Summary:
David's House and Family
Verses 1-7
Hiram King of Tyre sent messengers to David, along with cedar logs, stonemasons, and carpenters to build him a palace. By this, David knew that God had established him king over Israel, and that, for the sake of Israel, the kingdom would be highly revered.
In Jerusalem, David took more wives and had more children: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet. (Isn't it funny how some names carried over into our era. Imagine if, instead of Nathan, someone thought they should make Beeliada popular...)
David Defeats the Philistines
Verses 8-17
The Philistines heard that David was now king, and they searched for him in full force. David found out and went to meet them. The Philistines had raided the Valley of Rephaim. David inquired of God, asking if he should attack the Philistines and if God would hand them over to him. God said He would. So, David and his men went and defeated the Philistines. David said " 'As waters break out, God has broken out against my enemies by my hand.' " (Verse 11b) He called the place Baal Perazim, which means "the lord who breaks out".
The Philistines abandoned their gods and David ordered them burned.
The Philistines again raided the valley and again David inquired of God for instruction. God told him not to go straight up, but to circle around and attack in front of the balsam trees. Once David heard marching at the top of the trees, he was to move out, because the sound would signal that God had gone out in front of him to strike down the Philistines. "So David did as God commanded him..." (Verse 16a) They struck down the Philistines from Gibeon to Gezer. And David's fame spread throughout every land, and the Lord made the nations fear him.
Lori's Thoughts:
God encouraged David about being king by inspiring the King of Tyre to form an alliance with Israel. And David was given a palace. Just a small gift...
Now, I don't understand why it was custom for the men of that time to have several wives. I don't want to share my husband (the one I will have eventually). But, it's not something God commanded. God condemns cheating and unfaithfulness. As for the multiple wives, I'll just have to ask Him about it when we go Home.
Isn't it awesome what teamwork is like with God? God is the coach, David is the captain, and the army are the players. David asked God what move he should play in this game of Israelites vs. Philistines. David made a suggestion, God said "I support it", and the army looked up to David as their leader and went for it. And they won. What was their victory dance? I'd like to think of the idol burning as the gatorade dumping on the coach. Both gestures say, hey, coach, you're the Man and I salute you.
Now, the last few verses I want to pay particular attention to. Trouble came around again. David didn't complain. He wasn't afraid. He remembered how God had delivered them in the past. David asked God for guidance, knowing He'd never steer him wrong. This time, God had a different tactic. David didn't question God and say, my idea worked last time. He trusted God with his whole heart and obeyed God. They succeeded again and became known as the best team in their country (really, the whole world).
Obedience to God is not slavery from fun and living. Obedience to God is freedom from destruction. It is an empowerment to live to the fullest. Yes, trouble will come. But, God is with us to help us conquer and live.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
I John 4 (NIV)
Summary:
Test the Spirits
Verses 1-6
Don't believe every spirit; test them to see if they're from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. Every spirit that acknowledges that Christ came into the flesh from God is the Spirit of God. Every spirit that doesn't acknowledge Christ is a spirit of the antichrist. The antichrist spirits will come and some are already in the world.
We are children of God and have overcome them "...because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (Verse 4b) They speak from the world's viewpoint, because they are of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God and whoever knows God listens to us (the apostles). Whoever isn't from God doesn't listen to us. This is how we know the Spirit of truth versus the spirit of falsehood.
God's Love and Ours
Verses 7-21
Let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone that loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever doesn't love, doesn't know God, because God is Love.
"This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice (the One who could turn aside God's wrath) for our sins." (Verses 9-10)
Since God loves us so, we should love others. No one has seen God, but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us. We know this because He gave us the Spirit.
The apostles testify that they have seen the Son, whom God sent to be the Saviour of the world. If we acknowledge Christ as God's Son, God lives in us and us in God. We know and rely on the love God has for us. Love is made complete among us, so we'll have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world, we're like Him.
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." (Verse 18)
We love because He first loved us. If anyone claims to love God, but hates another human, they are a liar. Anyone that doesn't love others, whom they've seen, can't love God, whom they can't see. God has given us this command: whoever loves God must love others.
Lori's Thoughts:
God has given us the ability to discern good from evil. Some call it intuition, others call it "getting vibes" from someone. You know how children and animals react to good or bad people? Children don't let their intellect interfere and make them doubt. They don't tell themselves they're overreacting or being paranoid. In The Gift of Fear, by Gavin De Becker, he writes about how animals react to our reactions to good or bad people. Our pets sense what we're feeling, whether we acknowledge our feelings or not. Now, De Becker is writing about criminals that cause physical harm. John is writing about spirits. It's the same concept, except John's is harder for people to grasp, because it deals with the unseen. Trust the God in you to know who is a friend and who is an enemy. A strong child of God will rebuke an enemy and lead them to repentance and acceptance of God. There may not be the use of words, but rather a living example of someone on fire for God.
It is always encouraging to be reminded that our God is greater than any evil. And He is with us. Not only with us, but in us. Don't you feel stronger?
I was walking to the train this morning, and I felt discouraged and lonely. God asked me what was bothering me. I started complaining about my busy schedule, my almost non-existent social life, blah-blah... Then God showed me that He was walking right beside me, with His arm around my shoulders. And all my troubles fluttered away. Try it sometime! Talk and listen to your Best Friend. He understands and cares.
Song 1 for today: "Our God" by Chris Tomlin (Go YouTube it.)
In the second half of the chapter, the plan of salvation is summarized. Yesterday, I wrote about the wrath of God breaking out against Uzzah. David feared God because of it. Since Jesus came, He turned God's wrath away from us when He died on the cross. Once He returned Home, He sent us the Holy Spirit to live through us. If we accept Jesus as our Saviour and let God transform us by the power of the Spirit - there will be a lot more love in our lives. Love without fear. We will be confident on Judgment Day, because we're already His.
Go light your world with your newfound good news.
Song 2 for today: "Carry Your Candle" by Chris Rice
Test the Spirits
Verses 1-6
Don't believe every spirit; test them to see if they're from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. Every spirit that acknowledges that Christ came into the flesh from God is the Spirit of God. Every spirit that doesn't acknowledge Christ is a spirit of the antichrist. The antichrist spirits will come and some are already in the world.
We are children of God and have overcome them "...because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (Verse 4b) They speak from the world's viewpoint, because they are of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God and whoever knows God listens to us (the apostles). Whoever isn't from God doesn't listen to us. This is how we know the Spirit of truth versus the spirit of falsehood.
God's Love and Ours
Verses 7-21
Let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone that loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever doesn't love, doesn't know God, because God is Love.
"This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice (the One who could turn aside God's wrath) for our sins." (Verses 9-10)
Since God loves us so, we should love others. No one has seen God, but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us. We know this because He gave us the Spirit.
The apostles testify that they have seen the Son, whom God sent to be the Saviour of the world. If we acknowledge Christ as God's Son, God lives in us and us in God. We know and rely on the love God has for us. Love is made complete among us, so we'll have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world, we're like Him.
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." (Verse 18)
We love because He first loved us. If anyone claims to love God, but hates another human, they are a liar. Anyone that doesn't love others, whom they've seen, can't love God, whom they can't see. God has given us this command: whoever loves God must love others.
Lori's Thoughts:
God has given us the ability to discern good from evil. Some call it intuition, others call it "getting vibes" from someone. You know how children and animals react to good or bad people? Children don't let their intellect interfere and make them doubt. They don't tell themselves they're overreacting or being paranoid. In The Gift of Fear, by Gavin De Becker, he writes about how animals react to our reactions to good or bad people. Our pets sense what we're feeling, whether we acknowledge our feelings or not. Now, De Becker is writing about criminals that cause physical harm. John is writing about spirits. It's the same concept, except John's is harder for people to grasp, because it deals with the unseen. Trust the God in you to know who is a friend and who is an enemy. A strong child of God will rebuke an enemy and lead them to repentance and acceptance of God. There may not be the use of words, but rather a living example of someone on fire for God.
It is always encouraging to be reminded that our God is greater than any evil. And He is with us. Not only with us, but in us. Don't you feel stronger?
I was walking to the train this morning, and I felt discouraged and lonely. God asked me what was bothering me. I started complaining about my busy schedule, my almost non-existent social life, blah-blah... Then God showed me that He was walking right beside me, with His arm around my shoulders. And all my troubles fluttered away. Try it sometime! Talk and listen to your Best Friend. He understands and cares.
Song 1 for today: "Our God" by Chris Tomlin (Go YouTube it.)
In the second half of the chapter, the plan of salvation is summarized. Yesterday, I wrote about the wrath of God breaking out against Uzzah. David feared God because of it. Since Jesus came, He turned God's wrath away from us when He died on the cross. Once He returned Home, He sent us the Holy Spirit to live through us. If we accept Jesus as our Saviour and let God transform us by the power of the Spirit - there will be a lot more love in our lives. Love without fear. We will be confident on Judgment Day, because we're already His.
Go light your world with your newfound good news.
Song 2 for today: "Carry Your Candle" by Chris Rice
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
I Chronicles 13 (NIV)
Summary:
Bringing Back the Ark
Verses 1-14
David conferred with his officers, the commanders of hundreds and thousands. He spoke with the assembly of Israel, asking if it seemed good and if it was God's will to unite all the Israelites to retrieve the ark of the covenant. They had not inquired of it (used it for guidance) during Saul's reign. All the people agreed that this was a good idea.
David assembled the Israelites from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo Hamath. They went to Kiriath Jearim, also called Baalah of Judah, to retrieve the ark of God, who is enthroned between the cherubim. The ark is called by the Name. They moved the ark from Abinadab's house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio as guides. David and all the Israelites celebrated with all their might before God. They sang songs and played harps, lyres, tambourines, cymbals, and trumpets.
When they reached the threshing floor of Kidon, the oxen stumbled and Uzzah reached out to steady the ark. God's anger burned against him and he died. David was angry because God's wrath broke out against Uzzah. The place is now called Perez Uzzah, which means outbreak against Uzzah. David was afraid of God and felt unworthy to bring the ark with him. They took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. The ark was there for three months. The Lord blessed his household and everything he had.
Lori's Thoughts:
1. It is good to meet with others and discuss your plans to serve God. This will result in levelheaded decisions and promote humility. Also, you will be supported and aided in your endeavors. The Godhead is Three. The Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit always confer with one another. This is evident in Christ's life on Earth. He was always praying to His Father.
2. I know that David and the Israelites were overflowing with the Holy Spirit. They celebrated with all their might. Have you ever been so overwhelmed with joy that you couldn't help but cry out or dance? It's the best high ever.
3. Although Uzzah was filled with the Spirit, he was human. Humans deserve to die, because we're sinners. We cannot approach God without Christ. Christ hadn't come yet to atone for us, so Uzzah died. This is a great reminder of the magnificence of God. He is a consuming fire that we must revere. However, if we have accepted the Son and His gift of grace, that is salvation from sin, then we don't need to fear God's wrath. Christ's blood has covered us. One day, we will approach the Throne with confidence.
Bringing Back the Ark
Verses 1-14
David conferred with his officers, the commanders of hundreds and thousands. He spoke with the assembly of Israel, asking if it seemed good and if it was God's will to unite all the Israelites to retrieve the ark of the covenant. They had not inquired of it (used it for guidance) during Saul's reign. All the people agreed that this was a good idea.
David assembled the Israelites from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo Hamath. They went to Kiriath Jearim, also called Baalah of Judah, to retrieve the ark of God, who is enthroned between the cherubim. The ark is called by the Name. They moved the ark from Abinadab's house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio as guides. David and all the Israelites celebrated with all their might before God. They sang songs and played harps, lyres, tambourines, cymbals, and trumpets.
When they reached the threshing floor of Kidon, the oxen stumbled and Uzzah reached out to steady the ark. God's anger burned against him and he died. David was angry because God's wrath broke out against Uzzah. The place is now called Perez Uzzah, which means outbreak against Uzzah. David was afraid of God and felt unworthy to bring the ark with him. They took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. The ark was there for three months. The Lord blessed his household and everything he had.
Lori's Thoughts:
1. It is good to meet with others and discuss your plans to serve God. This will result in levelheaded decisions and promote humility. Also, you will be supported and aided in your endeavors. The Godhead is Three. The Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit always confer with one another. This is evident in Christ's life on Earth. He was always praying to His Father.
2. I know that David and the Israelites were overflowing with the Holy Spirit. They celebrated with all their might. Have you ever been so overwhelmed with joy that you couldn't help but cry out or dance? It's the best high ever.
3. Although Uzzah was filled with the Spirit, he was human. Humans deserve to die, because we're sinners. We cannot approach God without Christ. Christ hadn't come yet to atone for us, so Uzzah died. This is a great reminder of the magnificence of God. He is a consuming fire that we must revere. However, if we have accepted the Son and His gift of grace, that is salvation from sin, then we don't need to fear God's wrath. Christ's blood has covered us. One day, we will approach the Throne with confidence.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
I John 3 (NIV)
Summary:
Children of God
Verses 1-10
"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (Verse 1a)
The world doesn't know us because it didn't know Him. Now we are God's children; we don't know what we will be in the future. But, when He appears, we'll be like Him because we'll see Him as He is. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies themself, as He is pure.
Sin is breaking the law. It is lawlessness. Christ appeared to remove our sin. In Him there is no sin. If we live in Him, we stop sinning. If we continue to sin, we neither have seen or known Him. Don't let anyone lead you astray. If you do right, you are righteous, as He is righteous. Those that sin are of the devil because the devil has been sinning since the beginning.
"The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work." (Verse 8b)
No one born of God continues to sin, because God's seed remains in them.
"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love [their] brother [or sister]." (Verse 10)
Love One Another
Verses 11-24
The message we've heard from the beginning is this: we should love one another. Don't be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one. He murdered his brother, because his actions were evil and Abel's were righteous. Don't be surprised if the world hates you. We know we've passed from death into life, because we love others. If we do not love, we remain in death. Anyone that hates others is a murderer; no murderer has eternal life in Him.
"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for [others]." (Verse 16)
If we have material possessions and see another in need, but have no pity on them, how can we have God's love?
"...let us not love with words...but with actions and in truth." (Verse 18)
This is how we know we belong to the truth and how our hearts are at rest in His presence whenever our hearts condemn us. God is greater than our hearts and He knows all. If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive anything we ask, because we obey and please Him.
"And this is His command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us." (Verse 23)
If we obey His commands, we live in Him and Him in us. We know He lives in us by the Spirit He gave us.
Lori's Thoughts:
If we stop to think about verse 1, we will be humbled. We deserve to die, because we are wretched. But, God deeply loves us. I think once we truly understand this, we'll stop competing with each other and start seeing others as God does. We're His children.
John says that once we see Him, when He returns, we will be like Him. When Moses was given glimpses of God, his face was changed. No one could look him directly in the face, so he wore a veil until the glory of God faded from him. One day, we will see God and become a reflection of His glory forever. If we were made in His image, before there was sin, maybe sin disfigured us. When we will be in His presence, sin will be completely eradicated. Thus, we will be refigured into what He had originally planned for us. I'm definitely looking forward to no more pain. My spine won't be crooked, my big toe won't be deformed, my wrists will no longer develop cysts... But, while I'm waiting, I will lean on the Lord. He will sustain me.
When it comes to the plan of salvation, there are only two sides. Even if you do not choose the devil's side, if you fail to choose God's, you will automatically be on the devil's side. There's no pretty way to say this. You may have been deterred from following God because of someone's misrepresentation of Him. Look at the Catholic priests you keep hearing about on the news. My father, a devout Adventist, went to prison for domestic violence. Neither the priests nor my father are God! I ran from God for a few years. Then I was inspired to discover Him for myself. I believe that the priests and my father were religious in practice, but had no relationship with God. Why? Because they did not do right. Those of us that know God, for real, naturally do right and love each other.
Let me rewrite this verse: "...let us not love with words...but with actions and in truth." (Verse 18) True Christians spend less time talking and more time helping you with your broken down car, lending you money so you can pay for tuition, giving you their coat because you were cold, asking you if you're okay because you look sad today... We live in a competitive world and everyone wants to feel like they matter. But, if we stop trying to be number one and we start taking care of each other... if every person takes care of one other person, then everyone will know that they matter. If God's love truly lives in you, you won't keep it to yourself. You'll be so excited over this treasure that you found and want everyone else to experience it as well. But, then you'll hit a brick wall when you realize that the world hates you and refuses to hear what you have to say about God. It sucks. If only they knew that He is the only answer for the weight of the world on their shoulders. We can't tell people about God if they don't want to listen. However, we can show them God's love by what we do. And people are powerless against our prayers for them. This is what John means when he tells us to lay down our lives for others. We are no longer first. Self-love is never as fulfilling as love for others. Even if you only ever get loved back from one other person, that's double the love you will ever experience from loving just yourself.
Children of God
Verses 1-10
"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (Verse 1a)
The world doesn't know us because it didn't know Him. Now we are God's children; we don't know what we will be in the future. But, when He appears, we'll be like Him because we'll see Him as He is. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies themself, as He is pure.
Sin is breaking the law. It is lawlessness. Christ appeared to remove our sin. In Him there is no sin. If we live in Him, we stop sinning. If we continue to sin, we neither have seen or known Him. Don't let anyone lead you astray. If you do right, you are righteous, as He is righteous. Those that sin are of the devil because the devil has been sinning since the beginning.
"The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work." (Verse 8b)
No one born of God continues to sin, because God's seed remains in them.
"This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God; nor is anyone who does not love [their] brother [or sister]." (Verse 10)
Love One Another
Verses 11-24
The message we've heard from the beginning is this: we should love one another. Don't be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one. He murdered his brother, because his actions were evil and Abel's were righteous. Don't be surprised if the world hates you. We know we've passed from death into life, because we love others. If we do not love, we remain in death. Anyone that hates others is a murderer; no murderer has eternal life in Him.
"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for [others]." (Verse 16)
If we have material possessions and see another in need, but have no pity on them, how can we have God's love?
"...let us not love with words...but with actions and in truth." (Verse 18)
This is how we know we belong to the truth and how our hearts are at rest in His presence whenever our hearts condemn us. God is greater than our hearts and He knows all. If our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive anything we ask, because we obey and please Him.
"And this is His command: to believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as He commanded us." (Verse 23)
If we obey His commands, we live in Him and Him in us. We know He lives in us by the Spirit He gave us.
Lori's Thoughts:
If we stop to think about verse 1, we will be humbled. We deserve to die, because we are wretched. But, God deeply loves us. I think once we truly understand this, we'll stop competing with each other and start seeing others as God does. We're His children.
John says that once we see Him, when He returns, we will be like Him. When Moses was given glimpses of God, his face was changed. No one could look him directly in the face, so he wore a veil until the glory of God faded from him. One day, we will see God and become a reflection of His glory forever. If we were made in His image, before there was sin, maybe sin disfigured us. When we will be in His presence, sin will be completely eradicated. Thus, we will be refigured into what He had originally planned for us. I'm definitely looking forward to no more pain. My spine won't be crooked, my big toe won't be deformed, my wrists will no longer develop cysts... But, while I'm waiting, I will lean on the Lord. He will sustain me.
When it comes to the plan of salvation, there are only two sides. Even if you do not choose the devil's side, if you fail to choose God's, you will automatically be on the devil's side. There's no pretty way to say this. You may have been deterred from following God because of someone's misrepresentation of Him. Look at the Catholic priests you keep hearing about on the news. My father, a devout Adventist, went to prison for domestic violence. Neither the priests nor my father are God! I ran from God for a few years. Then I was inspired to discover Him for myself. I believe that the priests and my father were religious in practice, but had no relationship with God. Why? Because they did not do right. Those of us that know God, for real, naturally do right and love each other.
Let me rewrite this verse: "...let us not love with words...but with actions and in truth." (Verse 18) True Christians spend less time talking and more time helping you with your broken down car, lending you money so you can pay for tuition, giving you their coat because you were cold, asking you if you're okay because you look sad today... We live in a competitive world and everyone wants to feel like they matter. But, if we stop trying to be number one and we start taking care of each other... if every person takes care of one other person, then everyone will know that they matter. If God's love truly lives in you, you won't keep it to yourself. You'll be so excited over this treasure that you found and want everyone else to experience it as well. But, then you'll hit a brick wall when you realize that the world hates you and refuses to hear what you have to say about God. It sucks. If only they knew that He is the only answer for the weight of the world on their shoulders. We can't tell people about God if they don't want to listen. However, we can show them God's love by what we do. And people are powerless against our prayers for them. This is what John means when he tells us to lay down our lives for others. We are no longer first. Self-love is never as fulfilling as love for others. Even if you only ever get loved back from one other person, that's double the love you will ever experience from loving just yourself.
Monday, February 14, 2011
I Chronicles12 (NIV)
Summary:
Warriors Join David
Verses 1-22
This is a recording of the men that went to David at Ziklag, during his banishment from Saul son of Kish. These men helped David in battle, armed with bows and arrows. Some could sling stones with their right or left hands. They were also Saul's kinsmen, from the tribe of Benjamin.
Ahiezer their chief and Joash - the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite
Jeziel and Pelet - the sons of Azmaveth
Beracah - the leader and one of the Thirty
Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, Jozabad the Gederathite
Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, Shephatiah the Haruphite
Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, Jashobeam - the Korahites
Joelah and Zebadiah - the sons of Jeroham from Gedor
Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the desert. They were brave warriors, ready for battle, able to handle the shield and spear. They had faces like lions and were as swift as gazelles in the mountains.
Chief: Ezer
2nd in Command: Obadiah
3rd: Eliab
4th: Mishmannah
5th: Jeremiah
6th: Attai
7th: Eliel
8th: Johanan
9th: Elzabad
10th: Jeremiah
11th: Macbannai
They were army commanders. The least of them was a match for a hundred, and the greatest for a thousand. They crossed the Jordan River in the first month, when it was overflowing, scattering everyone living in the valleys to the east and west.
Other Benjamites and some men from Judah also went to David in his stronghold. David went to meet them and ask if they came in peace or betrayal. He would unite with them or ask God to punish them, since he had committed no violence, accordingly. The Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he claimed that they were David's and that David would have success because God would help them. David accepted them and they became the leaders of his raiding bands.
Some men of Manasseh defected to David when he went with the Philistines to fight Saul. They did not help the Philistines, because after they consulted, the rulers sent David away. They feared death if David decided to abandon them during the fight to return to his master, Saul.
When David went to Ziklag, these are the men of Manasseh who defected to him: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, Zillethai. They were leaders of units of 1,000. They helped David against raiding bands. They were brave warriors, commanders in his army.
Every day, men joined David until he had a great and mighty army.
Others Join David at Hebron
Verses 23-40
These are the numbers of men armed for battle who went to David to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, as God had said:
6,800 men of Judah - with shield & spear
7,100 men of Simeon
4,600 men of Levi - with Jehoiada, leader of Aaron's family with 3,700, & Zadok, a brave young warrior with 22 officers from his family
3,000 men of Benjamin (Saul's kinsmen) - most had remained loyal to Saul's house until then
20,800 men of Ephraim - famous in their own clans, brave warriors
18,000 men of the half-tribe of Manasseh - designated by name to come and make David king
200 chiefs of Issachar, with all their relatives under their command, "...who understood the times and knew what Israel should do..." (Verse 32a) (Oh, that I were as wise and brave...)
50,000 men of Zebulun - with every type of weapon, to help David with undivided loyalty
1,000 officers with 37,000 men, with shield & spear - of Naphtali
28,600 men of Dan
40,000 men of Asher - experienced soldiers
120,00 men from east of the Jordan - men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, armed with every type of weapon
(Total: 340,822) They all volunteered to serve in the ranks. They went to Hebron fully determined to make David king of Israel. The rest of Israel was of one mind to make him king. The men listed spent three days with David in the desert. They were eating and drinking from the provisions that their families had sent. Their neighbors, from as far as Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali, came with food, donkeys, camels, mules, and oxen. They had plentiful supplies of flour, fig cakes, raisin cakes, wine, oil, cattle, and sheep.
There was joy in Israel. (It would be awesome if they could experience this in the present.)
Lori's Thoughts:
A nation knew that their ruler was no longer good. They banded together and stood for a better nation. (Sounds a bit like Egypt.) They wanted a new ruler, one that would protect them and help them thrive. Look at how they flourished in the desert while banished! Imagine what life would be like for them in their new kingdom.
As followers of Christ, we are outcasts in the world. We believe in a Higher Power that will lead us in a world without poverty or injustice or illnesses. We need to come together, take care of each other, and trust that our Creator will sustain us until His kingdom is established forever.
Warriors Join David
Verses 1-22
This is a recording of the men that went to David at Ziklag, during his banishment from Saul son of Kish. These men helped David in battle, armed with bows and arrows. Some could sling stones with their right or left hands. They were also Saul's kinsmen, from the tribe of Benjamin.
Ahiezer their chief and Joash - the sons of Shemaah the Gibeathite
Jeziel and Pelet - the sons of Azmaveth
Beracah - the leader and one of the Thirty
Jeremiah, Jahaziel, Johanan, Jozabad the Gederathite
Eluzai, Jerimoth, Bealiah, Shemariah, Shephatiah the Haruphite
Elkanah, Isshiah, Azarel, Joezer, Jashobeam - the Korahites
Joelah and Zebadiah - the sons of Jeroham from Gedor
Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the desert. They were brave warriors, ready for battle, able to handle the shield and spear. They had faces like lions and were as swift as gazelles in the mountains.
Chief: Ezer
2nd in Command: Obadiah
3rd: Eliab
4th: Mishmannah
5th: Jeremiah
6th: Attai
7th: Eliel
8th: Johanan
9th: Elzabad
10th: Jeremiah
11th: Macbannai
They were army commanders. The least of them was a match for a hundred, and the greatest for a thousand. They crossed the Jordan River in the first month, when it was overflowing, scattering everyone living in the valleys to the east and west.
Other Benjamites and some men from Judah also went to David in his stronghold. David went to meet them and ask if they came in peace or betrayal. He would unite with them or ask God to punish them, since he had committed no violence, accordingly. The Spirit came upon Amasai, the chief of the Thirty, and he claimed that they were David's and that David would have success because God would help them. David accepted them and they became the leaders of his raiding bands.
Some men of Manasseh defected to David when he went with the Philistines to fight Saul. They did not help the Philistines, because after they consulted, the rulers sent David away. They feared death if David decided to abandon them during the fight to return to his master, Saul.
When David went to Ziklag, these are the men of Manasseh who defected to him: Adnah, Jozabad, Jediael, Michael, Jozabad, Elihu, Zillethai. They were leaders of units of 1,000. They helped David against raiding bands. They were brave warriors, commanders in his army.
Every day, men joined David until he had a great and mighty army.
Others Join David at Hebron
Verses 23-40
These are the numbers of men armed for battle who went to David to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, as God had said:
6,800 men of Judah - with shield & spear
7,100 men of Simeon
4,600 men of Levi - with Jehoiada, leader of Aaron's family with 3,700, & Zadok, a brave young warrior with 22 officers from his family
3,000 men of Benjamin (Saul's kinsmen) - most had remained loyal to Saul's house until then
20,800 men of Ephraim - famous in their own clans, brave warriors
18,000 men of the half-tribe of Manasseh - designated by name to come and make David king
200 chiefs of Issachar, with all their relatives under their command, "...who understood the times and knew what Israel should do..." (Verse 32a) (Oh, that I were as wise and brave...)
50,000 men of Zebulun - with every type of weapon, to help David with undivided loyalty
1,000 officers with 37,000 men, with shield & spear - of Naphtali
28,600 men of Dan
40,000 men of Asher - experienced soldiers
120,00 men from east of the Jordan - men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, armed with every type of weapon
(Total: 340,822) They all volunteered to serve in the ranks. They went to Hebron fully determined to make David king of Israel. The rest of Israel was of one mind to make him king. The men listed spent three days with David in the desert. They were eating and drinking from the provisions that their families had sent. Their neighbors, from as far as Issachar, Zebulun, and Naphtali, came with food, donkeys, camels, mules, and oxen. They had plentiful supplies of flour, fig cakes, raisin cakes, wine, oil, cattle, and sheep.
There was joy in Israel. (It would be awesome if they could experience this in the present.)
Lori's Thoughts:
A nation knew that their ruler was no longer good. They banded together and stood for a better nation. (Sounds a bit like Egypt.) They wanted a new ruler, one that would protect them and help them thrive. Look at how they flourished in the desert while banished! Imagine what life would be like for them in their new kingdom.
As followers of Christ, we are outcasts in the world. We believe in a Higher Power that will lead us in a world without poverty or injustice or illnesses. We need to come together, take care of each other, and trust that our Creator will sustain us until His kingdom is established forever.
Friday, February 11, 2011
I John 2 (NIV)
Summary:
Walking in the Light
Verses 1-17
John writes this letter so that we won't sin. If anyone does, Christ, the Righteous One, speaks on our defense to the Father. Christ is the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. If we obey His commands, we have come to know Him. The one that claims to know Him, but does not obey His commands, is a liar. If anyone obeys His word, God's love is truly made complete in them.
We know we are in Him by this: "Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." (Verse 6)
John is writing an old command, one we've had since the beginning and have heard it before. John is also writing a new command, because darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. (Maybe he means that it's new because we now have a new understanding of salvation.)
Anyone claiming to be in the light, but hates their brother or sister, they are still in darkness. Whoever loves their brother or sister lives in the light and their is nothing in them to make them stumble. The one that hates walks in darkness and is blinded by it. They don't know where they're going.
John writes to us "...because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name." (Verse 12b) He writes to fathers because they have known Him who is from the beginning. He writes to young men because they have overcome the evil one, they are strong, and the word of God lives in them. He writes to us because we have known the Father.
Do Not Love the World
Verses 15-17
We are not to love the world or anything in it, otherwise the love of the Father is not in us. Everything in the world, the cravings of sinful people, lust, and boasting, comes from the world, not the Father. The world and its desires will pass away, but the one who does the will of God lives forever.
Warning Against Antichrists
Verses 18-27
This is the last hour; the antichrist is coming and many have already come. This is how we know that it is the last hour. The antichrists did not belong to the apostles, because they abandoned them.
We have an anointing from the Holy One and we know the truth. John writes this letter because he knows we know the truth. So, who is the liar? "It is the man who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a [person] is the antichrist - [they deny] the Father and the Son." (Verse 22b) No one who denies the Son has the Father. If you acknowledge the Son, you also have the Father.
Make sure that what you've heard from the beginning stays in you. If it does, you'll remain in the Son and the Father. "And this is what He promised us - even eternal life." (Verse 25)
John writes to us of those who are trying to lead us astray. The anointing we received remains in us and we don't need anyone to teach us. As His anointing teaches us about all things - His anointing is real - just as it has taught us, remain in Him.
Children of God
Verses 28-29
Continue in Him, so when He appears, we will be confident and unashamed. If we know that He's righteous, we know that everyone who does what is right has been born of Him.
Lori's Thoughts:
This is the plan of salvation summarized. We are sinners and God's wrath is against us. Christ is our shield. He pays the toll for our passage into eternity. But, life in Christ is a transformation. He didn't save us so we could live stuck in the mud. He cleanses us. As we get closer to God, we resemble Christ more and more. If we claim to love God, but we still live to satisfy our selfish desires, we really don't know God. When we really do, our attitudes and lifestyles change. We begin to produce the fruit of the Spirit: "Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control". (Galatians 5:22)
If we love God, we stop loving the world. That's not to say we stop loving people or animals or nature. We stop worshiping money, sex, and power. Notice I said stop worshiping, not stop them altogether. It's an attitude shift. Loving God and loving others comes first.
John has warned us that people will come claiming that Jesus was just a man. They will question and try to shake our faith. We have been warned to stand firm. Become confident in God, so when He comes, we'll have nothing to fear. We'll probably start dancing.
Songs for today: "What If" ~Nichole Nordeman, "I Can Only Imagine" ~MercyMe [Go YouTube!!!]
Walking in the Light
Verses 1-17
John writes this letter so that we won't sin. If anyone does, Christ, the Righteous One, speaks on our defense to the Father. Christ is the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. If we obey His commands, we have come to know Him. The one that claims to know Him, but does not obey His commands, is a liar. If anyone obeys His word, God's love is truly made complete in them.
We know we are in Him by this: "Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did." (Verse 6)
John is writing an old command, one we've had since the beginning and have heard it before. John is also writing a new command, because darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. (Maybe he means that it's new because we now have a new understanding of salvation.)
Anyone claiming to be in the light, but hates their brother or sister, they are still in darkness. Whoever loves their brother or sister lives in the light and their is nothing in them to make them stumble. The one that hates walks in darkness and is blinded by it. They don't know where they're going.
John writes to us "...because your sins have been forgiven on account of His name." (Verse 12b) He writes to fathers because they have known Him who is from the beginning. He writes to young men because they have overcome the evil one, they are strong, and the word of God lives in them. He writes to us because we have known the Father.
Do Not Love the World
Verses 15-17
We are not to love the world or anything in it, otherwise the love of the Father is not in us. Everything in the world, the cravings of sinful people, lust, and boasting, comes from the world, not the Father. The world and its desires will pass away, but the one who does the will of God lives forever.
Warning Against Antichrists
Verses 18-27
This is the last hour; the antichrist is coming and many have already come. This is how we know that it is the last hour. The antichrists did not belong to the apostles, because they abandoned them.
We have an anointing from the Holy One and we know the truth. John writes this letter because he knows we know the truth. So, who is the liar? "It is the man who denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a [person] is the antichrist - [they deny] the Father and the Son." (Verse 22b) No one who denies the Son has the Father. If you acknowledge the Son, you also have the Father.
Make sure that what you've heard from the beginning stays in you. If it does, you'll remain in the Son and the Father. "And this is what He promised us - even eternal life." (Verse 25)
John writes to us of those who are trying to lead us astray. The anointing we received remains in us and we don't need anyone to teach us. As His anointing teaches us about all things - His anointing is real - just as it has taught us, remain in Him.
Children of God
Verses 28-29
Continue in Him, so when He appears, we will be confident and unashamed. If we know that He's righteous, we know that everyone who does what is right has been born of Him.
Lori's Thoughts:
This is the plan of salvation summarized. We are sinners and God's wrath is against us. Christ is our shield. He pays the toll for our passage into eternity. But, life in Christ is a transformation. He didn't save us so we could live stuck in the mud. He cleanses us. As we get closer to God, we resemble Christ more and more. If we claim to love God, but we still live to satisfy our selfish desires, we really don't know God. When we really do, our attitudes and lifestyles change. We begin to produce the fruit of the Spirit: "Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control". (Galatians 5:22)
If we love God, we stop loving the world. That's not to say we stop loving people or animals or nature. We stop worshiping money, sex, and power. Notice I said stop worshiping, not stop them altogether. It's an attitude shift. Loving God and loving others comes first.
John has warned us that people will come claiming that Jesus was just a man. They will question and try to shake our faith. We have been warned to stand firm. Become confident in God, so when He comes, we'll have nothing to fear. We'll probably start dancing.
Songs for today: "What If" ~Nichole Nordeman, "I Can Only Imagine" ~MercyMe [Go YouTube!!!]
Thursday, February 10, 2011
I Chronicles 11 (NIV)
Summary:
David Become King Over Israel
Verses 1-3
All of Israel gathered at Hebron to see David. They claimed to be of his own flesh and blood. They acknowledged that David had led Israel in their military campaigns during Saul's reign. God had told David that he would be Israel's shepherd and ruler. The elders made a compact with David, before God, anointing him king over Israel, as God had promised through Samuel's prophecy.
David Conquers Jerusalem
Verses 4-9
David and all of Israel marched to Jerusalem, also known as Jebus. The Jebusites said that David would never get in. But, David captured their fortress, Zion. He made it his residence and it was named the City of David. David declared that whoever led the attack on the Jebusites would be his commander-in-chief. Joab son of Zeruiah stepped up and succeeded. David built up the city around Zion, from the supporting terraces, called the Millo, to the surrounding wall. Joab restored the rest of the city. David grew in power because the Lord Almighty was with him.
David's Mighty Men
Verses 10-47
The chiefs of David's mighty men, along with Israel, gave David's kingship a strong support over all the land, just as God had promised. Jashobeam the Hacmonite was the chief of the officers. He killed 300 men, in one encounter, with his spear. Eleazar son of Dodai the Ahohite was with David at Pas Dammim when they fought the Philistines. The Israelite troops fled into a barley field, but they stood their ground in the middle of it. The Israelites defended the field and defeated the Philistines. God gave them the victory.
Three of the 30 chiefs went to David, to the rock at the cave of Adullam, while a band of Philistines encamped at the Valley of Rephaim. David was at the stronghold and the Philistine garrison was at Bethlehem. David longed for water and cried out for some from the well near the gate at Bethlehem. The Three broke through the Philistine lines and brought back some water for David. David poured it out before God, saying that to drink it would be like drinking the blood of those who risked their lives to get it. These are examples of the exploits of the three mighty men.
Abishai, brother of Joab, was chief of the Three. He had also killed 300 men with his spear. Abishai became as famous as the Three. He was doubly honored as they were, but he was not included with the Three.
Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, and he performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab's best men. He went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. He struck down a 7 1/2 foot tall Egyptian. The Egyptian had a spear like a weaver's rod. Ben had a club, but stole the Egyptian's spear and killed him with it. Ben also became as famous as the Three. He was honored above the Thirty, but was not included with the Three. David put Benaiah in charge of his bodyguard.
These are David's mighty men:
1. Asahel, brother of Joab 26. Mibhar son of Hagri
2. Elhanan son of Dodo, from Bethlehem 27. Zelek the Ammonite
3. Shammoth the Harorite 28. Naharai the Berothite,
the armor-bearer of Joab
4. Helez the Pelonite 29. Ira the Ithrite
5. Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa 30. Gareb the Ithrite
6. Abiezer from Anathoth 31. Uriah the Hittite
7. Sibbecai the Hushathite 32. Zabad son of Ahlai
8. Ilai the Ahohite 33. Adina son of Shiza,
the Reubenite chief of 30
9. Maharai the Netophathite 34. Hanan son of Maacah
10. Heled son of Baanah, the Netophathite 35. Joshaphat the Mithnite
11. Ithai son of Ribai, from Gibeah in Benjamin 36. Uzzia the Ashterathite
12. Benaiah the Pirathonite 37. Shama son of Hotham,
the Aroerite
13. Hurai from the ravines of Gaash 38. Jeiel, Shama's brother
14. Abiel the Arbathite 39. Jediael son of Shimri
15. Azmaveth the Baharumite 40. Joha the Tizite,
Jediael's brother
16. Eliahba the Shaalbonite 41. Eliel the Mahavite
17. the sons of Hashem the Gizonite 42. Jeribai son of Elnaam
18. Jonathan son of Shagee, the Hararite 43. Joshaviah, Jeribai's brother
19. Ahiam son of Sacar, the Hararite 44. Ithmah the Moabite
20. Eliphal son of Ur 45. Eliel
21. Hepher the Mekerathite 46. Obed
22. Ahijah the Pelonite 47. Jaasiel the Mezobaite
23. Hezro the Carmelite
24. Naarai son of Ezbai
25. Joel, the brother of Nathan
Lori's Thoughts:
You have to admit, this sounds like a movie, similar to 300 or Robin Hood. The Israelites are the heroes, with awesome fighting skills and some crazy warriors, like the guy that killed a lion in a pit, on a snowy day. But, their true source of power comes from the Unseen. This Force baffles the bad guys.
The bad guys are the mutant Philistines and Egyptians. They're uglier and bigger, but not stronger. Maybe it's more like King Arthur. The Thirty are like the Kights of the Round Table and the Three are like Lancelot, Arthur, and, I don't know, Galahad...
My point is this: life with God is anything but boring. Nor is it easy. The Israelites had to work hard to defend themselves and God's honor. But, they were protected as long as they continued to serve Him.
Everyone has a purpose, a special skill, and God wants you to thrive as an individual, working with the rest of His children to ensure that we stay on the winning side until the ultimate battle is over.
Imagine the coolest person you could be, if you had no limitations. Me? I want to be a Healer. God sees us for our potential. Take a leap of faith and see how far He takes you. It'll be an incredible journey.
David Become King Over Israel
Verses 1-3
All of Israel gathered at Hebron to see David. They claimed to be of his own flesh and blood. They acknowledged that David had led Israel in their military campaigns during Saul's reign. God had told David that he would be Israel's shepherd and ruler. The elders made a compact with David, before God, anointing him king over Israel, as God had promised through Samuel's prophecy.
David Conquers Jerusalem
Verses 4-9
David and all of Israel marched to Jerusalem, also known as Jebus. The Jebusites said that David would never get in. But, David captured their fortress, Zion. He made it his residence and it was named the City of David. David declared that whoever led the attack on the Jebusites would be his commander-in-chief. Joab son of Zeruiah stepped up and succeeded. David built up the city around Zion, from the supporting terraces, called the Millo, to the surrounding wall. Joab restored the rest of the city. David grew in power because the Lord Almighty was with him.
David's Mighty Men
Verses 10-47
The chiefs of David's mighty men, along with Israel, gave David's kingship a strong support over all the land, just as God had promised. Jashobeam the Hacmonite was the chief of the officers. He killed 300 men, in one encounter, with his spear. Eleazar son of Dodai the Ahohite was with David at Pas Dammim when they fought the Philistines. The Israelite troops fled into a barley field, but they stood their ground in the middle of it. The Israelites defended the field and defeated the Philistines. God gave them the victory.
Three of the 30 chiefs went to David, to the rock at the cave of Adullam, while a band of Philistines encamped at the Valley of Rephaim. David was at the stronghold and the Philistine garrison was at Bethlehem. David longed for water and cried out for some from the well near the gate at Bethlehem. The Three broke through the Philistine lines and brought back some water for David. David poured it out before God, saying that to drink it would be like drinking the blood of those who risked their lives to get it. These are examples of the exploits of the three mighty men.
Abishai, brother of Joab, was chief of the Three. He had also killed 300 men with his spear. Abishai became as famous as the Three. He was doubly honored as they were, but he was not included with the Three.
Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, and he performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab's best men. He went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. He struck down a 7 1/2 foot tall Egyptian. The Egyptian had a spear like a weaver's rod. Ben had a club, but stole the Egyptian's spear and killed him with it. Ben also became as famous as the Three. He was honored above the Thirty, but was not included with the Three. David put Benaiah in charge of his bodyguard.
These are David's mighty men:
1. Asahel, brother of Joab 26. Mibhar son of Hagri
2. Elhanan son of Dodo, from Bethlehem 27. Zelek the Ammonite
3. Shammoth the Harorite 28. Naharai the Berothite,
the armor-bearer of Joab
4. Helez the Pelonite 29. Ira the Ithrite
5. Ira son of Ikkesh from Tekoa 30. Gareb the Ithrite
6. Abiezer from Anathoth 31. Uriah the Hittite
7. Sibbecai the Hushathite 32. Zabad son of Ahlai
8. Ilai the Ahohite 33. Adina son of Shiza,
the Reubenite chief of 30
9. Maharai the Netophathite 34. Hanan son of Maacah
10. Heled son of Baanah, the Netophathite 35. Joshaphat the Mithnite
11. Ithai son of Ribai, from Gibeah in Benjamin 36. Uzzia the Ashterathite
12. Benaiah the Pirathonite 37. Shama son of Hotham,
the Aroerite
13. Hurai from the ravines of Gaash 38. Jeiel, Shama's brother
14. Abiel the Arbathite 39. Jediael son of Shimri
15. Azmaveth the Baharumite 40. Joha the Tizite,
Jediael's brother
16. Eliahba the Shaalbonite 41. Eliel the Mahavite
17. the sons of Hashem the Gizonite 42. Jeribai son of Elnaam
18. Jonathan son of Shagee, the Hararite 43. Joshaviah, Jeribai's brother
19. Ahiam son of Sacar, the Hararite 44. Ithmah the Moabite
20. Eliphal son of Ur 45. Eliel
21. Hepher the Mekerathite 46. Obed
22. Ahijah the Pelonite 47. Jaasiel the Mezobaite
23. Hezro the Carmelite
24. Naarai son of Ezbai
25. Joel, the brother of Nathan
Lori's Thoughts:
You have to admit, this sounds like a movie, similar to 300 or Robin Hood. The Israelites are the heroes, with awesome fighting skills and some crazy warriors, like the guy that killed a lion in a pit, on a snowy day. But, their true source of power comes from the Unseen. This Force baffles the bad guys.
The bad guys are the mutant Philistines and Egyptians. They're uglier and bigger, but not stronger. Maybe it's more like King Arthur. The Thirty are like the Kights of the Round Table and the Three are like Lancelot, Arthur, and, I don't know, Galahad...
My point is this: life with God is anything but boring. Nor is it easy. The Israelites had to work hard to defend themselves and God's honor. But, they were protected as long as they continued to serve Him.
Everyone has a purpose, a special skill, and God wants you to thrive as an individual, working with the rest of His children to ensure that we stay on the winning side until the ultimate battle is over.
Imagine the coolest person you could be, if you had no limitations. Me? I want to be a Healer. God sees us for our potential. Take a leap of faith and see how far He takes you. It'll be an incredible journey.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)