Monday, April 30, 2007

2 Kings 1-3

2 Kings 1-3
Insight Into Scripture
Today we start 2 Kings. Kings was written as one book, so second Kings starts right where first Kings left off. YAHWEH called Elijah for one more prophetic task, then he is taken into heaven by a whirlwind (2:11ff). Elisha continues the work of Elijah as he receives a double portion of his spirit. (2:9-10) Then in chapter 3 we read about the fall of Moab through the prophetic words of Elisha (3:15-18).
Elisha asked for a harpist (3:15). Harps were used to induce a trancelike state to receive a divine message.

This is a picture of the modern day Moab. Moab is situated on an isolated hilltop, with a view in all directions. This made Moab one of the strongest fortresses in the Middle East. After seeing a picture of this city I could see how the king could sacrifice his firstborn, it has a "Cold" look to it. These pictures are taken from Bibleplace.com

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Scripture Reading
30 And Ahab the son of Omri did evil in the sight of the LORD, more than all who were before him. 31 And as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, he took for his wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went and served Baal and worshiped him. 32 He erected an altar for Baal in the house of Baal, which he built in Samaria. 33 And Ahab made an Asherah. Ahab did more to provoke the LORD, the God of Israel, to anger than all the kings of Israel who were before him. - 1 Kings 16:30-33

Thought for the Day
As I have said before, I love character studies. It shows me that these great biblical figures were just as human as you and I. Along with studying great biblical figures I believe that we can also learn from not so great..... maybe even evil biblical figures. Ahab was just one of these people.
Ahab was said to be the most evil king of Israel (1 Kings 16:30-33) so I thought it might be worth a look to see what made him so evil. Other than the fact that he promoted idol worship, the one thing that I believe angers YAHWEH the most. Two traits stand out in Ahab:
~ Selfishness that is left uncontrolled will lead to great evil. In the story of Naboth's Vineyard in 1 Kings 21 other than Ahab acting like a total child, his greed and selfishness consumed him. Ahab wanted this vineyard so badly he laid on his bed sullen and refused to eat. I am sure that with him being a king he had other vineyards, but he HAD to have Naboth's.
Our world is FILLED with toys that you may never obtain, how do you handle the desire? Do you find yourself thinking about it so much that it just makes you totally unhappy? Or is your desire something you can control? If you are having trouble with your desires you need to slowly empty the "Evil" desires and replace it with CHRIST!
~ Your choice of a mate in life will have a HUGE effect on your life. Ahab married Jezebel. She was as evil if not more, than Ahab. When Ahab was struggling with his selfishness Jezebel was there to help his evil way. She set up the murder of Naboth, (1 Kings 21:7-16) and from what it sounds like had a big influence in Ahab's evilness.If you are unmarried, dating, and making a choice for your spouse, GOD needs to be apart of your decision. It is a HUGE decision and in today's world I am afraid the odds are against you. You need a Godly spouse by your side.
If you married right now and your relationship is not the best. You need to gather in unity and put GOD first, after this is done everything else falls into place. Sometimes counseling is needed, but it is worth it. There is nothing as unstoppable as a good team!


Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank You for the partner You have put into my life. We are definitely unstoppable with You at the lead. Father I pray deeply for those that do not have that unity and struggle everyday just to be a part of something they are so sad or hurt by. Father I pray that they will let You step in and take over, that is all that can help.
I love You and I pray in Jesus Name,
Amen.

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Blessings,
We are now up and running on Gods411 YouTube Devotionals. These are quick 5 minute devotionals for those people that like a video more than reading.

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Thanks!
Jim

Sunday, April 29, 2007

1 Kings 21-22

Insight Into Scripture
During the weekend we were introduced to one amazing prophet; Elijah. And two very evil people; King Ahab and his wife Jezebel. Ahab and Jezebel were bad news for GOD's prophets. Jezebel enjoyed killing GOD's prophets, not good news for Elijiah! But, YAHWEH called Elijiah to confront the evil duo. It really is an interesting story that ends up with Ahab being killed by an arrow that just happens to land between the sections of his armor.

This is a picture of Mount Carmel. If tradition is correct this would be the best view of the "Contest" between Elijah and Ahab's prophets. (18:16ff) Look at this picture and imagine 2 altars, one altar with a lone man; Elijiah, who was sitting or maybe praying to YAHWEH. The other altar had 850 screaming, bleeding, dancing men. Now, paint the hillside with hundreds, maybe thousands of Israelites that came out to see which god would be victorious. These pictures are taken from Bibleplace.com

Scripture Reading
17 When Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said to him, "Is it you, you troubler of Israel?" 18 And he answered, "I have not troubled Israel, but you have, and your father's house, because you have abandoned the commandments of the LORD and followed the Baals. 19 Now therefore send and gather all Israel to me at Mount Carmel, and the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel's table." 25 Then Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, "Choose for yourselves one bull and prepare it first, for you are many, and call upon the name of your god, but put no fire to it." 26 And they took the bull that was given them, and they prepared it and called upon the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, "O Baal, answer us!" But there was no voice, and no one answered. And they limped around the altar that they had made. 27 And at noon Elijah mocked them, saying, "Cry aloud, for he is a god. Either he is musing, or he is relieving himself, or he is on a journey, or perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened." 28 And they cried aloud and cut themselves after their custom with swords and lances, until the blood gushed out upon them. 29 And as midday passed, they raved on until the time of the offering of the oblation, but there was no voice. No one answered; no one paid attention.
30 Then Elijah said to all the people, "Come near to me." And all the people came near to him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that had been thrown down. 31 Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, to whom the word of the LORD came, saying, "Israel shall be your name," 32 and with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD. And he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two seahs of seed. 33 And he put the wood in order and cut the bull in pieces and laid it on the wood. And he said, "Fill four jars with water and pour it on the burnt offering and on the wood." 34 And he said, "Do it a second time." And they did it a second time. And he said, "Do it a third time." And they did it a third time. 35 And the water ran around the altar and filled the trench also with water. 36 And at the time of the offering of the oblation, Elijah the prophet came near and said, "O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. 37 Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back." 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, "The LORD, he is God; the LORD, he is God." -1 Kings 18:16-19, 25-39 ESV

Thought for the Day
Have you ever felt unpopular? Or maybe the decision to follow Christ has not put you on societies A list? Maybe you have even lost some of your friends because of your choice? I bet if you were to ask Elijiah those questions, he would answers YES!
Being a prophet was not a popular line of work these days. Jezebel was killing The LORD's prophets (18:4) Elijiah was the cause of a 3 year drought (18:1) and now YAHWEH wanted Elijiah to confront the man who most likely hated him the most, as you can tell by Ahab's greeting in verse 18:17.
But, Elijiah being a faithful servant did what YAHWEH instructed. Can you imagine what Elijiah must of felt like, being out numbered 850 to 2? But, Elijiah knew something that the others did not, he had The Living GOD on his side. He had faith that his ONE would defeat ANY number, nothing was larger than his GOD. Don't you love how Elijiah taunted the other 850 so called prophets? "Shout louder, maybe his is on vacation." Heh Heh Heh
We read these stories and think to ourselves, "This happened so long ago, I mean it was the OLD testament." WRONG! The same GOD that was there with Elijiah is here right now with you. GOD does not change (Heb. 13:7-8) So next time you are feeling all alone, or like an outcast for something you believe in, remember that YOUR GOD is ALWAYS with you, and YOUR GOD is bigger than any number or situation. Find your peace and rest in HIM!

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank You for the Sabbath and time of rest with You. Father I pray for Your guidance in my daily life. Please help me to know Your plan and help me to be obedient. I pray Father that I will always know that You are always bigger than the world that surrounds me and I am safe in You.
I love You and I pray in Your great Name,
Amen

Thursday, April 26, 2007

1 Kings 14-15


Insight Into Scripture

Right after King Solomon's death Israel is stuck in a constant cycle of sin. The chapters today are no exception, the cycle keeps on going around.Asherah was a goddess. It is sad, but if you do a search for Asherah Poles on google, our culture still worships her (14:23). (Do not search if you are not firmly planted in Christ)Wiping out a predecessor's family seems extremely harsh, and it is. It was a way of eliminating all future claimants to the throne. (15:29)


This picture is the Elah Valley. This strategic city was wisely fortified by Rehoboam who we are reading about (14:21). This valley was famous for another battle; David and Goliath. If you click on the picture you will see the Brook Elah (Scroll down). This is the brook that David took the stones from that ended Goliath's life. I would LOVE to visit that brook and take home a couple of stones! The picture is from Bibleplaces.com


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Scripture Reading
9 but you have done evil above all who were before you and have gone and made for yourself other gods and metal images, provoking me to anger, and have cast me behind your back.
22 And Judah did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, and they provoked him to jealousy with their sins that they committed, more than all that their fathers had done.3 And he walked in all the sins that his father did before him, and his heart was not wholly true to the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father.
25 Nadab the son of Jeroboam began to reign over Israel in the second year of Asa king of Judah, and he reigned over Israel two years. 26 He did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and walked in the way of his father, and in his sin which he made Israel to sin. - 1 Kings 14:9, 22, 15:3, 25-26 ESV

Thought for the Day
Sin is evil and contagious. Once you accept that little sin it is much easier to accept a larger one, then a larger one, then a larger one, the cycle keeps going on and on, till you are DEEP into sin. I am sure that if someone had told King David that he would commit adultery and murder, he might tell you that you were crazy. King David's sin started with just a little look, the look turned into lust, the lust gave birth to action. King David was so stuck in sin it took his friend Nathan to show him what he was doing. Sin has almost a numbing effect on us.
As followers of Christ, we must stay close to Jesus. We need to watch how we are spending our time. In ancient times they did not have TV's, cell phones, or internet, there is so much that consumes our time these days. In ancient times they made their gods, we already have them made for us. As you are reading these chapters, nothing angers GOD more than having a "god" before Him that we worship.
To stay clear of sin and live a life that pleases GOD we have to spend time with HIM. If you are not putting down that other god and giving the Living GOD priority of your time, sin is lurking around the corner to pounce on you. Which one of your gods have you spent the most time with this week?

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Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for Your daily teachings. I pray that I will continue to read, Your word and that You will help me to see the words pop out at me and teach me to be like You. Father I know this is a HUGE stretch, but I want to try everyday to be less like me, and only with Your help can I do that.
I love You and I pray in Your Name,
Amen.

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

1 Kings 12-13

Insight Into Scripture
Right after Solomon's death the curse of YAHWEH is taking effect. The new King; Jeroboam does not even seek YAHWEH. He builds a shrine for his golden calves. Jeroboam did not follow YAHWEH's rule and appoints just about anyone a priest.
The sharing of a meal was often used in a treaty or covenant making process. This is why YAHWEH instructed the prophet not to partake in a meal. (13:7-9)

This picture is believed to be the podium that Jeroboam constructed to house the golden calf at Dan (12:25ff). Archaeologists now think the platform was roofed. As the story goes: when "A Man of GOD" came to challenge Jeroboam, Jeroboam was angered, stretched out his hand, and it shriveled up! (13:4) This picture is from Bibleplace s.com

Scripture Reading
18 And he said to him, "I also am a prophet as you are, and an angel spoke to me by the word of the LORD, saying, 'Bring him back with you into your house that he may eat bread and drink water.'" But he lied to him. 19 So he went back with him and ate bread in his house and drank water.
20 And as they sat at the table, the word of the LORD came to the prophet who had brought him back. 21 And he cried to the man of God who came from Judah, "Thus says the LORD, 'Because you have disobeyed the word of the LORD and have not kept the command that the LORD your God commanded you, 22 but have come back and have eaten bread and drunk water in the place of which he said to you, "Eat no bread and drink no water," your body shall not come to the tomb of your fathers.'" 23 And after he had eaten bread and drunk, he saddled the donkey for the prophet whom he had brought back. 24 And as he went away a lion met him on the road and killed him. And his body was thrown in the road, and the donkey stood beside it; the lion also stood beside the body. 1 Kings 13:18-24 ESV

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Thought for the Day
When our son is confronted with a problem, he will ask our opinion. Sometimes we will not give him an answer that he wants or likes. So instead of listening to the wisdom that Kim and I have, he will go seeking the answer that he wants. If he asks enough people he will get the answer that suits him, it most likely will not be the answer that is right, but he got what he wanted.
In your Christian walk there are going to be times where you are searching for answers. In our age of technology you can find answers anywhere at anytime. We need to be aware that there are alot of false prophets and teachers out there. Yes, not everyone on TBN is aligned with Christ. I have seen some programs that have just enraged me! This must be very confusing for "New Believers."
Just as the prophet from GOD fell into the trap of listening then believing the lying "Old Prophet" we need to question anything that goes against the Word of GOD. This prophet should have thought; GOD told me not to partake in a meal, so unless GOD tells me different, I will not listen or believe them.Today we still have GOD, HE speaks to us through HIS word. As you are listening, reading, or googling if something does not sound right, ask GOD!

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Closing Prayer
Dear JesusFather as I stare at the awe of Your nature scenes out my window, I can not help but to be overwhelmed with gratefulness, thank You for that. I pray that I can be a strong force for You everyday. That I will follow Your truths, hear those truths and be obedient. I pray Father that You will forgive me for those times that I am a sinner and I ask Your forgiveness, guidance and growth. Thank You for always being there,
I love You and I pray in Your Name,
Amen.


Monday, April 23, 2007

1 Kings 8


Insight Into Scripture

In today's reading Solomon brings the Ark into the Most Holy place, then he dedicates the temple to YAHWEH, turns and prays for the people and blesses them.The temple was dedicated in the month of Ethanim (8:2) this corresponds to September - October.

Blessings~
This is a picture of Solomon dedicating the temple to YAHWEH. The dedication and celebration took 14 days. (8:65) Solomon offered 22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats as a sacrifice before the LORD. (8:63) Can you even try to imagine that. WOW! It must has been an all day all night constant giving to the LORD.
Here is an interesting point..... with as much as that must have cost Israel to sacrifice all those animals, they were not worried about the cost, they were worried about YAHWEH. Right now Israel is about to enter into a huge blessing period. They have peace in all the land, and they are going into the wealthiest period they have known. Do you see a connection between the two?

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Scripture Reading
5 At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, "Ask what I shall give you." 6 And Solomon said, "You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. 7 And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. 9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?"10 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. 11 And God said to him, "Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, 12 behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. 13 I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days.
14 And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days." - 1 Kings 3:5-14

Thought for the Day
I know that this passage of scripture is in the past, but I have not been able to get my mind off of it since I have read it. The answer that Solomon gave YAHWEH just impresses me! I have spent the last couple of days thinking of how I would have answered. I have tried to be honest with myself and I am not sure that I would have answered as Solomon had.
Can you imagine The GOD of the universe coming to you asking what you wanted. Then telling you that what you wanted, HE would provide.....ANYTHING. Without putting any thought into it, what would it be? What would be your reasoning for your answer? If you had some time to ponder the thought, would it change your mind?
I would say that your first answer would be a good pulse where your heart is at. If your first response is not something that you like, what do you need to do to get your heart where you would be happy with your response? King Solomon made an amazing choice, he put GOD first and his task at hand first, which pleased GOD. So much that YAHWEH gave Solomon what he asked for and MORE!.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for giving us choices and free will. I pray Father that I can continue to do more for You and less for my worldly needs. I pray Father that I can be a great light for You and that I will dress myself in You.
I love You and I pray in Your Name,
Amen

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Sunday, April 22, 2007

1 Kings 5-7


Insight Into Scripture

Since Friday's devotional we have started 1 Kings. King David passed away and Solomon was established as king after his father David. (2:10)
GOD came to Solomon in a dream and asked what Solomon desired. Solomon answered that he wished for wisdom; this impressed GOD, so GOD gave not only wisdom, but wealth and honor, and long life if Solomon obeyed His commands. (3:10ff)In chapter 5 we start with Solomon preparing to build the Temple.

Blessings~
The picture to the left is a drawing of how Solomon's Temple may have looked. Did you note how Solomon put YAHWEH first? Solomon built the temple of the LORD, then he built his own palace.
Solomon was said to be the wisest man on earth, as we are reading 1 Kings see if you can pick up on some of his characteristics.

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Scripture Reading
3 "You know that David my father could not build a house for the name of the LORD his God because of the warfare with which his enemies surrounded him, until the LORD put them under the soles of his feet. 4 But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side. There is neither adversary nor misfortune. 5 And so I intend to build a house for the name of the LORD my God, as the LORD said to David my father, 'Your son, whom I will set on your throne in your place, shall build the house for my name.' 1 Kings 5:3-5 ESV

Thought for the Day
If you flip back to 2 Samuel 7, you might remember how David had the desire to build The LORD's Temple. But, YAHWEH came to the prophet Nathan and told him to tell David that HE had other plans for David and not to worry about the Temple right now.
Have you ever been in David's shoes? You had this idea or desire to do or start something for GOD, but, when you started that project it seemed like you encounter all kinds of resistance? In fact maybe the project never got off the ground and died, and you stepped back in confusion and wondered why? If it weren't for GOD, would not all be good?
I have experienced just that. I started a pastor training program at my church. Just when I started I was diagnosed with my disease and I had to stop. It was a very confusing time. I could not understand why GOD would not want me to become a pastor??? As I became better I started the program again for the second time, and again I became sick right away. It was like GOD was saying "I have other plans for you, but you are not listening!!" Finally I gave up the dream and started listening to GOD. Guess what, things started to move in my life.
Are you at that point in your life where you are pushing and pushing to make something happen, and nothing is. Maybe you are like David; GOD has other plans for your life, but you are so busy pushing your way, you can't hear what GOD is trying to tell you. Stop, be still, and hear GOD, let Him move you in the path HE needs you.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Praise You Father for all the many blessings I experience everyday. Thank You for loving me so much that You forgive me for being so human. Father I pray today that You will help me to make sure I listen to You and I move where You want me to move, not where I think I should move. I pray that You will give me the discernment to know the difference.
I love You and I pray In Your Name,
Amen.

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Thursday, April 19, 2007

2 Samuel 23-24


Insight Into Scripture

The list of 30 men in chapter 23 were a special group that had attached themselves to David. They served as a "Special Forces" group.
Taking census was a practical measure utilized by governments. But these census were not appreciated by the people. It usually lead to tax levies as well as forced labor and military services.(24:1-7)
The angel afflicting the people (24:16) was the same terminology used for the destroying angel in the Passover.
A threshing floor (24:24) was a place where grain was threshed. Usually clay soil was packed to a hard smooth surface. Sheaves of grain were spread out on the floor then trampled by oxen. Fans or shovels were used to separate the chaff.

Blessings
In verse 24:18 the Bible states how David built an altar to YAHWEH and sacrificed oxen for his disobedience. YAHWEH was pleased with David's sacrifice and stopped the plague on Israel.
This weekend we start into the books of Kings. I have posted the readings below. The first part of 1 Kings starts with David's death and Solomon's reign. I pray that you have a BLESSED weekend!

Scripture Reading
1 Again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he incited David against them, saying, "Go, number Israel and Judah." 2 So the king said to Joab, the commander of the army, who was with him, "Go through all the tribes of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, and number the people, that I may know the number of the people." 3 But Joab said to the king, "May the LORD your God add to the people a hundred times as many as they are, while the eyes of my lord the king still see it, but why does my lord the king delight in this thing?" 4 But the king's word prevailed against Joab and the commanders of the army. So Joab and the commanders of the army went out from the presence of the king to number the people of Israel.
10 But David's heart struck him after he had numbered the people. And David said to the LORD, "I have sinned greatly in what I have done. But now, O LORD, please take away the iniquity of your servant, for I have done very foolishly." - 2 Samuel 24:1-4, 10 ESV

Thought for the Day
This story is a good example of pride, faith, YAHWEH's mercy. See 1 Chronicles 21:1-17 for more insight to this story.
The story starts out by David being tempted by satan. Maybe satan played with David's pride, or maybe satan used fear to tempt David to take the census. Whatever it was David lost the connection with YAHWEH and gave into the temptation. What do you do when you are tempted by satan?
It was wrong for David to take the census. Israel was at peace so there was no need to enlist the troops. Joab knew this census was wrong. He even tried to call David on it, but David, being the anointed king, had the final say and Joab respected him. When you are struggling with a decision you must make, are you open to others opinions or are you closed minded? GOD may put someone in your life to be HIS voice, are you listening?
David, being true to his character felt guilty about his decision, desired to make peace with YAHWEH, admitted his sin, and accepted YAHWEH's judgement. When you have sinned, are you quick to ask forgiveness and humbly accept any consequences given?
In closing I saw one point that I thought I would share with you. YAHWEH gave David his punishment after he had confessed his sin, not before. Maybe YAHWEH wanted David to confess first, and see if David was truly sorry by his acceptance of the punishment. I hope this story of David helped you see events happening in your life.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Lord for this awesome moon and star that are glistening through my window, as if You are saying good night. Father thank You for the time we get to share together, I pray that I can use it wisely. Father I pray that You help me realize my sins, and confess them with an open heart. Thank You for loving me so much.
In Jesus' name I pray,
Amen.
PS I love You.


Wednesday, April 18, 2007

2 Samuel 21-22

Insight Into Scripture
Famine or plagues was often looked upon as a sign of divine disapproval or wrath. (21:1)The Philistine's spear weighed 300 shekels which is equivalent to 7 1/2 lbs. Half the weight of Goliath's. (21:16)
Deformities were the object of intense curiosity and speculation in the ancient world.
(21:20-22)The next four chapters are an appendix to the book. They are not presented in any chronological order.The story in chapter 21 happened at our present time. Barley harvest was late April. Today, represents the month of Lyyar in the Jewish Calendar.

Blessings~
This is a picture of Gath. It was the Philistine city where David's brother; Shimeah, killed a "Huge man" with 6 fingers and 6 toes. This is also the famous site where David struck down Goliath.I have often thought when one of the writers of the Bible made light of a certain feature of a person, it must have made an impression on them.
These photos are taken from Bibleplac es.com

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Scripture Reading
28 "And now, O Lord GOD, you are God, and your words are true, and you have promised this good thing to your servant. 29 Now therefore may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you, O Lord GOD, have spoken, and with your blessing shall the house of your servant be blessed forever." - 2 Samuel 7:28- 29 ESV

Thought for the Day
I really enjoy studying the profiles of great Biblical Characters. It helps me realize that these "Great" men and women of the Bible were just as human as you and I. They made their mistakes and successes and the Bible makes no effort to hide them. I find by looking at their personalities it gives me hope. As we are getting ready to close with Samuel, I have put together a couple of notes for King David.
When I think of King David, I think of a man who loved YAHWEH with all of his heart. He was a great leader full of grace, mercy, and the peace that can only be found of a life in YAHWEH.
Weakness and Mistakes:
Committed Adultery
Committed Murder by Arranging the Death of Uriah
Disobeyed God in taking a Census of the People (Coming chapters)Weak Father, He Did Not Take Care of His Children's Problems
Strengths and Success:
Greatest King of Israel
Christ's Ancestor
Described as a Man after GOD's own Heart (Acts 13:22)
Life Lessons:
David had a willingness to admit when he had sinned. He did not try and hide, deny, or try to scapegoat out of the sin. Even when Nathan called David on his sin, David was quick to admit it, and to ask forgiveness from YAHWEH. He was also sincere when asking for forgiveness.
Sin, and forgiveness of sin does not exclude the consequences. When David sinned even though he was "A man after GOD's own heart" and was sincere about his sin, David still had to deal with the consequences of his disobedience.
I know that YAHWEH loves and desires our worship and trust. Many times David's life hung in the balance. I am sure at times the only thing that he could rely on was YAHWEH and HIS deliverance. David also worshiped YAHWEH with all of his heart. Nothing stood in between he and YAHWEH. Remember when he was talking to Michal, he told her that he would even be more foolish for YAHWEH. 6:16-23)

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
God is good, all the time. Thank You Father for this day, for my Divine appointments and the beauty of my family around me. I pray that I can learn from my consequences, that I can have a deeper heart for You everyday and that I can learn to be less sinful. Father I know that I am not or ever will be perfect, but I want to be more like You and less like me.
I love You Jesus, and I pray in Your heavenly Name,
Amen.

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Tuesday, April 17, 2007

2 Samuel 19-20


Insight Into Scripture

As you have been reading, have you noticed a change in the tempo of David's life? It seemed like he and YAHWEH were unstoppable, then David sinned and it seems like he has been struggling ever since.
Neglect of personal appearance accompanied by mourning. (19:24)In verse 20:3 the Bible tells how David locks up his 10 concubines, at first it seems cruel, but after further reading they could no longer serve David, as Absalom sexually used them. David maintained his obligation to them, but they could never have children for him.

This is a picture of the City of David. The Temple Mount, which is today crowned with the gold-domed, Dome of the Rock. It is almost dead center in the city. To see more pictures of the city, click on the picture. In the city they have excavated 4 toilets, you will see the toilet towards the bottom of the page. The photo is taken from Bibleplaces.com

Scripture Reading
18 and they crossed the ford to bring over the king's household and to do his pleasure. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before the king, as he was about to cross the Jordan, 19 and said to the king, "Let not my lord hold me guilty or remember how your servant did wrong on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. Do not let the king take it to heart. 20 For your servant knows that I have sinned. Therefore, behold, I have come this day, the first of all the house of Joseph to come down to meet my lord the king." 21 Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered, "Shall not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD's anointed?"

Thought for the Day
What are you like after you have had a REALLY bad day at work? Are you full of sunshine? Or maybe you had a REALLY bad day with the kids and you are at your wits end. Are you the most understanding person? Or maybe your day at school was the WORST, problem after problem. Are you ready to converse with others?
King David just had a couple of those days, possibly weeks. He was chased out of his kingdom by his son, left everything, his son took his place as king. Then after mustering his men to fight for his kingdom, he gave them special instructions not to touch his son, which they ignored. THEN to make matters worse, he was corrected by Joab for his mourning. As he returns to Jerusalem he is confronted by 3 people. Shimei who betrayed him, Mephibosheth; Saul's grandson, and Barzillai. How would you react?
David reacts with mercy and generosity. If anyone had the right to be grumpy, it would have been David. I think I might have said, off with Shimei's head, and do not bug me right now! This kind of inter peace only comes from a life if Christ. David displays a shining example to us all.
Do you have that kind of inner peace, where no matter what goes wrong, you display the traits of Jesus?

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Lord for your peace and mercy. I pray today that I can have that inner peace that You have Father. I pray that I can feel that peace and inner quietness as I go through my day and the peacefulness tends to go away. I pray Father that You will fill in that void with Your love and peace so that I can display Your love to others.
I love You and I pray in Your Great Name,
Amen.

Monday, April 16, 2007

2 Samuel 17-18


Insight Into Scripture

When the Old Testament speaks of "The land devouring people" (18:8) it is indicating a hostile, inhospitable environment.
Ten Shekel and a warrior's belt (18:11) would be one year's worth of pay and a distinctive article of clothing.
The javelin used to strike Absalom would have been a blunt rod. The heart section that the Bible refers to would have been Absalom's chest area. (18:14)


This is a picture of Absalom's monument. You can find the story of the death of Absalom in 2 Samuel 18:18 "Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and set up for himself the pillar that is in the King's Valley, for he said, "I have no son to keep my name in remembrance." He called the pillar after his own name, and it is called Absalom's monument to this day."
The tomb is known today as Yad Avshalom (Avshalom's Monument) and is located in the Kidron Valley in Jerusalem, situated between the Temple Mount and Mount of Olives.
A custom that the people of Jerusalem had for centuries is that they used to come to this monument with their children and stone it, to show children what happens to sons who disobey their parents.

Scripture Reading
9 And Absalom happened to meet the servants of David. Absalom was riding on his mule, and the mule went under the thick branches of a great terebinth, and his head caught fast in the oak, and he was suspended between heaven and earth, while the mule that was under him went on. 10 And a certain man saw it and told Joab, "Behold, I saw Absalom hanging in an oak."
14 Joab said, "I will not waste time like this with you." And he took three javelins in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom while he was still alive in the oak. 15 And ten young men, Joab's armor-bearers, surrounded Absalom and struck him and killed him.
16 Then Joab blew the trumpet, and the troops came back from pursuing Israel, for Joab restrained them. 17 And they took Absalom and threw him into a great pit in the forest and raised over him a very great heap of stones. And all Israel fled every one to his own home. - 2 Samuel 18:9-10, 14-17

Thought for the Day
As I was reading how Absalom died, having his head stuck, I am sure that his long, beautiful, heavy hair did not help his situation. I remembered a couple of chapters before (14:25-26) where it described Absalom as a very handsome man, and the Bible made light of his very heavy hair. I could not help but to get the sense that Absalom may have been very prideful of his beautiful hair. How ironic that the very thing he may have been prideful of, was the very thing that may have gotten him killed?
Jesus taught against pride and boasting, and praised the meek and humble."Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted". -Matt. 23:12
He gave us examples of what not to do in Luke 20:46-47 - "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation." Yes, Jesus was very clear where YAHWEH stands on the issue.
Pride is a hard emotion to keep in check in today's world. Being a servant and humble is almost looked down upon as weak, and a poor quality. But the greatest man who ever lived, was the most humble and servant-hearted man. How is your pride level? Do you find yourself always outdoing the other person you are talking to? Are you more interested in yourself than the other person? I will leave you with a quote from What Jesus Demands of the World by John Piper (A very GOOD Book)
"Boasting is the voice of pride in the heart of the strong. Self-pity is the voice of pride in the heart of the weak."

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank You for your great stories. Thank You for teaching me through Your word. I pray that I will be meek and humble more and more everyday. I pray that I can be a shining example for You. Father I pray for the unknowing people, I pray that their hearts will be touched and Your word will be heard.
I love You father and I pray in Your Name,
Amen.

Bible Trivia
What does the apostle Paul, in the book of Romans, say Christians are not under, now that they are under grace?
a) Condemnation
b) The Flesh
c) The Law
d) The Curse
Hint: Romans 6:14-15

'ehevu 'ethashem (Love the LORD)

Sunday, April 15, 2007

2 Samuel 15-16


Insight Into Scripture

In today's reading Absalom has turned on his father. He has made a choice to take over David's kingdom by deceit and power. Absalom's choice to be crowned king in Hebron was a shrewd political maneuver. Hebron was 19 miles away from Jerusalem, and David was first crowned king.


I pray that you had a blessed Sabbath Day. Even though Easter Sunday has passed, I hope that you will keep that spirit of our Resurrected Savior alive.Today, we are going to jump back a couple of chapters. Things were going great for David. He honored YAHWEH and obeyed HIM in everything that he did, and YAHWEH gave him success in everything he did until...........

Scripture Reading
David and Bathsheba1 In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel. And they ravaged the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king's house, that he saw from the roof a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful. And David sent and inquired about the woman. And one said, "Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?" So David sent messengers and took her, and she came to him, and he lay with her. (Now she had been purifying herself from her uncleanness.) Then she returned to her house. And the woman conceived, and she sent and told David, "I am pregnant." - 2 Samuel 11:1-5 ESV

Thought for the Day
Bathsheba. To be honest Bathsheba was not guilty (Until she gave in and slept with David.) Her being on the roof of her house, taking a bath after her menstrual cycle was totally normal and acceptable. David let his lust grow into sin,and sin grew into someone's death; Uriah. David also did damage to YAHWEH and his relationship.

If you have read the story before, David saw Bathsheba bathing, he had to have her, he slept with her, she became pregnant, David had to hide the fact that Bathsheda was pregnant, then he failed at trying to coax her husband to sleep with her, so he had Uriah moved to the front line where David knew Uriah would be killed. This little lust turned eventually into murder. WOW.

You might read this story and say, "Well, I would never commit adultery." But this story goes beyond adultery. The lesson here is LUST. Lust is that itty bitty voice or desire that says "I need that" no "I have to have it" or maybe "I deserve it". Your desire does not have to be the opposite sex, it can be a car, handbag, a new pair of shoes, a house, a new computer, it can be anything.
Lust that is not controlled moves you into bad places. It gives birth to sin, or might move you into financial disarray. The worse part is, you move your focus and dependance off of YAHWEH and onto worldly items, which HURTS your relationship with HIM.

I have failed in this area terribly, and I have learned that this desire comes straight from satan. You cannot play with fire and not get burned. When you feel these lustful desires coming on, do not negotiate, look the other way, focus on Christ, whatever you need to do to get your mind on heavenly things, do it. I would encourage you to be honest with yourself this week, what do you do when you see an attractive man or women, or that new mustang? Are you refocusing on heavenly things or things here on earth?

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for Your amazing love, grace and mercy that You give everyday. Thank You for new direction and journeys that keep life VERY interesting. Father I pray that I will know the direction to follow as I follow You and I pray that I keep my eyes on You and not things of this world. I want so much to be a great example for those around me so that they will ask about and get to know You. Father, I know that I am only human and I can not do it without Your help, so please help me Father to work for Your kingdom and not this world.
I love You ad I pray in Your Great Name,
Amen.

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Thursday, April 12, 2007

2 Samuel 6-9


Insight Into Scripture

David put the Ark on a new cart (6:3) to transport it back home, but YAHWEH gave instructions that the Ark was to be carried by Priests using poles to carry it. This might explain the death of Uzzah's death by touching it. (6:7) The Ark is viewed as an object requiring respect and caution. The very nature of it made it dangerous.

Moab was one of the areas that YAHWEH gave King David victory over. King David dedicated all the articles of plunder to YAHWEH. (8:11)Moab is also the land where Ruth lived. She married one of the sons of Elimelech and Naomi, before following her mother-in-law to Bethlehem. Click on the photograph to see more pictures of Edom and Moab. These photographs are taken from Bibleplaces.com.

Scripture Reading
16 As the ark of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, she despised him in her heart.
20 And David returned to bless his household. But Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David and said, "How the king of Israel honored himself today, uncovering himself today before the eyes of his servants' female servants, as one of the vulgar fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!"
21 And David said to Michal, "It was before the LORD, who chose me above your father and above all his house, to appoint me as prince over Israel, the people of the LORD--and I will make merry before the LORD. 22 I will make myself yet more contemptible than this, and I will be abased in your eyes. But by the female servants of whom you have spoken, by them I shall be held in honor."
23 And Michal the the daughter of Saul had no child to the day of her death. - 2 Samuel 6:16, 20-23 ESV

Thought for the Day
King David was a fool for YAHWEH. But, before we talk about King David's foolishness I wanted to point out a statement that was mentioned twice, so YAHWEH wants you to understand it. "The LORD gave David victory wherever he went." (8:6, 14) King David served YAHWEH with all his heart and YAHWEH honored him for it.
David had a very personal relationship with YAHWEH, he lived his life before the eyes of The LORD. Human opinions did not matter. In fact he told Michal, if you think this was foolish, you have not seen anything yet I am going to be even more foolish for YAHWEH.
Notice how YAHWEH dealt with Michal? When she died she was still childless. YAHWEH did not make a big spectacle of the situation, HE cursed her privately. I wonder if she ever made the connection of her being barren, with the anger in her heart towards King David?
I hope that this story of David and Michal encourages you. Be a fool..... a fool for Christ! Let it go, let nothing stand in your way! The next time someone says "Are you going to church again?" or "Don't you think it is foolish to carry that Book around with you all the time?" You can respond as King David. Answer, "Nope, it is not, and you have not seen foolish yet!!" Maybe you can roll your eyes and wiggle your ears to make them really wonder. :)

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Go Yahweh! You are awesome and I am so happy I have gotten to know You! I pray that I can dig deeper and learn more about You and be crazy foolish for You. I pray that people will say, " hey what's up with you?"
I love You Father and I am in Your Grip,
Amen.

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Wednesday, April 11, 2007

2 Samuel 3-5


Insight Into Scripture

There is alot of references to concubines. Concubines were women without dowry, who include among their duties providing children to the family.

Blessings
In our readings today, the LORD went out before David as he struck down the Philistines from Gibeon to Gezer. This is a picture of Gezer. To see more pictures of Gezer click on the picture. These photographs are taken from Bibleplaces.com.

Scripture Reading
9 But David answered Rechab and Baanah his brother, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, "As the LORD lives, who has redeemed my life out of every adversity, 10 when one told me, 'Behold, Saul is dead,' and thought he was bringing good news, I seized him and killed him at Ziklag, which was the reward I gave him for his news. 11 How much more, when wicked men have killed a righteous man in his own house on his bed, shall I not now require his blood at your hand and destroy you from the earth?" 12 And David commanded his young men, and they killed them and cut off their hands and feet and hanged them beside the pool at Hebron. But they took the head of Ish- bosheth and buried it in the tomb of Abner at Hebron. - 2 Samuel 2:9-12 ESV

Thought for the Day
David was a great leader. Some of our best leaders today, lead by example. I am sure that you have either worked for them or have seen them in action. In verse 3:36 the Bible states that David's people were pleased with him.

Integrity was another one of David's traits. I believe there is not much integrity left in the world today. It is a dog eat dog world, do anything to get on top. We need to be a shining example of YAHWEH's integrity.

When Recab and Baanah brought David the head of his enemy, David had every right to rejoice. But David did not, the way Ish-Bosheth was killed was wrong, and David set an example to others.

How is your integrity on a scale from 1 to 10? Integrity defined in the dictionary states: "Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code." I believe that we should up that definition one more and add "To YAHWEH's Code." If you are shopping at a store and the clerk gives you too much money back, do you pocket it and think that it was their mistake, not yours. Or do you return the money and share what happened. You never know, you might just open a door to share your faith!

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Father thank You for the rainy days and the fresh air. Thank You for the many many blessings You give me everyday, that I really do not deserve. Father I pray that You mold me and make me into a better Christian. A honest heart that only wants to serve You. Father I pray for the pain and sorrows of all the insecurities in ourselves. Please help me to remember that all that matters is You and what is best for Your kingdom.
I love You and I pray in Your Name,
Amen

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Tuesday, April 10, 2007

2 Samuel 1-2


Insight Into Scripture

The pool of Gibeon was not just a pool, it was a water system for Gibeon. In time of battle the city could rely on their own water system. It is estimated that 3,000 tons of rock had to be removed to build this system.
The butt end of a spear is made reference several times. (2:23) The butt end of the spear was honed to a point, it was for a goad or to stick the spear into the ground. It sounds just as lethal as the "Sharp" end.

This picture may be the Pool of Gibeon. The Bible makes references to the "Pool of Gibeon" several times.This must have been a popular spot to gather around. This is the spot where David's men defeated Abner's men. (2 Samuel 2: 8:17) The Bible tells us that the fighting was fierce. Click to see more pictures of Gibeon. The picture is taken from Bibleplaces.com.

Scripture Reading
11 Then David and all the men with him took hold of their clothes and tore them. 12 They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the LORD and the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword. - 2 Samuel 1:11-12

Thought for the Day
As we further look into David's character, David's expression of love and sorrow impressed me. Saul was a man who truly wanted David dead, yet David mourned Saul's death as that of a best friend or father. David respected Saul's position as the anointed King, even though he was the new king and he may have not agreed with how Saul ruled.

A thought comes to mind. A lot of times I think that I am ready for a task, but YAHWEH knows different. I am ready to go, go, go, but HE says "Not yet." It is hard for me to wait because I like to get things done, but I have learned that YAHWEH's timing is always perfect.

A good example is David. He was anointed king, so what did he do? Went back to attending his sheep until the time was right. I believe that David found security and peace in YAHWEH no matter where or what situation he was in. Maybe you are in a situation like David. You are ready to GO, but YAHWEH is telling you to wait. I would encourage you to do as David did, find your peace in HIM. When the time is right, HE will move you and it will be so much better if you wait upon HIM.

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus
Thank You Father for the prayers of others that we get to pray for. I pray Father that You will help me to be slow to react and quick to listen to You. I pray that I know when it is You moving and not me. I pray that I am obedient and make You proud. Take my heart Father and mold it. In Your Name I pray ever so deeply.
Amen

Barukh attah Adonai melekh m'hulal batishbachot