May 31: 1 Kings 3-4, 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 72

May 31, 1 Kings 3-4, 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 72

1 Kings 3 starts out with Solomon making a poor choice, that of marrying a daughter of Pharaoh - from Egypt. This is forbidden in Deut 7 as it could lead to bringing in foreign gods (and you will learn soon that this happens). This just shows that Solomon is already somewhat divided because the next verse talks about how much he loved God and followed God, except for his offerings were done indiscriminately in high places. This also shows that Solomon was not fully obeying what God had commanded. While Solomon was offering to the Lord, God appeared to him in a dream at night. God asked Solomon, “Ask what I shall give you.”  Solomon responded that he was young and ignorant, not knowing how to govern this countless people - he needed discernment & wisdom. This pleased God that this is what Solomon requested. God’s response is incredible, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days. And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.” Incredible - God would be giving Solomon everything anyone could ask - it would be all together epic for Solomon… all he had to do was walk in God’s ways. 

Solomon was then presented with a situation that required some deep discernment. 2 prostitutes came to Solomon. Long story short, one was lying and the other one was not and Solomon got the heart of the matter and because of his decision, all of Israel stood in awe of his wisdom - because they seen that the wisdom of God had been given to him to do justice. 

1 Kings 4 King Solomon was King over all of Israel. He had his officials and servants to take care of everything. The people of Israel were numerous and they were living in peace and prosperity. “And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, so that Solomon's wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all other men…” God had kept His side of the deal (His Word) and now it was up to Solomon…

2 Chronicles 1 The Chronicler records here pretty much the same story line as that of 1 Kings 3. One thing added, is this: “And the king made silver and gold as common in Jerusalem as stone, and he made cedar as plentiful as the sycamore of the Shephelah.” Now that is the definition of prosperity.

Psalm 72 is a prophetic Psalm. The whole world, universal, anticipates a son from David’s line - and that is none other than Jesus Christ. There is descriptions of the Messiah (Jesus) and even details who Christ cares for  - the needy. Blessed be God for providing a Savior for the world, Jews and Gentiles alike.

To sum it all up:

• Do what God asks of you - regardless of how hard it is or what the temptations are! He is worth it.
• For us - all we need to do is walk in God’s ways and He will take care of us. 

May 30: Psalm 119:1-88

May 30, Psalm 119:1-88

A note on Psalm 119 from the Reformation Study Bible, “Ps. 119 is the longest (chapter of the Bible). The psalm is an acrostic of twenty-two stanzas, one for each letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The eight poetic lines of each stanza begin with the same Hebrew letter…

While the psalmist expresses his love for the law and his desire to obey it, he also recognizes his failures. Elements of lament and petition are intertwined with expressions of confidence and innocence.

The law is a faithful expression of God’s character. God sent His Son to keep the law for us. The law no longer condemns us, setting us free to accept it as our own guide for pleasing the One who died in our place.” In Christ, we are no longer bound the letter of the law, but the spirit of the law, that is - Our hearts must incline towards Christ. But we can still and should still love God’s law, as it should be written on our hearts. 

Psalm 119:1-88 This is what our goal in life should be: “Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways.” As we are pursuing God, we are blessed. Walk in His ways. How can a young man and us as adults stay pure? Simple: Guard our lives according to God’s Word. Store up God’s Words in our heart and meditate and pray on them. God’s law should bring us delight because it is God’s Law that brings life and the opportunity for purity. Our souls should be longing and consumed with His love and law. Ask God to understand His Way and meditate on what He reveals. Chose this day to be Faithful to Him. Run after His commandments and pursue Him. We need to seek His law - for Him to:

• teach us
• Give us understanding
• Lead us in the way to His commandments
• Incline our hearts to His Testimonies
• Turn our eyes from garbage and not self
• Confirm His promises 
• Turn us away from sin
• So that we long to learn more about how He wants us to live and receive His righteousness. 

Let us strive to find delight in His commandments, which we are to love, and take comfort in the Lord because He has given us His law. Trials and afflictions, as hard as they can be, can and should draw us closer to Him. Reality is, God disciplines those He loves and we are drawn closer to Him in times of adversity and discipline. The good thing is that we can ask God to “Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight.” Delight in God’s law? Absolutely!

To sum it all up:

• Does purity sound old fashioned to you, or does it appeal to you? My hope is that it would appeal to you - because that is the life that God is calling us to. Not living for self, but dying to self. Denying the flesh and Glorifying God. 
• We can love God’s law only if we believe in Him, otherwise His law is a snare for us. Instead, if your heart is for the Lord, you will delight in His ways - because we know that following Him brings life. 

May 29: 1 Kings 1-2, Psalm 37, 71, 94

May 29, 1 Kings 1-2, Psalm 37, 71, 94

1 Kings 1 From where we left off, David is getting old and has prepared for Solomon to take over the throne. He was old, and he could not warm up. They decided to bring him Abishag, a young and beautiful woman to lay with the King and keep him warm - but he did not have sex with her.

While this is going on, David’s fourth son, Adonijah, exalted himself (in disobedience to God and his Dad) to be king. He rallied some men, including Joab (David’s commander of the army), and Abiathar (one of David’s priests). They followed Adonijah. Then he threw a party and the did a sacrifice to the Lord. All his brothers were invited and a bunch of the leaders. Who was not invited? Solomon, Nathan the Prophet, Beneniah the Priest, nor any of David’s mighty men (these were all loyal to David and now to Solomon). Nathan the prophet heard about it and made sure that Solomon’s mom, Bathsheba knew about it. The devised a plan on how to approach David, and it worked. They both went in at separate times to inform David what was really going on behind his back, while he was still alive. David confirmed that Solomon was to be King, by the Lord’s Words Himself, so put him on the Kings mule, send him throughout town and anoint him again as King. They did this and the Israelites were thrilled! The sound of rejoicing was so loud from the people the earth split! 

Adonijah and his boys were just finishing up a large meal, and they heard all the commotion - not knowing what just happened. When Adonijah found out he was terrified. David on the other hand, was praising God for keeping His Word. All of Adonijah’s followers left in fear. Solomon was already showing his wisdom in how he approached this new Kingdom and stated that if Adonijah was innocent, he would be spared. If he was guilty, he shall die. King Solomon met with him and then sent him home.

1 Kings 2 David was about to die, so he called to Solomon and commanded to him something very similar that was commanded to Joshua from God after Moses died, “Be strong, and show yourself a man…” Obey God and stand for what is right (God’s ways) and everything will work out and Solomon will prosper in all he does. Then David goes on to tell his son a few tips on how to deal with some current adversaries, namely Joab. Joab must be killed because he just proved himself to be dangerous and divisive. Do you remember Shimei, the guy that cursed David when he was fleeing Saul? David told him to use his wisdom on how to deal with him. Then David died. Solomon was now official King.

Adonijah then tried to get around Solomon and go through Solomon’s mother, Bathsheba, to spare his life. Solomon was approached by his mother and saw right through it. Because of what Adonijah did, and how he tried to manipulate the situation, Solomon had him killed for it. Abiathar, who sided with Adonijah, was spared because he carried the Ark of the Lord. Meanwhile, Joab fled to the tent of the Lord and was killed for what he had done. Now, Solomon put Beniah as commander of his army. For Shimei, he was spared, but only to stay at his home and never leave, or he would be killed. Shimei agreed. 3 years later, Shimei left his home to go after some runaway servants, and because of him breaking his oath, he was killed. Thus, the kingdom was established in the hand of Solomon.

Psalm 37 Sure, non-Christians can sure seem to prosper on earth, but Christians shall remain faithful to God and will be blessed for it. This is such a powerful Psalm! A few of worthy mention, “Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” What an amazing prayer and reminder for us in how we should live out our lives. Trust. Delight in Him. Commit to Him. Trust in Him… and He will act! Oh, and there is more:) “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him: fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!” Wait on God, He’s got you covered. Don’t worry about the people who are ‘prospering’ - you should desire to prosper in God. It is best to pursue God and pursue Him in righteousness, and He will uphold you.

God plans your ways and He establishes them - when we delight in Him, He holds us up.

Turn away from evil & do good - are you doing that? Salvation belongs to God to grant, His gig!

Psalm 71 God will not forsake the faithful. Stay on the course that God has you on - it is best. God is our Refuge, Deliverer, Rescuer, Rock, Fortress. Yup - He is God. Praise Him all day long, think about Him - declare His goodness to others… I like this part of the prayer and the genuine heart behind it… “So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come.” What a great reason to grow old… not to retire - but to proclaim to the next generations about God’s power. 

Psalm 94 If you are pursuing God, you most likely have encountered spiritual battles. Well, stay faithful and remember what Yahweh has done - that will help you endure. It seems that the wicked prosper and their arrogance knows no bounds. Try this on for size: “Understand, O dullest of the people! Fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, does he not hear? He who formed the eye, does he not see? He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke? He who teaches man knowledge— the Lord—knows the thoughts of man, that they are but a breath.” God is Creator and will not be mocked, even when it seems like it on earth - but who can mess with God? God knows mans thoughts and will not be mocked. Be thankful when God disciplines you, because God disciplines those He loves. God will not forget His people, us included. 

To sum it all up:

• What a life and story that David had, and it was all part of God’s plan. Just like you and me, we are all part of God’s plan…
• Even when it seems as though the pagans and non-believers seem to prosper, it is only temporary. Do not envy what they have, because what they need is Jesus. 

May 28: Psalm 111-118

May 28, Psalm 111-118

Psalm 111 is an acrostic poem connecting to Psalm 112. Since they are separated in our Bibles, I will treat them as such. Can you give thanks to God with your whole heart publicly? If you believe that He is great and and you love His works, you should be able to! Those who delight in God, study Him and His Word. God does amazing things and causes them to be remembered. He is our Provider and much more. Look at how many amazing things the Lord has done. He is so Awesome - even just His Name, Yahweh, is Awesome.

Here is a popular phrase, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!” This is how we are to approach the Lord, as He is deserving of our reverence and from there, we will get wisdom. 

Psalm 112 God’s people are to be upright and to live lives of faith in Him. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord and delights in Him and His laws. Seems so simple, doesn't it? But yet, we delight in so many other things sometimes. But we are blessed if we delight in Him! Be generous, not stingy. “He is not afraid of bad news, his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.” When you have faith in God, you are able to stand the storms of life as you trust in Him, who controls the storms of life. Stand firm! This angers the wicked men and women, but God delights in or trust. 

Psalm 113 Praise Him because of Him. That is a good enough of a reason to praise God. All day long, He is to be praised. Not just on Sundays or when things are going good. There is none like our God. God takes care of the down and outers. God works all things out.

Psalm 114 We are to revere Yahweh - to fearfully respect Him. We learn here that even the earth obeys God, and Israel was called to the same. There is nothing God cannot accomplish!

Psalm 115 “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!” What a way to start your day! We live to glorify God, this is how we should live then… in humility pushing all glory to God. We are to trust God at our core and be faithful and loyal to Him alone. 

Man made idols… are exactly that. Man made. They can do nothing and the men that make them, will become like them.

God blesses those who fear Him - both the big wigs and the little guys. God is the one who gives increase and provides, so go to Him when you are in need. Everything is the Lord’s and He has given us the earth to steward. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 116 Can you say this with me, after reading this Psalm? I love you God. You are real. You hear me and you help me!

This is what the Psalmist is declaring, as should we! God is gracious and righteous and merciful. He is there when we are low and saves us. He has delivered us from spiritual death. When we are sad, He is there. When we are weak, He is there. 

My life will reflect my love for God - that is where our hearts should be if we love God. 

Psalm 117 God’s love is international. We are called through God’s love, His steadfast love that endures forever. 

Psalm 118 If you fear and love the Lord, you appreciate the fact that HIs love endures forever. Enemies surround us, but God will cut them off His way. When you are pushed so hard and you think that you cannot handle anymore, God will help you. 

Some random ways of saying ‘live’ in obedience: We should live to thank God and proclaim His goodness! Recount the deeds of the Lord… and yes, the Lord will discipline you when we need it. But, God is the one who opens the way for us and we should thank Him for guiding us. 

Then we transition into a very prominent verse that is often quoted in the New Testament: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” From the Reformation Study Bible, “The stone that the builders rejected. The metaphor would likely refer originally to the king, who represented his people. The stone was cast off in despair when defeat seemed inevitable, and victory was no longer a realistic hope (but see following note). the cornerstone. The low and insignificant, despite having been rejected, is exalted to the chief place. Jesus later applies this passage to Himself (Matt. 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17; Acts 4:11 and 1 Pet. 2:7). Jesus is the cornerstone (Eph. 2:20), cast away by the earthly rulers of His day, but exalted to the right hand of the Father. To some this is a cause for stumbling (Is. 8:14; 1 Pet. 2), but to others the basis of hope.” What a great explanation! 

To close it up, we have a declaration that the Lord is God, our God and we thank Him & Praise Him!

To sum it all up:

• When should we praise God? Not just on Sundays or when things are going good. All day long! This may sound impossible unless your heart is inclined towards the Lord and you are meditating on Him throughout your life. 
• My life will reflect my love for God - that is where our hearts should be if we love God. Do you love God and does your life reflect it?
• “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.”  Where are you placing your refuge? In God who doesn't disappoint, or in man, who will try not to disappoint - but ultimately will.

May 27: 1 Chronicles 26-29, Psalm 127

May 27, 1 Chronicles 26-29, Psalm 127

1 Chronicles 26 Here David lines up the gatekeepers. This role was important as their primary duty was to keep the Sanctuary safe and take care of the building/items. They were decided by the casting of lots. Then, David went through the treasurers and other officials. 

1 Chronicles 27 To wrap up the selecting of leaders, we learn about the commanders of the army and their divisions. Joab was still the commander of the David’s army. 

Note out of all of these divisions and assignments, David did all of this to set up Solomon for success as the new king. 

1 Chronicles 28 Now, David goes public with his charge to Israel. He got all the leaders together and explained that he had wanted to build God a house, but he had too much blood on his hands. Besides that, God has chosen his son, Solomon, to build it and lead the Israelites. Solomon was promised success if he remained faithful to God. David charged all the leaders to observe and obey God’s commandments so that the following generations would also share in the inheritance as well of God’s faithfulness. 

Then David changes Solomon, “…know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it” Powerful charge to his son! Like Moses received the plans from God, David received the temple plans and gave them to Solomon. God had given David the plans, which is how David knew to prepare for it! “All this he made clear to me in writing from the hand of the Lord, all the work to be done according to the plan.” That is amazing to me, God knows what He is doing and will make everything happen. David’s other charge to Solomon, I have to post it here, it is too good to pass up…“Be strong and courageous and do it. Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed, for the Lord God, even my God, is with you. He will not leave you or forsake you…” What a great charge for all of us - Trust in God and do what He tells you to do, and stay loyal and faithful to Him. 

1 Chronicles 29 David publicly announced that Solomon was young and inexperienced, and needed help. Additionally, this is not a house for man, but a palace for God. David did his best to get things lined up for the building of the temple. Moreover, David contributed all of his gold and sliver to the temple, and the Israelites followed - freely giving to the Lord. They all rejoiced. David blessed Yahweh in front of everyone - proclaiming that God already owned everything that He gave to them, which they just gave back to God. God created all and owns all. With humility, they wanted to serve God and felt unworthy to receive His goodness. Part of David’s prayer for his son,  which we could pray over our kids, “Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.” Granted, our kids won’t be building God a home, but it is good to pray over our kids to have obedient hearts that want to pursue God! Then they offered a large sacrifice to God and praised Him!

Solomon was publicly anointed King, and Solomon sat on the throne. The Lord made Solomon great in all of Israel and blessed him richly. David died at an old age, after ruling Israel 40 years…

Psalm 127 This is a Psalm from Solomon where Solomon basically explains that you can work your tail off, and without God’s blessing - it is all worthless and in vain. 

There is not a better way to end this Psalm… “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.  Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!”

To sum it all up:

• David was straight and to the point. Know and serve God with everything in you. If you look for Him, you will find Him. If you go against Him, He will go against you.
• I know I said it earlier, but Trust in God and do what He tells you to do, and stay loyal and faithful to Him. 
• Humility. You don’t deserve to have God love you, instead be thankful that He does!

May 26: Psalm 131, 138, 139, 143, 144, 145

May 26, Psalm 131, 138, 139, 143, 144, 145

Psalm 131 David comes to us in this Psalm with a true posture of humility and a proper view of himself in light of who God is. Here, he shows contentment. With humility we can have hope.

Psalm 138 Genuine, deep hearted thankfulness to God is where we need to be. “…give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.” That is a powerful thank you to God! God is universal. He is not American, He is not white, He is not republican or democrat. God is God of the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) and Jews alike, and God takes care of both. 

When life is tough, we need to rest in the fact that God will be the one who takes care of us and our enemies. This promise of God is solid: “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” Amen & Amen!!!

Psalm 139 Here is a prayer for us to call out to God to search us and try us! God knows everything and searches our our hearts. God knows what we are going to say before we say it (He is Sovereign from beginning to end) and this, I know, this is a crazy concept! But, I trust that God knows what I am going to say before I say it because His Word tells me that. God will lead us and guide us where He wants us. God created us. God knows us. How did we get here? “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.” Wonderful is our God who created us and sustains us. Praise Him! 

Can you agree with David and exclaim that it is precious to us to know God and His thoughts? This is also an overwhelming thought that God, Creator, knows us and cares for us. Ask God to search us and know us ad purge the evil from among us.

Psalm 143 When times are tough through self-inflicted sin, take time to reflect on your sin and also on God’s goodness. From there, repent and live the life that God has for you, not the life that you want for you. Stretch out your arms to God and thirst for His love like you are in the desert and wanting a drink of water. What is a better way to wake up than to pray “Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.” Ask God to teach you His will if He is your God and to lead you. Trust in God’s promises and ask God to steady the crazy waters of life!

Psalm 144 This is a prayer for God’s love and protection and favor. God was David’s rock, and He should be ours as well. Our solid place where we receive His steadfast love and fortress. With humility, we should say this, “O Lord, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?  Man is like a breath; his days are like a passing shadow.” God, Creator of the world, cares about us. Let that sink in! Sing to God in thanks, make music to Him… David prays over his kids and other kids that God would grow them up strong in Him and that God would also bless their businesses. Those blessed by God are truly blessed - those that believe in Him are blessed!

Psalm 145 So many ways to praise Yahweh for His generosity! Extol Him. Bless Him. Praise Him for He is great beyond measure. Never forget what God has done and pass on His greatness to the next generation. Meditate on God’s wondrous works and declare to all. God is so good, declare it. Why? “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.” Declare His goodness for His sake, not yours. God is righteous in all His ways and He is just in all His ways. God is near to us, call to Him and proclaim Him!

To sum it all up:

• With humility we can have hope.
• Ask God to search us and know us ad purge the evil from among us. God will reveal it, and will help us extinguish the sin! Power of the Holy Spirit…
• “Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”
• Today, we are called to seek God, praise God, and declare our love for God! Now go do it…:)

May 25: 1 Chronicles 23-25

May 25, 1 Chronicles 23-25

David is furthering the preparations for his son, Solomon, to take over being King. This includes David assembling and assigning all the Levites, Priests, and musicians. What you will notice in all of these chapters is that God is a God of order. So much so, that God ordained the casting of lots for who served when and where.

1 Chronicles 23 David assigned all the Levites to their roles so that they could assist the priests for the service of the House of the Lord, taking care of everything. Now that they have peace, God will reside in Jerusalem in the temple. 

1 Chronicles 24 David organized the priests by lot and assigned them their tasks so that they could come in to the house of the Lord and serve Him as appointed. 

1 Chronicles 25 Then we learn about David organizing the musicians for service to the Lord. This was also done by casing of the lots, which God ordained in advance. 

To sum it all up:

• Like I said earlier, God is a God of order. He is not a God of chaos and confusion, but of order. In our own lives, when things seem chaotic - we can then slow down and realize that things are needing to be addressed. Whatever is going on in your life at this moment, turn to God for help and trust He will work it all out - even in the chaos or calmness. He is there for you.

May 24: Psalm 108-110

May 24, Psalm 108-110

Psalm 108 Confidence and assurance in God results in us praising Him. At your core, are you ready to live a life of praise to God and let nothing get you off that path? This is where we need to be. Like David, we are to be ready to thank God publicly, around the world - not just in our little corner of the world. God is King of the Universe! 

God keeps His promises. We can put our faith in God and His ability to always do what He says He will do. Also, how do we conquer? Can we do it our way or on our own? No, “With God we shall do valiantly; it is He who will tread down our foes.” 

Psalm 109 This is an interesting Psalm/prayer. Basically, the Psalmist is dealing with being accused by leaders, in kind of a court setting, and is innocent. Be not silent…O God of my praise! When being attacked, we need to lean on and cry out to God to hear us and guide us. The accusers here are wicked and liars, and the only help will come from God. Apparently, David was close to these people, as they are returning his love with hatred - which hurts even more. His prayer against them is astounding and David knew that The penalty for accusing someone of a certain crime falsely was the penalty corresponding to that crime (Reformation Study Bible). This is interesting to note then, why David could pray the way that he did. The accusations must have been atrocious. Ultimately, where does David turn? “But you, O God my Lord, deal on my behalf for your name's sake; because your steadfast love is good, deliver me!” This is where we are to turn as well, for God’s name sake, we can trust that it will work out. 

Psalm 110 is a Prophetic Psalm about the coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah and this Psalm is referenced quite a bit in the New Testament. David did not see himself as deity, as we see in Acts 2:34, “For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says, “‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand…” I have found a great summary of verse 1 from the Reformation Study Bible, and I wanted to share it because this verse can be confusing… Lord. As the translators indicate with the use of small capital letters, this is God’s name, Yahweh. Lord. This title is often used for God but can also be addressed to a king or other respected person. The New Testament makes it clear that King David refers to his Son as his “Lord” (Mark 12:35–37). The promised Messiah descended from David but is greater than David. See “Jesus’ Heavenly Reign” at Acts 7:55. at my right hand. The place of honor. After His resurrection, Jesus was exalted to the right hand of God in heaven. your enemies. In the Old Testament they were physical flesh and blood enemies of Israel. In the New Testament the battle is intensified, as Jesus fights against the invisible, cosmic powers of evil. footstool. A place of disgrace, symbolizing subjugation. After a victory, Near Eastern leaders would humiliate their defeated enemies by stepping on their heads or necks. I hope that helps break it down, it sure helped me understand better. 

We also learn that in verse 4 that Jesus was to be not only the King, but the Priest for us. This is extremely powerful that Jesus will function in both of these roles. Jesus came from the line of David, and will still be priest even though he did not come from the line of Aaron. Jesus will also, as King, execute judgment among the nations in the last days. 

To sum it all up:

• We can put our faith in God and His ability to always do what He says He will do. There is no better place to be spiritually than in God’s love. Whatever is going on in your life right now, rest assured that God knew about it and is right there to get you through it… remember that He has a plan for your life and it connects with His Master plan!
• Have you ever been accused by ‘Christians’ and maligned? It is hard when this happens and even though it is horrible, God is still good and will make things right, even when it seems dismal. 
• I hope you enjoy reading about what they were saying would happen in Jesus did actually happen. It gives me great peace knowing that something written thousands of years earlier would come true. I have confidence that my God is the only God and His Words are accurate and trustworthy 

May 23: 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21, 22, Psalm 30

May 23, 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21, 22, Psalm 30

Let’s do this! Let us learn from Yahweh’s Word together today. God bless you as you want to know more about Him…

2 Samuel 24 Again the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel… Seems to happen often and when God is angry, we don’t want to make Him more angry by doing something prideful, like count how many warriors you have instead of trusting God. 2 Samuel records it as God incited David to take a census but remember God doesn't do evil, but will use it to accomplish His will. See notes below in 1 Chronicles 21 for differences. Taking a census is not evil, if that is what the Lord wanted David to do. However, David chose to do this and Joab is against it, but must submit. Regardless, Joab and his men went out and counted. I do appreciate what Joab said though, “May the Lord your God add to the people a hundred times as many as they are, while the eyes of my lord the king still see it, but why does my lord the king delight in this thing?”  Who had more faith? Joab did and trusted that God would take care of them. So, Joab and his men went and counted all the warriors. Between Israel & Judah, there was about 1.3 million (see 1 Chronicles 21 notes for discrepancy). After the census was complete, David was convicted that he had sinned against God by not trusting Him and acted like a fool. God was upset with David. In the morning, Gad, David’s prophet, came to him with a message from the Lord. David got to pick from 3 different disciplines… 3 years of famine, 3 months of fleeing from enemies, 3 days of pestilence. David chose 3 days of pestilence because he still believed in God’s mercy and mans is not. “So, the So the Lord sent a pestilence on Israel from the morning until the appointed time.” About 70,000 men died that die by the hand of an angel from God. Then Yahweh relented fro the calamity and told the angel that was destroying the people, that is enough. David saw the angel striking the people and pleaded with God, “Behold, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly. But these sheep, what have they done? Please let your hand be against me and against my father's house.” As their King, he was compassionate (like God) that his people were being harmed and would rather that came against him. That is actually fantastic leadership. David deserved it, they didn't and he knew it. 

Gad, the prophet, came to David and instructed him to build an altar there to the Lord. David immediately obeyed and went to Araunah to purchase his threshing floor and oxen. Araunah offered it all to David at no charge, but like Abraham, David says, “No, but I will buy it from you for a price. I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.”  There is so much life application here, it is staggering. Give it all to God, especially when it hurts. David built an altar there and offered burnt and peace offerings to God and the Yahweh responded to the plea for the land, and the pestilence stopped. 

1 Chronicles 21 Since this is similar to 2 Samuel 24, I am going to note some of the discrepancies and do my best to explain them. Here, the Chronicler clearly states that it was Satan, The Adversary, that incited David to sin and do a census (remember God is Sovereign over everything and all events, even if is done by the hand of man or Satan). David was a military man, so doing a census is a good strategy, unless God has not given you that strategy. Another discrepancy is in the counting of the warriors. From the Reformation Study Bible, “The differences of these numbers from those in 2 Sam. 24:9 are problematic. It may be that the number of men from Judah is included in the total for “all Israel” (that is, including Judah with 470,000 not “and in Judah”). The Book of Chronicles may exclude some elements, such as Levi and Benjamin, from its count (21:6 note). Or the numbers may be approximations. Beyond this, one or both texts may suffer from errors of copying.” Either way, we can still trust that there was over a million warriors and God was upset that David had sinned. 

Towards the end of the chapter, recalling the altar and sacrifice, from my ESV study notes, “The purpose of the narrative here is not only to recount and explain David’s purchase of he temple site, but especially to expound the meaning of the temple itself as the place of God’s mercy and forgiveness, where sin is atoned for and its deadly consequences removed.”

1 Chronicles 22 David decided (noted above) that the house of God should be built where they did the offering, as they just experienced God’s mercy there. David did a great deal of preparation for the building of the temple, even though he was not the one to build it. Like a good father, he wanted to set up his son for success both physically and spiritually. David stocked up on almost everything needed to build a proper temple for the Lord. Why did he do this? “Solomon my son is young and inexperienced, and the house that is to be built for the Lord must be exceedingly magnificent, of fame and glory throughout all lands. I will therefore make preparation for it.” So David provided materials in great quantity before his death.” Knowing what it takes to rule a people, David had the foresight to help Solomon excel for the Glory of God. 

David called for Solomon and charged him to build the temple, explaining that he wanted to build it, but because of the blood on his hands, he was unable to. God was gong to give rest to Solomon - peace and quiet, and that God was going to be a Father to Solomon. What was David’s prayer for his son?  “Only, may the Lord grant you discretion and understanding, that when he gives you charge over Israel you may keep the law of the Lord your God. Then you will prosper if you are careful to observe the statutes and the rules that the Lord commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed.” If Solomon obeys, God will bless him. The gold alone on today’s market would be worth $131 billion… I just googled the math and market. Needless to say, David was preparing for Solomon through God’s grace. 

David also commanded all the leaders to support Solomon and told them, “Now set your mind and heart to seek the Lord your God. Arise and build the sanctuary of the Lord God, so that the ark of the covenant of the Lord and the holy vessels of God may be brought into a house built for the name of the Lord.” What a great charge to stay focused on the Lord. 

Psalm 30 is a reminder that we are to continually give thanks to God for His continual care for us. God lifts us up and protects us and restores us.  “For his anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Our tough times are seasons. God’s favor is everlasting.

To sum it all up:

• We need to be in line with what God wants so that we are doing what He wants. Sure, David was convicted that what he did was wrong, but not until after he knew how many warriors he had. Wouldn't you rather God show you your error either before or during so that you can stop your sin? I
• “ will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing.”  Do any of your sacrifices to God actually cost you something, or you really wouldn't notice whether you gave them or not? I am not referring to your standard tithes and offerings, but more about your life. Is your life a living sacrifice to God, or more of an afterthought or Sunday thing?
• We need to set up our kids to be strong and successful in the Lord. Not the worlds standard of success, but God’s. 

May 22: Psalm 95, 97, 98, 99

May 22, Psalm 95, 97, 98, 99

Psalm 95 We can just read over all the Psalms and nod our heads in agreement and still fail to recognize what it means to sing to Yahweh. We should have hearts yearning to thank God for all He does and one of showing our gratefulness is to sing to Him. This is one form of worship. So, let’s sing to the Lord - our Rock! He is above all gods and He is truly great. Another way of worship is to bow down before Him because He is our God and we are His people. What are we not supposed to do? We are not to do like Israel’s ancestors and test God and not believe Him when He says He is going to do something. We are not to harden our hearts. God wants us to remember where He has brought us and why… why does He do the things He does? For His Glory & Purposes. 

Psalm 97 Our victory is in Him alone and He is Glorious! God truly reigns and is such a powerful God. Look around and you can see His Glory. Our response to this should be for us to kill our idols and we are to hate evil. Not tolerate it. Not excuse it. Not align ourselves with it. We are to get rid of anything that takes priority over God. This may take a serious restructuring of our lives, but He is so worth it.

Psalm 98 God is not like a President, where He is only in charge of one nation. No. God is King of the world. Every nation. Every tongue. Every people. God is the only way that we can receive Salvation, and this is through asking God to forgive you and by believing in God and trusting Jesus Christ with your life through the Holy Spirit. God is so faithful to us, even when we stray from Him. We are to have thankful hearts and praise Him… God is King! God is Judge! And He does it all spot on.

Psalm 99 Holy… God is Holy and He is the one who reigns - there is none greater or more powerful than our King. God takes care of justice, even when we don't see it now sometimes. God deserves our respect and love. God provided for His people through Moses, Aaron and Samuel - even when His people disobeyed. God is calling us to worship Him and He will forgive us.

To sum it all up:

• Whether we realize it or want to submit to God being King is irrelevant. God is King of Kings and come one day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. When this confession happens, my prayer is that your heart has been completely surrendered to him.
• Can you live a life that is a reflection of exalting Him? What does your life currently reflect (more of Him or more of you)? Only you can answer that and I implore you to search your heart and know where you stand, for time is of the essence. 

May 21: 2 Samuel 22, 23, Psalm 57

May 21, 2 Samuel 22, 23, Psalm 57

2 Samuel 22 Here is one of David’s songs, recorded in 2 Samuel, that is pretty much the same song that was recorded in Psalm 18. Here we are reminded that God is our Protector, just like He was for David. Can you express, like David, I love you Lord, you are my strength, my rock, my redeemer, my refuge, my shield? If you try to do things on your own, are you capable of having all of those job titles for you and your family? I highly doubt it! We need to be like David - call to God in our distress because he will rescue us from our enemies when they are too mighty. God is our support when we keep our lives pure before Him and purse Him and not sin. For those that are against God or are crooked, God is against them - it is that simple. 

God’s ways are perfect. 

There is no God but our God. 

God’s right hand supports us.

God is the only God of Salvation. 

God rescues us.

Glory to God for being who He is and not abandoning us or giving us what we deserve!

2 Samuel 23 This song is called David’s last words. They were not his last words, it is just the name of the Song - don’t be confused by that… We are reminded that in spite of David’s sin, God still speaks through him and David is ready to speak for God. God has made David’s lineage strong and worthless men will not be able to stand against him. Then we are moved into more of a recap of David’s mighty men and what they have done for God & David. As you can tell, if you counted, there are more than 30… By calling it a round number in ancient times reflected just that, a round number (give or take). If it was a specific number, it would have been specific. Notice the last one that still made the list… Uriah, whom David had killed because of David’s sin. That was not left out…

Psalm 57 This one doesn't really fit into the chronological order that we are following, but it is still a solid Psalm of David. This is when David was hiding from Saul in a cave (remember the struggles that David was going through at that time…). Here David is metaphorically, and physically, able to just sit in God. This is something that we need to do more often. I am not saying you need to sit in a cave to be with God, but disconnecting from this crazy world and just being with God - that is a good place to be David is crying out for God’s mercy, as He is David’s only refuge and hiding place. David is crying out to God, imploring Yahweh to hear him, asking to have God’s promises fulfilled in David. Sing to God because of what He has done and what He is doing. God’s love is steadfast (unwavering and solid) to His people and David is praying that God’s glory would go over all the earth!

To sum it all up:

• God deserves all of our lives, all of our hearts, all of our devotion. Don’t give God your second best or let Him be an afterthought. Rise in the morning and go to bed at night thinking about Him and praising Him (and everywhere in between!)…
• Even while David was having his life threatened, his heart still ached to exalt God

May 20: Psalm 5, 38, 41, 42

May 20, Psalm 5, 38, 41, 42

Psalm 5 When things are not going your way, cry to Yahweh to hear your prayers and pray to Him. Start your day off seeking Him. God does NOT delight in wickedness and the wicked aren't able to stand before Him, as God hates them. But as followers, we can come before Him and revere Him. God is Sovereign and will lead us where He wants us. If we pursue God, we experience His peace. If we do not pursue Him, we bear our own guilt. David prayed harm against his enemies and implored people to follow Him. 

Psalm 38 Self inflicted sin can be devastating and the effects of our sin can have massive ripple effects. David prayed that God would not rebuke him, as God was angry. Realize who you are in God and you will have a better understanding of the devastating effects of your sin on people and against God. Let it sink in and ponder it, then accept God’s forgiveness, even when your friends and family are against you. Confess your sin to God and be genuinely sorry for it, then repent and pursue God and His salvation for you. 

Psalm 41 Praise and lean on God when you are suffering and receive God’s grace. Our enemies will slander us and some will hate us. But even in that, God will be gracious to us. There is no end to God’s love - it never ends! Trust in Him…

Psalm 42 How much do you want God? Be honest. Do you want him as much as a thirsty deer that is panting for water by a stream? Are you thirsty, as you are longing for God? Some will mock you for your faith, some will persecute you for your faith - and it will be tough and tumultuous. That being said, put your hope in God and praise Him as He is the one who saves! He is our rock, don't forget that even if you feel as though God may have forgotten you (which He hasn’t). 

To sum it all up:

• If we take refuge in God, we can rejoice as we will receive God’s protection!
• Our hope should only be in God. Not in a president or any person for that matter. It is good to have solid relationships, but we cannot put so much hope in that person that it supersedes our trust in Yahweh. God is the only one that can save us. God is the only one that can truly bring us change… 

May 19: 2 Samuel 19-21

May 19, 2 Samuel 19-21

2 Samuel 19 Joab, David’s commander, was informed that David was weeping and mourning for Absalom, the son that was trying to kill David and died. What happened, the great day of victory for the Israelites had now turned into mourning - because of David’s leadership, their joy was gone. As David was weeping for his son, Joab walked into the house and laid it out plainly to David what he was doing. Joab explained that David was showing that he preferred the disloyal people over the loyal and if all of the loyal Israelites were dead and Absalom was alive, David would be happy. Joab basically told David to get his Kingly hat on and get out there and encourage the people, or they would all be leaving him. So David did. 

Meanwhile, all Israel had fled to their homes and arguments were breaking over those who followed David and those that followed Absalom. Then we learn about another ‘less than thought through’ decision that David made… He made Amasa (from Judah) now leader over the armies instead of Joab. Then we learn about a come other stories… Do you remember Shimei? He was the guy that was cursing David on the road as they were running away from Absalom, and David let him be. He came to David with a lot of his servants and kids to apologize, and that is exactly what he did. David forgave him and made an oath to him that he wouldn't kill him, now that David was king again. Then Mephibosheth comes to David and straightens out the story. David offered him half his land back, but all Mephibosheth wanted was David home. At the end of the chapter we also learn of an elderly man that was wealthy that took care of David on his journey, and David offered him a place in Jerusalem and more. The man declined, as he wanted to die with his people. But, he did tell David about Chimham, his servant, and he ended up going with David. 

To finish off this chapter, we learn that Israel and Judah are divided because of how David seemed to be favoring the Israelites… this division will only continue. 

2 Samuel 20 “Now there happened to be there a worthless man, whose name was Sheba…” What a great title to have…! Basically, Sheba was being incredibly divisive and influential, as Israelites were now drawing away from David, but Judah stayed faithful to David. Remember the 10 concubines David left home to take care of the palace that Absalom slept with in public? David never slept with them again, but provided for their other needs. They would have never been able to be with a man after that…

David, told Amasa that he wanted the men of Judah together in 3 days, and Amasa was late in gathering all the men… Sheba, the worthless man, was becoming quite a threat to David, more than Absalom was, so the soldiers were instructed to pursue him. David instructed Abishai, Joab’s brother to go after Sheba. On the scene comes Joab, who was cousins with Amasa, the new commander. Joab killed him with one strike. Then Joab and Abishai pursued Sheba together and all the soldiers that were following Amasa now followed Joab. They got the city where Sheba was and were ready to take the place down. Just then, a lady full of wisdom comes and speaks to Joab. She explained that they were not the enemy, just Sheba. So, the people cut off his head and threw it over the wall to Joab… and Joab blew the trumpet declaring it was finished. 

Joab went back to commanding all the army…

2 Samuel 21 There was a famine in the land, for 3 years straight. Then David goes and approaches the Lord on what is going on (side note - it took David 3 years to go to God? Not the best example of continually going to God for everything…) and God told him that it was because there was still blood-guilt from the house of Saul over Israel, and thus was the cause of the famine. David called for the Gibeonites and spoke with them They were not Israelites, but a remnant of the Amorites. Israel had sworn to protect them, yet Saul had wanted to kill them, in his zeal for Israel & Judah. David asked what would make good restitution for the past sins against them. What was there idea? They wanted seven sons (family members) of Saul to be hung. David agreed. Although, David spared Mephibosheth because of his promise to Jonathan. The Gibeonites hung them. One of the mothers of the killed made camp next to the hanging bodies to keep the birds off of them, until the rain came and the drought was over. 

Again, there was another war with the Philistines and David went to go fight with his people. There were fighting some excellent warriors and Abishai saved David’s life. David’s men basically made David stay home from now on because without him, Israel would be done. Then there was another war with the Philistines, some giants… It continues!

To sum it all up:

• It is hard to lead when you are plagued with guilt or regret. David revealed that battle in his own battle. 
• In my opinion and observations, David was a genuine people pleaser and insecure about his abilities. This is why he made some of the rash decisions that he made. 
• Often times God gets us through hardships and when we have settled a bit we are reminded by His Spirit about some unfinished business that needs to be taken care of. When prompted by God, obey what He is calling you to do. 
• The sword would never leave the house of David, as God said it would not… Trust God and obey Him so that you can learn from David’s mistakes.