King James Bible Study: The Right Sacrifice
For: Friday April 22, 2011
Chapters: I Kings 3-4
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-22
Details of Today's Reading: Solomon's alliance with Egypt, his marriage to Pharoah’s daughter, Solomon sacrificing in high places, Solomon's dream, the princes of Israel, Solomon’s reign and wisdom all his days as king.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
While God is a forgiving God, He would rather see us living righteously than confessing our sins all the time. Now, since we have this flesh we are never going to be sin free until we see Jesus, but there is a difference between knowingly and unknowingly committing sin. The Bible says, “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” - Proverbs 21:2,3. God does not want to constantly place affliction upon us, but if it is the only way we learn to do things His way then that is what He will do.
Solomon truly loved God, he gave sacrifices, prayed, spoke highly of God, followed in his father's footsteps, and did all that David instructed him to do before he died. However, he did what was right in his own eyes, not God's so, that meant, even though he loved God he did not always do exactly what God told him to do. His first mistake, aligning Israel with Egypt.
“And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about. Only the people sacrificed in high places, because there was no house built unto the name of the LORD, until those days. And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places. And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar. In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.” - I Kings 3:1-5
The great high place was the place were the tabernacle stood until Solomon would build the temple in Jerusalem, which is where the animal sacrifices were to be offered unless God would specify a special place at a particular time. High places were used by those worshiping idols and false gods, whom often gave human sacrifices to their god. For this reason it was forbidden for any child of God to offer sacrifices to God from high places. “God forbid that we should rebel against the LORD, and turn this day from following the LORD, to build an altar for burnt offerings, for meat offerings, or for sacrifices, beside the altar of the LORD our God that is before his tabernacle.” - Joshua 22:29.
After that huge sacrifice and seeing the pattern that Solomon was doing right in his own eyes God decided to speak to Solomon in a dream while he was in Gibeon. In this dream Solomon is praying to God and God gives him a wonderful blessing.
“In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee...Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? And the speech pleased the LORD, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.” - I Kings 3:5,9-12.
Now, God did bless Solomon with wisdom, the amazing thing was that they knew that God was the one who gave him that wisdom. This was confirmed when two women went to Solomon to seek advice on who was the actual mother of a living baby that both claimed was theirs.
“Then came there two women, that were harlots, unto the king, and stood before him. And the one woman said, O my lord, I and this woman dwell in one house; and I was delivered of a child with her in the house. And it came to pass the third day after that I was delivered, that this woman was delivered also: and we were together; there was no stranger with us in the house, save we two in the house. And this woman's child died in the night; because she overlaid it...Then said the king, The one saith, This is my son that liveth, and thy son is the dead: and the other saith, Nay; but thy son is the dead, and my son is the living...And the king said, Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king...Then spake the woman whose the living child was unto the king, for her bowels yearned upon her son, and she said, O my lord, give her the living child, and in no wise slay it. But the other said, Let it be neither mine nor thine, but divide it. Then the king answered and said, Give her the living child, and in no wise slay it: she is the mother thereof. And all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had judged; and they feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him, to do judgment. ” - I Kings 3:16-19,23,24,26-28.
Solomon knew that the real mother rather give her child as a living sacrifice rather than kill him, therefore, he knew that the woman who rather see him die was not his mother. God would never allow a person to give themselves as a human sacrifice, we are to be a living sacrifice, not a dead one. A persons life is too precious to Him and that is why He came here Himself in the form of Jesus Christ and gave Himself as the sacrifice that would keep all who believe in and accept Him from ending up in hell. Those who choose not to accept Christ into their souls may end up in hell, but they will not go there unloved, Christ still gave His life for them as well. “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. Yes, Christ is God in the flesh, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God...And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” - John 1:1,14.
The wisdom and understanding which God had given Solomon surpassed all that was known in the world, people from the ends of the earth came to hear the wisdom of his lips. Later on in his life Solomon, often doing what was right in his own eyes, learned a valuable lesson. The Book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon when he realized all the sacrifices, prayers, material things, and riches of the world are vanity and worthless when done in one's own eyes. “For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit.” - Ecclesiastes 2:26.
As Christian's the right sacrifice is becoming a living sacrifice, that means, to give ourselves to God wholeheartedly, not die for Him, but live for Him through Jesus Christ. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” - Romans 12:1,2.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the wisdom which God gave Solomon. We receive our wisdom through the Holy Spirit who lives inside all believers. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” - Colossians 3:16.
God Bless You, I am praying for you.
Christina
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Friday, April 22, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
King James Bible Study: Keep The Charge
King James Bible Study: Keep The Charge
For: Thursday April 21, 2011
Chapters: I Kings 1-2
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-21
Details of Today's Reading: David’s declining health, Adonijah plots to seize kingdom, Nathan and Bathsheba blot to get Solomon anointed before Adonijah makes himself king, Solomon is anointed king, David’s charge to Solomon, David’s death, the executions of Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei, and Abiathar removed as priest.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word charge is defined as a person committed to your care, a special assignment given to a person, or a formal statement of a command to do something. Part of being a Christian is keeping the charge that God has placed before you, in other words, the special assignment or command that He has given you to do. The Bible says, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.” - I Timothy 5:20-22. There is always going to be someone trying to get us to compromise our commitment to keep the charge, but we must not let anyone, under any circumstances, persuade us to compromise ourselves by going along with or being a part of another's sins.
The book of I Kings is the eleventh book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-two chapters. The author of the book is Jeremiah and it was written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately 1015 BC to 897 BC. The purpose of the book was to record God's dealings with His people from King Solomon's reign, through the division of Israel, through the reigns of Ahab in the north and Jehoshaphat in the south. What we are to learn from the book is that compromise may seem the best thing to do, but it is always costly later. “Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.” - I Kings 11:11.
King David was growing old and his health was diminishing rapidly, presuming that since he was the oldest son of David, Adonijah, the forth living son of David and Absalom's brother, took it upon himself to make himself king. Now, Adonijah as well as everyone in the kingdom, knew that God had already appointed Solomon to be the next king, however, with David being near death he thought it was the opportune time to take the throne by force.
“Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him. And his father had not displeased him at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so? and he also was a very goodly man; and his mother bare him after Absalom. And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest: and they following Adonijah helped him.” - I Kings 1:5-7.
Adonijah, persuaded the two most influential men in Israel to join him and become traitors to David. Abiathar, the high priest, through whom Adonijah would have religious approval by the people, and the powerful Joab, commander-in-chief of David's army. The word exalted means to praise, glorify, or honor, we need to be careful not to exalt ourselves, we can feel good about doing a job well done, but it is a sin to think of ourselves so high that we put ourselves upon a throne. God exalts us Himself when we live our lives for Him, not when we live our lives for ourselves. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” - I Peter 5:6.
Vision is good, but if we are doing anything that goes against God that vision will perish. Adonijah knew that serious consequences would arise if anyone found out about his plot, therefore he did everything under lock and key. However, word got out about what he was about to do, Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba went to David in hopes that he would be able to do something before Adonijah takes the throne for himself.
“And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the LORD thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not:..And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne?..And the king sware, and said, As the LORD liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, Even as I sware unto thee by the LORD God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day.” - I Kings 1:16-18,24,29,30.
It is important to have witnesses and someone to back up an accusation, when both Bathsheba and Nathan came to David he knew that Adonijah was trying to take the throne from Solomon. David assured Nathan and Bathsheba that Solomon would be anointed king that day. After Solomon was anointed king, David gave him some words to live by.
“Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man; And keep the charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.” - I Kings 2:1-4.
David was telling Solomon to stand his ground and not allow himself to compromise his position. God promised David that the Messiah should come from his descendants, and that promise was absolute, but the promise, that there should not fail of them a man on the throne of Israel, was conditional. If he walks before God in sincerity, following His commands, God will always be with him. This same condition still stands, while all who call upon Jesus Christ to save them are promised eternal life in heaven, those who do not follow His commands will deal with a lot of suffering here on earth. “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.” - I Peter 4:1,2.
While Adonijah gathered all his men together for a feast to celebrate his inauguration, Solomon was being anointed king. When all the conspirators found out that Solomon was now king Adonijah and all the rest of them ran, fearing for their lives. Adonijah and Joab got themselves killed, while Abiathar was stripped from being a priest.
“Now therefore, as the LORD liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of David my father, and who hath made me an house, as he promised, Adonijah shall be put to death this day...So Solomon thrust out Abiathar from being priest unto the LORD; that he might fulfil the word of the LORD, which he spake concerning the house of Eli in Shiloh...And it was told king Solomon that Joab was fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD; and, behold, he is by the altar. Then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, Go, fall upon him.” - I Kings 2:24,27,29.
No matter how powerful or cunning a person thinks himself to be, God is more powerful than anyone, none can overthrow God's will. Therefore, follow the advice David gave to Solomon, keep the charge, and do not let anyone stop you from fulfilling the commands God has given you. Not only will you save yourself some grief you may even show them they error of their ways. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” - I Peter 4:12,13.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the oil used to anoint Solomon as king (1:39). Oil, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, was poured out upon those chosen for special service. “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” - Acts 10:38.
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 21, 2011
Chapters: I Kings 1-2
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-21
Details of Today's Reading: David’s declining health, Adonijah plots to seize kingdom, Nathan and Bathsheba blot to get Solomon anointed before Adonijah makes himself king, Solomon is anointed king, David’s charge to Solomon, David’s death, the executions of Adonijah, Joab, and Shimei, and Abiathar removed as priest.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word charge is defined as a person committed to your care, a special assignment given to a person, or a formal statement of a command to do something. Part of being a Christian is keeping the charge that God has placed before you, in other words, the special assignment or command that He has given you to do. The Bible says, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.” - I Timothy 5:20-22. There is always going to be someone trying to get us to compromise our commitment to keep the charge, but we must not let anyone, under any circumstances, persuade us to compromise ourselves by going along with or being a part of another's sins.
The book of I Kings is the eleventh book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-two chapters. The author of the book is Jeremiah and it was written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately 1015 BC to 897 BC. The purpose of the book was to record God's dealings with His people from King Solomon's reign, through the division of Israel, through the reigns of Ahab in the north and Jehoshaphat in the south. What we are to learn from the book is that compromise may seem the best thing to do, but it is always costly later. “Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.” - I Kings 11:11.
King David was growing old and his health was diminishing rapidly, presuming that since he was the oldest son of David, Adonijah, the forth living son of David and Absalom's brother, took it upon himself to make himself king. Now, Adonijah as well as everyone in the kingdom, knew that God had already appointed Solomon to be the next king, however, with David being near death he thought it was the opportune time to take the throne by force.
“Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him. And his father had not displeased him at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so? and he also was a very goodly man; and his mother bare him after Absalom. And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest: and they following Adonijah helped him.” - I Kings 1:5-7.
Adonijah, persuaded the two most influential men in Israel to join him and become traitors to David. Abiathar, the high priest, through whom Adonijah would have religious approval by the people, and the powerful Joab, commander-in-chief of David's army. The word exalted means to praise, glorify, or honor, we need to be careful not to exalt ourselves, we can feel good about doing a job well done, but it is a sin to think of ourselves so high that we put ourselves upon a throne. God exalts us Himself when we live our lives for Him, not when we live our lives for ourselves. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” - I Peter 5:6.
Vision is good, but if we are doing anything that goes against God that vision will perish. Adonijah knew that serious consequences would arise if anyone found out about his plot, therefore he did everything under lock and key. However, word got out about what he was about to do, Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba went to David in hopes that he would be able to do something before Adonijah takes the throne for himself.
“And Bathsheba bowed, and did obeisance unto the king. And the king said, What wouldest thou? And she said unto him, My lord, thou swarest by the LORD thy God unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne. And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest it not:..And Nathan said, My lord, O king, hast thou said, Adonijah shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne?..And the king sware, and said, As the LORD liveth, that hath redeemed my soul out of all distress, Even as I sware unto thee by the LORD God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day.” - I Kings 1:16-18,24,29,30.
It is important to have witnesses and someone to back up an accusation, when both Bathsheba and Nathan came to David he knew that Adonijah was trying to take the throne from Solomon. David assured Nathan and Bathsheba that Solomon would be anointed king that day. After Solomon was anointed king, David gave him some words to live by.
“Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man; And keep the charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.” - I Kings 2:1-4.
David was telling Solomon to stand his ground and not allow himself to compromise his position. God promised David that the Messiah should come from his descendants, and that promise was absolute, but the promise, that there should not fail of them a man on the throne of Israel, was conditional. If he walks before God in sincerity, following His commands, God will always be with him. This same condition still stands, while all who call upon Jesus Christ to save them are promised eternal life in heaven, those who do not follow His commands will deal with a lot of suffering here on earth. “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.” - I Peter 4:1,2.
While Adonijah gathered all his men together for a feast to celebrate his inauguration, Solomon was being anointed king. When all the conspirators found out that Solomon was now king Adonijah and all the rest of them ran, fearing for their lives. Adonijah and Joab got themselves killed, while Abiathar was stripped from being a priest.
“Now therefore, as the LORD liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of David my father, and who hath made me an house, as he promised, Adonijah shall be put to death this day...So Solomon thrust out Abiathar from being priest unto the LORD; that he might fulfil the word of the LORD, which he spake concerning the house of Eli in Shiloh...And it was told king Solomon that Joab was fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD; and, behold, he is by the altar. Then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, Go, fall upon him.” - I Kings 2:24,27,29.
No matter how powerful or cunning a person thinks himself to be, God is more powerful than anyone, none can overthrow God's will. Therefore, follow the advice David gave to Solomon, keep the charge, and do not let anyone stop you from fulfilling the commands God has given you. Not only will you save yourself some grief you may even show them they error of their ways. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” - I Peter 4:12,13.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the oil used to anoint Solomon as king (1:39). Oil, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, was poured out upon those chosen for special service. “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” - Acts 10:38.
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
King James Bible Study: Eternal Covenant
King James Bible Study: Eternal Covenant
For: Wednesday April 20, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 23-24.
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-20
Details of Today's Reading: The last inspired words spoken of David, the deeds of his mighty men, David’s sin in numbering the people, David must choose his punishment, pestilence in the land, David's sacrifice, and the plague removed.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word transcribe is defined as a copy, a exact writing just as dictated, a transcript from an original, or an exact copy of text written in another language. The Bible was written or transcribed by the divine inspiration of forty men who were dictated by God Himself. Every word in the Bible is exactly what God instructed the author to write. The King James Version of the Bible is an exact copy of the original transcripts written in a different language. “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 one of the men inspired by God to write down His Word, David is responsible for putting ink to paper for most of the Psalms. Now David is speaking about the last words that God had him write.
“Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain. Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.” - II Samuel 23:1-5.
David knew that although he was a sinner God still made an everlasting covenant with him, the covenant of mercy, grace, forgiveness, and salvation, who he believed would be the promised Savior. God's faithful, regardless of whether or not they existed before or after Jesus came to earth, are depending on the everlasting covenant that God makes with all believers. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:13. The name of the Lord, is Jesus Christ, who ever calls on Christ shall be saved. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” - Romans 10:9.
David never lost a war in his forty year reign as king because he sought the Lord for guidance in every battle. However, David would soon lose a battle he would never forget, a spiritual battle.
“And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah...So when they had gone through all the land, they came to Jerusalem at the end of nine months and twenty days. And Joab gave up the sum of the number of the people unto the king: and there were in Israel eight hundred thousand valiant men that drew the sword; and the men of Judah were five hundred thousand men. And David's heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly.” - II Samuel 24:1,8-10.
David knew that what he had done was wrong, but the damage was done. He disobeyed the law and because of that a price would be paid. There is no record that taking a census was prohibited, but the Law did state that every person counted was to be compensated for, which David did not do. “When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague among them, when thou numberest them. This they shall give, every one that passeth among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD.” - Exodus 30:12,13.
This time God did not decide what David's punishment would be, but David had choose the punishment himself. God gave him a choice between three forms of punishment.
“So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me. And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the hand of the LORD; for his mercies are great: and let me not fall into the hand of man. So the LORD sent a pestilence upon Israel from the morning even to the time appointed: and there died of the people from Dan even to Beersheba seventy thousand men.” - II Samuel 24:13-15.
Can you imagine having to choose your own punishment? David did not want to spend three months being chased again nor did he want the people to suffer for seven years over something he did, so, he chose the punishment of three days of pestilence. which meant a disease would spread over the land for three days. Immediately the plague spread like a wild fire, the result, 70,000 people lost their lives. The Holy Spirit directed the writing of II Samuel to show us that everyone is under the sovereign power of God, even our nations leaders. All the problems our nations are facing today are the result of our leaders going their own way instead of God's way. “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,..And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;” - Romans 1:21,22,28.
It is only through our relationship with Christ that we can, like David, rest on the hope of the eternal covenant made between God and the believer. The only way we are even aware of the eternal covenant is because someone, inspired by God, transcribed God's Word in a language that we can all understand. It is up to those who know the truth to tell it to those do not know so, they too, can have the opportunity to be saved. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” - II Peter 3:9. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the silver which David used to purchase the threshing floor (24:21) to built the altar for the sacrifice. Silver symbolizes Christ's redemption offered for all on the cross. “And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.” - Matthew 26:15.
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: Wednesday April 20, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 23-24.
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-20
Details of Today's Reading: The last inspired words spoken of David, the deeds of his mighty men, David’s sin in numbering the people, David must choose his punishment, pestilence in the land, David's sacrifice, and the plague removed.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word transcribe is defined as a copy, a exact writing just as dictated, a transcript from an original, or an exact copy of text written in another language. The Bible was written or transcribed by the divine inspiration of forty men who were dictated by God Himself. Every word in the Bible is exactly what God instructed the author to write. The King James Version of the Bible is an exact copy of the original transcripts written in a different language. “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 one of the men inspired by God to write down His Word, David is responsible for putting ink to paper for most of the Psalms. Now David is speaking about the last words that God had him write.
“Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain. Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.” - II Samuel 23:1-5.
David knew that although he was a sinner God still made an everlasting covenant with him, the covenant of mercy, grace, forgiveness, and salvation, who he believed would be the promised Savior. God's faithful, regardless of whether or not they existed before or after Jesus came to earth, are depending on the everlasting covenant that God makes with all believers. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:13. The name of the Lord, is Jesus Christ, who ever calls on Christ shall be saved. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” - Romans 10:9.
David never lost a war in his forty year reign as king because he sought the Lord for guidance in every battle. However, David would soon lose a battle he would never forget, a spiritual battle.
“And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah...So when they had gone through all the land, they came to Jerusalem at the end of nine months and twenty days. And Joab gave up the sum of the number of the people unto the king: and there were in Israel eight hundred thousand valiant men that drew the sword; and the men of Judah were five hundred thousand men. And David's heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly.” - II Samuel 24:1,8-10.
David knew that what he had done was wrong, but the damage was done. He disobeyed the law and because of that a price would be paid. There is no record that taking a census was prohibited, but the Law did state that every person counted was to be compensated for, which David did not do. “When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague among them, when thou numberest them. This they shall give, every one that passeth among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD.” - Exodus 30:12,13.
This time God did not decide what David's punishment would be, but David had choose the punishment himself. God gave him a choice between three forms of punishment.
“So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall seven years of famine come unto thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that sent me. And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the hand of the LORD; for his mercies are great: and let me not fall into the hand of man. So the LORD sent a pestilence upon Israel from the morning even to the time appointed: and there died of the people from Dan even to Beersheba seventy thousand men.” - II Samuel 24:13-15.
Can you imagine having to choose your own punishment? David did not want to spend three months being chased again nor did he want the people to suffer for seven years over something he did, so, he chose the punishment of three days of pestilence. which meant a disease would spread over the land for three days. Immediately the plague spread like a wild fire, the result, 70,000 people lost their lives. The Holy Spirit directed the writing of II Samuel to show us that everyone is under the sovereign power of God, even our nations leaders. All the problems our nations are facing today are the result of our leaders going their own way instead of God's way. “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,..And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;” - Romans 1:21,22,28.
It is only through our relationship with Christ that we can, like David, rest on the hope of the eternal covenant made between God and the believer. The only way we are even aware of the eternal covenant is because someone, inspired by God, transcribed God's Word in a language that we can all understand. It is up to those who know the truth to tell it to those do not know so, they too, can have the opportunity to be saved. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” - II Peter 3:9. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the silver which David used to purchase the threshing floor (24:21) to built the altar for the sacrifice. Silver symbolizes Christ's redemption offered for all on the cross. “And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.” - Matthew 26:15.
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
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Tuesday, April 19, 2011
King James Bible Study: Trials Or Afflictions
King James Bible Study: Trials Or Afflictions
For: Tuesday April 19, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 21-22
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-19
Details of Today's Reading: Three years of famine, Saul’s sons slain, war with the Philistines, and David’s song of deliverance.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word trial is defined as the state of being tried, any effort of strength for the purpose of obtaining its effect. In other words, when God places trials before us He is doing it to try us, to strengthen our relationship with Him and get us to depend on Him alone. Trials come and go, of course, when we are going through them we do not always understand why we are in them nor do we want to be in them, but just like everything else, we go through them for a reason and they too will come to pass. “And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” - Hebrews 6:15.
Sometimes it's not trials we face, but affliction, affliction is defined as continued pain of the body or mind, such as sickness, losses, calamity, adversity, persecution. Every bit of the affliction we go through arises from sin, but here is the strange thing, it's not always sin that we have caused by our own actions. While we are all accountable for our own sins we still have to face some affliction caused by others. “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” - I Peter 4:16,17.
David's one sin with Bathsheba not only afflicted him, but his family, and everyone else around him. Innocent people were suffering over one man's sin. However, once David repented, got right with God, and suffered for a bit all came to pass and there was peace once again in Israel. However, no sooner than things get back to normal, more affliction comes.
“Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David enquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, It is for Saul, and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites...Wherefore David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD?..Let seven men of his sons be delivered unto us, and we will hang them up unto the LORD in Gibeah of Saul, whom the LORD did choose. And the king said, I will give them. But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD's oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.” - II Samuel 21:1,3,6,7.
David knew well by experience that the afflictions of he and his people were facing were the cause of someone's sin. David made things right with the Gibeonites, then God began blessing them once again. When we are under God’s judgments, we need to keep asking God what's going on, and when the cause is revealed, we should go to all lengths to make right the wrongs of the past so that God’s full blessing may be renewed upon us once again. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” - Galatians 6:1,2.
Although David's life was filled with many disappointments, sufferings, and sorrows, he readily acknowledged that it was the Lord who gave Him every deliverance from his trials and afflictions. David teaches us to give praise to God in the midst of trials and affliction, regardless of our circumstances. David wrote a song of praise to God. All of chapter 22 is called David's song, which is almost identical to Psalm 18 and in it there is not one complaint, only praise to God through all of the circumstances he faced.
“And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul: And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies...For all his judgments were before me: and as for his statutes, I did not depart from them. I was also upright before him, and have kept myself from mine iniquity. Therefore the LORD hath recompensed me according to my righteousness; according to my cleanness in his eye sight.” - II Samuel 22:1-4,23-25.
The key to facing trials or afflictions is waiting on God, when we wait patiently on the Lord through our faith in Him they will come to pass a lot quicker. Fight or ignore Him and they will hang around a lot longer. Those who really have no faith in God are not fruitful and will not overcome their trials or afflictions until they learn what God is trying to tell them. “Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts...Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” - James 4:2,3,10.
Are you currently facing a trial or affliction? It is time to take a serious look at what God is trying to tell you. It's time to ask God to search your heart or reveal to you anything that is hindering you from overcoming your circumstances. Are you, like David, singing praises to God as you patiently await His answers? Are you looking for solutions to handle any problems caused by others? Are you asking amiss? Is there some secret sin that you think you are hiding? Is it a person you hang our with? Is it a job? Is it a relationship? Or is it that you have lost your faith in God? Whatever it is, now is the time to get with God until He shows you what is hindering you from going forward. “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” - Matthew 21:22.
God wants to bless us, but we must be willing to let go of the things in our lives that are causing the trial or affliction. Whether it is something we have to personally let go of, or repent for, or something someone else has done and we are afflicted by it, we need to get with God about it and ask Him how to fix the problem. Once we learn what is hindering us we will see the blessings unfold as well as see a new outlook on life.
“And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. ” - Psalm 40:2-5. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the One we call upon for salvation (22:4). “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:10.
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
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For: Tuesday April 19, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 21-22
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-19
Details of Today's Reading: Three years of famine, Saul’s sons slain, war with the Philistines, and David’s song of deliverance.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
The word trial is defined as the state of being tried, any effort of strength for the purpose of obtaining its effect. In other words, when God places trials before us He is doing it to try us, to strengthen our relationship with Him and get us to depend on Him alone. Trials come and go, of course, when we are going through them we do not always understand why we are in them nor do we want to be in them, but just like everything else, we go through them for a reason and they too will come to pass. “And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” - Hebrews 6:15.
Sometimes it's not trials we face, but affliction, affliction is defined as continued pain of the body or mind, such as sickness, losses, calamity, adversity, persecution. Every bit of the affliction we go through arises from sin, but here is the strange thing, it's not always sin that we have caused by our own actions. While we are all accountable for our own sins we still have to face some affliction caused by others. “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” - I Peter 4:16,17.
David's one sin with Bathsheba not only afflicted him, but his family, and everyone else around him. Innocent people were suffering over one man's sin. However, once David repented, got right with God, and suffered for a bit all came to pass and there was peace once again in Israel. However, no sooner than things get back to normal, more affliction comes.
“Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David enquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, It is for Saul, and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites...Wherefore David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD?..Let seven men of his sons be delivered unto us, and we will hang them up unto the LORD in Gibeah of Saul, whom the LORD did choose. And the king said, I will give them. But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD's oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.” - II Samuel 21:1,3,6,7.
David knew well by experience that the afflictions of he and his people were facing were the cause of someone's sin. David made things right with the Gibeonites, then God began blessing them once again. When we are under God’s judgments, we need to keep asking God what's going on, and when the cause is revealed, we should go to all lengths to make right the wrongs of the past so that God’s full blessing may be renewed upon us once again. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” - Galatians 6:1,2.
Although David's life was filled with many disappointments, sufferings, and sorrows, he readily acknowledged that it was the Lord who gave Him every deliverance from his trials and afflictions. David teaches us to give praise to God in the midst of trials and affliction, regardless of our circumstances. David wrote a song of praise to God. All of chapter 22 is called David's song, which is almost identical to Psalm 18 and in it there is not one complaint, only praise to God through all of the circumstances he faced.
“And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul: And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies...For all his judgments were before me: and as for his statutes, I did not depart from them. I was also upright before him, and have kept myself from mine iniquity. Therefore the LORD hath recompensed me according to my righteousness; according to my cleanness in his eye sight.” - II Samuel 22:1-4,23-25.
The key to facing trials or afflictions is waiting on God, when we wait patiently on the Lord through our faith in Him they will come to pass a lot quicker. Fight or ignore Him and they will hang around a lot longer. Those who really have no faith in God are not fruitful and will not overcome their trials or afflictions until they learn what God is trying to tell them. “Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts...Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” - James 4:2,3,10.
Are you currently facing a trial or affliction? It is time to take a serious look at what God is trying to tell you. It's time to ask God to search your heart or reveal to you anything that is hindering you from overcoming your circumstances. Are you, like David, singing praises to God as you patiently await His answers? Are you looking for solutions to handle any problems caused by others? Are you asking amiss? Is there some secret sin that you think you are hiding? Is it a person you hang our with? Is it a job? Is it a relationship? Or is it that you have lost your faith in God? Whatever it is, now is the time to get with God until He shows you what is hindering you from going forward. “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” - Matthew 21:22.
God wants to bless us, but we must be willing to let go of the things in our lives that are causing the trial or affliction. Whether it is something we have to personally let go of, or repent for, or something someone else has done and we are afflicted by it, we need to get with God about it and ask Him how to fix the problem. Once we learn what is hindering us we will see the blessings unfold as well as see a new outlook on life.
“And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. ” - Psalm 40:2-5. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the One we call upon for salvation (22:4). “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:10.
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
Sunday, April 17, 2011
King James Bible Study: Rotten Fruit
King James Bible Study: Rotten Fruit
For: Sunday April 17, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 17-18
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-17
Details of Today's Reading: The wicked counsel of Ahitophel given to Absalom, Hushai convinces Absalom not to follow the advice, Absalom pursues David, Absalom's army is defeated, Joab kills Absalom, and David mourns Absalom's death.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
As Christian's we all long to see the good in others, but the truth is there are some people in this world who are just plain wicked and will remain that way until the day they die. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” - Matthew 7:15-18. Oh, they are very good at convincing people that they are righteous and even a Christian themselves, but all they are doing is using God's name to deceive His elect.
How can you tell if you are being deceived? The Bible says, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” - Romans 16:17-20. Wicked people will often contradict God's Word, tell the people what they want to hear instead of the truth, and will often promise things that absolutely can not be achieved. While God will allow them to get away with things for a little while, He will avenge His people.
Absalom was David's oldest living son and if he had done everything right he probably would have rightfully been the next king by heir, but he was not willing to receive the crown by learning and growing as David did, he wanted it now and he was even willing to even kill his father to obtain it. For a while it looked as though Absalom had everything going his way, he even won the favor of David's two trusted advisers, Ahithophel and Hushai. However, all that was about to change when Absalom asked for advice from Ahithophel, who was just as wicked as Absalom.
“Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only: And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace. And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.” - II Samuel 17:1-4.
Notice that Ahithophel's plan, if followed through, would mean that he would get the recognition of slaying the king? Absalom was pleased and the elders too? These elders were the head of each tribe, chosen to make the decisions for their tribes. Did you ever wonder why wicked people seem to flock together and have control over everything? While we can not do anything about that there is something we can do. “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.” - Psalm 37:7-9.
After Absalom thought about what Ahithophel suggested, he probably did realize that, Ahithophel would have been given all the recognition for it so he decided to get a second opinion. Absalom went to another one of David's trusted advisers, Hushai, for counsel.
“And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time. For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom...And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.” - II Samuel 17:7-9,14.
While Absalom was feeding his ego over the fact that he had gotten his father's two top advisers, little did he know that David sent Hushai to join him. Hushai suggested that all the forces of Israel be gathered and that Absalom, the commander-in-chief himself, be at the head of his great army. Doing it this way, gave him a sense that he would gain the prestige of being the conqueror and the rightful king of all Israel while it gave David and his army time to prepare for the battle. God never intended for David to be killed or dethroned over his sin, He just wanted to chasten him, but now the punishment was over and it was time bring it all to pass. God never lets us suffer too long. “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” - Hebrews 12:11.
Like Absalom and Ahithophel, the wicked are often successful for a time and it may even appear that all their plans have been fulfilled and they are prospering. However, there comes a time when God says, “The fun is over, you have deceived my people enough, I served my purpose with you and now justice will be served.” Which is what He had done with Ahithophel and Absalom. Ahithophel, upon finding out that Absalom did not follow through with his plan, killed himself. “And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.” - II Samuel 17:23.
During the battle, Absalom was killed. “And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away...Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.” - II Samuel 18:9,14,15.
We have all been deceived by a friend, family member, and even our own flesh and blood from time to time. They do not care who they have to deceive, destroy, or even kill, they will do everything in their power to get what they want, even if it takes years to get them there. You would think that with so much energy being put into deceiving people that they could have put it to better use and really done something good with their lives? Yet, wickedness does not go unpunished, a person truly reaps what they sow. When Jesus was hanging on the cross, being crucified, watching the people mock Him and gamble for a piece of His clothing He said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” - Luke 23:34.
Satan thought he defeated God, but Jesus came back and one day He will return and Satan and all evil will be gone for good. We, who have trusted in Jesus Christ as our Savior will live to see a life with no more sorrow, pain, or suffering. “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” - Revelation 21:3,4. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Mahanaim, the city of refuge where David went, (17:27). Jesus Christ is our refuge. “I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” - Psalm 91:2.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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For: Sunday April 17, 2011
Chapters: II Samuel 17-18
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-april-17
Details of Today's Reading: The wicked counsel of Ahitophel given to Absalom, Hushai convinces Absalom not to follow the advice, Absalom pursues David, Absalom's army is defeated, Joab kills Absalom, and David mourns Absalom's death.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
As Christian's we all long to see the good in others, but the truth is there are some people in this world who are just plain wicked and will remain that way until the day they die. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” - Matthew 7:15-18. Oh, they are very good at convincing people that they are righteous and even a Christian themselves, but all they are doing is using God's name to deceive His elect.
How can you tell if you are being deceived? The Bible says, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” - Romans 16:17-20. Wicked people will often contradict God's Word, tell the people what they want to hear instead of the truth, and will often promise things that absolutely can not be achieved. While God will allow them to get away with things for a little while, He will avenge His people.
Absalom was David's oldest living son and if he had done everything right he probably would have rightfully been the next king by heir, but he was not willing to receive the crown by learning and growing as David did, he wanted it now and he was even willing to even kill his father to obtain it. For a while it looked as though Absalom had everything going his way, he even won the favor of David's two trusted advisers, Ahithophel and Hushai. However, all that was about to change when Absalom asked for advice from Ahithophel, who was just as wicked as Absalom.
“Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night: And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will smite the king only: And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace. And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.” - II Samuel 17:1-4.
Notice that Ahithophel's plan, if followed through, would mean that he would get the recognition of slaying the king? Absalom was pleased and the elders too? These elders were the head of each tribe, chosen to make the decisions for their tribes. Did you ever wonder why wicked people seem to flock together and have control over everything? While we can not do anything about that there is something we can do. “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.” - Psalm 37:7-9.
After Absalom thought about what Ahithophel suggested, he probably did realize that, Ahithophel would have been given all the recognition for it so he decided to get a second opinion. Absalom went to another one of David's trusted advisers, Hushai, for counsel.
“And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is not good at this time. For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with the people. Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow Absalom...And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom.” - II Samuel 17:7-9,14.
While Absalom was feeding his ego over the fact that he had gotten his father's two top advisers, little did he know that David sent Hushai to join him. Hushai suggested that all the forces of Israel be gathered and that Absalom, the commander-in-chief himself, be at the head of his great army. Doing it this way, gave him a sense that he would gain the prestige of being the conqueror and the rightful king of all Israel while it gave David and his army time to prepare for the battle. God never intended for David to be killed or dethroned over his sin, He just wanted to chasten him, but now the punishment was over and it was time bring it all to pass. God never lets us suffer too long. “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” - Hebrews 12:11.
Like Absalom and Ahithophel, the wicked are often successful for a time and it may even appear that all their plans have been fulfilled and they are prospering. However, there comes a time when God says, “The fun is over, you have deceived my people enough, I served my purpose with you and now justice will be served.” Which is what He had done with Ahithophel and Absalom. Ahithophel, upon finding out that Absalom did not follow through with his plan, killed himself. “And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.” - II Samuel 17:23.
During the battle, Absalom was killed. “And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and the mule that was under him went away...Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.” - II Samuel 18:9,14,15.
We have all been deceived by a friend, family member, and even our own flesh and blood from time to time. They do not care who they have to deceive, destroy, or even kill, they will do everything in their power to get what they want, even if it takes years to get them there. You would think that with so much energy being put into deceiving people that they could have put it to better use and really done something good with their lives? Yet, wickedness does not go unpunished, a person truly reaps what they sow. When Jesus was hanging on the cross, being crucified, watching the people mock Him and gamble for a piece of His clothing He said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” - Luke 23:34.
Satan thought he defeated God, but Jesus came back and one day He will return and Satan and all evil will be gone for good. We, who have trusted in Jesus Christ as our Savior will live to see a life with no more sorrow, pain, or suffering. “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” - Revelation 21:3,4. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Mahanaim, the city of refuge where David went, (17:27). Jesus Christ is our refuge. “I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” - Psalm 91:2.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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