King James Bible Study: Reconciled With God
For: Friday April 15, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 13-14
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-15
Details of Today's Reading: David's son Ammon, Absalom, and his daughter Tamar, Ammon's crime with Tamar, Absalom takes vengeance on Ammon for Tamar, David's shame and forgiveness of Absalom.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word fornication is defined as the incontinence (uncontrolled indulgence) or lewdness of unmarried persons, male or female, adultery, idolatry. While sin is sin and the punishment for all sin comes with the same consequence, the most detestable to God are the ones committed by the flesh. Why? The Bible says, “Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid...Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” - I Corinthians 6:15,18-20. Fornication not only brings the persons committing it to shame, it shames everyone else around them as well, above all, their relationship with God.
According to the Law, “If a man be found lying with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them die, both the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away evil from Israel...But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die.” - Deuteronomy 22:22,25. By law, David and Bathsheba's sin would have been proper cause for their death, but instead God allowed them to remain alive. After his repentance, pardon, and the birth of Solomon it seemed that all was well with David. However, just as Nathan the prophet warned David that his secret sin would bring public humiliation, the death of the illegitimate child was only the beginning.
“And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her...Then David sent home to Tamar, saying, Go now to thy brother Amnon's house, and dress him meat...And Amnon said unto Tamar, Bring the meat into the chamber, that I may eat of thine hand. And Tamar took the cakes which she had made, and brought them into the chamber to Amnon her brother. And when she had brought them unto him to eat, he took hold of her, and said unto her, Come lie with me, my sister. And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel: do not thou this folly.” - II Samuel 13:1,7,10-12.
Among God's professing people, who are better taught and instructed not to give into such impure practices, which would bring dishonor upon them, and upon God, Tamar urges Amnon not to force himself upon her. Fleshly lusts are their own punishment and not only war against the soul, but against the body also, and are the rottenness of the bones. “A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.” - Proverbs 12:3-5.
Sadly, we learn that Amnon did force himself upon his sister and the result of that was his death, however, he wasn't killed by breaking the law, but by his brother. Now the threatened sword is drawn in David's house, just like Nathan said, which will not depart from it. Absalom killed Amnon out of revenge for his sister, more public humiliation as a result of David's secret sin.
“And Absalom her brother said unto her, Hath Amnon thy brother been with thee? but hold now thy peace, my sister: he is thy brother; regard not this thing. So Tamar remained desolate in her brother Absalom's house. But when king David heard of all these things, he was very wroth. And Absalom spake unto his brother Amnon neither good nor bad: for Absalom hated Amnon, because he had forced his sister Tamar...Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark ye now when Amnon's heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not I commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.” - II Samuel 13:20-22,28.
David had the opportunity to prevent these tragic events from happening had he settled the matter as a king, or even better as a father, but we do not learn of any correction nor punishment inflicted upon him. With the help of Joab, David realized it was time to make things right with Absalom. “And the king said unto Joab, Behold now, I have done this thing: go therefore, bring the young man Absalom again...So Joab came to the king, and told him: and when he had called for Absalom, he came to the king, and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king: and the king kissed Absalom.” - II Samuel 14:21,33.
A parent can experience no greater suffering than to see their similar sins repeated by their own children. We should all be deeply grateful for the mercies of God, for all of these laws would still be in effect had not Jesus Christ died for the sins of all mankind. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” - Romans 8:1-4.
The sad thing through all this is that there is not one mention of David or any of his children seeking help from God. You know, once forgiven, always forgiven, we cannot undo past sins, failures, and wasted time, but Christians are assured that we can be forgiven of our sins. “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world...I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” - I John 2:1,2,12-14.
Now, although we may receive some chastisement for our sin, even after receiving forgiveness, we must not stop our communication with God, it is vital to the person and everyone else as well. When facing chastisement it is best to just accept it, do the time, and keep serving God, in doing so we not only show God that we respect His judgment, He also shows respect toward us. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God...For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.” - II Corinthians 7:1,11.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David's reconciliation with Absalom (14:33). How much more will our loving Heavenly Father reconcile us to Himself when we confess our sins. “For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.” - Romans 5:10.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Friday, April 15, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
King James Bible Study: Walking With God Daily
King James Bible Study: Walking With God Daily
For: Thursday April 14, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 10-12
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-14
Details of Today's Reading: The Ammonite, Syrian war, David's sin with Bathsheba, David’s rebuke, repentance, the death of the child brought by sin, the birth of Solomon, and Israel defeats Ammon.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word charity is defined as love, benevolence (love of mankind), good will, it is any act of kindness, or benevolence, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. The Bible says, “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” - I Corinthians 13:4-7. No greater act of charity is that of God whom gave His only begotten Son to save the sinner. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” -Romans 5:8. Praise God!
David had everything going for him, he was one of the most godliest men of all time, he was the apple of God's eye. He became king, not only to all of Israel, but ruled over the United Kingdom as well. They won battle after battle because of one thing, David walked with God daily. However, everything was about to change when David made one decision that he would regret for the rest of his life.
“And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem. And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house.” - II Samuel 11:1-4.
David's first mistake, we was not walking with God, the second mistake was that he stayed home when he should have been on the battle field. His third mistake was that he kept watching the woman bathe. We are always going to face temptation, but what makes us fall right into the sin is keeping our eyes on it. Had David been walking with God he would not have even taken a second glance at the woman. No Christian is exempt from temptation, but God will never suffer us to be tempted above anything we can not handle. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” - I Corinthians 10:13.
That one day of ecstasy turned into a nightmare for David, Bathsheba ended up getting pregnant. He tried everything he could to cover up his sin, but the more he tried the worse things got. David arranged for her husband to be placed in the middle of a heated battle and he was killed. A little later he married Bathsheba, he thought the worst was over until he got a visit from Nathan the prophet with a message from God.
“Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun. And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.” - II Samuel 12:9-14.
Although God did forgive David when he repented and asked for forgiveness, (See Psalm 51), it did not stop the consequences of his sin.If the believer, brought face to face, with their sins sincerely confesses and repents of them they are reconciled with God. However, God will not interfere with the consequences that follow, even after repentance. Sin does not go unnoticed, one may think that they have gotten away with something or that God does not know, but God knows everything. “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” - Luke 8:17.
The amazing thing about God is that He truly does forgive a person, no matter how many times we sin and although we may suffer the consequences of that sin God will still use the situation to his advantage. The baby born of David and Bathsheba was very ill, David fasted and prayed, but the baby died seven days later as a result of their sin. God used this situation to bring David into deep repentance and remind him of who He was. David and Bathsheba were blessed with Solomon, who would become one of the greatest and well known kings of all time.
“Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat. Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread. And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live? But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me. And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.” - II Samuel 12:20-24.
David knew that he would see his son again one day, even though Jesus was born hundreds of years later and was born through the lineage of David they still knew that He was coming. Just like we depend on Jesus for our salvation, they did too. David in deep prayer over his sin said, “Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.” - Psalm 51:11-13.
All who call upon Jesus Christ are saved, converted, but during trials and sinful living we can forget that we are saved. God will restore the liveliness of the Holy Spirit who lives in every believer, we need to, but walk with God. It is especially through our trials that God will lift us up. “Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” - James 4:9,10.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Nathan, giving Solomon the name Jedidiah, which means beloved of the Lord (12:24-25). When Jesus came up out of the water after being baptized by John the Baptist God spoke through a cloud. “While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” - Matthew 17:5.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Thursday April 14, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 10-12
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-14
Details of Today's Reading: The Ammonite, Syrian war, David's sin with Bathsheba, David’s rebuke, repentance, the death of the child brought by sin, the birth of Solomon, and Israel defeats Ammon.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word charity is defined as love, benevolence (love of mankind), good will, it is any act of kindness, or benevolence, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. The Bible says, “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” - I Corinthians 13:4-7. No greater act of charity is that of God whom gave His only begotten Son to save the sinner. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” -Romans 5:8. Praise God!
David had everything going for him, he was one of the most godliest men of all time, he was the apple of God's eye. He became king, not only to all of Israel, but ruled over the United Kingdom as well. They won battle after battle because of one thing, David walked with God daily. However, everything was about to change when David made one decision that he would regret for the rest of his life.
“And it came to pass, after the year was expired, at the time when kings go forth to battle, that David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem. And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon. And David sent and enquired after the woman. And one said, Is not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite? And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house.” - II Samuel 11:1-4.
David's first mistake, we was not walking with God, the second mistake was that he stayed home when he should have been on the battle field. His third mistake was that he kept watching the woman bathe. We are always going to face temptation, but what makes us fall right into the sin is keeping our eyes on it. Had David been walking with God he would not have even taken a second glance at the woman. No Christian is exempt from temptation, but God will never suffer us to be tempted above anything we can not handle. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” - I Corinthians 10:13.
That one day of ecstasy turned into a nightmare for David, Bathsheba ended up getting pregnant. He tried everything he could to cover up his sin, but the more he tried the worse things got. David arranged for her husband to be placed in the middle of a heated battle and he was killed. A little later he married Bathsheba, he thought the worst was over until he got a visit from Nathan the prophet with a message from God.
“Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun. And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.” - II Samuel 12:9-14.
Although God did forgive David when he repented and asked for forgiveness, (See Psalm 51), it did not stop the consequences of his sin.If the believer, brought face to face, with their sins sincerely confesses and repents of them they are reconciled with God. However, God will not interfere with the consequences that follow, even after repentance. Sin does not go unnoticed, one may think that they have gotten away with something or that God does not know, but God knows everything. “For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” - Luke 8:17.
The amazing thing about God is that He truly does forgive a person, no matter how many times we sin and although we may suffer the consequences of that sin God will still use the situation to his advantage. The baby born of David and Bathsheba was very ill, David fasted and prayed, but the baby died seven days later as a result of their sin. God used this situation to bring David into deep repentance and remind him of who He was. David and Bathsheba were blessed with Solomon, who would become one of the greatest and well known kings of all time.
“Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat. Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread. And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live? But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me. And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.” - II Samuel 12:20-24.
David knew that he would see his son again one day, even though Jesus was born hundreds of years later and was born through the lineage of David they still knew that He was coming. Just like we depend on Jesus for our salvation, they did too. David in deep prayer over his sin said, “Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.” - Psalm 51:11-13.
All who call upon Jesus Christ are saved, converted, but during trials and sinful living we can forget that we are saved. God will restore the liveliness of the Holy Spirit who lives in every believer, we need to, but walk with God. It is especially through our trials that God will lift us up. “Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” - James 4:9,10.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Nathan, giving Solomon the name Jedidiah, which means beloved of the Lord (12:24-25). When Jesus came up out of the water after being baptized by John the Baptist God spoke through a cloud. “While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” - Matthew 17:5.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Wednesday, April 13, 2011
King James Bible Study: Permanent Place Setting
King James Bible Study: Permanent Place Setting
For: Wednesday April 13, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 6-9
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-13
Details of Today's Reading: David seeks to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem, David’s desire to build the Lord’s house, the Davidic covenant, the establishment of David’s kingdom, and David’s kindness toward Mephibosheth.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
As Christian's we can rejoice in the fact that we are a part of the kingdom of God and whether we are healthy, wealthy, poor, lame, or blind, we are like one of His sons. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” - Romans 8:16,17. Praise God! Since we are children of God that means, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” - Hebrews 13:5b.
David, was now ruler of all the United Kingdom, he owed all his success to God and did not hesitate to acknowledge that and tell others as well. He lacked one thing though, he did not have the Word of God with him so he was unaware of some of the laws and commands of God. So, to his surprise he saw first hand just how angry God can get when one does not follow His commands. David, along with thirty thousand men, went up to get the Ark of God.
“And David arose, and went with all the people that were with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth between the cherubims. And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drave the new cart...And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.” - II Samuel 6:2,3,6,7.
Here they are, just dancing and singing in the streets and all of a sudden, trying to keep the Ark from toppling off the cart Uzzah touched it and died instantly. David was sincerely seeking to honor God, but he overlooked two very important instructions involving the transport of the Ark. The Ark had to be carried by poles only on the shoulders of priests, and the penalty for touching the Ark was death. “And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.” - Numbers 1:51.
It's important to know all of God's Word so we know the dangers that are before us, it's like a person who accidentally touches a high voltage wire and gets shocked to death because he did not know it was high voltage. I know some parts of the Bible can seem a bit boring and scary, but we are to live by every Word of God. Even in a chapter full of names there is something to be learned by it. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.
David was humiliated, displeased, and afraid of God that day, but he then humbly prayed to God and asked Him what they needed to do to get the Ark to Jerusalem. To avoid any further consequences David set the Ark inside a mans house named, Obededom.
“So David would not remove the ark of the LORD unto him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite. And the ark of the LORD continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months: and the LORD blessed Obededom, and all his household. And it was told king David, saying, The LORD hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that pertaineth unto him, because of the ark of God. So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obededom into the city of David with gladness.” - II Samuel 6:10-11.
The three months that the Ark was inside Obededom's house the entire household was blessed. This is a great illustration of how blessed we are when we allow God to dwell among us. Not only are we blessed individually, everyone around us gets blessed as well. Why? One persons faith can bring many to repentance. “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” - II Timothy 2:24-26.
Upon bring the Ark to Jerusalem David notices one thing, “Why am I dwelling in such a nice house when God dwells within curtains?” David wishes to build God a permanent dwelling place, but God, did not grant his request, stating that his son would build a temple and He will establish His kingdom through him.
“And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men: But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee. And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.” - II Samuel 7:12-16.
These promises relate to Solomon, David's son, and the royal line of Judah. But they also relate to Christ, who is often called David and the Son of David, whom God gave all power in heaven and earth, with authority to execute judgment. Jesus was sent to build the Gospel temple, a house for God's name, which is the spiritual temple of true believers. God's promise, that He will never put away or remove a believer who has put their faith and trust in His Son, Jesus Christ. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” - I John 5:12,13.
David never forgot about the covenant he made with Jonathan, Saul's son, he inquired whether there was any one left of the house of Saul to whom he could show favor for Jonathan's sake. “Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he answered, Behold thy servant! And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually. And he bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?..So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem: for he did eat continually at the king's table; and was lame on both his feet.” -II Samuel 9:6-8,13.
David not only restored to him his father's possessions, he also made him a part of the royal table for the rest of his life. Mephibosheth thanked David, humbling himself and comparing himself to a dead dog, which meant that he did not feel worthy to accept all the that David blessed him with. This is a great illustration of the grace of God and how we, whom have come short of the glory of God, receive His gift of eternal life through our king, Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” - John 14:1-4. All who call upon Jesus to save them are God's children and are apart of the Kingdom of God. Just like Mephibosheth, we too will have a permanent place setting with our King. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the Ark, where the Spirit of God dwelt. The Spirit of God dwells in every believer. “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.” - Galatians 4:6.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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For: Wednesday April 13, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 6-9
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-13
Details of Today's Reading: David seeks to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem, David’s desire to build the Lord’s house, the Davidic covenant, the establishment of David’s kingdom, and David’s kindness toward Mephibosheth.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
As Christian's we can rejoice in the fact that we are a part of the kingdom of God and whether we are healthy, wealthy, poor, lame, or blind, we are like one of His sons. “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” - Romans 8:16,17. Praise God! Since we are children of God that means, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” - Hebrews 13:5b.
David, was now ruler of all the United Kingdom, he owed all his success to God and did not hesitate to acknowledge that and tell others as well. He lacked one thing though, he did not have the Word of God with him so he was unaware of some of the laws and commands of God. So, to his surprise he saw first hand just how angry God can get when one does not follow His commands. David, along with thirty thousand men, went up to get the Ark of God.
“And David arose, and went with all the people that were with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth between the cherubims. And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drave the new cart...And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.” - II Samuel 6:2,3,6,7.
Here they are, just dancing and singing in the streets and all of a sudden, trying to keep the Ark from toppling off the cart Uzzah touched it and died instantly. David was sincerely seeking to honor God, but he overlooked two very important instructions involving the transport of the Ark. The Ark had to be carried by poles only on the shoulders of priests, and the penalty for touching the Ark was death. “And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.” - Numbers 1:51.
It's important to know all of God's Word so we know the dangers that are before us, it's like a person who accidentally touches a high voltage wire and gets shocked to death because he did not know it was high voltage. I know some parts of the Bible can seem a bit boring and scary, but we are to live by every Word of God. Even in a chapter full of names there is something to be learned by it. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.
David was humiliated, displeased, and afraid of God that day, but he then humbly prayed to God and asked Him what they needed to do to get the Ark to Jerusalem. To avoid any further consequences David set the Ark inside a mans house named, Obededom.
“So David would not remove the ark of the LORD unto him into the city of David: but David carried it aside into the house of Obededom the Gittite. And the ark of the LORD continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months: and the LORD blessed Obededom, and all his household. And it was told king David, saying, The LORD hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that pertaineth unto him, because of the ark of God. So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obededom into the city of David with gladness.” - II Samuel 6:10-11.
The three months that the Ark was inside Obededom's house the entire household was blessed. This is a great illustration of how blessed we are when we allow God to dwell among us. Not only are we blessed individually, everyone around us gets blessed as well. Why? One persons faith can bring many to repentance. “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” - II Timothy 2:24-26.
Upon bring the Ark to Jerusalem David notices one thing, “Why am I dwelling in such a nice house when God dwells within curtains?” David wishes to build God a permanent dwelling place, but God, did not grant his request, stating that his son would build a temple and He will establish His kingdom through him.
“And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men: But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee. And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.” - II Samuel 7:12-16.
These promises relate to Solomon, David's son, and the royal line of Judah. But they also relate to Christ, who is often called David and the Son of David, whom God gave all power in heaven and earth, with authority to execute judgment. Jesus was sent to build the Gospel temple, a house for God's name, which is the spiritual temple of true believers. God's promise, that He will never put away or remove a believer who has put their faith and trust in His Son, Jesus Christ. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” - I John 5:12,13.
David never forgot about the covenant he made with Jonathan, Saul's son, he inquired whether there was any one left of the house of Saul to whom he could show favor for Jonathan's sake. “Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he answered, Behold thy servant! And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually. And he bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?..So Mephibosheth dwelt in Jerusalem: for he did eat continually at the king's table; and was lame on both his feet.” -II Samuel 9:6-8,13.
David not only restored to him his father's possessions, he also made him a part of the royal table for the rest of his life. Mephibosheth thanked David, humbling himself and comparing himself to a dead dog, which meant that he did not feel worthy to accept all the that David blessed him with. This is a great illustration of the grace of God and how we, whom have come short of the glory of God, receive His gift of eternal life through our king, Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” - John 14:1-4. All who call upon Jesus to save them are God's children and are apart of the Kingdom of God. Just like Mephibosheth, we too will have a permanent place setting with our King. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the Ark, where the Spirit of God dwelt. The Spirit of God dwells in every believer. “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.” - Galatians 4:6.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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Monday, April 11, 2011
King James Bible Study: Patiently Waiting
King James Bible Study: Patiently Waiting
For: Monday April 11, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 1-2
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-11
Details of Today's Reading: David mourns the death of Saul and Jonathan, David slays the Amalekite that slew Saul, David received as King of Judah, but Abner, Saul's captain, makes Ishbosheth king over the other eleven tribes, and a civil war begins.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” - John 13:34,35. As Christians we are to love all, we do not have to agree with all, we do not have to fellowship with all, but we are to love all people. We are all sinners and have gotten ourselves into some messes from time to time so it is important to realize that we are no different from anyone else, God is not a respecter of persons, therefore we are not to be either.
The Book of II Samuel is the tenth book of the Bible/Old Testament and contains twenty-four chapters. The author of the book is Samuel and it was first written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately 1056 BC to 1017 BC. The purpose of the book was to record David's forty year reign as king and how God dealt with him and all His people during that time. What we are to learn from the book is that God carries out His plan through those who are obedient to Him despite the occasional mishaps. We are to remain in the will of God through all our walks of life, even if we fall, God is with us and will pick us back up as long as we repent. “In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears.” - II Samuel 22:7.
Saul had driven David far from his family, his wife, Michal, his friends, and then into exile as a fugitive from the palace. If anyone was to rejoice over the death of Saul, it was David, but he had a completely different reaction when a stranger came up to him and told him that Saul and Jonathan was dead.
“It came even to pass on the third day, that, behold, a man came out of the camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did obeisance...And David said unto him, How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me. And he answered, That the people are fled from the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also. And David said unto the young man that told him, How knowest thou that Saul and Jonathan his son be dead? And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him... He said unto me again, Stand, I pray thee, upon me, and slay me: for anguish is come upon me, because my life is yet whole in me. So I stood upon him, and slew him, because I was sure that he could not live after that he was fallen: and I took the crown that was upon his head, and the bracelet that was on his arm, and have brought them hither unto my lord...And David called one of the young men, and said, Go near, and fall upon him. And he smote him that he died. ” - II Samuel 1:2,4-6,9,10,15.
The Amalekite’s story was pure fiction, probably invented to gain favor with David. Saul was shot with an arrow during a battle with the Philistines, in much pain, he asked his armourbearer to kill him, but he refused and Saul killed himself (See I Samuel 31). The Amalekite probably witnessed the entire act and thought he would get an award for saying he slew Saul since David was to be the next king. However, he soon found out that whether David knew he was lying or not he still faced the consequences of his own death by admitting he killed the king. God decides the punishment and time when a person suffers, not us. When we allow God to handle things under His hand, we save ourselves from a lot of pain, suffering, and perhaps even premature death. “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” - Matthew 7:2.
Now that Saul is no longer the king, David had the right to assume the role of king as all the people knew he was anointed by Samuel to be the next to reign. However, instead of taking the throne right away he asked God what he should do and He sent him to Hebron.
“And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron....And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah. And they told David, saying, That the men of Jabeshgilead were they that buried Saul...But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim; And made him king over Gilead, and over the Ashurites, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and over Benjamin, and over all Israel. Ishbosheth Saul's son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.” - II Samuel 2:1, 4,8-10.
I imagine David wondered why he was only king to the house of Judah for two years, but God knew there would be some opposition since the law stated that the kings eldest son would be the next to reign, that being Saul's only surviving son, Ishbosheth, God knew they would reject him as king. However, during those two years the Lord trained up His servant for future honor and usefulness to fulfill His purpose. Everything is in God's timing and we would all be wise to do as David did and seek His advice before stepping into any position. “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” - Hebrews 10:35,36.
The greatness of a man is measured by his patient surrender to the will of God. It is not a question of who we are or of what your abilities we have, but whether or not God's hand plays a part in our lives. There are always going to be people who will try and put you down, even fellow Christians. The world delights in discovering and broadcasting the failures of Christians and uses them to excuse their own sins in order to ridicule Christianity and dishonor our Lord. However, as long as we are in the will of God and let Him direct our paths we will always get through the difficulties and see the victory. Of course, we will fall from time to time, but God is still with us and will pick us back up as long as we come to Him and wait patiently for Him to take care of things. “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1,2.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David's sorrow over Saul's death. He did not dwell upon all his years of suffering at the hand of Saul, but dwelt only upon the pleasant things. Jesus Christ, who forgave His enemies, crying from the cross, said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” - Luke 23:34.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Monday April 11, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 1-2
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-11
Details of Today's Reading: David mourns the death of Saul and Jonathan, David slays the Amalekite that slew Saul, David received as King of Judah, but Abner, Saul's captain, makes Ishbosheth king over the other eleven tribes, and a civil war begins.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” - John 13:34,35. As Christians we are to love all, we do not have to agree with all, we do not have to fellowship with all, but we are to love all people. We are all sinners and have gotten ourselves into some messes from time to time so it is important to realize that we are no different from anyone else, God is not a respecter of persons, therefore we are not to be either.
The Book of II Samuel is the tenth book of the Bible/Old Testament and contains twenty-four chapters. The author of the book is Samuel and it was first written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately 1056 BC to 1017 BC. The purpose of the book was to record David's forty year reign as king and how God dealt with him and all His people during that time. What we are to learn from the book is that God carries out His plan through those who are obedient to Him despite the occasional mishaps. We are to remain in the will of God through all our walks of life, even if we fall, God is with us and will pick us back up as long as we repent. “In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears.” - II Samuel 22:7.
Saul had driven David far from his family, his wife, Michal, his friends, and then into exile as a fugitive from the palace. If anyone was to rejoice over the death of Saul, it was David, but he had a completely different reaction when a stranger came up to him and told him that Saul and Jonathan was dead.
“It came even to pass on the third day, that, behold, a man came out of the camp from Saul with his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and so it was, when he came to David, that he fell to the earth, and did obeisance...And David said unto him, How went the matter? I pray thee, tell me. And he answered, That the people are fled from the battle, and many of the people also are fallen and dead; and Saul and Jonathan his son are dead also. And David said unto the young man that told him, How knowest thou that Saul and Jonathan his son be dead? And the young man that told him said, As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold, Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him... He said unto me again, Stand, I pray thee, upon me, and slay me: for anguish is come upon me, because my life is yet whole in me. So I stood upon him, and slew him, because I was sure that he could not live after that he was fallen: and I took the crown that was upon his head, and the bracelet that was on his arm, and have brought them hither unto my lord...And David called one of the young men, and said, Go near, and fall upon him. And he smote him that he died. ” - II Samuel 1:2,4-6,9,10,15.
The Amalekite’s story was pure fiction, probably invented to gain favor with David. Saul was shot with an arrow during a battle with the Philistines, in much pain, he asked his armourbearer to kill him, but he refused and Saul killed himself (See I Samuel 31). The Amalekite probably witnessed the entire act and thought he would get an award for saying he slew Saul since David was to be the next king. However, he soon found out that whether David knew he was lying or not he still faced the consequences of his own death by admitting he killed the king. God decides the punishment and time when a person suffers, not us. When we allow God to handle things under His hand, we save ourselves from a lot of pain, suffering, and perhaps even premature death. “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” - Matthew 7:2.
Now that Saul is no longer the king, David had the right to assume the role of king as all the people knew he was anointed by Samuel to be the next to reign. However, instead of taking the throne right away he asked God what he should do and He sent him to Hebron.
“And it came to pass after this, that David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron....And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah. And they told David, saying, That the men of Jabeshgilead were they that buried Saul...But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim; And made him king over Gilead, and over the Ashurites, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and over Benjamin, and over all Israel. Ishbosheth Saul's son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.” - II Samuel 2:1, 4,8-10.
I imagine David wondered why he was only king to the house of Judah for two years, but God knew there would be some opposition since the law stated that the kings eldest son would be the next to reign, that being Saul's only surviving son, Ishbosheth, God knew they would reject him as king. However, during those two years the Lord trained up His servant for future honor and usefulness to fulfill His purpose. Everything is in God's timing and we would all be wise to do as David did and seek His advice before stepping into any position. “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” - Hebrews 10:35,36.
The greatness of a man is measured by his patient surrender to the will of God. It is not a question of who we are or of what your abilities we have, but whether or not God's hand plays a part in our lives. There are always going to be people who will try and put you down, even fellow Christians. The world delights in discovering and broadcasting the failures of Christians and uses them to excuse their own sins in order to ridicule Christianity and dishonor our Lord. However, as long as we are in the will of God and let Him direct our paths we will always get through the difficulties and see the victory. Of course, we will fall from time to time, but God is still with us and will pick us back up as long as we come to Him and wait patiently for Him to take care of things. “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1,2.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David's sorrow over Saul's death. He did not dwell upon all his years of suffering at the hand of Saul, but dwelt only upon the pleasant things. Jesus Christ, who forgave His enemies, crying from the cross, said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” - Luke 23:34.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Sunday, April 10, 2011
King James Bible Study: Becoming Complacent
King James Bible Study: Becoming Complacent
For: Sunday April 10, 2011
Chapters: I Samuel 28-31
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-10
Details of Today's Reading: David still living among the Philistines sides with the king when they battle Israel, Saul seeks a physic to summon Samuel from the dead, Saul's death foretold, David is saved from fighting against Israel, Ziglag is destroyed and David avenges them, Saul, Jonathan, and his sons die in battle.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word complacent means to be content or satisfied in one's current situation. As Christians we must be careful not to become too complacent, to become so content with things that we forget that God is still around. The Bible says, “The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.” - Psalm 145:15-17. You know, whatever we are going through whether it is successes or difficulties it is only temporary, God wants to satisfy all our desires as we wait upon and follow Him. The Bible also says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” - Proverbs 29:18. If we take our eyes off God, even unintentionally, the visions that we once hand will perish, leaving us with two problems, we lose God's protection here on earth and we lose out on the many blessings that God wants to give us.
Chosen by God Himself to be the first king of Israel Saul, was once favored by God, because he was an honest, faithful, godly man. All that changed once he became king and became complacent with what he had. The more he got as king the less he relied on God, within a little over a year Saul had went from being favored by God to despised, which is why He had Samuel anoint David as the next king. Everything went down hill from there, now, a battle has begun with the Philistines and without David there to help, who was actually assisting the Philistines, Saul was running scared. He even tried reaching God to no prevail, he got so scared that he went to a medium to try and get her to summon Samuel's spirit.
“And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul. And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth. And he said unto her, What form is he of? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he is covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground, and bowed himself. And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do... Because thou obeyedst not the voice of the LORD, nor executedst his fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee this day. Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.” - I Samuel 28:12-15,18,19.
Here is this woman, who probably made a living just chanting some words, never really summoning anyone, but for the first time in her life she saw real spirits. The woman's surprise and terror proved that it was an unusual and unexpected appearance. Gods, meaning a great personage, one of a majestic form, angels, or a person that looked like one. Samuel told Saul that he and his sons would die in the battle, but the one thing Samuel said that proves God never leaves or forsakes His people, “Thou and thy sons will be with me.” Even though Saul had walked away from God never forgot that Saul was His. God never leaves nor forsakes any who have put their faith and trust in His Son. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” -Romans 5:8,9.
Meanwhile, David is having his own problems, he was complacent to live among the Philistines and won the kings favor. However, when the battle between the Israelites and Philistines began the Philistines did not want David and his troops fighting along side of them, fearing they would turn on them. So, the king had not choice, but to tell David and the six hundred men who served under him to leave.
“And the princes of the Philistines were wroth with him; and the princes of the Philistines said unto him, Make this fellow return, that he may go again to his place which thou hast appointed him, and let him not go down with us to battle, lest in the battle he be an adversary to us: for wherewith should he reconcile himself unto his master? should it not be with the heads of these men? Is not this David, of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands? Then Achish called David, and said unto him, Surely, as the LORD liveth, thou hast been upright, and thy going out and thy coming in with me in the host is good in my sight: for I have not found evil in thee since the day of thy coming unto me unto this day: nevertheless the lords favour thee not. Wherefore now return, and go in peace, that thou displease not the lords of the Philistines.” - I Samuel 29:4-7.
Though Achish had so good an opinion of him, and had declared it in council, yet an order had passed there that he should not go to battle with them. God, in His loving-kindness, brings David out of his difficulty by means of the jealousy of the lords of the Philistines. Later on we learn that David helped the Philistines when the Amalekites invaded them, David never left Ziklag without honor. Even when we walk away from God, He will use any means to bring us back to Him, but He will never let us walk away under unpleasant circumstances. “But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” - Hebrews 13:16,17.
Saul's worse fears came to pass, he along with sons, including Jonathan, David's friend, as well as the armourbearer killed in the battle. “And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Melchishua, Saul's sons. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers. Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him. So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, that same day together.” - I Samuel 31:2-6.
God does want us to be content with what we have at present, but He does not want us to forget that He is still around and that He has much more to give us. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” - Philippians 4:9-12. The better we know Him, the more we keep Him in the center of our lives, the better we are able to enjoy that which is ever enlarging through knowing Him.
Remember, even if one has walked away from God they are still a child of God, they just need to get to a point in their lives where they realize that. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” - Hebrews 13:5.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the Urim (28:6), which was used to determine the will of God. Today Christ speaks to us through His Spirit and when we read His Word. “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;” - Hebrews 1:1,2.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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For: Sunday April 10, 2011
Chapters: I Samuel 28-31
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-10
Details of Today's Reading: David still living among the Philistines sides with the king when they battle Israel, Saul seeks a physic to summon Samuel from the dead, Saul's death foretold, David is saved from fighting against Israel, Ziglag is destroyed and David avenges them, Saul, Jonathan, and his sons die in battle.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word complacent means to be content or satisfied in one's current situation. As Christians we must be careful not to become too complacent, to become so content with things that we forget that God is still around. The Bible says, “The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.” - Psalm 145:15-17. You know, whatever we are going through whether it is successes or difficulties it is only temporary, God wants to satisfy all our desires as we wait upon and follow Him. The Bible also says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” - Proverbs 29:18. If we take our eyes off God, even unintentionally, the visions that we once hand will perish, leaving us with two problems, we lose God's protection here on earth and we lose out on the many blessings that God wants to give us.
Chosen by God Himself to be the first king of Israel Saul, was once favored by God, because he was an honest, faithful, godly man. All that changed once he became king and became complacent with what he had. The more he got as king the less he relied on God, within a little over a year Saul had went from being favored by God to despised, which is why He had Samuel anoint David as the next king. Everything went down hill from there, now, a battle has begun with the Philistines and without David there to help, who was actually assisting the Philistines, Saul was running scared. He even tried reaching God to no prevail, he got so scared that he went to a medium to try and get her to summon Samuel's spirit.
“And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul. And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth. And he said unto her, What form is he of? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he is covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground, and bowed himself. And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do... Because thou obeyedst not the voice of the LORD, nor executedst his fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee this day. Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.” - I Samuel 28:12-15,18,19.
Here is this woman, who probably made a living just chanting some words, never really summoning anyone, but for the first time in her life she saw real spirits. The woman's surprise and terror proved that it was an unusual and unexpected appearance. Gods, meaning a great personage, one of a majestic form, angels, or a person that looked like one. Samuel told Saul that he and his sons would die in the battle, but the one thing Samuel said that proves God never leaves or forsakes His people, “Thou and thy sons will be with me.” Even though Saul had walked away from God never forgot that Saul was His. God never leaves nor forsakes any who have put their faith and trust in His Son. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” -Romans 5:8,9.
Meanwhile, David is having his own problems, he was complacent to live among the Philistines and won the kings favor. However, when the battle between the Israelites and Philistines began the Philistines did not want David and his troops fighting along side of them, fearing they would turn on them. So, the king had not choice, but to tell David and the six hundred men who served under him to leave.
“And the princes of the Philistines were wroth with him; and the princes of the Philistines said unto him, Make this fellow return, that he may go again to his place which thou hast appointed him, and let him not go down with us to battle, lest in the battle he be an adversary to us: for wherewith should he reconcile himself unto his master? should it not be with the heads of these men? Is not this David, of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands? Then Achish called David, and said unto him, Surely, as the LORD liveth, thou hast been upright, and thy going out and thy coming in with me in the host is good in my sight: for I have not found evil in thee since the day of thy coming unto me unto this day: nevertheless the lords favour thee not. Wherefore now return, and go in peace, that thou displease not the lords of the Philistines.” - I Samuel 29:4-7.
Though Achish had so good an opinion of him, and had declared it in council, yet an order had passed there that he should not go to battle with them. God, in His loving-kindness, brings David out of his difficulty by means of the jealousy of the lords of the Philistines. Later on we learn that David helped the Philistines when the Amalekites invaded them, David never left Ziklag without honor. Even when we walk away from God, He will use any means to bring us back to Him, but He will never let us walk away under unpleasant circumstances. “But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” - Hebrews 13:16,17.
Saul's worse fears came to pass, he along with sons, including Jonathan, David's friend, as well as the armourbearer killed in the battle. “And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Melchishua, Saul's sons. And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers. Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him. So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, that same day together.” - I Samuel 31:2-6.
God does want us to be content with what we have at present, but He does not want us to forget that He is still around and that He has much more to give us. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.” - Philippians 4:9-12. The better we know Him, the more we keep Him in the center of our lives, the better we are able to enjoy that which is ever enlarging through knowing Him.
Remember, even if one has walked away from God they are still a child of God, they just need to get to a point in their lives where they realize that. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” - Hebrews 13:5.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the Urim (28:6), which was used to determine the will of God. Today Christ speaks to us through His Spirit and when we read His Word. “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;” - Hebrews 1:1,2.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
Missed A Devotional: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/daily-bible-study
Subscribe To This Devotional: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
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