Are You Exalted In Gods Eyes?

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..........

Do You Struggle With Pride?

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)

Need Prayer? Submit Your Request Here

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.

Absalom & His Hair

Scripture Reading

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. And a certain man saw it and told Joab, "Behold, I saw Absalom hanging in an oak."

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. And ten young men, Joab's armor-bearers, surrounded Absalom and struck him and killed him.

Then Joab blew the trumpet, and the troops came back from pursuing Israel, for Joab restrained them. 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

Join Our Facebook Family

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 God stands on the issue.

Shop Books On Pride

What is Your Pride Level?

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.

What Do You Lust After?

Are You On Fire For God?

Play With Fire & Get Burned

Insight Into Scripture - 2 Samuel 15-16

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.

Things were going great for David. He honored God and obeyed HIM in everything that he did, and God gave him success in everything he did until...........

David Sees Bathsheba

Scripture Reading

David and Bathsheba 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

Think and Grow

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. (See Books on Lust)

Are You On Fire For God?

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.

Connect With Christ

Join Our Facebook Page

Need Prayer: Click HERE

Are You A Fool For God?

Are You A Fool For God?

Insight Into Scripture ~ 2 Samuel 6-9

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.

Uzzah Death By Touching Ark

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

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.

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!"

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. 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."

And Michal the the daughter of Saul had no child to the day of her death. 

2 Samuel 6:16, 20-23 ESV Use Our Bible Tool: Search For a Bible

Think n Grow

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.

Be A Fool For God!

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.

Shop Over 200,000 Christian Items

Join Our Facebook Family

Need Prayer? Click Here

Finding Peace In God

Are you are ready to GO, but God is telling you to wait?

Waiting Upon God

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.

Pool of Gibeon

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

Think n Grow

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

Join Our Facebook Family

Need Prayer? Submit Request Here

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.

Join Our Facebook Family

Connect With Jesus

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

View April's Reading Schedule

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.

Join Our Facebook Family
Connect With Christ

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.

Join Our Facebook Family

Connect With Christ

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)

Join Our Facebook Family

Need Prayer? Click Here

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.

Join Our Facebook Page
Need Prayer: Click HERE

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.

Join Our Facebook Family

Need Prayer? Click Here

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

Join Our Facebook Page

Need Prayer: Submit Request Here

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

Join Our Facebook Family

Need Prayer? Submit Your Request Here