April 30th -- Nehemiah 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah%205&version=NLT)
Nehemiah defends the oppressed
*Note, I'm not gonna' keep up the first person, because I find it bothersome to write in. I'll just summarize but not in first person, more as if I were a news reporter reporting his stories.
People begin to cry out in protest against their fellow Jews, explaining that they have big families and not enough food, or that they have mortgaged everything just to get any food at all. Some were even selling their children into slavery for money to live, because that was all they had left to offer for money. Nehemiah is outraged by this, and tells the nobles/officials what they are doing by charging interest on borrowed money. He calls a public meeting to deal with the issue. At the meeting Nehemiah says that even as they do all they can to redeem people who have been sold to foreigners, they are selling them right back into slavery, and asks how often, then, they must be redeemed, to which they have no answer. He told them what they did was not right, and that they must stop charging interest, and also help them restore what they lost as well as pay back the interest they received from them. They said they would do so, and the priests were brought to make them swear to it. Nehemiah said that God may take their property if they did not do as they had said, and they did do as promised. Nehemiah was governor for twelve years - the whole reign of Artaxerxes - and during all that time not him or his officials took from their official food allowance. The rulers before had taken advantage of the people, but Nehemiah feared God so he did not. He would not buy land and worked to rebuild the wall with his servants. He didn't ask for anything, though he gave much away to others. He wouldn't claim the governor's allowance because of the burden the people bore. He asked that he be remembered and blessed by God for what he did.
Nehemiah could have had all he wanted because he was in power, but he didn't take it. Why? He realized that "with great power comes great responsibility". Oh, no, sorry, wait, that was Peter Parker. Haha. No, but actually, Nehemiah picked up on that way sooner. He recognized that just because he had power didn't mean he had to use much less abuse it. The government/those in power before him? Well, they abused it to the max. Their people begged for mercy because they were barely surviving, but the ruling authority paid no heed. Nehemiah, on the other hand, wouldn't even take what was rightfully his because he knew if he did not, it could lighten the load for his people.
We are sometimes placed in positions of authority. Maybe we babysit, or we're in charge of a team at work, or we're the boss at work, or maybe we're just the leader of a group project at school. Any sort of authority counts. So how do we use it? Do we use it wisely, for the betterment of those we have authority over in that area, of do we abuse it and exploit it for our own purposes? That doesn't even necessarily taking things from those we're put in charge of, but it could be something so simple as giving one group member a bit of extra work just so you have a bit less to do because your show's on that night. We need to work to be like Nehemiah. It's easy - VERY easy - to abuse power. We see it happening all the time all over the world. So many problems could be solved if power/authority weren't abused. There are more ways that power is abused than just those that perhaps come to mind. Power is abused in the cases of rape. Power is abused in the cases of household abuse. Power is abused in the cases of child labour. Power is abused when groups are discriminated against in a club by a manager because they don't like their gender/culture/ethnicity/religion. Power is constantly being abused everywhere. So many people desire it, yet so many abuse it when they have it/get it. If we could all just be a little more like Nehemiah, and use it for others not our self, the world would be heading to be a better place.
That's all for tonight! God bless! Shalom!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
April 29th
April 29th -- Nehemiah 2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah%202&version=NLT)
Nehemiah goes to Jerusalem ; Nehemiah inspects Jerusalem's wall
*Again, we've skipped quite some time since yesterday's passage. Also, we're now reading from Nehemiah, which is written in first-person, so self-reflective words are in reference to Nehemiah.
In the twelth year of King Artaxerxes' reign I was serving him wine, but had never looked sad in his presence before so he asked me what was wrong. I was scared, but I answered saying "Long live the king" then explained that of course I was sad - my ancestors' city is in ruins. The king asked me how he could help. I said that he could send me with servants to help rebuild the city. After hearing how long I would be gone and when I would return, the king agreed. I also asked, then, for letters to governors so I would have safe passage, as well as a letter for Asaph, manager of the king's forest, so I could get lumber. The king granted me these because of God. Upon reaching governors, I gave them the letters. The king had also sent with me army officers and horsemen for protection. The Ammonite official, though, was displeased when he heard someone had come to help Israel's people.
I arrived in Jerusalem, and three days later I went out in the night with only a few others. I hadn't shared the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took only one donkey, which I rode. After dark, I went out to inspect the broken walls and gates. I went to the Fountain Gate and the King's Pool, but my donkey couldn't make it through the rubble, so I instead went up the Kidron valley and inspected the wall before returning. The city officials did not know about this. I hadn't spoken to anyone in administration, yet. Now, though, I approached them and explained that we were in danger as Jerusalem is in ruins, so we needed to rebuild the wall! I also told them about everything with the king and how gracious God had been towards me. They all then agreed that we should rebuild the wall, and began the good work. When the Ammonite officials heard our plans, though, they scoffed, asking if we were rebelling against the king. I told them that God would help us rebuild his city, because we are His servants, and they have no claim to Jerusalem.
When we are working for God, He shows us favor. He does not care what earthly obstacles may stand in the way, as He will move them out of the way if it is in His will. He called Nehemiah to rebuild Jerusalem. Nehemiah approached the king, risking death, and asked if he could do this. Not only did he ask permission, but also for letters and to be able to take lumber from his forest. He could have been killed on the spot, but he trusted God, because He knew God had put that on his heart. We need to be like that. We have to understand that yes, sometimes, we're reluctant to do what we know God wants us to, but when we do, He will be with us. He will move the obstacles - a king and lack of materials or way to visit, in Nehemiah's case - out of our way so we can proceed forward in His name for His good purpose and His glory. You may look at something and be disheartened, because you feel it's impossible, just like Nehemiah was disheartened over the city of his ancestors being in ruins, but like God moved those barriers for Nehemiah, He will for us too. Nothing is impossible for Him, so why would He let an obstacle we can't overcome on our own stand in the way of us bringing Him glory? He won't. Also, why would he assign us a task/job/calling if we can't accomplish it no matter what? He won't, because He has a plan for us, and it's one we need to do for Him, and that only we can do, so He wants to make sure we can. God never leaves us to overcome problems when the problems are only keeping us from bringing him glory. He will instead come alongside us and help us over, or simply remove that problem entirely. We are always in His favor and under His blessing when we are walking His path for His purpose. Never give up on that - have faith He is with you always.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Nehemiah goes to Jerusalem ; Nehemiah inspects Jerusalem's wall
*Again, we've skipped quite some time since yesterday's passage. Also, we're now reading from Nehemiah, which is written in first-person, so self-reflective words are in reference to Nehemiah.
In the twelth year of King Artaxerxes' reign I was serving him wine, but had never looked sad in his presence before so he asked me what was wrong. I was scared, but I answered saying "Long live the king" then explained that of course I was sad - my ancestors' city is in ruins. The king asked me how he could help. I said that he could send me with servants to help rebuild the city. After hearing how long I would be gone and when I would return, the king agreed. I also asked, then, for letters to governors so I would have safe passage, as well as a letter for Asaph, manager of the king's forest, so I could get lumber. The king granted me these because of God. Upon reaching governors, I gave them the letters. The king had also sent with me army officers and horsemen for protection. The Ammonite official, though, was displeased when he heard someone had come to help Israel's people.
I arrived in Jerusalem, and three days later I went out in the night with only a few others. I hadn't shared the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took only one donkey, which I rode. After dark, I went out to inspect the broken walls and gates. I went to the Fountain Gate and the King's Pool, but my donkey couldn't make it through the rubble, so I instead went up the Kidron valley and inspected the wall before returning. The city officials did not know about this. I hadn't spoken to anyone in administration, yet. Now, though, I approached them and explained that we were in danger as Jerusalem is in ruins, so we needed to rebuild the wall! I also told them about everything with the king and how gracious God had been towards me. They all then agreed that we should rebuild the wall, and began the good work. When the Ammonite officials heard our plans, though, they scoffed, asking if we were rebelling against the king. I told them that God would help us rebuild his city, because we are His servants, and they have no claim to Jerusalem.
When we are working for God, He shows us favor. He does not care what earthly obstacles may stand in the way, as He will move them out of the way if it is in His will. He called Nehemiah to rebuild Jerusalem. Nehemiah approached the king, risking death, and asked if he could do this. Not only did he ask permission, but also for letters and to be able to take lumber from his forest. He could have been killed on the spot, but he trusted God, because He knew God had put that on his heart. We need to be like that. We have to understand that yes, sometimes, we're reluctant to do what we know God wants us to, but when we do, He will be with us. He will move the obstacles - a king and lack of materials or way to visit, in Nehemiah's case - out of our way so we can proceed forward in His name for His good purpose and His glory. You may look at something and be disheartened, because you feel it's impossible, just like Nehemiah was disheartened over the city of his ancestors being in ruins, but like God moved those barriers for Nehemiah, He will for us too. Nothing is impossible for Him, so why would He let an obstacle we can't overcome on our own stand in the way of us bringing Him glory? He won't. Also, why would he assign us a task/job/calling if we can't accomplish it no matter what? He won't, because He has a plan for us, and it's one we need to do for Him, and that only we can do, so He wants to make sure we can. God never leaves us to overcome problems when the problems are only keeping us from bringing him glory. He will instead come alongside us and help us over, or simply remove that problem entirely. We are always in His favor and under His blessing when we are walking His path for His purpose. Never give up on that - have faith He is with you always.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Sunday, April 28, 2013
April 28th
April 28th -- Ezra 3:7-13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ezra%203:7-13&version=NLT)
The people begin to rebuild the temple
*Note, this is wayyyyy later than the last passage. A whole other exile has happened between then and now.
The people hire masons and carpenters and bought many cedar logs. They began constructing the temple in midspring during the second year after their return to Jerusalem from exile. The work force was made of everyone who had come back from exile. Any Levites there who were twenty or older were put in charge of overseeing rebuilding the Lord's Temple. When the foundations were completed for the temple, the priests put on their robes and took their special places and began playing their trumpets, while the Levites clashed their cymbals. This was all to praise God, and they sang "He is so good! / His faithful love for Israel endures forever!" All the people gave a shout to praise God because the foundation was laid for the Temple. The older people, however, wept when they saw the foundation. Everyone else was shouting, so the shouts and weeping mingled and could be heard far in the distance.
They rebuilt the temple. It was not as glorious as Solomon's before it was, (hence why the elders wept - they knew it would not be as beautiful as the one they had known before), but it was a Temple all the same and God saw their hearts for wanting to rebuild it. For some reason, this reminds me of the constant battle we face with sin. Every time we give in and sin, it's like our "temple" for God is knocked down. When we repent, then, we rebuild it. However, we recognize that that "temple" isn't as good as the one before it, because it's surrounded by rubble of the "temples" before that have fallen. God, though, looks at it and sees merely a "temple". He doesn't care if it has the same number of decorations, or if it's a bit dusty from the rubble around it. What He cares about is the fact that you bothered to rebuild that "temple". Like the Israelites, you didn't have it be knocked down and just go "Oh, well, too far gone to be helped. No point in trying." Like the Israelites, we need to pick ourselves up and fix it - or rebuild it if need be. Each time we sin, we take a "brick" off our "temple wall" and each time we truly repent, we put one back on. When we're living for God, those "bricks" just pile higher and make those "walls" taller. The taller the "walls" are, the harder it is to take a "brick" down. The longer you go without sinning, and the longer you resist temptation, the easier it is to do so. You stop taking so many "bricks" off, because you don't want to undo all you just did - instead you work on just piling them higher. So, even when your "temple" seems like it may not ever make it back to where it started, never give up - just keep trying. God knows your heart, and He will bless you when it is right with Him.
That's all! God bless! Shalom!
The people begin to rebuild the temple
*Note, this is wayyyyy later than the last passage. A whole other exile has happened between then and now.
The people hire masons and carpenters and bought many cedar logs. They began constructing the temple in midspring during the second year after their return to Jerusalem from exile. The work force was made of everyone who had come back from exile. Any Levites there who were twenty or older were put in charge of overseeing rebuilding the Lord's Temple. When the foundations were completed for the temple, the priests put on their robes and took their special places and began playing their trumpets, while the Levites clashed their cymbals. This was all to praise God, and they sang "He is so good! / His faithful love for Israel endures forever!" All the people gave a shout to praise God because the foundation was laid for the Temple. The older people, however, wept when they saw the foundation. Everyone else was shouting, so the shouts and weeping mingled and could be heard far in the distance.
They rebuilt the temple. It was not as glorious as Solomon's before it was, (hence why the elders wept - they knew it would not be as beautiful as the one they had known before), but it was a Temple all the same and God saw their hearts for wanting to rebuild it. For some reason, this reminds me of the constant battle we face with sin. Every time we give in and sin, it's like our "temple" for God is knocked down. When we repent, then, we rebuild it. However, we recognize that that "temple" isn't as good as the one before it, because it's surrounded by rubble of the "temples" before that have fallen. God, though, looks at it and sees merely a "temple". He doesn't care if it has the same number of decorations, or if it's a bit dusty from the rubble around it. What He cares about is the fact that you bothered to rebuild that "temple". Like the Israelites, you didn't have it be knocked down and just go "Oh, well, too far gone to be helped. No point in trying." Like the Israelites, we need to pick ourselves up and fix it - or rebuild it if need be. Each time we sin, we take a "brick" off our "temple wall" and each time we truly repent, we put one back on. When we're living for God, those "bricks" just pile higher and make those "walls" taller. The taller the "walls" are, the harder it is to take a "brick" down. The longer you go without sinning, and the longer you resist temptation, the easier it is to do so. You stop taking so many "bricks" off, because you don't want to undo all you just did - instead you work on just piling them higher. So, even when your "temple" seems like it may not ever make it back to where it started, never give up - just keep trying. God knows your heart, and He will bless you when it is right with Him.
That's all! God bless! Shalom!
Saturday, April 27, 2013
April 27th
April 27th -- 2 Kings 22:1-23:3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%2022:1-23:3&version=NLT)
Josiah rules in Judah ; Hilkiah discovers God's law ; Josiah's religious reforms
Josiah was eight when he became king, and he ruled for thirty one years in Jerusalem. He followed God and did what was pleasing to Him, following David's example (David was an ancestor). In his eighteenth year in power, he sent some men to the high priest of the Lord's temple and tell him to count the money that the gatekeepers collected from people at the temple. He said to then have that money entrusted to those in charge of the Temple's restoration, so that those restoring the temple can be paid with it. He says workers will need to be hired and supplies will need to be bought. He also says that the construction supervisors don't need to keep track of the money they get, because they're honest and trustworthy men.
Hilkiah, the high priest, then finds the Book of the Law in the Temple. He gave it to the court secretary, Shaphan, who read it and then gave it to the king. He tells the king that the officials have turned over the money as they were to, and also that Hilkiah gave him the scroll he brought and then reads it to the king. When the king hears what it says, he tears his clothes in despair. He tells a bunch of people (read the passage if you wish to know who) to go to the Temple and speak to God on behalf of him and all of Judah. He tells them to ask about the words in the scroll, explaining that God's anger is burning against them because their ancestors did not obey the words in the scroll - they haven't been doing all it says to do. The people he asked went to Huldah, the prophet, and spoke with her. She tells them that God has spoken, and they must tell the king that God has said that the city will face disaster and everything written in the scroll will happen because the people abandoned Him and worshipped pagan gods, so his anger burns against them. She then adds, though, they are to tell the king that God says that concerning what he has just heard, God knows that when he heard what was said against the city, he was sorry and humbled, tearing his clothes in despair and wept in repentance, so God has heard him and the disaster will not come until you have died and been buried in peace. The men take the message back to the king.
The king then summons the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. They go up to the temple with the priests and prophets and all the people, from least to greatest. The king then read them the entire Book of the Covenant. The king then takes his place of authority, beside the pillar, and renewed the covenant in the Lord's presence. He pledges to keep the Lord's commands, laws, and decrees with all his heart and soul. By doing that he confirmed everything in the covenant and the people also pledged themselves to the covenant.
This, I think, is yet another good example of how although God must act as judge, He is also merciful. He recognized how truly repentant Josiah was, and He rewarded him for that. However, it's also interesting that the punishment would have been due to sins of the generations before them. In the Bible, consequences of sins could affect generations to come. I think it may still work like that (I'm not sure, and there's a lot of debate on the matter... but I guess in this case better safe than sorry?). If it does, well, we need to watch our actions. Would you want your grandkids to suffer consequences for your mistakes? Doubt it.
Also, I just like that Josiah trusts the men with the money, no questions asked. I really honestly like that. The fact that there was so much trust back then is just beautiful. Our society has become so deceitful (among other things) and it's frustrating. I know I am someone who very openly trusts, and only don't when I am given reason not to. However, it seems most people don't trust anyone fully, much less most people at all. I mean, look at stores - we have alarms to catch people stealing, and the saddest part is, they're only there because it happens. Our society lacks the same level of trust... and I wish it did not.
Well, that will be all for this evening! God bless! Shalom!
Josiah rules in Judah ; Hilkiah discovers God's law ; Josiah's religious reforms
Josiah was eight when he became king, and he ruled for thirty one years in Jerusalem. He followed God and did what was pleasing to Him, following David's example (David was an ancestor). In his eighteenth year in power, he sent some men to the high priest of the Lord's temple and tell him to count the money that the gatekeepers collected from people at the temple. He said to then have that money entrusted to those in charge of the Temple's restoration, so that those restoring the temple can be paid with it. He says workers will need to be hired and supplies will need to be bought. He also says that the construction supervisors don't need to keep track of the money they get, because they're honest and trustworthy men.
Hilkiah, the high priest, then finds the Book of the Law in the Temple. He gave it to the court secretary, Shaphan, who read it and then gave it to the king. He tells the king that the officials have turned over the money as they were to, and also that Hilkiah gave him the scroll he brought and then reads it to the king. When the king hears what it says, he tears his clothes in despair. He tells a bunch of people (read the passage if you wish to know who) to go to the Temple and speak to God on behalf of him and all of Judah. He tells them to ask about the words in the scroll, explaining that God's anger is burning against them because their ancestors did not obey the words in the scroll - they haven't been doing all it says to do. The people he asked went to Huldah, the prophet, and spoke with her. She tells them that God has spoken, and they must tell the king that God has said that the city will face disaster and everything written in the scroll will happen because the people abandoned Him and worshipped pagan gods, so his anger burns against them. She then adds, though, they are to tell the king that God says that concerning what he has just heard, God knows that when he heard what was said against the city, he was sorry and humbled, tearing his clothes in despair and wept in repentance, so God has heard him and the disaster will not come until you have died and been buried in peace. The men take the message back to the king.
The king then summons the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. They go up to the temple with the priests and prophets and all the people, from least to greatest. The king then read them the entire Book of the Covenant. The king then takes his place of authority, beside the pillar, and renewed the covenant in the Lord's presence. He pledges to keep the Lord's commands, laws, and decrees with all his heart and soul. By doing that he confirmed everything in the covenant and the people also pledged themselves to the covenant.
This, I think, is yet another good example of how although God must act as judge, He is also merciful. He recognized how truly repentant Josiah was, and He rewarded him for that. However, it's also interesting that the punishment would have been due to sins of the generations before them. In the Bible, consequences of sins could affect generations to come. I think it may still work like that (I'm not sure, and there's a lot of debate on the matter... but I guess in this case better safe than sorry?). If it does, well, we need to watch our actions. Would you want your grandkids to suffer consequences for your mistakes? Doubt it.
Also, I just like that Josiah trusts the men with the money, no questions asked. I really honestly like that. The fact that there was so much trust back then is just beautiful. Our society has become so deceitful (among other things) and it's frustrating. I know I am someone who very openly trusts, and only don't when I am given reason not to. However, it seems most people don't trust anyone fully, much less most people at all. I mean, look at stores - we have alarms to catch people stealing, and the saddest part is, they're only there because it happens. Our society lacks the same level of trust... and I wish it did not.
Well, that will be all for this evening! God bless! Shalom!
Friday, April 26, 2013
April 26th
April 26th -- 2 Kings 11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%2011&version=NLT)
Queen Athaliah rules Judah ; Revolt against Athaliah ; The death of Athaliah ; Jehoiada's religious reforms
So Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother, learns of Ahaziah's death and begins to destroy the royal family. Ahaziah's sister, though, takes Ahaziah's baby son and hid him so he would not be murdered with the other children. She left him with his nurse and Joash, who remained hidden in the Temple of the Lord for six years, while Athaliah rules the land.
In Athaliah's seventh year of reigning, the priest Jehoiada summons the army (basically) to the Lord's Temple. He makes a pact with them and makes them swear an oath of loyalty, then shows them the king's son who had been hidden there while growing up. Jehoiada then gives them instructions. He says that from those who are working/on duty on the Sabbath, a third must guard the palace itself, another third have to guard the Sur Gate, and the final third have to stand guard behind the palace guard. The two groups off duty that day need to guard the king at the Lord's Temple, forming a bodyguard, keeping weapons on hand, and killing any who try and get through. Everything was done as Jehoiada had ordered. Jehoiada then brought out Joash, putting the crown on his head, giving him a copy of God's laws, and then anointing him and proclaiming him king. Everyone clapped and shouted.
When Athaliah hears all this noise, she hurries to the temple to see what the fuss is. When she arrives, she sees Joash, the new king, just crowned, standing in his place of authority. Commanders and trumpeters surrounded him and people rejoiced. When Athaliah sees this, she tears her robes and begins shouting about treason. Jehoiada orders anyone who tries to help her killed, but says she cannot be killed in the Temple, so she is escorted outside and then killed.
Jehoiada then makes a covenant between God and the king and the people, that they would be the Lord's people. He also makes a covenant between the king and people. All the people go to Baal's temple and tear it down, smashing the altars and idols, and even killing the priest, Mattan, in front of the altars. Jehoiada goes and stations guards at the Temple of the Lord. Everyone then escorts the king, Joash, to the palace, where he takes his seat on the royal throne. People rejoiced because Athalia was dead and Joash, though only seven, was king.
This story rather made me think of Solomon. Nobody died in Solomon's case or anything, but like Solomon, Joash was VERY young when put on the throne. I mean, a seven-year-old ruling the kingdom? That's a grade 1 or 2 kid ruling a land..... and people thought Mia Thermopolis was too young! (Princess Diaries reference for anyone who didn't get that...) But anyways, back on track - Joash is just another young person God was using for His glory. I ran chapel in my high school today, and my friend and I were talking about sharing your faith with younger children. So many people tend to just think that it's not important, and that they'll figure it out when they grow up. What would have happened, may I ask, if that had been the case with Joash, or Solomon? When they took over the country, they would suddenly have all they needed - why rely on God, then? There's the danger that this could have been the case.... if they had not grown up learning about God. However, they grew up learning about God, so they already knew of him, which allowed their faith to grow even while in power, instead of being stopped by false ideas that they did not need him anymore, for example. So never discredit the value of younger children knowing God. God uses ALL who are willing, children included, to work for His glory - not just the adults or the elderly. We need to train up young children in faith. It's even commanded in the Bible. In Deuteronomy 6, for example, verse 6 and a bit of 7 it says "6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children." We need to be bringing people up to know God, and teaching the young about Him - it's important.
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
Queen Athaliah rules Judah ; Revolt against Athaliah ; The death of Athaliah ; Jehoiada's religious reforms
So Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother, learns of Ahaziah's death and begins to destroy the royal family. Ahaziah's sister, though, takes Ahaziah's baby son and hid him so he would not be murdered with the other children. She left him with his nurse and Joash, who remained hidden in the Temple of the Lord for six years, while Athaliah rules the land.
In Athaliah's seventh year of reigning, the priest Jehoiada summons the army (basically) to the Lord's Temple. He makes a pact with them and makes them swear an oath of loyalty, then shows them the king's son who had been hidden there while growing up. Jehoiada then gives them instructions. He says that from those who are working/on duty on the Sabbath, a third must guard the palace itself, another third have to guard the Sur Gate, and the final third have to stand guard behind the palace guard. The two groups off duty that day need to guard the king at the Lord's Temple, forming a bodyguard, keeping weapons on hand, and killing any who try and get through. Everything was done as Jehoiada had ordered. Jehoiada then brought out Joash, putting the crown on his head, giving him a copy of God's laws, and then anointing him and proclaiming him king. Everyone clapped and shouted.
When Athaliah hears all this noise, she hurries to the temple to see what the fuss is. When she arrives, she sees Joash, the new king, just crowned, standing in his place of authority. Commanders and trumpeters surrounded him and people rejoiced. When Athaliah sees this, she tears her robes and begins shouting about treason. Jehoiada orders anyone who tries to help her killed, but says she cannot be killed in the Temple, so she is escorted outside and then killed.
Jehoiada then makes a covenant between God and the king and the people, that they would be the Lord's people. He also makes a covenant between the king and people. All the people go to Baal's temple and tear it down, smashing the altars and idols, and even killing the priest, Mattan, in front of the altars. Jehoiada goes and stations guards at the Temple of the Lord. Everyone then escorts the king, Joash, to the palace, where he takes his seat on the royal throne. People rejoiced because Athalia was dead and Joash, though only seven, was king.
This story rather made me think of Solomon. Nobody died in Solomon's case or anything, but like Solomon, Joash was VERY young when put on the throne. I mean, a seven-year-old ruling the kingdom? That's a grade 1 or 2 kid ruling a land..... and people thought Mia Thermopolis was too young! (Princess Diaries reference for anyone who didn't get that...) But anyways, back on track - Joash is just another young person God was using for His glory. I ran chapel in my high school today, and my friend and I were talking about sharing your faith with younger children. So many people tend to just think that it's not important, and that they'll figure it out when they grow up. What would have happened, may I ask, if that had been the case with Joash, or Solomon? When they took over the country, they would suddenly have all they needed - why rely on God, then? There's the danger that this could have been the case.... if they had not grown up learning about God. However, they grew up learning about God, so they already knew of him, which allowed their faith to grow even while in power, instead of being stopped by false ideas that they did not need him anymore, for example. So never discredit the value of younger children knowing God. God uses ALL who are willing, children included, to work for His glory - not just the adults or the elderly. We need to train up young children in faith. It's even commanded in the Bible. In Deuteronomy 6, for example, verse 6 and a bit of 7 it says "6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children." We need to be bringing people up to know God, and teaching the young about Him - it's important.
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
Thursday, April 25, 2013
April 25th
April 25th -- 2 Kings 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%205&version=NLT)
The healing of Naaman ; The greed of Gehazi
Aram's king greatly admired Namaan, the commander of his army, as through him God had given Aram great victories, but Namaan suffered from leprosy. Raiders from Aram invaded Israel, and one of the women taken captive was given to Namaan's wife as a maid, and this girl mentions a prophet in Samaria who would heal Namaan. Namaan tells the king what he heard, and the King tells him to go, saying he will give him a letter of introduction to bring. When Israel's king reads the letter he tears his clothes, thinking that Aram's king must just be picking a fight as he cannot heal any man of leprosy. Elisha, though, hears about this and sends a message to the king saying to send Namaan to him and he will learn there is a real prophet in Israel. Namaan goes to Elisha's and waits at the door, but Elisha sends a messenger saying that Namaan is to go and wash in the Jordan River seven times and then his skin will be restored/he will be healed. Namaan got mad, though, thinking he would have a hand waved over his as Elisha called on the Lord and then he would be healed. He reasons the water in the rivers are all the same so why should he not wash in those rivers. He gets mad and leaves. His officers, though, finally convince him to do as he had been told, and he was, indeed, healed. They then all return to Elisha, telling him they know no there is no other God except God. Namaan offers a gift, and Elisha, even when it is insisted he take it, refuses to. Namaan then asks that he may load two mules with earth from there and bring it back with him. He says he will not offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other God ever again. He also asks the he be pardoned for bowing, too, when the king leans on him for support to bow to worship the god Rimmon. Elisha tells him to go in peace and he does so.
Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, though, thinks that Elisha should not have turned down the gifts, so he goes after Namaan. Gehazi lies upon finding Namaan, saying Elisha told him to ask for 75 pounds of silver and 2 sets of clothing to be given to two prophets from Ephraim who just arrived. Namaan insists he take twice that much silver. When Gehazi gets back, he takes the gifts from the men sent to bring them, and hides it all in the house. Elisha returns and asks where he's been and Gehazi lies, saying nowhere. Elijah then explains that he was there in spirit when it all happened. Elisha says that because of what he has done, he and his descendants will suffer from leprosy forever. When Gehazi leaves the room, his skin is already as white as snow.
Like Gehazi, we sometimes deliberately sin and then we try and hide it, or cover it up so it looks like we didn't do anything. Gehazi took gifts from Namaan when he should not have, and he hid them when he got back, hoping Elisha would not find out. However, Elisha had been there in spirit, so he knew all of it, including that Gehazi had lied to him. This just caused a bad end for Gehazi. Sometimes, though, we're a lot like him. We sin deliberately, justifying to our self it's okay, or just because we want to do it, and then we try and hide it/cover the evidence we did it. We may not have an Elijah who's there in spirit, but we have God who's with us always in spirit. We may be able to hide our sins from earthly eyes by, say, deleting our internet history, or making sure that the TV goes off before our parents see what we were watching, or simply making sure that the movie we know we shouldn't watch but did goes back where it came from so it looks like it never left - maybe wipe off the fingerprints to be safe. See? We somehow think, sometimes, that it's all okay so long as we hide it. NOT TRUE. For one, that doesn't make that sin go away - it makes it instead easier to keep sinning in secret. For another point, God sees it all. We can NEVER hide ANYTHING from Him. Also, like Elisha punished Gehazi, God will punish us for our sins. BUT, we should repent and own up to them instead of trying to hide them. God is also merciful, and if you go to Him with a truly repent-filled heart, He will likely just forget it happened and move on - no punishment and no questions asked. So don't be like Gehazi and try and hide your sins when you give in to temptations - own up to them and ask for that forgiveness.
That will be all for this fine evening/night! God bless! Shalom!
The healing of Naaman ; The greed of Gehazi
Aram's king greatly admired Namaan, the commander of his army, as through him God had given Aram great victories, but Namaan suffered from leprosy. Raiders from Aram invaded Israel, and one of the women taken captive was given to Namaan's wife as a maid, and this girl mentions a prophet in Samaria who would heal Namaan. Namaan tells the king what he heard, and the King tells him to go, saying he will give him a letter of introduction to bring. When Israel's king reads the letter he tears his clothes, thinking that Aram's king must just be picking a fight as he cannot heal any man of leprosy. Elisha, though, hears about this and sends a message to the king saying to send Namaan to him and he will learn there is a real prophet in Israel. Namaan goes to Elisha's and waits at the door, but Elisha sends a messenger saying that Namaan is to go and wash in the Jordan River seven times and then his skin will be restored/he will be healed. Namaan got mad, though, thinking he would have a hand waved over his as Elisha called on the Lord and then he would be healed. He reasons the water in the rivers are all the same so why should he not wash in those rivers. He gets mad and leaves. His officers, though, finally convince him to do as he had been told, and he was, indeed, healed. They then all return to Elisha, telling him they know no there is no other God except God. Namaan offers a gift, and Elisha, even when it is insisted he take it, refuses to. Namaan then asks that he may load two mules with earth from there and bring it back with him. He says he will not offer burnt offerings or sacrifices to any other God ever again. He also asks the he be pardoned for bowing, too, when the king leans on him for support to bow to worship the god Rimmon. Elisha tells him to go in peace and he does so.
Gehazi, the servant of Elisha, though, thinks that Elisha should not have turned down the gifts, so he goes after Namaan. Gehazi lies upon finding Namaan, saying Elisha told him to ask for 75 pounds of silver and 2 sets of clothing to be given to two prophets from Ephraim who just arrived. Namaan insists he take twice that much silver. When Gehazi gets back, he takes the gifts from the men sent to bring them, and hides it all in the house. Elisha returns and asks where he's been and Gehazi lies, saying nowhere. Elijah then explains that he was there in spirit when it all happened. Elisha says that because of what he has done, he and his descendants will suffer from leprosy forever. When Gehazi leaves the room, his skin is already as white as snow.
Like Gehazi, we sometimes deliberately sin and then we try and hide it, or cover it up so it looks like we didn't do anything. Gehazi took gifts from Namaan when he should not have, and he hid them when he got back, hoping Elisha would not find out. However, Elisha had been there in spirit, so he knew all of it, including that Gehazi had lied to him. This just caused a bad end for Gehazi. Sometimes, though, we're a lot like him. We sin deliberately, justifying to our self it's okay, or just because we want to do it, and then we try and hide it/cover the evidence we did it. We may not have an Elijah who's there in spirit, but we have God who's with us always in spirit. We may be able to hide our sins from earthly eyes by, say, deleting our internet history, or making sure that the TV goes off before our parents see what we were watching, or simply making sure that the movie we know we shouldn't watch but did goes back where it came from so it looks like it never left - maybe wipe off the fingerprints to be safe. See? We somehow think, sometimes, that it's all okay so long as we hide it. NOT TRUE. For one, that doesn't make that sin go away - it makes it instead easier to keep sinning in secret. For another point, God sees it all. We can NEVER hide ANYTHING from Him. Also, like Elisha punished Gehazi, God will punish us for our sins. BUT, we should repent and own up to them instead of trying to hide them. God is also merciful, and if you go to Him with a truly repent-filled heart, He will likely just forget it happened and move on - no punishment and no questions asked. So don't be like Gehazi and try and hide your sins when you give in to temptations - own up to them and ask for that forgiveness.
That will be all for this fine evening/night! God bless! Shalom!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
April 24th
April 24th -- 2 Kings 2:13-25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%202:13-25&version=NLT)
Elijah take into heaven (end of this section) ; Elisha's first miracles
(I accidentally included verse 13 in yesterday's so let's just pretend I didn't...)
So Elisha, after Elijah is taken up into heaven, picks up Elijah's cloak, which had been left there, and returns to the Jordan River. He strikes the water with it, crying out "Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" and the water parts, allowing him to pass through on dry land. When the prophets who had been there saw this, they said Elijah's spirit rests now on Elisha. They go over to him and bow, saying that if he but said the word, they'd send fifty of their best men to look for Elijah. Elisha tries to say no, but the men become persistent, and Elisha finally says yes. The men search for three days and find nothing. Elijah, still at Jericho when they returned, asked if he had not told them not to go.
One day, a town leader went to visit Elisha, telling him that their was a problem because the surroundings are pleasant, but the water was bad and the land was unproductive. Elisha tells them to bring him a new bowl with salt in it, and when they bring it, he goes to the spring that supplies the town and threw the salt into it. He said "This is what the Lord says: I have purified this water. It will no longer cause death or infertility." The water remained pure after that, as Elisha said. Elisha then leaves Jericho for Bethel. As he does this, a group of boys from the town mock him, shouting "Go away, baldy!" Elisha turns, looks at them, and curses them in the name of the Lord. Two bears then came from the woods and mauled 42 of them. Elisha than goes from there to Mount Carmel, finally later returning to Samaria.
I think what jumps out to me in this is the fact that Elisha's just getting started in being a missionary for God, but God's already working miracles through him. God doesn't set a timeline on us. He doesn't say "Oh, looks like it's been _ years since they've been converted to Christianity - guess I can start stepping up their place in My ministry a bit!" Instead, He looks at our hearts and says "They have a willing heart. They have only believed for a week, but I can use them just how they are, because they really want to be used to bring people to Me." So never think you haven't been saved long enough to make any difference. Your length of time as a believer has no effect on how well you can be used for God. God doesn't wait to begin His work in us when we ask Him in. He's like a house renovator, but different in a way. When you get your house renovated, you normally have many meeting with the renovator and look over pictures done by computer of what each room will look like when it's done. You know exactly what you're getting into before you sign up, and the renovator runs everything by you before doing it. God's like the renovator who can see that you want your house changed, so He comes along and gives a brief description of how nice it will look when it's done. If you agree, He goes in and just starts working right away. He doesn't show you plans, or loads of computer-done pictures of finished products, nor does He consult you with every minute detail - He just does His work, and without hesitation. God knows exactly how He can best use us. Why would He wait to do that? When we truly want to be used for His kingdom, He won't wait. The question is not "When can I be used to glorify God", but rather " Am I willing to do what it may take to be used to glorify God?"
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
Elijah take into heaven (end of this section) ; Elisha's first miracles
(I accidentally included verse 13 in yesterday's so let's just pretend I didn't...)
So Elisha, after Elijah is taken up into heaven, picks up Elijah's cloak, which had been left there, and returns to the Jordan River. He strikes the water with it, crying out "Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" and the water parts, allowing him to pass through on dry land. When the prophets who had been there saw this, they said Elijah's spirit rests now on Elisha. They go over to him and bow, saying that if he but said the word, they'd send fifty of their best men to look for Elijah. Elisha tries to say no, but the men become persistent, and Elisha finally says yes. The men search for three days and find nothing. Elijah, still at Jericho when they returned, asked if he had not told them not to go.
One day, a town leader went to visit Elisha, telling him that their was a problem because the surroundings are pleasant, but the water was bad and the land was unproductive. Elisha tells them to bring him a new bowl with salt in it, and when they bring it, he goes to the spring that supplies the town and threw the salt into it. He said "This is what the Lord says: I have purified this water. It will no longer cause death or infertility." The water remained pure after that, as Elisha said. Elisha then leaves Jericho for Bethel. As he does this, a group of boys from the town mock him, shouting "Go away, baldy!" Elisha turns, looks at them, and curses them in the name of the Lord. Two bears then came from the woods and mauled 42 of them. Elisha than goes from there to Mount Carmel, finally later returning to Samaria.
I think what jumps out to me in this is the fact that Elisha's just getting started in being a missionary for God, but God's already working miracles through him. God doesn't set a timeline on us. He doesn't say "Oh, looks like it's been _ years since they've been converted to Christianity - guess I can start stepping up their place in My ministry a bit!" Instead, He looks at our hearts and says "They have a willing heart. They have only believed for a week, but I can use them just how they are, because they really want to be used to bring people to Me." So never think you haven't been saved long enough to make any difference. Your length of time as a believer has no effect on how well you can be used for God. God doesn't wait to begin His work in us when we ask Him in. He's like a house renovator, but different in a way. When you get your house renovated, you normally have many meeting with the renovator and look over pictures done by computer of what each room will look like when it's done. You know exactly what you're getting into before you sign up, and the renovator runs everything by you before doing it. God's like the renovator who can see that you want your house changed, so He comes along and gives a brief description of how nice it will look when it's done. If you agree, He goes in and just starts working right away. He doesn't show you plans, or loads of computer-done pictures of finished products, nor does He consult you with every minute detail - He just does His work, and without hesitation. God knows exactly how He can best use us. Why would He wait to do that? When we truly want to be used for His kingdom, He won't wait. The question is not "When can I be used to glorify God", but rather " Am I willing to do what it may take to be used to glorify God?"
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
April 23rd
April 23rd -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Kings%202:1-12&version=NLT)
Elijah taken into Heaven
So the Lord is about to take Elijah up into heaven in a whirlwind, while Elijah and Elisha are travelling from Gilgal. Elijah tells Elisha to stay, saying God has told him to go to Bethel. Elisha, though, says he will not leave Elijah. As they arrive, a group of prophets approaches Elisha and asks him if he knew God was going to take Elijah today. Elisha says he does know, but does not want to talk about it. Elijah then tells Elisha to stay, again, saying he is now to go to Jericho. Elisha again insists he will not leave his side. The same process happens with the prophets. Yet again this whole thing repeats, but this time Elijah has been called to the Jordan River. This time, though, fifty men and the prophets watch Elijah and Elisha stop at the river, and Elijah folds his clock and hits the water and it parts, letting them cross over on dry land. Upon reaching the other side, Elijah asks Elisha what he can do for him before he is taken. Elisha asks for double his spirit, and that he may be Elijah's successor. Elijah says that will be difficult, but if he sees him when he is taken, he will get it, though if he does not see him, he will not. So they are walking together when a chariot of fire appears, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried into heaven by a whirlwind. When Elisha sees this he cries out to God that he sees them, and then as they disappear he tears his clothes in distress. Elisha picks up Elijah's cloak, which had been dropped, and went back to the Jordan River.
Can you imagine just walking with your friend one day, and having that happen all-of-a-sudden? Just strolling along, talking about what you both did last weekend, and suddenly realizing they're not listening, they're gone, and there's a flaming chariot pulled by flaming horses just riding away... Of course you'd mourn the loss of your friend, even if, like, Elisha, you had known it was coming. However, it would also be an incredible faith boost. I mean, things like that are undeniably clear signs of our God's existence, as well as His power. Elisha asked for, before Elijah left, "a double share" of his spirit, and that he may become Elijah's successor. Elijah said this would happen if Elisha saw Elijah as he was taken away. Elisha did. Now, we know from the end of 1 Kings that God had already told Elijah that Elisha was to take over as prophet of Israel, which is why Elijah had anointed him and was training him. So what about the double share of spirit? Well, try starting a career with that. That's just an undeniably clear sign. If that wouldn't give you a "double share" of spirit, I really don't know what would. Now, we don't exactly see flaming chariots every day (or I don't, at least, and if you all do I need to know where so I can get some photos - haha ) so how do we build faith like that? LOOK AROUND YOU. Look at the beauty and complexity of what God has made for you. How a flower grows may not be as big and flashy as a flaming chariot, but it's pretty impressive. There are different tissues each with a different purpose that know when to grow and stop growing, as well as the fact that monocots and dicots (angiosperm types) know to grow their different ways from each other, but all the same within their grouping. (Pardon me if I made any mistakes on those biological terms...) We have a God who's looking out for the photosynthesis in every last flower or blade of grass. I think that's a bigger miracle than a flaming chariot. So let the little things grow your faith - they won't be a one-time-and-gone event, either, so you can always look at them as a reminder.
That's all for tonight, folks! God bless! Shalom!
Elijah taken into Heaven
So the Lord is about to take Elijah up into heaven in a whirlwind, while Elijah and Elisha are travelling from Gilgal. Elijah tells Elisha to stay, saying God has told him to go to Bethel. Elisha, though, says he will not leave Elijah. As they arrive, a group of prophets approaches Elisha and asks him if he knew God was going to take Elijah today. Elisha says he does know, but does not want to talk about it. Elijah then tells Elisha to stay, again, saying he is now to go to Jericho. Elisha again insists he will not leave his side. The same process happens with the prophets. Yet again this whole thing repeats, but this time Elijah has been called to the Jordan River. This time, though, fifty men and the prophets watch Elijah and Elisha stop at the river, and Elijah folds his clock and hits the water and it parts, letting them cross over on dry land. Upon reaching the other side, Elijah asks Elisha what he can do for him before he is taken. Elisha asks for double his spirit, and that he may be Elijah's successor. Elijah says that will be difficult, but if he sees him when he is taken, he will get it, though if he does not see him, he will not. So they are walking together when a chariot of fire appears, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried into heaven by a whirlwind. When Elisha sees this he cries out to God that he sees them, and then as they disappear he tears his clothes in distress. Elisha picks up Elijah's cloak, which had been dropped, and went back to the Jordan River.
Can you imagine just walking with your friend one day, and having that happen all-of-a-sudden? Just strolling along, talking about what you both did last weekend, and suddenly realizing they're not listening, they're gone, and there's a flaming chariot pulled by flaming horses just riding away... Of course you'd mourn the loss of your friend, even if, like, Elisha, you had known it was coming. However, it would also be an incredible faith boost. I mean, things like that are undeniably clear signs of our God's existence, as well as His power. Elisha asked for, before Elijah left, "a double share" of his spirit, and that he may become Elijah's successor. Elijah said this would happen if Elisha saw Elijah as he was taken away. Elisha did. Now, we know from the end of 1 Kings that God had already told Elijah that Elisha was to take over as prophet of Israel, which is why Elijah had anointed him and was training him. So what about the double share of spirit? Well, try starting a career with that. That's just an undeniably clear sign. If that wouldn't give you a "double share" of spirit, I really don't know what would. Now, we don't exactly see flaming chariots every day (or I don't, at least, and if you all do I need to know where so I can get some photos - haha ) so how do we build faith like that? LOOK AROUND YOU. Look at the beauty and complexity of what God has made for you. How a flower grows may not be as big and flashy as a flaming chariot, but it's pretty impressive. There are different tissues each with a different purpose that know when to grow and stop growing, as well as the fact that monocots and dicots (angiosperm types) know to grow their different ways from each other, but all the same within their grouping. (Pardon me if I made any mistakes on those biological terms...) We have a God who's looking out for the photosynthesis in every last flower or blade of grass. I think that's a bigger miracle than a flaming chariot. So let the little things grow your faith - they won't be a one-time-and-gone event, either, so you can always look at them as a reminder.
That's all for tonight, folks! God bless! Shalom!
Monday, April 22, 2013
April 22nd
April 22nd -- 1 Kings 22:29-40 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2022:29-40&version=NLT)
The death of Ahab
So Ahab, king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, led their armies against Ramoth-gilead. Ahab told Jehoshaphat that he was going to disguise himself so he wouldn't be recognized, but Jehoshaphat should wear his royal robes. As this goes on, the King of Aram (whom the kings of Israel and Judah were fighting at Ramoth-gilead) told his men only to go after the king of Israel and not bother with anyone else. The men of course go after Jehoshaphat, who is wearing king's robes, but when Jehoshaphat cries out, they realize it is not Ahab, and stop their chase of him. However, one soldier does shoot randomly into Israel's soldiers and pierced the king's armor in one of the joints. The king called to be taken away and he was. He spent in his chariot watching the battle, but when evening came he died. When the Israelite troops saw this, they ran for their lives. So the king died and his body was taken to Samaria. It was buried there and the dogs licked his blood, as had been promised by God. All that Ahab did was recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. So Ahab dies and his son, Ahaziah, becomes the next king.
Ahab tried to disguise himself. He thought he would be safe that way. He was wrong. Sometimes we try and disguise ourselves. We hide who we are to try and protect our self from those we know who want to hurt us. Sometimes, we know someone's mad at us, and they know how to hurt us easily. So, we "disguise" our self and become an angry, harsh person, lashing out at them first to protect our self. Sometimes we "disguise" our self by hiding our problems, or what may be wrong. We think if people know what's going on, they'll use it against us - we think that confiding makes us weak, so instead of confiding we hide our emotions and bottle up how we feel. Sometimes, we act a certain way to fit in. This is just like Ahab trying to fit in with the normal soldiers. We want to blend in, because we feel like out standing out makes us a target, and oftentimes it does indeed do just that. But what has God called us for? Are we not called to be the light and salt of the world? Does light not stand out in darkness, and does salt not stand out to preserve among rotting meat? We are called to stand out, not conform, or "fit in". We are in the world, but not of it. God has created everyone one of us uniquely, and given us a unique purpose. We are the only one who can fulfill that purpose He has tasked us with. I can promise you, though, that you're not going to do that by "fitting in".
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
The death of Ahab
So Ahab, king of Israel, and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, led their armies against Ramoth-gilead. Ahab told Jehoshaphat that he was going to disguise himself so he wouldn't be recognized, but Jehoshaphat should wear his royal robes. As this goes on, the King of Aram (whom the kings of Israel and Judah were fighting at Ramoth-gilead) told his men only to go after the king of Israel and not bother with anyone else. The men of course go after Jehoshaphat, who is wearing king's robes, but when Jehoshaphat cries out, they realize it is not Ahab, and stop their chase of him. However, one soldier does shoot randomly into Israel's soldiers and pierced the king's armor in one of the joints. The king called to be taken away and he was. He spent in his chariot watching the battle, but when evening came he died. When the Israelite troops saw this, they ran for their lives. So the king died and his body was taken to Samaria. It was buried there and the dogs licked his blood, as had been promised by God. All that Ahab did was recorded in The Book of the History of the Kings of Israel. So Ahab dies and his son, Ahaziah, becomes the next king.
Ahab tried to disguise himself. He thought he would be safe that way. He was wrong. Sometimes we try and disguise ourselves. We hide who we are to try and protect our self from those we know who want to hurt us. Sometimes, we know someone's mad at us, and they know how to hurt us easily. So, we "disguise" our self and become an angry, harsh person, lashing out at them first to protect our self. Sometimes we "disguise" our self by hiding our problems, or what may be wrong. We think if people know what's going on, they'll use it against us - we think that confiding makes us weak, so instead of confiding we hide our emotions and bottle up how we feel. Sometimes, we act a certain way to fit in. This is just like Ahab trying to fit in with the normal soldiers. We want to blend in, because we feel like out standing out makes us a target, and oftentimes it does indeed do just that. But what has God called us for? Are we not called to be the light and salt of the world? Does light not stand out in darkness, and does salt not stand out to preserve among rotting meat? We are called to stand out, not conform, or "fit in". We are in the world, but not of it. God has created everyone one of us uniquely, and given us a unique purpose. We are the only one who can fulfill that purpose He has tasked us with. I can promise you, though, that you're not going to do that by "fitting in".
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
April 21st
April 21st -- 1 Kings 21 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2021&version=NLT)
Naboth's vineyard
So there is a man from Jezreel named Naboth who owns a vineyard. Ahab tries to buy it from him one day, but Naboth will not give up his inheritance to the king. The king went home angry - he was so angry he would not eat and merely went to bed. Jezebel, his wife, asks what happened. Upon hearing what's wrong she tells him to get up and eat, promising she will get him the vineyard. So his wife writes and sends a letter with his forged signature and his seal, telling the leaders of Naboth's village to call the village for prayer, giving Naboth a seat of honor, but beside him have two scoundrels who will accuse him of cursing God, then he will be taken out and stoned. So the elders do this, then tell Jezebel it has been done. Jezebel tells Ahab, who goes to claim the vineyard immediately. However, God sends Elijah there to meet him, and tell him God has said that because he has robbed Naboth, after killing him, dogs will lick his blood from the same place they licked Naboth's. God also says that disaster will come upon and consume Ahab and every one of his male descendants shall be destroyed. God also says dogs will eat Jezebel's body at the city wall. He says those in Ahab's family who die in the city will be eaten by dogs and those who die outside will be eaten by vultures. When Ahab hears this, though, he tears his clothes, dresses in burlap, fasts, and mourns. Another message then came from God to Elijah. God said that because Ahab had humbled himself as he did, God would not bring about those disasters in his lifetime - it will instead happen to his sons and destroy his dynasty.
God says he will bring about these horrible things for what Ahab has done. Ahab, however, humbles himself before God upon hearing this. What happens then? God has mercy on Ahab, saying that the disaster will come about after his life instead of during it. God values justice, but he values mercy over justice. Yes, He knows justice has to be served, for He loves justice, but He also loves mercy. He knows our hearts and minds. When we truly repent, He knows that. He is glad for that and will be merciful. We should still have that healthy fear towards Him, for His love of justice, yet we may also be at peace for His love of mercy.
Sorry that's not much, but it's really all I've got for tonight.
God bless!
Shalom!
Naboth's vineyard
So there is a man from Jezreel named Naboth who owns a vineyard. Ahab tries to buy it from him one day, but Naboth will not give up his inheritance to the king. The king went home angry - he was so angry he would not eat and merely went to bed. Jezebel, his wife, asks what happened. Upon hearing what's wrong she tells him to get up and eat, promising she will get him the vineyard. So his wife writes and sends a letter with his forged signature and his seal, telling the leaders of Naboth's village to call the village for prayer, giving Naboth a seat of honor, but beside him have two scoundrels who will accuse him of cursing God, then he will be taken out and stoned. So the elders do this, then tell Jezebel it has been done. Jezebel tells Ahab, who goes to claim the vineyard immediately. However, God sends Elijah there to meet him, and tell him God has said that because he has robbed Naboth, after killing him, dogs will lick his blood from the same place they licked Naboth's. God also says that disaster will come upon and consume Ahab and every one of his male descendants shall be destroyed. God also says dogs will eat Jezebel's body at the city wall. He says those in Ahab's family who die in the city will be eaten by dogs and those who die outside will be eaten by vultures. When Ahab hears this, though, he tears his clothes, dresses in burlap, fasts, and mourns. Another message then came from God to Elijah. God said that because Ahab had humbled himself as he did, God would not bring about those disasters in his lifetime - it will instead happen to his sons and destroy his dynasty.
God says he will bring about these horrible things for what Ahab has done. Ahab, however, humbles himself before God upon hearing this. What happens then? God has mercy on Ahab, saying that the disaster will come about after his life instead of during it. God values justice, but he values mercy over justice. Yes, He knows justice has to be served, for He loves justice, but He also loves mercy. He knows our hearts and minds. When we truly repent, He knows that. He is glad for that and will be merciful. We should still have that healthy fear towards Him, for His love of justice, yet we may also be at peace for His love of mercy.
Sorry that's not much, but it's really all I've got for tonight.
God bless!
Shalom!
Saturday, April 20, 2013
April 20th
April 20th -- 1 Kings 19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2019&version=NLT)
Elijah flees to Sinai ; The Lord speaks to Elijah ; The call of Elisha
So upon getting home, Ahab of course tells his wife, Jezebel, who worships Baal, everything. She vows to kill Elijah before another day goes by, sending him a message to tell him this. So Elijah flees. He goes to Beersheba, leaving his servant there and carrying on on his own, resting at one point beneath a broom tree. He prays that God will take his life, saying he's had enough, and then falls asleep. As he sleeps, and angel touches him and tells him to get up and eat, and when he got up he found water and bread beside his head, so he ate and drank and goes to go back to sleep, but the angel tells him to eat more so he can handle the journey. He did so, and from that food he gained the strength to travel 40 days and nights to Mount Sinai, finding a cave there to sleep in.
God speaks to him, asking him what he's doing there. Elijah explains that even though he has always served God, the Israelites have turned to idols over God, killing all the prophets and he's the only one left so they're after him. God tells him to go and stand on the mountain. There is a huge windstorm, that tears rocks loose, but God is not in the storm. There was then an earthquake, but God was not in the earthquake. There is then a fire, but God is not in the fire. After that there is the sound of a gentle whispering. When Elijah hears it, he goes and stands at the entrance to the cave. A voice asks him what he is doing here. He answers it the same way. God then tells him to go back the way he came and go to Damascus, where he is to anoint Hazel to be king of Aram. He is also to anoint Jehu to be king of Israel and anoint Elisha to replace him as God's prophet. God says that those who escape Hazel will be killed by Jehu, and if they escape him too then they will be killed by Elisha. He says that He will, though, preserve 7,000 people who never worshipped Baal even once.
So Elijah goes and he finds Elisha plowing a field. Elijah goes over, puts his cloak over Elisha's shoulders, then walks away. Elisha leaves his oxen and runs to Elijah, asking if he may go and say goodbye to his mother and father before leaving with him. Elijah tells him he may go back, but to think about what Elijah has done to him. So Elisha goes back to his oxen and kills them, using the plow's wood to cook their meat, which he fed to the people of the town. He then went with Elijah as his assistant.
In the last passage I talked about, we saw how incredibly powerful God is. He does impossible things, because nothing is impossible for Him. So why not a big show and grand entrance? Why not be in the windstorm, or the earthquake, or the fire? Why be a whisper that's hard to hear? For exactly that reason. A windstorm, earthquake, or fire, or one of those invisible booming voices from Heaven as shown in movies would catch our attention easily, but a whisper is hard to hear. Why does God want to be hard to hear sometimes? If you want to know what someone's saying, you listen. God wants to make sure we're really listening when He talks to us. So you're probably thinking "Wait, He WANTS to help us, so why does He want to make himself hard to hear, then?" Well, because He wants to help us. Let me just explain this. If you asked God a question in prayer, and a big booming voice bellowed your answer from the sky, would you listen? Yes. You'd maybe throw out a quick "Hey, thanks for the answer!", but then you'd be back to whatever you were doing before, and you'd just go off happily with your answer. But then, does He become your God or your genie? He becomes your "genie". You ask the question, they give the answer, but He wouldn't have a 3-questiom limit. What I mean to say is, this would not draw you near to Him. When he is a whisper, not more than a quiet, gentle voice, then you have to listen to hear. In order to listen, you must first draw near. I mean, if you want to hear someone who's whispering, you don't stand a few feet away and try and listen - you go and put your ear to their mouth. Just like this with God, we need to draw near to really hear Him and listen hard to hear those gentle, quiet whispers. So, how does that help? Well, it brings you closer to God. Why that's helpful/beneficial should be clear enough on it's own...
So, keep listening for that quiet voice - it takes a lot to hear, and I sometimes struggle with it (okay, well, maybe often), but keep listening. Matthew 7:7 - "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." God will answer you. Have faith and take heart in that.
That's all for today. God bless! Shalom!
Also, for anyone who has any prayer requests or anything they may need, I can be contacted at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/ask if you don't have a blogger account and therefore can't contact me on here. I'll most likely answer within 12 hours of your sending it. My answer will be posted to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com
Elijah flees to Sinai ; The Lord speaks to Elijah ; The call of Elisha
So upon getting home, Ahab of course tells his wife, Jezebel, who worships Baal, everything. She vows to kill Elijah before another day goes by, sending him a message to tell him this. So Elijah flees. He goes to Beersheba, leaving his servant there and carrying on on his own, resting at one point beneath a broom tree. He prays that God will take his life, saying he's had enough, and then falls asleep. As he sleeps, and angel touches him and tells him to get up and eat, and when he got up he found water and bread beside his head, so he ate and drank and goes to go back to sleep, but the angel tells him to eat more so he can handle the journey. He did so, and from that food he gained the strength to travel 40 days and nights to Mount Sinai, finding a cave there to sleep in.
God speaks to him, asking him what he's doing there. Elijah explains that even though he has always served God, the Israelites have turned to idols over God, killing all the prophets and he's the only one left so they're after him. God tells him to go and stand on the mountain. There is a huge windstorm, that tears rocks loose, but God is not in the storm. There was then an earthquake, but God was not in the earthquake. There is then a fire, but God is not in the fire. After that there is the sound of a gentle whispering. When Elijah hears it, he goes and stands at the entrance to the cave. A voice asks him what he is doing here. He answers it the same way. God then tells him to go back the way he came and go to Damascus, where he is to anoint Hazel to be king of Aram. He is also to anoint Jehu to be king of Israel and anoint Elisha to replace him as God's prophet. God says that those who escape Hazel will be killed by Jehu, and if they escape him too then they will be killed by Elisha. He says that He will, though, preserve 7,000 people who never worshipped Baal even once.
So Elijah goes and he finds Elisha plowing a field. Elijah goes over, puts his cloak over Elisha's shoulders, then walks away. Elisha leaves his oxen and runs to Elijah, asking if he may go and say goodbye to his mother and father before leaving with him. Elijah tells him he may go back, but to think about what Elijah has done to him. So Elisha goes back to his oxen and kills them, using the plow's wood to cook their meat, which he fed to the people of the town. He then went with Elijah as his assistant.
In the last passage I talked about, we saw how incredibly powerful God is. He does impossible things, because nothing is impossible for Him. So why not a big show and grand entrance? Why not be in the windstorm, or the earthquake, or the fire? Why be a whisper that's hard to hear? For exactly that reason. A windstorm, earthquake, or fire, or one of those invisible booming voices from Heaven as shown in movies would catch our attention easily, but a whisper is hard to hear. Why does God want to be hard to hear sometimes? If you want to know what someone's saying, you listen. God wants to make sure we're really listening when He talks to us. So you're probably thinking "Wait, He WANTS to help us, so why does He want to make himself hard to hear, then?" Well, because He wants to help us. Let me just explain this. If you asked God a question in prayer, and a big booming voice bellowed your answer from the sky, would you listen? Yes. You'd maybe throw out a quick "Hey, thanks for the answer!", but then you'd be back to whatever you were doing before, and you'd just go off happily with your answer. But then, does He become your God or your genie? He becomes your "genie". You ask the question, they give the answer, but He wouldn't have a 3-questiom limit. What I mean to say is, this would not draw you near to Him. When he is a whisper, not more than a quiet, gentle voice, then you have to listen to hear. In order to listen, you must first draw near. I mean, if you want to hear someone who's whispering, you don't stand a few feet away and try and listen - you go and put your ear to their mouth. Just like this with God, we need to draw near to really hear Him and listen hard to hear those gentle, quiet whispers. So, how does that help? Well, it brings you closer to God. Why that's helpful/beneficial should be clear enough on it's own...
So, keep listening for that quiet voice - it takes a lot to hear, and I sometimes struggle with it (okay, well, maybe often), but keep listening. Matthew 7:7 - "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." God will answer you. Have faith and take heart in that.
That's all for today. God bless! Shalom!
Also, for anyone who has any prayer requests or anything they may need, I can be contacted at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/ask if you don't have a blogger account and therefore can't contact me on here. I'll most likely answer within 12 hours of your sending it. My answer will be posted to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com
Friday, April 19, 2013
April 19th
April 19th -- 1 Kings 18:16-46 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2018:16-46&version=NLT)
So Obadiah goes to King Ahab and tells him Elijah is coming (Elijah had told him to when they stumbled across eachother while walking along). When Elijah shows up before Ahab, he is greeted as a "troublemaker of Israel". At this, Elijah says that he has not been the cause of trouble (such as the drought from yesterday's passage), but Ahab and his family have caused it for their continued refusal to worship God and worship of the idol Baal. Elijah tells Ahab to summon all of Israel as well as the prophets who worshipped the idols (450 for Baal and 400 for Asherah), then meet him at Mount Carmel. Ahab does so.
Elijah calls out to the people at the mountain and asks how long the people will waver for, saying if God is God, follow him but if Baal is God then follow him. Nobody speaks. Elijah explains that he is the only prophet of God left, but Baal has 450 prophets. He asks for 2 bulls to be brought, and says Baal's prophets may choose theirs first. He explains that they will cut their bull into pieces and lay it on the altar, but not set fire to it, and he shall do the same with his bull. He says they shall call their god, and he shall call the Lord, and the one to answer first by setting the wood on fire is the real God. All the people agree to this.
Baal's prophets call to Baal from morning until noon, dancing and shouting. They get no answer. At noon, Elijah starts to mock them, telling them to call louder, for perhaps their god is asleep or on a trip. These prophets keep trying all afternoon, even cutting themselves to make blood run as was their custom. They have on answer. Elijah then calls the people to the altar of the Lord they had torn down. He remakes it from twelve stones (one for each tribe of Israel). He also dig a trench around it big enough to hold three gallons of water. He has four large jars filled with water and poured over the offering - three times so it filled the trench after it ran over the offering. When the time for usual evening sacrifices came, Elijah went to the alter and prayed that God would answer him so that the people would know God. Fire immediately flashes down from heaven and burns the bull, wood, stones, and dust. It also dries all the water in the trenches. When the people see it they cry out that the Lord is God. Elijah has the prophets of Baal seized and killed.
Elijah then tells Ahab a mighty rainstorm is coming, so he should go eat and drink. Ahab does so, and as he does Elijah climbs the mountain and prays. He tells his servant to look to the sea. He returns saying he saw nothing. Seven times Elijah sends his servant. On the seventh time the servant says he saw a small cloud rising from the sea. Elijah tells him to tell Ahab to hurry and get home or the rain will stop him. The sky became black with clouds and strong winds come up. Ahab leaves quickly for Jezreel. God gives special strength to Elijah who runs ahead of Ahab's chariot all the way to Jezreel's entrance.
The Baal prophets tried for a day and got no answer. Elijah asked once and was answered immediately and far beyond what he had asked for. We have a God who can do anything. He is above and beyond all idols, and also science. In our world we have come to rely on science so heavily for our facts and truths. Some things science teaches us is true, and therefore does bring glory to God, as all truth is God's truth. However, some things science would have us believe are not true. Or, better put, science would have us believe in impossibilities. We recognize, though, that God overcomes those "impossibilities". If a scientist looked at Elijah's altar, he would say it would not burn - it had no fire and even if it did it was too wet to. Yet, Elijah called out to God, and fire from the sky burned the bull and wood, but also stone and dust, and it dried up 3 gallons of water. It's no wonder these people fell to their faces and cried out that the Lord is God. There is no way that any of it could have been staged, nor could the results have been denied. Nothing is impossible for God. Idols will fail to accomplish impossibilities, but God will not.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
So Obadiah goes to King Ahab and tells him Elijah is coming (Elijah had told him to when they stumbled across eachother while walking along). When Elijah shows up before Ahab, he is greeted as a "troublemaker of Israel". At this, Elijah says that he has not been the cause of trouble (such as the drought from yesterday's passage), but Ahab and his family have caused it for their continued refusal to worship God and worship of the idol Baal. Elijah tells Ahab to summon all of Israel as well as the prophets who worshipped the idols (450 for Baal and 400 for Asherah), then meet him at Mount Carmel. Ahab does so.
Elijah calls out to the people at the mountain and asks how long the people will waver for, saying if God is God, follow him but if Baal is God then follow him. Nobody speaks. Elijah explains that he is the only prophet of God left, but Baal has 450 prophets. He asks for 2 bulls to be brought, and says Baal's prophets may choose theirs first. He explains that they will cut their bull into pieces and lay it on the altar, but not set fire to it, and he shall do the same with his bull. He says they shall call their god, and he shall call the Lord, and the one to answer first by setting the wood on fire is the real God. All the people agree to this.
Baal's prophets call to Baal from morning until noon, dancing and shouting. They get no answer. At noon, Elijah starts to mock them, telling them to call louder, for perhaps their god is asleep or on a trip. These prophets keep trying all afternoon, even cutting themselves to make blood run as was their custom. They have on answer. Elijah then calls the people to the altar of the Lord they had torn down. He remakes it from twelve stones (one for each tribe of Israel). He also dig a trench around it big enough to hold three gallons of water. He has four large jars filled with water and poured over the offering - three times so it filled the trench after it ran over the offering. When the time for usual evening sacrifices came, Elijah went to the alter and prayed that God would answer him so that the people would know God. Fire immediately flashes down from heaven and burns the bull, wood, stones, and dust. It also dries all the water in the trenches. When the people see it they cry out that the Lord is God. Elijah has the prophets of Baal seized and killed.
Elijah then tells Ahab a mighty rainstorm is coming, so he should go eat and drink. Ahab does so, and as he does Elijah climbs the mountain and prays. He tells his servant to look to the sea. He returns saying he saw nothing. Seven times Elijah sends his servant. On the seventh time the servant says he saw a small cloud rising from the sea. Elijah tells him to tell Ahab to hurry and get home or the rain will stop him. The sky became black with clouds and strong winds come up. Ahab leaves quickly for Jezreel. God gives special strength to Elijah who runs ahead of Ahab's chariot all the way to Jezreel's entrance.
The Baal prophets tried for a day and got no answer. Elijah asked once and was answered immediately and far beyond what he had asked for. We have a God who can do anything. He is above and beyond all idols, and also science. In our world we have come to rely on science so heavily for our facts and truths. Some things science teaches us is true, and therefore does bring glory to God, as all truth is God's truth. However, some things science would have us believe are not true. Or, better put, science would have us believe in impossibilities. We recognize, though, that God overcomes those "impossibilities". If a scientist looked at Elijah's altar, he would say it would not burn - it had no fire and even if it did it was too wet to. Yet, Elijah called out to God, and fire from the sky burned the bull and wood, but also stone and dust, and it dried up 3 gallons of water. It's no wonder these people fell to their faces and cried out that the Lord is God. There is no way that any of it could have been staged, nor could the results have been denied. Nothing is impossible for God. Idols will fail to accomplish impossibilities, but God will not.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
April 18th
April 18th -- 1 Kings 17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2017&version=NLT)
Elijah fed by ravens ; The widow at Zarephath
Just some background info: The current king is now Ahab. Elijah is who will be focused on, and he was a prophet of Israel.
Elijah tells the king, Ahab, that so long as his (Elijah's) God is alive, then there won't be any rain during the next few years until Elijah says so. God tells Elijah to go east to the Kerith Brook and hide there. Ravens would bring bread to him each morning and evening, and he would drink from the brook. However, after a long time without water, the brook, of course, dried up.
God then tells Elijah to go live in Zarephath, saying He has instructed a widow there to feed him. Elijah goes, and at the gates coming in he finds a widow and asks for some water. As she's leaving he calls out for bread, too. She, however, says she has no bread, just enough ingredients to make a bit more, which her and her son were going to eat before simply dying. Elijah tells her not to be afraid, but instead to go and make bread for him, then with the leftovers make some for herself and her son. He tells her God has said there will always be leftovers until when the rain returns so she can grow more crops. She does as Elijah has told her, and what the Lord has promised was proven true, and they kept eating for many days and the ingredients/materials did not run out.
Later, though, the woman's son becomes sick and dies. The woman accuses, Elijah, thinking he came to point out her sins and punish her by killing her son. He asks for her son, though, and she gives him to him. Elijah holds him and begins praying to God, asking why He has done this, saying the woman should not get this after opening her home to him. He cries out to God to heal the child, and the child came back to life. When the woman sees this, she tells Elijah she knows now for sure that he is a man of God and that God speaks through him.
I love the story about the stuff for bread not running out. I think it's neat to imagine how that must have worked. Imagine having two cups of flour, then using one in baking. When you came back the next day to use the second, though, there were two! It would be awesome! Our God is the God who does things like that. However, why does He bless the woman like this? She does as she is told by God (through Elijah) and she helps Elijah out, and is very kind, opening her home to him. When we are kind, God will reward us. That may not mean monetary rewards, or any other earthly reward. Sometimes it does but often it does not. I think the reward a lot of the time is the joy that comes with knowing we've helped. A lot of times, God allows the good works our efforts have caused to be revealed to us in odd ways. Normally we may never have known if we had any impact, but often God works it out so we know we blessed someone, and can feel joyful then for knowing we did so.
Also, may I point out that through Elijah's prayer, a boy was brought back to life. We always, I think, think only Jesus could heal. We often forget, though, that other people healed in God's name and power. Jesus' disciples did. So did Elijah, in this case. I think we forget how much the prayer of someone favored by God can mean. When we are really trying, God sees that, and he WANTS to bless us all the more. This can include answers to prayer. Elijah was very close with God, so when he asked that this boy be saved, God listened. Never underestimate the power of your prayers. You never know if God may answer them!
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Elijah fed by ravens ; The widow at Zarephath
Just some background info: The current king is now Ahab. Elijah is who will be focused on, and he was a prophet of Israel.
Elijah tells the king, Ahab, that so long as his (Elijah's) God is alive, then there won't be any rain during the next few years until Elijah says so. God tells Elijah to go east to the Kerith Brook and hide there. Ravens would bring bread to him each morning and evening, and he would drink from the brook. However, after a long time without water, the brook, of course, dried up.
God then tells Elijah to go live in Zarephath, saying He has instructed a widow there to feed him. Elijah goes, and at the gates coming in he finds a widow and asks for some water. As she's leaving he calls out for bread, too. She, however, says she has no bread, just enough ingredients to make a bit more, which her and her son were going to eat before simply dying. Elijah tells her not to be afraid, but instead to go and make bread for him, then with the leftovers make some for herself and her son. He tells her God has said there will always be leftovers until when the rain returns so she can grow more crops. She does as Elijah has told her, and what the Lord has promised was proven true, and they kept eating for many days and the ingredients/materials did not run out.
Later, though, the woman's son becomes sick and dies. The woman accuses, Elijah, thinking he came to point out her sins and punish her by killing her son. He asks for her son, though, and she gives him to him. Elijah holds him and begins praying to God, asking why He has done this, saying the woman should not get this after opening her home to him. He cries out to God to heal the child, and the child came back to life. When the woman sees this, she tells Elijah she knows now for sure that he is a man of God and that God speaks through him.
I love the story about the stuff for bread not running out. I think it's neat to imagine how that must have worked. Imagine having two cups of flour, then using one in baking. When you came back the next day to use the second, though, there were two! It would be awesome! Our God is the God who does things like that. However, why does He bless the woman like this? She does as she is told by God (through Elijah) and she helps Elijah out, and is very kind, opening her home to him. When we are kind, God will reward us. That may not mean monetary rewards, or any other earthly reward. Sometimes it does but often it does not. I think the reward a lot of the time is the joy that comes with knowing we've helped. A lot of times, God allows the good works our efforts have caused to be revealed to us in odd ways. Normally we may never have known if we had any impact, but often God works it out so we know we blessed someone, and can feel joyful then for knowing we did so.
Also, may I point out that through Elijah's prayer, a boy was brought back to life. We always, I think, think only Jesus could heal. We often forget, though, that other people healed in God's name and power. Jesus' disciples did. So did Elijah, in this case. I think we forget how much the prayer of someone favored by God can mean. When we are really trying, God sees that, and he WANTS to bless us all the more. This can include answers to prayer. Elijah was very close with God, so when he asked that this boy be saved, God listened. Never underestimate the power of your prayers. You never know if God may answer them!
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
April 17th
April 17th -- 1 Kings 12:1-24 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2012:1-24&version=NLT)
The northern tribes revolt ; Shemaiah's prophecy
We're looking at a time after Solomon has died, to clarify.
So Rehoboam goes to Shechem where Israel had gathered to make him king. Jeroboam hears about this, though, and returns from Egypt (where he fled to escape Solomon). He is summoned and he and Israel's whole assembly goes to speak to Rehoboam. They ask him to be kinder to him than their father, in regards to the labor demands and taxes, saying if he is, they'll be his loyal subjects. Rehoboam goes to others for advice. He first asks some older counselors, who tell him to listen to the people, saying being favorable to them will bring their continued loyalty. He does not listen, though, and goes instead to some of his peers. His peers tell him to tell the people he's going to be even harder on them than even his father was! So he tells the people this, paying no attention to their requests. This fulfilled a message to Jeroboam from God. Israel, though, realizes that their king is not listening, and basically refuse to ever let someone from the house of David rule them again, and they leave. Rehoboam keeps ruling over those in Judah (the north). When Rehoboam sends Adoniram, the head of the labor force, to try and restore order, the people kill him. The Israelites then hear of Jeroboam's return, and make him king over Israel. So only the tribe of Judah was still loyal to the family of David.
When Rehoboam arrives at Jerusalem, he gathers a force (of Benjaminite and men of Judah) to take back Israel and restore the kingdom to him. God tells Shemaiah, though, to tell Rehoboam and his men that God is telling them not to fight their relatives, but go home instead. They listened.
Rehoboam had two pieces of advice. One was good and one was bad. He took the bad advice, and it got him into trouble. We get advice often from people. Sometimes they intend to give bad advice and cause harm, but other times they mean well but are simply mistaken. However, we tend to listen to those closer to us - our peers. We let down that filter when we listen to them. Because we favor them as people, we do not tend to consider that their advice may be unfavorable when compared to that of others. Bad advice, even from a well-meaning person, when acted upon can lead to trouble. How well do you think on the advice you are given before acting on it? Do you really ponder it, thinking on what seems more practical, and particularly Godly? Or do you just take what you get from your friends? It is easy to take advice and think, at first, it is good. We want help, and so when we are drawn to ask for advice, we are truly seeking aid. This means we tend to accept what we get. Sometimes we may not like the answer, though, so we look for one we like. Both are dangerous. We need to be very conscious of who we go to for advice -are we looking to people more than God? We should be looking to God more than people. Get into His word instead of asking a friend. See what He has to say before/instead of anyone else. His word is truth, and when we do as He commands us we are obeying Him and He will bless us for that. So filter your advice, and be careful which you take and which you leave.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
The northern tribes revolt ; Shemaiah's prophecy
We're looking at a time after Solomon has died, to clarify.
So Rehoboam goes to Shechem where Israel had gathered to make him king. Jeroboam hears about this, though, and returns from Egypt (where he fled to escape Solomon). He is summoned and he and Israel's whole assembly goes to speak to Rehoboam. They ask him to be kinder to him than their father, in regards to the labor demands and taxes, saying if he is, they'll be his loyal subjects. Rehoboam goes to others for advice. He first asks some older counselors, who tell him to listen to the people, saying being favorable to them will bring their continued loyalty. He does not listen, though, and goes instead to some of his peers. His peers tell him to tell the people he's going to be even harder on them than even his father was! So he tells the people this, paying no attention to their requests. This fulfilled a message to Jeroboam from God. Israel, though, realizes that their king is not listening, and basically refuse to ever let someone from the house of David rule them again, and they leave. Rehoboam keeps ruling over those in Judah (the north). When Rehoboam sends Adoniram, the head of the labor force, to try and restore order, the people kill him. The Israelites then hear of Jeroboam's return, and make him king over Israel. So only the tribe of Judah was still loyal to the family of David.
When Rehoboam arrives at Jerusalem, he gathers a force (of Benjaminite and men of Judah) to take back Israel and restore the kingdom to him. God tells Shemaiah, though, to tell Rehoboam and his men that God is telling them not to fight their relatives, but go home instead. They listened.
Rehoboam had two pieces of advice. One was good and one was bad. He took the bad advice, and it got him into trouble. We get advice often from people. Sometimes they intend to give bad advice and cause harm, but other times they mean well but are simply mistaken. However, we tend to listen to those closer to us - our peers. We let down that filter when we listen to them. Because we favor them as people, we do not tend to consider that their advice may be unfavorable when compared to that of others. Bad advice, even from a well-meaning person, when acted upon can lead to trouble. How well do you think on the advice you are given before acting on it? Do you really ponder it, thinking on what seems more practical, and particularly Godly? Or do you just take what you get from your friends? It is easy to take advice and think, at first, it is good. We want help, and so when we are drawn to ask for advice, we are truly seeking aid. This means we tend to accept what we get. Sometimes we may not like the answer, though, so we look for one we like. Both are dangerous. We need to be very conscious of who we go to for advice -are we looking to people more than God? We should be looking to God more than people. Get into His word instead of asking a friend. See what He has to say before/instead of anyone else. His word is truth, and when we do as He commands us we are obeying Him and He will bless us for that. So filter your advice, and be careful which you take and which you leave.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
April 16th
April 16th -- 1 Kings 10:1-13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%2010:1-13&version=NLT)
Visit of the queen of Sheba
So Solomon's "fame" has been spreading, and the queen of Sheba hears about it and how it brings honor to the Lord, so she comes to test Solomon. She visits Jerusalem with many of her people. She spends a lot of time talking with Solomon, and he answers every question she has. The queen was overwhelmed when he answered everything and when she saw the palace he'd built. She then goes on about how all the great things she heard are true, and his people must be very happy. She gave him a huge gift of 9,000 pounds of gold, many spices (nobody every outdid her in that measure), and lots of precious jewels. Solomon gave the queen what she asked for, in addition to the gifts he had given her already, and she and her people returned home.
I'm not gonna' focus on the fact it was the queen of Sheba we're talking about. Instead I just want to focus on Solomon's fame in the land. He was like one of today's celebrities, in a way. Everyone everywhere was hearing about him - even those from far off lands, like the queen of Sheba. However, also notice what his fame did. "When the queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's fame, which brought honor to the name of the Lord, ... " Solomon's honor was bringing glory to God. Solomon was not trying to claim any of his fortunate circumstances to be of his own doing, but gave all the credit back to God. He knew it was God who had been kind to him and blessed him to richly, and he didn't miss a chance to make sure everyone else knew it, too. How often are we like that? Do we always give the glory back to God, or do we just take the credit as our own? When people comment on your creativity, artistic ability, intelligence, or even kindness that seems to come naturally, do you kind of pass it off with "Oh, thanks. I try." or "Oh, thank you, I guess I was just born creative/intelligent"? Or do you try and say "Oh, thank you. I'm very blessed by God to have that (creativity, intelligence, kindness, etc)"? I think we tend to lean towards the first one. Try and remember, though, even if it may seem weird to talk about God all the time, especially when people just want to compliment you or your achievements, that all credit belongs to God, and should be given to Him. Really, we're nothing without Him. We can help show His love by sharing how He has loved us by blessing us.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Visit of the queen of Sheba
So Solomon's "fame" has been spreading, and the queen of Sheba hears about it and how it brings honor to the Lord, so she comes to test Solomon. She visits Jerusalem with many of her people. She spends a lot of time talking with Solomon, and he answers every question she has. The queen was overwhelmed when he answered everything and when she saw the palace he'd built. She then goes on about how all the great things she heard are true, and his people must be very happy. She gave him a huge gift of 9,000 pounds of gold, many spices (nobody every outdid her in that measure), and lots of precious jewels. Solomon gave the queen what she asked for, in addition to the gifts he had given her already, and she and her people returned home.
I'm not gonna' focus on the fact it was the queen of Sheba we're talking about. Instead I just want to focus on Solomon's fame in the land. He was like one of today's celebrities, in a way. Everyone everywhere was hearing about him - even those from far off lands, like the queen of Sheba. However, also notice what his fame did. "When the queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's fame, which brought honor to the name of the Lord, ... " Solomon's honor was bringing glory to God. Solomon was not trying to claim any of his fortunate circumstances to be of his own doing, but gave all the credit back to God. He knew it was God who had been kind to him and blessed him to richly, and he didn't miss a chance to make sure everyone else knew it, too. How often are we like that? Do we always give the glory back to God, or do we just take the credit as our own? When people comment on your creativity, artistic ability, intelligence, or even kindness that seems to come naturally, do you kind of pass it off with "Oh, thanks. I try." or "Oh, thank you, I guess I was just born creative/intelligent"? Or do you try and say "Oh, thank you. I'm very blessed by God to have that (creativity, intelligence, kindness, etc)"? I think we tend to lean towards the first one. Try and remember, though, even if it may seem weird to talk about God all the time, especially when people just want to compliment you or your achievements, that all credit belongs to God, and should be given to Him. Really, we're nothing without Him. We can help show His love by sharing how He has loved us by blessing us.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Monday, April 15, 2013
April 15th
April 15th -- 1 Kings 6 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%206&version=NLT)
Solomon builds the Temple ; The Temple's interior
So this is Solomon's fourth year as king, and 480 years after the Israelites had been rescued from Egypt, and this is the year Solomon began building the Temple of the Lord.
There's a REALLY long list of specific descriptions that if you really want to know, you can go read the passage, but I am not retyping it all onto here. The point is, when the Temple was done being built, God told Solomon that if he kept obeying God's commands, God would keep through Solomon the promise He made to David, and would live among the Israelites and never abandon them.
Then there's this other REALLY long description of all the particulars of the interior of the temple. Again, if you wish to read them all, please feel free, but I'm not putting them all in here. The Temple was done in the eleventh year of Solomon's reign, meaning it took seven years to be built.
Okay, so, what can we gain from this? "How to Build a Temple to God 101"? Nope. I mean, I don't think I could fit one in my yard, anyway... And I'm even in the country, so I know you city folk can't.
So the point? Well, have you SEEN the list of specifics? And did you notice it took seven years to finish this thing? Solomon paid the utmost attention to every tiny detail. Now, sure nowadays with a big workforce and modern tools, this would have been a heck of a lot easier, but back then, they didn't have the same measuring tools, no table saws, no cordless drills, and no men trained in school to do heavy labour and building and design. Solomon still did his best to make every detail right. Why? Not for the sake of it looking nice, but because he knew he was doing it for God. He was following a plan for a Temple for God. He wanted to get all the details right, because that would be God's dwelling among the Israelites. I know nitpicky details can be frustrating and time-consuming, but Solomon did it so why can't we? I also know we're not exactly building God's temple, but we should be doing everything for God and with Him in mind, letting His Holy Spirit shine through us. As Colossians 3:23-24 says " Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." We should remember that really, we're doing everything for God, so we should be trying to always do our best!
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Solomon builds the Temple ; The Temple's interior
So this is Solomon's fourth year as king, and 480 years after the Israelites had been rescued from Egypt, and this is the year Solomon began building the Temple of the Lord.
There's a REALLY long list of specific descriptions that if you really want to know, you can go read the passage, but I am not retyping it all onto here. The point is, when the Temple was done being built, God told Solomon that if he kept obeying God's commands, God would keep through Solomon the promise He made to David, and would live among the Israelites and never abandon them.
Then there's this other REALLY long description of all the particulars of the interior of the temple. Again, if you wish to read them all, please feel free, but I'm not putting them all in here. The Temple was done in the eleventh year of Solomon's reign, meaning it took seven years to be built.
Okay, so, what can we gain from this? "How to Build a Temple to God 101"? Nope. I mean, I don't think I could fit one in my yard, anyway... And I'm even in the country, so I know you city folk can't.
So the point? Well, have you SEEN the list of specifics? And did you notice it took seven years to finish this thing? Solomon paid the utmost attention to every tiny detail. Now, sure nowadays with a big workforce and modern tools, this would have been a heck of a lot easier, but back then, they didn't have the same measuring tools, no table saws, no cordless drills, and no men trained in school to do heavy labour and building and design. Solomon still did his best to make every detail right. Why? Not for the sake of it looking nice, but because he knew he was doing it for God. He was following a plan for a Temple for God. He wanted to get all the details right, because that would be God's dwelling among the Israelites. I know nitpicky details can be frustrating and time-consuming, but Solomon did it so why can't we? I also know we're not exactly building God's temple, but we should be doing everything for God and with Him in mind, letting His Holy Spirit shine through us. As Colossians 3:23-24 says " Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." We should remember that really, we're doing everything for God, so we should be trying to always do our best!
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Sunday, April 14, 2013
April 14th
April 14th -- 1 Kings 3:16-28 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%203:16-28&version=NLT)
Solomon judges wisely
So after this wisdom is granted to Solomon by God, two prostitutes come to Solomon arguing over a baby. They were from the same house and both had a child within a few days of each other. The only two there were these two. The women speaking claims the other woman's child died when the woman rolled over in the night and crushed it. She says that then the woman came and took her child and put the dead child at her side. The other woman, though, claimed the living one was hers. They end up just arguing back and forth over whose child is the dead one and whose is the living one that they are fighting over. Solomon clarifies that they are both trying to claim the baby as their own, and when they agree, he asks for a sword. He says that he will then cut the child in half, so they will each have half. One woman cries out asking that he give her to the other woman and not kill him, but the other says that he should divide him as he has said. Solomon said not to kill the child, but give him to the woman who said to give him away. He said she was clearly the mother, for she wanted her child to live badly enough that she would give him away. When people in Israel heard about this, they were in awe of Solomon's wisdom.
I have always loved this story. The first reason was that it has a happy ending, because the real mom gets her child back, which is awesome. The second is the fact that it shows not to doubt people, because they can always surprise you. Solomon was still pretty young when he was made king. Biblically it's made to sound like he was maybe a teenager. A teenager ruling a country. Anyone seen Princess Diaries? Yeah, that's my first thought. Of course, back then, people would probably have really looked down on him for it. Yet, then this case came along, and he was incredibly brilliant about it all. It seemed to have shocked people. So, it just goes to show, don't doubt people. Especially don't doubt them due to age. Later on in the Bible we hear about Timothy, who is a perfect example. And in 1 Timothy 4:12 it says "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young... " God uses everyone, even if we don't expect it, so never doubt people who are living for God.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Solomon judges wisely
So after this wisdom is granted to Solomon by God, two prostitutes come to Solomon arguing over a baby. They were from the same house and both had a child within a few days of each other. The only two there were these two. The women speaking claims the other woman's child died when the woman rolled over in the night and crushed it. She says that then the woman came and took her child and put the dead child at her side. The other woman, though, claimed the living one was hers. They end up just arguing back and forth over whose child is the dead one and whose is the living one that they are fighting over. Solomon clarifies that they are both trying to claim the baby as their own, and when they agree, he asks for a sword. He says that he will then cut the child in half, so they will each have half. One woman cries out asking that he give her to the other woman and not kill him, but the other says that he should divide him as he has said. Solomon said not to kill the child, but give him to the woman who said to give him away. He said she was clearly the mother, for she wanted her child to live badly enough that she would give him away. When people in Israel heard about this, they were in awe of Solomon's wisdom.
I have always loved this story. The first reason was that it has a happy ending, because the real mom gets her child back, which is awesome. The second is the fact that it shows not to doubt people, because they can always surprise you. Solomon was still pretty young when he was made king. Biblically it's made to sound like he was maybe a teenager. A teenager ruling a country. Anyone seen Princess Diaries? Yeah, that's my first thought. Of course, back then, people would probably have really looked down on him for it. Yet, then this case came along, and he was incredibly brilliant about it all. It seemed to have shocked people. So, it just goes to show, don't doubt people. Especially don't doubt them due to age. Later on in the Bible we hear about Timothy, who is a perfect example. And in 1 Timothy 4:12 it says "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young... " God uses everyone, even if we don't expect it, so never doubt people who are living for God.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
April 13th
April 13th -- 1 Kings 3:1-15 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%203:1-15&version=NLT)
Solomon asks for wisdom
Solomon makes and alliance with the Pharaoh of Egypt, marrying one of his daughters. He brings her to the City of David as his palace and God's temple weren't done being built. Even though the temple was unfinished, people were sacrificing, just at various local worship places.
Solomon loved God and he followed all David's decrees (aside from where to sacrifice, as he could not in the temple yet). The most important worship place was Gibeon. Solomon went one time and made 1,000 burnt offerings. That night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream, asking him what he wanted, and saying it would be given to him. Solomon says that God has been faithful by putting him on the throne. However, he is "like a little child who doesn't know his way around." Solomon basically asks for wisdom, so that he may be a good ruler for his people. God is pleased with this. Since Solomon asked for that, God says he will receive that and riches and fame. He also will be given a long life if he continues to obey God, as David did. Solomon then wakes up and realizes it was a dream. He goes back to Jerusalem, to the Ark of the Lord's Covenant, and sacrifices burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invites his officials to a banquet.
Okay, we've ALL heard that question of "If you had a lamp, with a genie, and got only three wishes, assuming you can't ask for more wishes, what would you wish for" For most of us, our first idea's gone - more wishes. We can't think of three things to narrow it down to. Or if we do, we're all "World peace, no more famine, and a cure for cancer" to seem like such great people. We all want that answer to make us look great... Then here we have Solomon. He's talking to God, who he knows can see exactly what's going on in his head. He'd know if Solomon were to lie to try and act like the oh-so-great guy. Yet, he asks for wisdom, and God is so pleased that He gives him that and more. He wants it to be a good leader for his people - a good king. THAT is VERY selfless. Like, it makes me wish I were always that selfless, that if God came down and gave me whatever I asked for, I wouldn't ask for something for myself, but something instead that would help others. I'm gonna' be pushing myself to be less self-focused and more selfless, like Solomon, so if I had one wish only, I'd use it not for myself.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Solomon asks for wisdom
Solomon makes and alliance with the Pharaoh of Egypt, marrying one of his daughters. He brings her to the City of David as his palace and God's temple weren't done being built. Even though the temple was unfinished, people were sacrificing, just at various local worship places.
Solomon loved God and he followed all David's decrees (aside from where to sacrifice, as he could not in the temple yet). The most important worship place was Gibeon. Solomon went one time and made 1,000 burnt offerings. That night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream, asking him what he wanted, and saying it would be given to him. Solomon says that God has been faithful by putting him on the throne. However, he is "like a little child who doesn't know his way around." Solomon basically asks for wisdom, so that he may be a good ruler for his people. God is pleased with this. Since Solomon asked for that, God says he will receive that and riches and fame. He also will be given a long life if he continues to obey God, as David did. Solomon then wakes up and realizes it was a dream. He goes back to Jerusalem, to the Ark of the Lord's Covenant, and sacrifices burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invites his officials to a banquet.
Okay, we've ALL heard that question of "If you had a lamp, with a genie, and got only three wishes, assuming you can't ask for more wishes, what would you wish for" For most of us, our first idea's gone - more wishes. We can't think of three things to narrow it down to. Or if we do, we're all "World peace, no more famine, and a cure for cancer" to seem like such great people. We all want that answer to make us look great... Then here we have Solomon. He's talking to God, who he knows can see exactly what's going on in his head. He'd know if Solomon were to lie to try and act like the oh-so-great guy. Yet, he asks for wisdom, and God is so pleased that He gives him that and more. He wants it to be a good leader for his people - a good king. THAT is VERY selfless. Like, it makes me wish I were always that selfless, that if God came down and gave me whatever I asked for, I wouldn't ask for something for myself, but something instead that would help others. I'm gonna' be pushing myself to be less self-focused and more selfless, like Solomon, so if I had one wish only, I'd use it not for myself.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Friday, April 12, 2013
April 12th
April 12th -- 1 Kings 1:28-53 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%201:28-53&version=NLT)
David makes Solomon king
After Nathan comes and tells David what's happened with Adonijah, he calls Bathsheba back. He then repeats his vow that Solomon will be the next king. He calls for Zadok, Benaiah, and Nathan, telling them to take Solomon - on the king's mule - to Gihon spring. Then Zadok, as the priest, and Nathan, as the prophet, should anoint him king, then blow the ram's horn and announce it. When that is done, he was to be brought back and sit on the throne. They do this. When they blow the ram's horn, all the people shout "Long live King Solomon!" and follow them into Jerusalem, playing music and shouting. The celebration was so loud the ground shook.
Adonijah and those who he had invited as guests heard this celebrating. When Joab hears, he asks what's going on. As he does so, Jonathan comes in with news. He tells them what has happened - that basically Solomon is now king and sits on the throne! All of Adonijah's guests, upon hearing this, scatter in panic. Adonijah is so afraid that he goes to the sacred tent and grabs the horns of the altar, pleading "Let King Solomon swear today that he will not kill me!" When Solomon hears of this, he says that he will not be harmed if he proves his loyalty. However, if he is not loyal, he shall be killed. So Adonijah is summoned. He bows respectfully before Solomon, who dismisses him to go home.
Can I just say I would not have wanted to be one of those people who had come along to Adonijah's feast? I mean, they were basically just relaxing and eating and laughing and talking, right? Wrong. Really they were committing treason, even if they didn't know it. They were all supporting Adonijah as their new king. Adonijah appointed himself, and was never properly set up to be the next king, nor appointed as such. For those people to have been caught there could have meant death. Can you imagine what they were thinking when they heard that Solomon had just been appointed king? Probably something along the lines of "Ohhhhh this is NOT good... I'm outta' here before I get caught!" I think we all have times like those. We know our actions may be wrong, but we don't necessarily feel the need to stop. We're surrounded by other people also doing the same wrong. We fit in, and to everyone else there, the wrong's recognized as okay. Suddenly, though, there becomes the risk of someone finding out. In this case, it was Solomon finding out about all those men celebrating the self-appointed king Adonijah. In our cases it's usually the risk of a parent, sibling, friend, or maybe teacher finding out about something we had hoped to keep a secret. We can hide the guilt until we are blatantly condemned, and then, like the men, we panic and flee. We don't want to be caught, because we'd be so shamed for it. We instead try and just leave as if nothing happened. Those men would always have that hanging on their conscience, though. They'd be living in a city under the rule of a king who they had willingly gone against in secret. They may not have been caught by anyone else, but they know and God knows. Even when we sin in secret, it never goes unknown. We know it, and God knows all. Don't run and try and hide it. Instead, confront God, as forgiveness, and ask Him to help you out of that sin, especially if it has been one that's caused you to stumble for a long time. Better yet, unlike these men, don't risk being caught in the act - don't have an act you'd not like to be caught in.
That'll be all for tonight! God bless! Shalom!
David makes Solomon king
After Nathan comes and tells David what's happened with Adonijah, he calls Bathsheba back. He then repeats his vow that Solomon will be the next king. He calls for Zadok, Benaiah, and Nathan, telling them to take Solomon - on the king's mule - to Gihon spring. Then Zadok, as the priest, and Nathan, as the prophet, should anoint him king, then blow the ram's horn and announce it. When that is done, he was to be brought back and sit on the throne. They do this. When they blow the ram's horn, all the people shout "Long live King Solomon!" and follow them into Jerusalem, playing music and shouting. The celebration was so loud the ground shook.
Adonijah and those who he had invited as guests heard this celebrating. When Joab hears, he asks what's going on. As he does so, Jonathan comes in with news. He tells them what has happened - that basically Solomon is now king and sits on the throne! All of Adonijah's guests, upon hearing this, scatter in panic. Adonijah is so afraid that he goes to the sacred tent and grabs the horns of the altar, pleading "Let King Solomon swear today that he will not kill me!" When Solomon hears of this, he says that he will not be harmed if he proves his loyalty. However, if he is not loyal, he shall be killed. So Adonijah is summoned. He bows respectfully before Solomon, who dismisses him to go home.
Can I just say I would not have wanted to be one of those people who had come along to Adonijah's feast? I mean, they were basically just relaxing and eating and laughing and talking, right? Wrong. Really they were committing treason, even if they didn't know it. They were all supporting Adonijah as their new king. Adonijah appointed himself, and was never properly set up to be the next king, nor appointed as such. For those people to have been caught there could have meant death. Can you imagine what they were thinking when they heard that Solomon had just been appointed king? Probably something along the lines of "Ohhhhh this is NOT good... I'm outta' here before I get caught!" I think we all have times like those. We know our actions may be wrong, but we don't necessarily feel the need to stop. We're surrounded by other people also doing the same wrong. We fit in, and to everyone else there, the wrong's recognized as okay. Suddenly, though, there becomes the risk of someone finding out. In this case, it was Solomon finding out about all those men celebrating the self-appointed king Adonijah. In our cases it's usually the risk of a parent, sibling, friend, or maybe teacher finding out about something we had hoped to keep a secret. We can hide the guilt until we are blatantly condemned, and then, like the men, we panic and flee. We don't want to be caught, because we'd be so shamed for it. We instead try and just leave as if nothing happened. Those men would always have that hanging on their conscience, though. They'd be living in a city under the rule of a king who they had willingly gone against in secret. They may not have been caught by anyone else, but they know and God knows. Even when we sin in secret, it never goes unknown. We know it, and God knows all. Don't run and try and hide it. Instead, confront God, as forgiveness, and ask Him to help you out of that sin, especially if it has been one that's caused you to stumble for a long time. Better yet, unlike these men, don't risk being caught in the act - don't have an act you'd not like to be caught in.
That'll be all for tonight! God bless! Shalom!
Thursday, April 11, 2013
April 11th
April 11th -- 1 Kings 1:5-27 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Kings%201:5-27&version=NLT)
Adonijah claims the throne
David is getting old, and one of his sons, Adonijah, starts to brag that he will make himself king. He gathers together chariots and bodyguards and goes to Joab as well as Abiathar the priest, and takes them into his confidence (as in they promised to help him become king). Some of David's men, though, such as Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet refused to support Adonijah. Adonijah goes to the Stone of Zoheleth to make sacrifices. He invites his brothers and all the royal officials, but doesn't invite David's bodyguard who would not support him, or his brother Solomon (Bathsheba's second son with David, after the one who died). Nathan finds out about all this, though, and goes to Bathsheba, asking if she did not know, when Adonijah has gotten away with becoming king without David's knowing. He says in order to save her own life as well as Solomon's, she should go to David and tell him that Adonijah has become king, but say "didn't you make a vow and say to me, 'Your son Solomon will surely be the next king and will sit on the throne'." While she's doing this, Nathan will come and confirm to David that Adonijah has made himself king.
So Bathsheba goes to David and reminds him of the vow he made. She then says Adonijah has made himself king! As she's explaining what happened, Nathan runs in to tell David just the same thing. He asks David if he has really decided that Adonijah should be the next king. He asks in a way making it sound accusatory if he had done so without letting any of his officials know about it.
Yet again David has someone in his own house take the throne from him. Nathan said a long while back that his house would turn against him. Twice now it clearly has as his own sons have tried to take the throne (and succeeded in doing so) from him. I think it's just a lesson that really, your sins will come back for you. That's especially true when it's those ones you blatantly commit while clearly knowing they're wrong, yet doing them anyways. I think God would love to not punish us, but He has to. He knows we'll never learn if He doesn't. Also, maybe you're thinking it's a bit harsh for it to have happened TWICE to David. I mean, was once not enough? The thing is, God never makes mistakes. He knows to exactly what degree out punishment has to rightly be. He has to ensure that happens. If that means maybe we feel it comes back to get us twice, then that's just what it means. It's a matter I think of being wary of your sin. It can be easy to give in, and sometimes we are put in positions where it makes it far easier (David's was made easier because of his power). This isn't an excuse, though. We need to always be wary of our thoughts and actions, trying our best to always fall hard after God. I'm not saying we're gonna' be perfect, and I'm not trying to say I don't mess up. I mess up lots, and nobody's ever gonna' be perfect. But when you really love God, your heart will be for Him, and that will shine through in your actions, such as avoiding sin as best you can.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Adonijah claims the throne
David is getting old, and one of his sons, Adonijah, starts to brag that he will make himself king. He gathers together chariots and bodyguards and goes to Joab as well as Abiathar the priest, and takes them into his confidence (as in they promised to help him become king). Some of David's men, though, such as Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet refused to support Adonijah. Adonijah goes to the Stone of Zoheleth to make sacrifices. He invites his brothers and all the royal officials, but doesn't invite David's bodyguard who would not support him, or his brother Solomon (Bathsheba's second son with David, after the one who died). Nathan finds out about all this, though, and goes to Bathsheba, asking if she did not know, when Adonijah has gotten away with becoming king without David's knowing. He says in order to save her own life as well as Solomon's, she should go to David and tell him that Adonijah has become king, but say "didn't you make a vow and say to me, 'Your son Solomon will surely be the next king and will sit on the throne'." While she's doing this, Nathan will come and confirm to David that Adonijah has made himself king.
So Bathsheba goes to David and reminds him of the vow he made. She then says Adonijah has made himself king! As she's explaining what happened, Nathan runs in to tell David just the same thing. He asks David if he has really decided that Adonijah should be the next king. He asks in a way making it sound accusatory if he had done so without letting any of his officials know about it.
Yet again David has someone in his own house take the throne from him. Nathan said a long while back that his house would turn against him. Twice now it clearly has as his own sons have tried to take the throne (and succeeded in doing so) from him. I think it's just a lesson that really, your sins will come back for you. That's especially true when it's those ones you blatantly commit while clearly knowing they're wrong, yet doing them anyways. I think God would love to not punish us, but He has to. He knows we'll never learn if He doesn't. Also, maybe you're thinking it's a bit harsh for it to have happened TWICE to David. I mean, was once not enough? The thing is, God never makes mistakes. He knows to exactly what degree out punishment has to rightly be. He has to ensure that happens. If that means maybe we feel it comes back to get us twice, then that's just what it means. It's a matter I think of being wary of your sin. It can be easy to give in, and sometimes we are put in positions where it makes it far easier (David's was made easier because of his power). This isn't an excuse, though. We need to always be wary of our thoughts and actions, trying our best to always fall hard after God. I'm not saying we're gonna' be perfect, and I'm not trying to say I don't mess up. I mess up lots, and nobody's ever gonna' be perfect. But when you really love God, your heart will be for Him, and that will shine through in your actions, such as avoiding sin as best you can.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
April 10th
April 10th -- 2 Samuel 18:1-18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2018:1-18&version=NLT)
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
P.S. The reasoning for this being late is the same as yesterday's. I had it typed but my internet wouldn't let me put it up. And unlike Monday's I wasn't able to upload from school as I was home Wednesday and then Thursday was a snow day so I wasn't there either day.
Absalom’s defeat and death
So David gathers the force of all the men with him, appointing captains and generals to lead them. He sent his troops out in three groups, and he also went out with his troops. Some of the men, though, tell David not to come out, as they say Absalom’s men are only looking for him and he is worth 10,000 of them, so he should just stay behind and send help as it is needed. David says that he will do that if they really think that’s best. So the king does this. Also, he tells the three commanders/generals to “deal gently with young Absalom” for his sake. So the battle begins, and David’s men take the lead towards victory. 20,000 men die that day, a lot of them dying due to the forest they were fighting in.
In the battle, Absalom’s hair, while he is riding by, gets tangled in a tree. Absalom ends up caught and dangling from this tree. One of David’s men finds him, but instead of killing him goes and tells Joab, their commander. Joab asks why they didn’t kill him, saying he would have rewarded them! The man says that everyone heard David ask that his son be spared, and he would not betray his king by killing the king’s son. Joab, though, calls it nonsense and has his men kill Absalom. They then bury Absalom in a forest pit underneath piled up stones. Joab blows the ram’s horn to call David’s men back, and Israel flees to their homes. Absalom had, in his lifetime, built a monument to himself in the King’s Valley, as he said “I have no son to carry on my name.” This monument, from them on, has been known as Absalom’s monument.
What stands out most to me is probably the fact that David asks that Absalom not be killed. We are called to love everyone. It’s easy to love some people. Some people are just really easy to get along with. They have funny stories, they’re good at listening, they’re always nice, etc. Then there are those people who we find it hard to get along with. Maybe they talk too much, or they’re boring, or they don’t ever listen to us and it’s always about them. Sometimes people just do little things that bug us. We are challenged every day to love people who we may see, without God’s love, as unlovable. Sometimes it’s even people who we USED to love, and then they changed or we changed, or something happened between us and suddenly we just can’t love them like we used to. (Also, note, I don’t mean love in any of this in the romantic sense. I mean just the general love we should show all people. Romantic love’s a whole other topic I’m not getting into on this. So keep in mind when I’m talking about love I mean friend/family love.) Now, let’s look at David. Yes, Absalom was his son. However, this kid also threw his dad out of the throne, basically threatening to kill him if he didn’t up and leave on his own (he had a rebellion ready to start a war). In fact, Absalom is STILL seeking to kill David, his father. David KNOWS this, yet he still does not want his son to be killed. After all the things Absalom has done, David still loves him as his son. So the next time you’re feeling challenged to love somebody for whatever reason, I challenge you (as I am challenging myself as well) to think of David and Absalom. No matter what wrong they may have done, even against us, we should still be able to show them love, as God still loves us so we should still love them.
Well, that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
P.S. The reasoning for this being late is the same as yesterday's. I had it typed but my internet wouldn't let me put it up. And unlike Monday's I wasn't able to upload from school as I was home Wednesday and then Thursday was a snow day so I wasn't there either day.
April 9th
April 9th -- 2 Samuel 15:1-37 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2015:1-37&version=NLT)
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Yes, this was two days late. My internet's being incredibly picky over what it will and will not load. It happens to be working now, though. It should be being fixed soon, though!
National rebellion against David ; David Escapes
Jerusalem
So we’ve skipped ahead, and basically Absalom, one
of David’s sons, it plotting against his father to take the throne. So the
morning after reconciling to his father (for killing Amnon), Absalom takes a
chariot and horses as well as50 bodyguards and went to the city gates. When
people came with their problems, Absalom would ask where they were from. He
would then go on to say how unfortunate it was the king didn’t have anyone to
hear their case, because it’s quite a strong one. He then talked about how if he were the judge, he would hear
everyone’s cases so he could give out justice. People would try and bow before
him (he was a prince, after all) but he refused to let them, instead kissing
their hand. Through these actions, he starts to win over the hearts of the
people in Israel. After four years, Absalom asks to go to Hebron, saying it’s
to sacrifice. David agrees, and Absalom goes. However, when he’s there he sends
secret messages to every tribe, telling them to stir rebellion against David,
then say “Absalom has been crowned king in Hebron!” when they hear the ram’s
horn. Absalom takes 200 men with him from Jerusalem, but they don’t know about
his plans. While Absalom offers sacrifice, he sends for more people and his
conspiracy grows.
A messenger brings the news to David that Israel is
following Absalom in a rebellion against him. David urges his men to flee now
with him – he says if they do, their lives will be spared and Jerusalem will
not be destroyed. The men agree, so
everyone leaves at once. David leaves only ten concubines, charging them to
look after the palace. David brought with him his bodyguard, as well as 600 men
from Gath. The king asks the men from
Gath why they are following, explaining that they are only guests and should
not be wandering, so they should return to Absalom. Yet, the leader of the men
vows that they will follow their king, David, no matter what happens. So David
allows them to come. Everyone cried when the king and his followers passed.
David and his men head out toward the wilderness. Zadok and the Levites also
came, bringing the Ark and offering sacrifices until everyone was out of the
city. The king tells Zadok to bring the Ark back into the city, explaining that
he will see it again if God wills it so.
The king also sets up a quick and simple plan involving Zadok so that
the king can hear what it going on in the city.
David walks up the Mount of Olives, crying as he
goes. He had covered his head and had bare feet, all to signify his mourning.
Those who were with him did the same. David is informed that his advisor,
Ahithophel, is with Absalom, and prays Ahithophel gives foolish advice to
Absalom. When David reaches the summit of the mountain, Hushai the Arkite was
waiting there. His clothes were torn and there was dirt on his head to signify
his mourning. David says that if he comes he will only be a burden. He tells
Hushai to go back to Absalom and say he will become his advisor. Then he can
argue with Ahithophel’s advice. He says Zadok and the priests will be there, so
Hushai should tell them of what is going on in the palace and what plans are
being made. Then David will know what’s going on. So Hushai goes back and gets
there just as Absalom is arriving.
Absalom, David’s son, plots to overthrow David. I
think this is what Nathan meant when he confronted David for sleeping with
Bathsheba. Nathan warned David that God had said his own house would turn
against him. We see that happen in this passage. While even visitors whose
names are unknown to David stand by his side, Absalom, David’s own son, rebels.
This was part of David’s punishment for what happened with Bathsheba. Sometimes
things we do may not come back around to us at first, but that means they’ll
likely just come around later. You should be careful and conscious of all the
big choices you make, because they will have a huge effect on your future. Even
things like your purity are important to value and take care of. In this case,
the problems David faced were because he compromised his. Also, David was
affected by the bad choices of Absalom. We are not only affected by our
choices, but also those around us. Sometimes we have no say in whom our company
may be, but when you do, be wary of who you surround yourself with. Even a good
person who is always caught with a bad group will just be assumed to have a bad
reputation and suffer for it.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Yes, this was two days late. My internet's being incredibly picky over what it will and will not load. It happens to be working now, though. It should be being fixed soon, though!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
April 8th
April 8th -- 2 Samuel 13:20-39 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2013:20-39&version=NLT)
Absalom's revenge on Amnon (for the rape of Tamar)
P.S. Yes, this was up a day late. My internet was not working last night, so I couldn't get on here to update it. Thank goodness for Wifi at school! Tomorrow's may also be a day late if the internet problem's not fixed by then... just letting y'all know.
Absalom's revenge on Amnon (for the rape of Tamar)
When Absalom sees his
sister Tamara, he figures out what happened with Amnon. He tells Tamar not to
worry about it right now, and she lived in her brother’s house. David hears of
what happened and is angry, but doesn’t punish Amnon (he showed some
favoritism). Absalom never brings the issue up to Amnon, but he hates him for
it.
Two years later, Absalom’s sheep are being sheared, and he invites all the king’s sons for a feast, saying he wants them to celebrate with him. The king says he won’t, as they’d be too much of a burden with so many. Absalom insists, but the king still refuses, giving his blessing instead. Absalom then asks if Amnon may come instead. The king asks why, but Absalom will not answer, merely pressing the matter until the king agrees to let all his sons go, Amnon included. So Absalom prepares a feast. Absalom tells his men to wait until Amnon is drunk and then, when Absalom gives the order, kill Amnon. They do so, and all the other sons of the king flee. Yet, as they are still returning, David gets a report they are all dead, having been killed by Absalom, so he tears his clothes and weeps. Then Jonadab comes and says not to believe it, for it is not true. He explains only Amnon is dead, and it was because he had slept with Tamar and Absalom had been plotting ever since. Absalom escapes while this all goes on. The king’s sons get home and David mourns for a long time for Amnon. Absalom flees to his grandfather, staying with him for three years. By then, David had moved on from Amnon’s death, and he missed Absalom.
So I read some of the notes to this passage that were along the bottom. I was just curious as to why Tamar stayed and lived, unmarried, with her brother. Some people had thought she had been with Amnon out of her own desire. She had not and likely could have stood up for that, if it weren’t for Amnon. When he sent her away, it appeared to anyone who saw as her having made a sinful offer to him and him having turned her down. The only ones aware that Amnon had raped Tamar were those two. Tamar had nobody to vouch for her. Also, in that time, her chance for marriage would be gone. Once a woman was no longer a virgin back then, she could not be given in marriage. Basically, because of Amnon, Tamar really had no hopeful future (as back then women had no option for education – they were to marry and raise children and run a household). What Amnon did was disgusting. Products of lust do harm, not good. How easily a life can be crushed when lust is not controlled can be astounding. When you find yourself feeling any sense of lust, even just a bit, pray against it. It is not something godly, but something wicked. Love is from God, but lust is sin. Jesus speaks very strongly against lust in Matthew 5:27-30. Even if you cannot see it as wrong from a biblical, godly perspective, though, it is wrong for destroying your life, or that of another, in moments.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!Two years later, Absalom’s sheep are being sheared, and he invites all the king’s sons for a feast, saying he wants them to celebrate with him. The king says he won’t, as they’d be too much of a burden with so many. Absalom insists, but the king still refuses, giving his blessing instead. Absalom then asks if Amnon may come instead. The king asks why, but Absalom will not answer, merely pressing the matter until the king agrees to let all his sons go, Amnon included. So Absalom prepares a feast. Absalom tells his men to wait until Amnon is drunk and then, when Absalom gives the order, kill Amnon. They do so, and all the other sons of the king flee. Yet, as they are still returning, David gets a report they are all dead, having been killed by Absalom, so he tears his clothes and weeps. Then Jonadab comes and says not to believe it, for it is not true. He explains only Amnon is dead, and it was because he had slept with Tamar and Absalom had been plotting ever since. Absalom escapes while this all goes on. The king’s sons get home and David mourns for a long time for Amnon. Absalom flees to his grandfather, staying with him for three years. By then, David had moved on from Amnon’s death, and he missed Absalom.
So I read some of the notes to this passage that were along the bottom. I was just curious as to why Tamar stayed and lived, unmarried, with her brother. Some people had thought she had been with Amnon out of her own desire. She had not and likely could have stood up for that, if it weren’t for Amnon. When he sent her away, it appeared to anyone who saw as her having made a sinful offer to him and him having turned her down. The only ones aware that Amnon had raped Tamar were those two. Tamar had nobody to vouch for her. Also, in that time, her chance for marriage would be gone. Once a woman was no longer a virgin back then, she could not be given in marriage. Basically, because of Amnon, Tamar really had no hopeful future (as back then women had no option for education – they were to marry and raise children and run a household). What Amnon did was disgusting. Products of lust do harm, not good. How easily a life can be crushed when lust is not controlled can be astounding. When you find yourself feeling any sense of lust, even just a bit, pray against it. It is not something godly, but something wicked. Love is from God, but lust is sin. Jesus speaks very strongly against lust in Matthew 5:27-30. Even if you cannot see it as wrong from a biblical, godly perspective, though, it is wrong for destroying your life, or that of another, in moments.
P.S. Yes, this was up a day late. My internet was not working last night, so I couldn't get on here to update it. Thank goodness for Wifi at school! Tomorrow's may also be a day late if the internet problem's not fixed by then... just letting y'all know.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
April 7th
April 7th -- 2 Samuel 13:1-19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2013:1-19&version=NLT)
The rape of Tamar
So David's son Absalom had a sister named Tamar who was very beautiful. Another of David's sons, or Tamar's half-brother, Amnon became sick because he was so obsessed with her. She was a virgin and he thought he could never have her. So Amnon goes to his crafty cousin, Jonadab, for advice. Jonadab tells him to go to bed and pretend he's sick, then when his dad comes, ask if his sister Tamar can come and prepare his some food and feed him, as that will make him feel better. So Amnon does this. Tamar is sent to prepare him food. She baked him his favorite dish, as she had been told to. When she goes to feed him as she had been told, he refused, and sent away all his servants. Then he tells Tamar to bring the food into his room and feed it to him there. She does this, but as she feeds him, he grabs her arm and tells her to come to bed with him. She is upset and tells him not to be foolish, saying that is wicked and they cannot. She says he should just ask the king to let them be married. Amnon wouldn't listen, though, and ended up raping her because he was much stronger than her. Yet then his love became hate, but much stronger hate than it had been love. He tried to send her away, but she protested, saying that would only make things worse. Yet he sends her away anyways. She tears the robe she wore to symbolize that she is a virgin and goes off weeping.
Yeah, so... this is an odd topic. I guess really what stands out most to me is the idea of how destructive lust is. Amnon doesn't LOVE Tamar. If he did, he'd have respected her and married her instead of raping her. Instead, he lusts after her, obsessing himself until he gets sick and then rapes her later. Lust is not godly. Love is. People commonly seem to confuse love and lust. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 has the Biblical, Godly idea of love. What Amnon displayed went so againt those traits. Love is not lust, and lust is not love. That is all. Lust will not cause you good, but only harm. Please remember that.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
The rape of Tamar
So David's son Absalom had a sister named Tamar who was very beautiful. Another of David's sons, or Tamar's half-brother, Amnon became sick because he was so obsessed with her. She was a virgin and he thought he could never have her. So Amnon goes to his crafty cousin, Jonadab, for advice. Jonadab tells him to go to bed and pretend he's sick, then when his dad comes, ask if his sister Tamar can come and prepare his some food and feed him, as that will make him feel better. So Amnon does this. Tamar is sent to prepare him food. She baked him his favorite dish, as she had been told to. When she goes to feed him as she had been told, he refused, and sent away all his servants. Then he tells Tamar to bring the food into his room and feed it to him there. She does this, but as she feeds him, he grabs her arm and tells her to come to bed with him. She is upset and tells him not to be foolish, saying that is wicked and they cannot. She says he should just ask the king to let them be married. Amnon wouldn't listen, though, and ended up raping her because he was much stronger than her. Yet then his love became hate, but much stronger hate than it had been love. He tried to send her away, but she protested, saying that would only make things worse. Yet he sends her away anyways. She tears the robe she wore to symbolize that she is a virgin and goes off weeping.
Yeah, so... this is an odd topic. I guess really what stands out most to me is the idea of how destructive lust is. Amnon doesn't LOVE Tamar. If he did, he'd have respected her and married her instead of raping her. Instead, he lusts after her, obsessing himself until he gets sick and then rapes her later. Lust is not godly. Love is. People commonly seem to confuse love and lust. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 has the Biblical, Godly idea of love. What Amnon displayed went so againt those traits. Love is not lust, and lust is not love. That is all. Lust will not cause you good, but only harm. Please remember that.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Saturday, April 6, 2013
April 6th
April 6th -- 2 Samuel 12:1-25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2012:1-25&version=NLT)
Nathan rebukes David ; David confesses his guilt
After the Bathsheba incident, God sends Nathan the prophet to David with a story. This story has a rich many with many sheep having a guest come. This man, instead of killing one of his sheep instead takes the only sheep of a poor man, who raised the sheep like a child. David is outraged by the story and says that man deserves to die and should repay the man with four sheep. Nathan explains that the man represents David. David has a grand house, the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and many wives. Yet, he took Bathsheba as his own, murdering Uriah to do so. Nathan says that God has said that for what David has done, his household will turn against him. Also, his wives will sleep with another man, and publicly, not hidden, as David tried to keep his deed.
David then confesses to Nathan that he has sinned. Nathan says God has forgiven him, yet he will still be punished with the death of his child. Nathan returns home and David's child (from Bathsheba) becomes horribly ill. David begs God, fasting and praying prostrate, yet the child dies after a week. When David hears this, he goes to the temple and worships God, then returns home and eats. His advisors are confused, but David explained that God did not spare the child for his fasting and prayer, so there is no point in continuing it now that the child is gone. David and Bathsheba comfort each other, and as a result Bathsheba becomes pregnant again. She has a son and he is named Solomon. God loved this child greatly, even sending Nathan to tell David to name him Jedidiah, as it means "beloved of the Lord".
For anyone who may not have read yesterday's post, quickly go read it.
So, as I said yesterday, punishment may not always come right away. It comes, though. In David's case it was the child who was the product of that night's sin. The punishment usually fits the sin. Sometimes it is a bigger deal than other times. Sometimes we may not even see a punishment for what it is. Yet, God also wants to bless us. We see that as David and Bathsheba later have another son, Solomon. God may seem, sometimes, as if He's being mean to us, but He never is. He's more concerned with our eternity than our earthly comfort. It may hurt to learn, but He knows what's best for us and wants only that. Whatever we go through, He has a reason for. Forgiveness may not mean no punishment, as that means we may not learn as we should from our past sins/mistakes, but forgiveness means God will not hold it against us. He does not love us more or less based on some sort of tally of sins. He loves us all equally and also unconditionally.
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
Nathan rebukes David ; David confesses his guilt
After the Bathsheba incident, God sends Nathan the prophet to David with a story. This story has a rich many with many sheep having a guest come. This man, instead of killing one of his sheep instead takes the only sheep of a poor man, who raised the sheep like a child. David is outraged by the story and says that man deserves to die and should repay the man with four sheep. Nathan explains that the man represents David. David has a grand house, the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, and many wives. Yet, he took Bathsheba as his own, murdering Uriah to do so. Nathan says that God has said that for what David has done, his household will turn against him. Also, his wives will sleep with another man, and publicly, not hidden, as David tried to keep his deed.
David then confesses to Nathan that he has sinned. Nathan says God has forgiven him, yet he will still be punished with the death of his child. Nathan returns home and David's child (from Bathsheba) becomes horribly ill. David begs God, fasting and praying prostrate, yet the child dies after a week. When David hears this, he goes to the temple and worships God, then returns home and eats. His advisors are confused, but David explained that God did not spare the child for his fasting and prayer, so there is no point in continuing it now that the child is gone. David and Bathsheba comfort each other, and as a result Bathsheba becomes pregnant again. She has a son and he is named Solomon. God loved this child greatly, even sending Nathan to tell David to name him Jedidiah, as it means "beloved of the Lord".
For anyone who may not have read yesterday's post, quickly go read it.
So, as I said yesterday, punishment may not always come right away. It comes, though. In David's case it was the child who was the product of that night's sin. The punishment usually fits the sin. Sometimes it is a bigger deal than other times. Sometimes we may not even see a punishment for what it is. Yet, God also wants to bless us. We see that as David and Bathsheba later have another son, Solomon. God may seem, sometimes, as if He's being mean to us, but He never is. He's more concerned with our eternity than our earthly comfort. It may hurt to learn, but He knows what's best for us and wants only that. Whatever we go through, He has a reason for. Forgiveness may not mean no punishment, as that means we may not learn as we should from our past sins/mistakes, but forgiveness means God will not hold it against us. He does not love us more or less based on some sort of tally of sins. He loves us all equally and also unconditionally.
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
Friday, April 5, 2013
April 5th
April 5th -- 2 Samuel 11 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%2011&version=NLT)
David and Bathsheba ; David arranges for Uriah's death
So spring one year cones and David sends his armies out but he stays behind. One evening, David gets up and goes for a walk on his rooftop. As he's looking out over the city, he sees an incredibly beautiful woman bathing (in that time people would bathe on their roofs for privacy, but the king's roof was higher than any other so he could see across them). He finds out she is Bathsheba and married to Uriah. Yet, he still sends messengers for her, brings her to his palace, and spends the night with her. He sends her home after that... but she's pregnant so she comes back. David realizes he can't have Uriah finding out, so he tries instead to mask what happened and pass of the child as Uriah's. He calls Uriah from battle and tells him to "Go on home and relax", hoping Uriah will sleep with his wife so they can pass of the child as Uriah's. However, Uriah spends the night at the castle entrance. Upon being asked why he did not go home, he said he could not do that while knowing the rest of his army is out in tents in fields. David manages to get Uriah to stay another day, yet Uriah still refuses to go home that night.
David becomes desperate, since his first plan is not working. He comes up with a new plan... he has a message sent to Joab (leading the armies at the time) saying to put Uriah on the front lines, then pull everyone else back, so Uriah will be killed. Joab does as told. David receives the report later that Uriah was, indeed, killed. When Bathsheba hears of her husband's death, she mourns for him. When her mourning period is over (likely a full year back then) David brings her to the palace and marries her. She gives birth to their son later, but God is displeased with David for what he had done.
I think this is a great example of what not to do. Don't knowingly do wrong, to being with. That's just silly when you know it's wrong and know that you cannot hide it from God. If you do, don't try and hide it and cover it up. We are supposed to be honest. We are also supposed to apologize and ask forgiveness and though we normally think we only need it from God, we are also meant to ask it of anyone we have wronged. In David's case he should have asked the forgiveness of Uriah (as well as Bathsheba, because that night was likely more like rape than anything, however everyone has to obey the king, so his word went and it happened). Also, don't do another wrong to try and cover up the first. David kills Uriah to cover up his sin of sleeping with Bathsheba. Now he has not only the guilt of sleeping with another man's wife on his hands, but also the guilt of murder, and yet another sin to add to his list.
Also, another thing I notice is that a lot of times we seem to wonder why God lets it happen. We wonder why God doesn't just speak to Moses or warn Uriah or tell Joab not to listen to the message. Things would work better if He had intervened, we think. Yet, God still knew of all that had happened, and He was, indeed, displeased. Yet, He left David to make his own choices. Sometimes when we know we're doing wrong and God doesn't seem to put his foot down, it doesn't mean God's turning a blind eye or that He's letting us get away with it this time. Rather, it means that though we break His heart with each wrong action, He is watching to let us learn from the later punishment. Don't push the boundaries. When you know you've done wrong, admit it, apologize, and ask forgiveness from whomever it needs to be asked of. Don't cover it up and let it cause more wrong.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
David and Bathsheba ; David arranges for Uriah's death
So spring one year cones and David sends his armies out but he stays behind. One evening, David gets up and goes for a walk on his rooftop. As he's looking out over the city, he sees an incredibly beautiful woman bathing (in that time people would bathe on their roofs for privacy, but the king's roof was higher than any other so he could see across them). He finds out she is Bathsheba and married to Uriah. Yet, he still sends messengers for her, brings her to his palace, and spends the night with her. He sends her home after that... but she's pregnant so she comes back. David realizes he can't have Uriah finding out, so he tries instead to mask what happened and pass of the child as Uriah's. He calls Uriah from battle and tells him to "Go on home and relax", hoping Uriah will sleep with his wife so they can pass of the child as Uriah's. However, Uriah spends the night at the castle entrance. Upon being asked why he did not go home, he said he could not do that while knowing the rest of his army is out in tents in fields. David manages to get Uriah to stay another day, yet Uriah still refuses to go home that night.
David becomes desperate, since his first plan is not working. He comes up with a new plan... he has a message sent to Joab (leading the armies at the time) saying to put Uriah on the front lines, then pull everyone else back, so Uriah will be killed. Joab does as told. David receives the report later that Uriah was, indeed, killed. When Bathsheba hears of her husband's death, she mourns for him. When her mourning period is over (likely a full year back then) David brings her to the palace and marries her. She gives birth to their son later, but God is displeased with David for what he had done.
I think this is a great example of what not to do. Don't knowingly do wrong, to being with. That's just silly when you know it's wrong and know that you cannot hide it from God. If you do, don't try and hide it and cover it up. We are supposed to be honest. We are also supposed to apologize and ask forgiveness and though we normally think we only need it from God, we are also meant to ask it of anyone we have wronged. In David's case he should have asked the forgiveness of Uriah (as well as Bathsheba, because that night was likely more like rape than anything, however everyone has to obey the king, so his word went and it happened). Also, don't do another wrong to try and cover up the first. David kills Uriah to cover up his sin of sleeping with Bathsheba. Now he has not only the guilt of sleeping with another man's wife on his hands, but also the guilt of murder, and yet another sin to add to his list.
Also, another thing I notice is that a lot of times we seem to wonder why God lets it happen. We wonder why God doesn't just speak to Moses or warn Uriah or tell Joab not to listen to the message. Things would work better if He had intervened, we think. Yet, God still knew of all that had happened, and He was, indeed, displeased. Yet, He left David to make his own choices. Sometimes when we know we're doing wrong and God doesn't seem to put his foot down, it doesn't mean God's turning a blind eye or that He's letting us get away with it this time. Rather, it means that though we break His heart with each wrong action, He is watching to let us learn from the later punishment. Don't push the boundaries. When you know you've done wrong, admit it, apologize, and ask forgiveness from whomever it needs to be asked of. Don't cover it up and let it cause more wrong.
Well, that's all! God bless! Shalom!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
April 4th
April 4th -- 2 Samuel 9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Samuel%209&version=NLT)
David's kindness to Mephibosheth
David, one day, asks about Saul's family, inquiring about if there are any left. He explains he wants to show kindness to them because of Jonathan (Recall: They were like best friends, and they had also made a vow to each other about always being friends). One of Saul's servants, Ziba, is summoned and tells David that one of Jonathan's sons, (a crippled man named Mephibosheth, as we find out later) is still alive. This man is crippled in both feet. So David finds out the man's location and sends for him. When David greets Mephibosheth, Mephibosheth answers by saying he is David's servant. David explains thought that he means to be kind to Mephibosheth, having him eat at the king's table and giving him all the property that used to belong to Saul. Mephibosheth is touched and honored by this, wondering out loud why he should have this. David then summons Ziba and tells Ziba what has been given to Mephibosheth. David tells Ziba he and his family will now serve Mephibosheth. Ziba says that he will do as he has been told. Mephibosheth begins eating at the king's table, as David promised.
Despite that fact that Jonathan is dead, David still tries his hardest to make good of his promise to Jonathan. Since he can no longer bless Jonathan, he tries to instead bless Jonathan's family. He goes out of his way to find any relative, and finds only a crippled man who even the poor would have looked down on because he was crippled. Yet, David takes this man and gives him a huge amount of land, as well as servants to work it (as a crippled man can obviously not tend his own fields). He also has Mephibosheth eat at the king's table daily, which was a HUGE honor back then. Basically, David does not find excuses to find a way out of his promises, but goes beyond and above what is necessary, showing God's love through his actions. We should also strive to do this!
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
David's kindness to Mephibosheth
David, one day, asks about Saul's family, inquiring about if there are any left. He explains he wants to show kindness to them because of Jonathan (Recall: They were like best friends, and they had also made a vow to each other about always being friends). One of Saul's servants, Ziba, is summoned and tells David that one of Jonathan's sons, (a crippled man named Mephibosheth, as we find out later) is still alive. This man is crippled in both feet. So David finds out the man's location and sends for him. When David greets Mephibosheth, Mephibosheth answers by saying he is David's servant. David explains thought that he means to be kind to Mephibosheth, having him eat at the king's table and giving him all the property that used to belong to Saul. Mephibosheth is touched and honored by this, wondering out loud why he should have this. David then summons Ziba and tells Ziba what has been given to Mephibosheth. David tells Ziba he and his family will now serve Mephibosheth. Ziba says that he will do as he has been told. Mephibosheth begins eating at the king's table, as David promised.
Despite that fact that Jonathan is dead, David still tries his hardest to make good of his promise to Jonathan. Since he can no longer bless Jonathan, he tries to instead bless Jonathan's family. He goes out of his way to find any relative, and finds only a crippled man who even the poor would have looked down on because he was crippled. Yet, David takes this man and gives him a huge amount of land, as well as servants to work it (as a crippled man can obviously not tend his own fields). He also has Mephibosheth eat at the king's table daily, which was a HUGE honor back then. Basically, David does not find excuses to find a way out of his promises, but goes beyond and above what is necessary, showing God's love through his actions. We should also strive to do this!
Well, that will be all! God bless! Shalom!
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