequences. Forgiveness does not remove heartache and devastation from our poor choices. You may ask why God forgave David at all. In 2 Samuel 12:13, David confesses his sin by simply saying, "I have sinned against the LORD." It's that simple. God does not want our long, drawn-out explanations of why we sinned. He just wants us to agree with Him that we did in fact sin against Him. If you want to read David's complete confession, where he begs God for mercy, read Psalm 51. It has always been one of my favorites.
David does not plead with God to remove any of the consequences except in the case of his son's life. 2 Samuel 12:22-23 paint a beautiful picture of David's complete faith in God. May our lives mirror such trust in our Savior.
Verse 24--I wish I understood the reason behind giving children two names in the Hebrew culture. Is it similar to the way we give our children a first name and a middle name? Solomon means peace or peaceful, and Jedidiah means loved by the LORD. Solomon was loved by God, and his would be a reign of peace for Israel. I don't find reference that Solomon is called Jedidiah anywhere else in Scripture.
After Solomon's birth, David returns to what he should have been doing in the first place, and God grants him victory.
Next we will read about David's heartache over his other children in 2 Samuel 13, 15, & 18. This is where we see the fulfillment of David's other punishments.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
2 Samuel 7, 1 Chronicles 17
Will you start your study this morning by declaring out loud the Word God gave to you from 1 Chronicles 16? Say it loud and proud, girls!
I had fun this morning comparing 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17. I rolled the pages back in my Bible and read the two chapters side-by-side. They are almost identical with very minor differences. If you are reading the Scripture on the computer, open two browser windows and read them side-by-side.
The first statement that leapt off the page at me was that the king was settled in his palace. I'm in the middle of packing my house for a move; so I look forward to that feeling of peace that comes from getting settled again. Then I enjoyed finding out that David has a new spiritual mentor in the prophet Nathan. I would have appreciated a little better introduction to Nathan though, wouldn't you? He just shows up, and we don't know anything else about him. David trusts him though, and we will find out that they have a strong enough relationship that David will listen to Nathan's rebuke. I want accountability friendships like that.
I also think it is fabulous that Nathan goes to the LORD in prayer concerning David's desire to build a temple for God. When people tell you what they think God is calling them to, do you earnestly pray for them? Nathan quickly told David to go ahead and do what he wanted, but after praying about it, God came back with a different response. Isn't it cool that David was willing to accept his friend's wise counsel? Scripture doesn't even record that David questioned Nathan's report. David just immediately began to praise the LORD!
I would think David was disappointed that he would not see his dream fulfilled, and we will see that at the end of his life, he goes to great lengths to make provision for Solomon to carry it out. But in this passage today, David is just tickled to death that God has a plan for his family's future. "Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?" "Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign LORD?"
I think the real key is David's motivation. He says, "Do as you promised, so that your name will be great forever. Then men will say, "The LORD Almighty is God over Israel!" Sure, David was excited that his family tree would be established forever, but his greatest desire was to glorify God! When I ask God to do a mighty work in my life, do I ask for my own benefit, or do I ask so that God's name will be great forever? I want people to look at my life and say, "The LORD Almighty is God over the Young family!" I don't want them saying how cool Dana is.
As I read the Word of the LORD that came to Nathan, the word "forever" kept jumping out at me. God said He would establish the throne of David and his offspring "forever" and that the people of Israel would not be oppressed anymore. This really bothered me because the Jews have been persecuted throughout their history. So, what did God mean by "forever?" I have a couple of thoughts, but I want to hear yours first. Will you post a comment or send me an email at tydyd_89@yahoo.com?
Have fun seeking the LORD today!!!!
I had fun this morning comparing 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17. I rolled the pages back in my Bible and read the two chapters side-by-side. They are almost identical with very minor differences. If you are reading the Scripture on the computer, open two browser windows and read them side-by-side.
The first statement that leapt off the page at me was that the king was settled in his palace. I'm in the middle of packing my house for a move; so I look forward to that feeling of peace that comes from getting settled again. Then I enjoyed finding out that David has a new spiritual mentor in the prophet Nathan. I would have appreciated a little better introduction to Nathan though, wouldn't you? He just shows up, and we don't know anything else about him. David trusts him though, and we will find out that they have a strong enough relationship that David will listen to Nathan's rebuke. I want accountability friendships like that.
I also think it is fabulous that Nathan goes to the LORD in prayer concerning David's desire to build a temple for God. When people tell you what they think God is calling them to, do you earnestly pray for them? Nathan quickly told David to go ahead and do what he wanted, but after praying about it, God came back with a different response. Isn't it cool that David was willing to accept his friend's wise counsel? Scripture doesn't even record that David questioned Nathan's report. David just immediately began to praise the LORD!
I would think David was disappointed that he would not see his dream fulfilled, and we will see that at the end of his life, he goes to great lengths to make provision for Solomon to carry it out. But in this passage today, David is just tickled to death that God has a plan for his family's future. "Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?" "Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign LORD?"
I think the real key is David's motivation. He says, "Do as you promised, so that your name will be great forever. Then men will say, "The LORD Almighty is God over Israel!" Sure, David was excited that his family tree would be established forever, but his greatest desire was to glorify God! When I ask God to do a mighty work in my life, do I ask for my own benefit, or do I ask so that God's name will be great forever? I want people to look at my life and say, "The LORD Almighty is God over the Young family!" I don't want them saying how cool Dana is.
As I read the Word of the LORD that came to Nathan, the word "forever" kept jumping out at me. God said He would establish the throne of David and his offspring "forever" and that the people of Israel would not be oppressed anymore. This really bothered me because the Jews have been persecuted throughout their history. So, what did God mean by "forever?" I have a couple of thoughts, but I want to hear yours first. Will you post a comment or send me an email at tydyd_89@yahoo.com?
Have fun seeking the LORD today!!!!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
1 Chronicles 16
You all have been working so hard at studying God's Word, and I am so extremely proud of you. Thank you for spurring me on with your words of encouragement. Just like David, I think it would be appropriate to take a time out for a session of thanksgiving.
So, I am not going to blog about 1 Chronicles 16. What I want you to do is to get alone with God and to read David's prayer in this chapter out loud. Lift your voice and glorify God. And who cares what your children or the neighbors think about you. Let them think you are out of your mind talking to yourself. It's about half true anyway, right?
After you have read the chapter through once or even twice, choose your favorite Scripture from the passage. Write it on an index card and memorize it. Carry it with you this week as your Word from God. Let your blog sisters know which verse you chose so we can rejoice with you too.
My Word from this passage is 1 Chronicles 16:10 "Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice." I am writing it on a card even now, and I will put it in my pocket. When you see me this week, please ask to see my card, and ask me to say my verse to you, okay!
Love ya!
dana
So, I am not going to blog about 1 Chronicles 16. What I want you to do is to get alone with God and to read David's prayer in this chapter out loud. Lift your voice and glorify God. And who cares what your children or the neighbors think about you. Let them think you are out of your mind talking to yourself. It's about half true anyway, right?
After you have read the chapter through once or even twice, choose your favorite Scripture from the passage. Write it on an index card and memorize it. Carry it with you this week as your Word from God. Let your blog sisters know which verse you chose so we can rejoice with you too.
My Word from this passage is 1 Chronicles 16:10 "Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice." I am writing it on a card even now, and I will put it in my pocket. When you see me this week, please ask to see my card, and ask me to say my verse to you, okay!
Love ya!
dana
Saturday, August 2, 2008
2 Samuel 6 & 1 Chronicles 13 & 15:1-16:3
Some of you will look at all the chapters listed in today's post title and want to scream at me for covering too much. But let me explain. You see, the story of David moving the ark of the covenant in 2 Samuel 6 is repeated in greater detail in 1 Chronicles. The definition of chronicle according to thefreedictionary.com is "a detailed narrative record or report." So 1 & 2 Chronicles are repeats of the stories of the kings beginning with David in 2 Samuel and going all the way through 1 & 2 Kings. If you take a quick glance at the chronological reading plan we are following, you will see the Chronicles sprinkled throughout Days 13 through 29. I just want you to enjoy how the Bible is the best commentary on itself. I love how it is neatly packaged and tied with a bow for us to delight in.
So today we will discuss the story told in 2 Samuel 6, and then we will cover 2 Samuel 7 on another day. Are ya with me?
King David decided to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, where he was building his own palace. So, where had the ark been all these years? We read just a piece of the story in 1 Samuel 7 when the people of Kiriath Jearim (same city as Baalah of Judah in 2 Samuel 6) took the ark to Abinadab's house. The Philistines had stolen the ark in 1 Samuel 4 but returned it when God struck them with tumors because of it. Then the Israelites in Beth Shemesh were afraid of it and sent it to Kiriath Jearim (Baalah of Judah). Saul must not have wanted to mess with it either, because he left it there. King David wanted the worship of God to be central in his kingdom; so he went to the trouble to put the ark on a cart and attempt to transport it to the capital city.
The ark on a cart? Woops. God had instructed Moses to have the priests carry the ark with poles on their shoulders. So even though David and his men had the best intentions, God was not pleased with their actions. 2 Samuel 6:2 tells us that the LORD Almighty sits enthroned between the cherubim on the ark. The ark was God's throne here on earth. Uzzah reached out and touched the very place where God was enthroned, and he paid with his life for not respecting God's throne as sacred. We should praise God daily for not doing the same to us. How often do I disrespect God's presence with my words, thoughts, and actions?
David was right to be angry and afraid. It was also wise of him to put the ceremony on hold to do some research on the proper way to carry the throne of God. So in the three-month interim, the family of Obed-Edom enjoyed God's tremendous blessings. I wonder what that was like! Do you think the neighbors wanted to come by and have a look? What a conversation piece in your living room, huh! After Uzzah's death, I suppose the ark of the covenant would have been kept under lock and key, and no one would have wanted to go near it. I hope people came by to worship God though. At any rate, word got back to David that Obed-Edom was being blessed because of the ark (2 Samuel 6:12).
The second time, David consecrated the priests and offered sacrifices and did the whole thing up right. I am so thankful that 1 Chronicles 15 gives us all the yummy details about this celebration. Details are my love language, and my God is a detail Man!!! David even gave gifts of bread, dates, and raisins to the crowd. Cool! It reminds me of how excited I was as a little girl when Santa showed up at the end of the school Christmas play every year. He would pass out bags of oranges, apples, and candy to every child who wanted one. I thought I was so special. I hope David actually participated in handing out the gifts to all the children. What a special blessing to receive a gift from the king.
I mentioned in a previous post that David's wife Michal was jealous of his worship of God. 2 Samuel 6:20-23 is the best example of how to fight dirty in marriage. Michal slanders David's religious beliefs, and she is super jealous of her husband in the presence of his slave girls. Then David makes snide remarks about Michal's daddy and basically throws Michal's concerns back in her face, making her more jealous of the slave girls. Michal had no children, not because of being barren, in my opinion. I believe her husband refused intimacy with her from that day on.
I wish God had given us examples of perfect marriages in Scripture. Instead, He shows us families like David's. I think it is because there is no such thing as a perfect marriage, because marriage is a union of two imperfect people coming from two imperfect families with baggage of their own. Making marriage work is hard most of the time, but it is so worth the effort. If I could have sat down with Michal and David, I would have told them not to get married in the first place. They got married to spite Michal's father, and they did not worship the same God. Marriage is tough enough when you do worship together. Having opposite religious beliefs magnifies the issues. We have to be on the same page spiritually with our spouses. If you are not, then it is your job to pray for your husband. You are not his junior holy spirit. You have to trust God with his soul. Well, I could go on and on with my marriage advice, but I'm not sure you would want to listen. So, I'll close for now and look forward to hearing your comments.
So today we will discuss the story told in 2 Samuel 6, and then we will cover 2 Samuel 7 on another day. Are ya with me?
King David decided to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, where he was building his own palace. So, where had the ark been all these years? We read just a piece of the story in 1 Samuel 7 when the people of Kiriath Jearim (same city as Baalah of Judah in 2 Samuel 6) took the ark to Abinadab's house. The Philistines had stolen the ark in 1 Samuel 4 but returned it when God struck them with tumors because of it. Then the Israelites in Beth Shemesh were afraid of it and sent it to Kiriath Jearim (Baalah of Judah). Saul must not have wanted to mess with it either, because he left it there. King David wanted the worship of God to be central in his kingdom; so he went to the trouble to put the ark on a cart and attempt to transport it to the capital city.
The ark on a cart? Woops. God had instructed Moses to have the priests carry the ark with poles on their shoulders. So even though David and his men had the best intentions, God was not pleased with their actions. 2 Samuel 6:2 tells us that the LORD Almighty sits enthroned between the cherubim on the ark. The ark was God's throne here on earth. Uzzah reached out and touched the very place where God was enthroned, and he paid with his life for not respecting God's throne as sacred. We should praise God daily for not doing the same to us. How often do I disrespect God's presence with my words, thoughts, and actions?
David was right to be angry and afraid. It was also wise of him to put the ceremony on hold to do some research on the proper way to carry the throne of God. So in the three-month interim, the family of Obed-Edom enjoyed God's tremendous blessings. I wonder what that was like! Do you think the neighbors wanted to come by and have a look? What a conversation piece in your living room, huh! After Uzzah's death, I suppose the ark of the covenant would have been kept under lock and key, and no one would have wanted to go near it. I hope people came by to worship God though. At any rate, word got back to David that Obed-Edom was being blessed because of the ark (2 Samuel 6:12).
The second time, David consecrated the priests and offered sacrifices and did the whole thing up right. I am so thankful that 1 Chronicles 15 gives us all the yummy details about this celebration. Details are my love language, and my God is a detail Man!!! David even gave gifts of bread, dates, and raisins to the crowd. Cool! It reminds me of how excited I was as a little girl when Santa showed up at the end of the school Christmas play every year. He would pass out bags of oranges, apples, and candy to every child who wanted one. I thought I was so special. I hope David actually participated in handing out the gifts to all the children. What a special blessing to receive a gift from the king.
I mentioned in a previous post that David's wife Michal was jealous of his worship of God. 2 Samuel 6:20-23 is the best example of how to fight dirty in marriage. Michal slanders David's religious beliefs, and she is super jealous of her husband in the presence of his slave girls. Then David makes snide remarks about Michal's daddy and basically throws Michal's concerns back in her face, making her more jealous of the slave girls. Michal had no children, not because of being barren, in my opinion. I believe her husband refused intimacy with her from that day on.
I wish God had given us examples of perfect marriages in Scripture. Instead, He shows us families like David's. I think it is because there is no such thing as a perfect marriage, because marriage is a union of two imperfect people coming from two imperfect families with baggage of their own. Making marriage work is hard most of the time, but it is so worth the effort. If I could have sat down with Michal and David, I would have told them not to get married in the first place. They got married to spite Michal's father, and they did not worship the same God. Marriage is tough enough when you do worship together. Having opposite religious beliefs magnifies the issues. We have to be on the same page spiritually with our spouses. If you are not, then it is your job to pray for your husband. You are not his junior holy spirit. You have to trust God with his soul. Well, I could go on and on with my marriage advice, but I'm not sure you would want to listen. So, I'll close for now and look forward to hearing your comments.
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