2009 – Day 124.May 05 – Critical Decisions
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 25: 20 – 28 … Link to 1st Sam. 25 for study …
My Journal for Today: This gal, Abigail, was quite a lady. Here she was with a scoundrel for a hubby; and she’s confronted with a king-to-be who’s hot with anger; and what does she do? Well, creatively she convinces David that he would do his image and reputation ill if he acted on that anger by killing Abigail’s husband, who was aptly named Nabal, which, according to my Bible dictionary, meant “the fool.” And so, confronted by this Godly woman who is creatively confronting him with God’s wisdom, David realizes that it would be an ill-begotten decision to kill this fool.
And again, I say that Abigail teaches us another lesson about life. Yesterday, Swindoll’s devotional helped me to recognize what a blessing it is to have a wife who is a Godly woman. And no one should have recognized that more easily than I, because I am a “Nabal” who was blessed by God to have an “Abigail” wife. And I can recognize much of my own dear wife, Elly, in Abigail, a woman who would stand up for her husband and do all she could/can to shield her family from the forces of the world; and this would be true in spite of a husband who can be, and often is, one fool-hardy dude.
But beyond that amazing quality in Abby, this dear woman showed that in a crisis, anyone who is surrendered to God can do amazing things for the Lord. Never underestimate what you can do for God, Who sees much more in you that you might see in yourself. And right now I’m thinking of many great figures of the faith, people who rose well above their own self image to do great things for God. They are people like Moses, Gideon, Rahab, Esther, and today’s highlighted servant, Abigail. All of these Old Testament characters doubted themselves or their position for God; but when it came right down to it, God used them for His glory.
I’m now reflecting back about 25 years in my life, … just after surrendering my life to Christ and thinking that I had so little to offer God and His kingdom, having squandered much of my life as a scoundrel, a con-man, and a fool. But bragging only on God’s transforming grace, I may still be a fool for Christ at times; but somehow God has reshaped this meager soul into a Church Elder, Ministry Director, and Ordained Minister. And it was my dear wife, … my “Abigail,” in the person of Elly Berry, who was used by God to protect our family, forgive me, encourage me, and stick with me until God could do His thing in my heart.
Now, I hope and pray this day that we can see that God can use any of us as an Abigail for His glory. But we must be ready; and when the opportunity to act presents itself, we have to be willing to jump into the fray and be used of/for God.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, may we all become ready to be used for Your glory. Amen
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Monday, May 04, 2009
2009 – Day 123.May 04 – Wise Protection
2009 – Day 123.May 04 – Wise Protection
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 25: 1 – 19 … Link to 1st Sam. 25 for study …
My Journal for Today: I have to admit; when I read through Swindoll’s selected passage today before I read his devotional entry, I wondered what Pastor Chuck, the author and teacher was going to glean from this passage which could be applied for our growth as believers. But Swindoll exposed a good lesson we can learn from Abigail, the wife of the shepherd, Nabal.
I did see that David’s attitude left a lot to be desired when it comes to sending 400 armed men when Nabal refused to give anything to David’s cause. Yes, Nabal was a scoundrel of a man; and Swindoll rightly points out that Abigail could have laid back and gotten rid of a lousy husband by letting David’s men crush her abusive husband. But that was not what she did. No, … instead Abigail becomes an example of a protective wife, doing all she could to deter the anger of David’s soldiers.
So, what do we gain from this vignette? Well, first we see that David reacted with carnal anger to Nabal’s insult, sending 400 swordsman to eliminate one Bedouin shepherd. I agree with Swindoll’s assessment; … it’s like taking a shotgun to kill a roach. But in Abigail we see a woman that her husband, who obviously was a scoundrel, really didn’t deserve. And in this scenario, Abigail becomes a model of doing the right thing, the Godly thing, as opposed to the expedient thing.
How often would most people, when they have an opportunity to keep their mouth shut and get rid of a bad thing in their life would step up and do what God would have them do instead of doing the carnally expedient thing? It’s an example of the kind of tests which come our way occasionally to stand for Godly right or to do take the easy, very human, way out. I’ll bet you’re thinking of such a test in your life right now. I’ve certainly had them in my life; and I admit to taking the easy way out all too often.
And I’m also convicted by the fact that I missed the lesson when I read through this passage before reading Swindoll’s devotional to help me grow in my understanding and wisdom as I read God’s word. Oh, there is so much to learn and apply from the Bible; and I hope you, who might be reading along, grow with me as we continue to observe God’s account of the life of David.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, as I live for You, I see today’s lesson. Help me become responsive to Your will rather than reactive in my own flesh. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 25: 1 – 19 … Link to 1st Sam. 25 for study …
My Journal for Today: I have to admit; when I read through Swindoll’s selected passage today before I read his devotional entry, I wondered what Pastor Chuck, the author and teacher was going to glean from this passage which could be applied for our growth as believers. But Swindoll exposed a good lesson we can learn from Abigail, the wife of the shepherd, Nabal.
I did see that David’s attitude left a lot to be desired when it comes to sending 400 armed men when Nabal refused to give anything to David’s cause. Yes, Nabal was a scoundrel of a man; and Swindoll rightly points out that Abigail could have laid back and gotten rid of a lousy husband by letting David’s men crush her abusive husband. But that was not what she did. No, … instead Abigail becomes an example of a protective wife, doing all she could to deter the anger of David’s soldiers.
So, what do we gain from this vignette? Well, first we see that David reacted with carnal anger to Nabal’s insult, sending 400 swordsman to eliminate one Bedouin shepherd. I agree with Swindoll’s assessment; … it’s like taking a shotgun to kill a roach. But in Abigail we see a woman that her husband, who obviously was a scoundrel, really didn’t deserve. And in this scenario, Abigail becomes a model of doing the right thing, the Godly thing, as opposed to the expedient thing.
How often would most people, when they have an opportunity to keep their mouth shut and get rid of a bad thing in their life would step up and do what God would have them do instead of doing the carnally expedient thing? It’s an example of the kind of tests which come our way occasionally to stand for Godly right or to do take the easy, very human, way out. I’ll bet you’re thinking of such a test in your life right now. I’ve certainly had them in my life; and I admit to taking the easy way out all too often.
And I’m also convicted by the fact that I missed the lesson when I read through this passage before reading Swindoll’s devotional to help me grow in my understanding and wisdom as I read God’s word. Oh, there is so much to learn and apply from the Bible; and I hope you, who might be reading along, grow with me as we continue to observe God’s account of the life of David.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, as I live for You, I see today’s lesson. Help me become responsive to Your will rather than reactive in my own flesh. Amen
Sunday, May 03, 2009
2009 – Day 122.May 03 – Revenge or Forgiveness
2009 – Day 122.May 03 – Revenge or Forgiveness
Blogger’s Note: Well, I’m excited! A God-thing has just happened for me. You may have read and noted my “Blogger’s Note” from this morning’s devotional entry. I had forgotten to bring my Chuck Swindoll book, Great Days with the Great Lives. So, I had decided to go to the online devotional from The Daily Bread while we were in East TN on vacation for my morning quiet times. Well, I did have a very poignant time with God earlier this morning using The Daily Bread; and after Elly and I had had our quiet times with God in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains. Well, Elly noted that I was a bit bummed out, not having my devotional book; and said that she thought she had seen a bookstore as we turned last night to come to our condo. So, we went out to see if we could find that store. >>> Finding the store, we found out it was open; and we went in to find the “Religion” section. And low and behold, they had ONLY ONE COPY of “my” devotional book. And so, having purchased that book, I get to do two devotionals for this day, which actually seems very appropriate since we were missing our corporate worship time in church . >>> Therefore, below you’ll find my extended time to go deep into God’s word and have more personal worship time. And now, as I sit here listening to a wonderful Moody FM station, playing worship music here for this area, I’m back with you and Chuck Swindoll to get closer to our God.
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 8: 24: 8 - 22 … Linked to 1st Samuel 24 for your study …
My Journal for Today: If you read my devotional yesterday, you’ll note that David had a clear conscience in his retreat from Saul’s pursuit, turning over any vengeance to God, and “turning his cheek” to the king who was pursuing him in anger and jealousy. And we saw how this Messiah-like attitude allowed David to rise above his own temptation to be bitter toward Saul.
Today, emphasizing and studying from much the same text in 1st Samuel 24, Swindoll points out that there are three points we need to remember if we are tempted toward anger, bitterness, and/or revenge when someone has wronged us or is trying to make our life miserable. These three points are …
1. First, “… since man is depraved, expect to be mistreated.” Do we really think that we’re going to live our lives out and have all those who are in our circle of influence to be act like Christ toward us, always treating us as we would treat them? Since that simply “ain’t gonna to happen,” we need to be ready if someone acts out their anger or jealousy toward us.
2. Second, Swindoll points out, “… since mistreatment is inevitable, anticipate feelings of revenge.” God’s truth (from Jeremiah 17: 9) says that our hearts are wicked and deceitful beyond measure. So, we’ve got to know that our human reaction to mistreatment will be feelings of revenge; and that’s the lie Satan would try to get us to believe and follow. And since we know this will be our nature, we must be ready to surrender to God and be super-natural in our response.
3. Finally, my devotional author says, “ … since the desire for revenge is predictable, [we must] refuge to fight in the flesh.” That was what we learn from David’s example from today’s text. He simply refused to relent to his own flesh and the desire to get back at Saul. And that must be our “M.O.” as well.
We’ve simply must be ready (note I didn’t say “easily”) to rise above the flesh when (not “IF”) anyone in our life comes after us in some way, predictably causing us to desire revenge. We must do what Paul warned us to do … and that is to resist the Devil so that he will flee from us. So, when we’re attacked, we’ve first got to ready to go into SURRENDER MODE rather than react by going into attack mode. Because as long as we’re surrendered to God’s Spirit, allowing His grace to cover us, we’ll be able to treat others exactly like Jesus commanded us … just like we would desire that they treat us.
My Prayer for Today: Holy God, help me to live by the Golden Rule rather than the rule of the flesh. Amen
Blogger’s Note: Well, I’m excited! A God-thing has just happened for me. You may have read and noted my “Blogger’s Note” from this morning’s devotional entry. I had forgotten to bring my Chuck Swindoll book, Great Days with the Great Lives. So, I had decided to go to the online devotional from The Daily Bread while we were in East TN on vacation for my morning quiet times. Well, I did have a very poignant time with God earlier this morning using The Daily Bread; and after Elly and I had had our quiet times with God in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains. Well, Elly noted that I was a bit bummed out, not having my devotional book; and said that she thought she had seen a bookstore as we turned last night to come to our condo. So, we went out to see if we could find that store. >>> Finding the store, we found out it was open; and we went in to find the “Religion” section. And low and behold, they had ONLY ONE COPY of “my” devotional book. And so, having purchased that book, I get to do two devotionals for this day, which actually seems very appropriate since we were missing our corporate worship time in church . >>> Therefore, below you’ll find my extended time to go deep into God’s word and have more personal worship time. And now, as I sit here listening to a wonderful Moody FM station, playing worship music here for this area, I’m back with you and Chuck Swindoll to get closer to our God.
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 8: 24: 8 - 22 … Linked to 1st Samuel 24 for your study …
My Journal for Today: If you read my devotional yesterday, you’ll note that David had a clear conscience in his retreat from Saul’s pursuit, turning over any vengeance to God, and “turning his cheek” to the king who was pursuing him in anger and jealousy. And we saw how this Messiah-like attitude allowed David to rise above his own temptation to be bitter toward Saul.
Today, emphasizing and studying from much the same text in 1st Samuel 24, Swindoll points out that there are three points we need to remember if we are tempted toward anger, bitterness, and/or revenge when someone has wronged us or is trying to make our life miserable. These three points are …
1. First, “… since man is depraved, expect to be mistreated.” Do we really think that we’re going to live our lives out and have all those who are in our circle of influence to be act like Christ toward us, always treating us as we would treat them? Since that simply “ain’t gonna to happen,” we need to be ready if someone acts out their anger or jealousy toward us.
2. Second, Swindoll points out, “… since mistreatment is inevitable, anticipate feelings of revenge.” God’s truth (from Jeremiah 17: 9) says that our hearts are wicked and deceitful beyond measure. So, we’ve got to know that our human reaction to mistreatment will be feelings of revenge; and that’s the lie Satan would try to get us to believe and follow. And since we know this will be our nature, we must be ready to surrender to God and be super-natural in our response.
3. Finally, my devotional author says, “ … since the desire for revenge is predictable, [we must] refuge to fight in the flesh.” That was what we learn from David’s example from today’s text. He simply refused to relent to his own flesh and the desire to get back at Saul. And that must be our “M.O.” as well.
We’ve simply must be ready (note I didn’t say “easily”) to rise above the flesh when (not “IF”) anyone in our life comes after us in some way, predictably causing us to desire revenge. We must do what Paul warned us to do … and that is to resist the Devil so that he will flee from us. So, when we’re attacked, we’ve first got to ready to go into SURRENDER MODE rather than react by going into attack mode. Because as long as we’re surrendered to God’s Spirit, allowing His grace to cover us, we’ll be able to treat others exactly like Jesus commanded us … just like we would desire that they treat us.
My Prayer for Today: Holy God, help me to live by the Golden Rule rather than the rule of the flesh. Amen
2009 – Day 122.May 03 – from The Daily Bread - In Remembrance of Me
2009 – Day 122.May 03 – from The Daily Bread - In Remembrance of Me
Blogger’s Note: On vacation with family, when I left home, traveling to East TN, I left the Swindoll devotional book at home. Therefore, I’ve chosen to use the devotions from the classic book, The Daily Bread, for my devotionals while I’m on vacation. The online version was available for me to use during my travels.
Daily Bread Passage for May 3: Luke 22: 7 - 22 ... Passage linked for your study …
My Journal for Today: The author of today’s devotional in The Daily Bread uses a common scenario to help us identify with the Last Supper scene from today’s passage in Luke 22. The scene had two parents leaving pictures of themselves at the eye level of their toddler when they left the child with a baby sitter to help the child remember that the parents would be there for the child in their absence.
And here we have Jesus, knowing that He would not physically be with His Disciples very soon; and so He takes a ritual very familiar to them, the Passover Supper, and gives them a picture in remembrance of Him. I’ve always felt that the sensitivity and love shown in this scene, as we read about it in the New Testament, here in Luke and in the Upper Room Discourse of John 13 – 16, illustrates just how far God will go with His love to reinforce the truth that He will never leave us nor forsake us, a message we can read over and over again in His word (see Deut. 31: 6, Joshua 1: 5, and Hebrews 13: 5).
As the sheep of His flock, Jesus knew His disciples (including you and me) would feel separated at times from our Good Shepherd. So, He gave us a poignant and powerful reminder that would help reinforce the Good Shepherd’s promise that He would die so that we will live forever. As His sheep, we need the truth of Isaiah 53: 6 [linked] bored into our minds and hearts; and our Communion was/is one of God’s way of doing that.
I hope you have ways, like the sharing of Communion, to remember the Good Shepherd in your life. As the sheep of His flock, it’s pretty easy for us to fall prey to letting the circumstances of life dampen or deter our vision of our Shepherd. However, every time I come back to His word every morning – like I am here with this journaling – I’m given a picture at my eye level to remind me that my Good Shepherd is right here with me. And as I write this, I do so in remembrance of Him.
My Prayer for Today: Oh, my Good Shepherd, thank You for giving me remembrances from Your word of Your presence. Amen
PS NOTE: The timing and imagery of the Daily Bread author today using a “baby sitter” scenario to illustrate God’s desire to comfort His children with His New Covenant Communion was not lost on me today since I had left my “security blanket” (i.e., my daily devotional book) when I left home. It was as if God was saying to this little wayward lamb, “Don’t worry, Bill, … My word from The Daily Bread will bring Me close to you.” And it did just that!
Blogger’s Note: On vacation with family, when I left home, traveling to East TN, I left the Swindoll devotional book at home. Therefore, I’ve chosen to use the devotions from the classic book, The Daily Bread, for my devotionals while I’m on vacation. The online version was available for me to use during my travels.
Daily Bread Passage for May 3: Luke 22: 7 - 22 ... Passage linked for your study …
My Journal for Today: The author of today’s devotional in The Daily Bread uses a common scenario to help us identify with the Last Supper scene from today’s passage in Luke 22. The scene had two parents leaving pictures of themselves at the eye level of their toddler when they left the child with a baby sitter to help the child remember that the parents would be there for the child in their absence.
And here we have Jesus, knowing that He would not physically be with His Disciples very soon; and so He takes a ritual very familiar to them, the Passover Supper, and gives them a picture in remembrance of Him. I’ve always felt that the sensitivity and love shown in this scene, as we read about it in the New Testament, here in Luke and in the Upper Room Discourse of John 13 – 16, illustrates just how far God will go with His love to reinforce the truth that He will never leave us nor forsake us, a message we can read over and over again in His word (see Deut. 31: 6, Joshua 1: 5, and Hebrews 13: 5).
As the sheep of His flock, Jesus knew His disciples (including you and me) would feel separated at times from our Good Shepherd. So, He gave us a poignant and powerful reminder that would help reinforce the Good Shepherd’s promise that He would die so that we will live forever. As His sheep, we need the truth of Isaiah 53: 6 [linked] bored into our minds and hearts; and our Communion was/is one of God’s way of doing that.
I hope you have ways, like the sharing of Communion, to remember the Good Shepherd in your life. As the sheep of His flock, it’s pretty easy for us to fall prey to letting the circumstances of life dampen or deter our vision of our Shepherd. However, every time I come back to His word every morning – like I am here with this journaling – I’m given a picture at my eye level to remind me that my Good Shepherd is right here with me. And as I write this, I do so in remembrance of Him.
My Prayer for Today: Oh, my Good Shepherd, thank You for giving me remembrances from Your word of Your presence. Amen
PS NOTE: The timing and imagery of the Daily Bread author today using a “baby sitter” scenario to illustrate God’s desire to comfort His children with His New Covenant Communion was not lost on me today since I had left my “security blanket” (i.e., my daily devotional book) when I left home. It was as if God was saying to this little wayward lamb, “Don’t worry, Bill, … My word from The Daily Bread will bring Me close to you.” And it did just that!
Saturday, May 02, 2009
2009 – Day 121.May 02 – A Clear Conscience
2009 – Day 121.May 02 – A Clear Conscience
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 24: 8 - 21 … Linked to 1st Samuel 24 for your study …
My Journal for Today: Yesterday, in exposing the first eight verses of 1st Samuel 24, Chuck Swindoll indicated that David’s attitude and actions in this passage are illustrative of the words David’s son, Solomon, who would write years later in Proverbs 16: 7, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” And this was certainly the case when we see the turnabout in attitude involving Saul after he heard David’s lament and declaration of a clear conscience in today’s text.
However, Swindoll also points out a more logical truth. You may have a Saul in your life, one who’s out to get you. Maybe he’s one who would do anything he could to make life miserable for you. However, if you turned it over to God, telling him much the same thing David did to Saul, that you’ll just let God be the judge, … that person may just go on making life hell for you.
In today’s life picture, David’s righteousness turned Saul’s heart from pursuer to confessor. And David becomes a model of how we should turn our human heart into a witness for God’s righteousness. However, even if Saul had some back and declared that he would still pledge to take David’s life, at least David’s conscience was clear; and David’s witness to God’s way would be a strong one. And that’s the point of this lesson from God’s word.
Do I (or you) harbor ill feelings, grudges, or anger against anyone? Has my (our) anger turned into a root of bitterness, against which the Bible (in Hebrews 12: 14-15 – linked for study) clearly warns can damage our witness as Christians. David’s conscience was clear; and he had the piece of cloth from Saul’s robe to give witness to his honoring God by not taking the life of God’s anointed king and to leave vengeance to God.
I hope we all can pass this little test of our conscience. Personally, at this moment in my life, I know of no one with whom I hold any grudge or ill will; and I pray that attitude remains. I also pray that given a scenario like the one we have studied in the life of David, we would pass God’s test and have a clear conscience.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, if there ever be one tendency to judge the heart of another, may I defer that judgment to you and claim Your peace from a clear conscience. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 24: 8 - 21 … Linked to 1st Samuel 24 for your study …
My Journal for Today: Yesterday, in exposing the first eight verses of 1st Samuel 24, Chuck Swindoll indicated that David’s attitude and actions in this passage are illustrative of the words David’s son, Solomon, who would write years later in Proverbs 16: 7, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” And this was certainly the case when we see the turnabout in attitude involving Saul after he heard David’s lament and declaration of a clear conscience in today’s text.
However, Swindoll also points out a more logical truth. You may have a Saul in your life, one who’s out to get you. Maybe he’s one who would do anything he could to make life miserable for you. However, if you turned it over to God, telling him much the same thing David did to Saul, that you’ll just let God be the judge, … that person may just go on making life hell for you.
In today’s life picture, David’s righteousness turned Saul’s heart from pursuer to confessor. And David becomes a model of how we should turn our human heart into a witness for God’s righteousness. However, even if Saul had some back and declared that he would still pledge to take David’s life, at least David’s conscience was clear; and David’s witness to God’s way would be a strong one. And that’s the point of this lesson from God’s word.
Do I (or you) harbor ill feelings, grudges, or anger against anyone? Has my (our) anger turned into a root of bitterness, against which the Bible (in Hebrews 12: 14-15 – linked for study) clearly warns can damage our witness as Christians. David’s conscience was clear; and he had the piece of cloth from Saul’s robe to give witness to his honoring God by not taking the life of God’s anointed king and to leave vengeance to God.
I hope we all can pass this little test of our conscience. Personally, at this moment in my life, I know of no one with whom I hold any grudge or ill will; and I pray that attitude remains. I also pray that given a scenario like the one we have studied in the life of David, we would pass God’s test and have a clear conscience.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, if there ever be one tendency to judge the heart of another, may I defer that judgment to you and claim Your peace from a clear conscience. Amen
Friday, May 01, 2009
2009 – Day 120.May 01 – Godly Persuasion
May, 2009 Topic: David … Continued from April 30, 2009
2009 – Day 120.May 01 – Godly Persuasion
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 24: 1 - 7 … 1 Now it happened, when Saul had returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, “Take note! David is in the Wilderness of En Gedi.” 2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men from all Israel, and went to seek David and his men on the Rocks of the Wild Goats. 3 So he came to the sheepfolds by the road, where there was a cave; and Saul went in to attend to his needs. (David and his men were staying in the recesses of the cave.) 4 Then the men of David said to him, “This is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold, I will deliver your enemy into your hand, that you may do to him as it seems good to you.’” And David arose and secretly cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. 5 Now it happened afterward that David’s heart troubled him because he had cut Saul’s robe. 6 And he said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD.” 7 So David restrained his servants with these words, and did not allow them to rise against Saul. And Saul got up from the cave and went on his way.
My Journal for Today: What a remarkable scenario! Here is David who has been pursued by a maniacal king who is intent on taking David out; and in one almost comical moment as David was in a cave near En Gedi “relieving himself,” he finds Saul napping in the same cave where David and his men had taken refuge. And to show his men that Saul was there, he cuts off a small portion of Saul’s robe. And then God grips David’s conscience for cutting the robe; and David persuades his men, who would have liked to take Saul out, that they should be restrained and let Saul leave the cave, which is what transpired.
As Swindoll points out in his devotional for today, David had to have used very strong and persuasive words to convince David’s mighty men that they should not take advantage of this situation and eliminate the king who pursued David. But David’s words did just that; and they were strong words. In the Hebrew the phrase “restrained his servants” is the Hebrew expression “shaca” (pr. “shawka”), which literally means “to tear” or “rip apart.” So, whatever David said ripped these men to the core; and they were dissuaded from killing Saul, allowing him to leave the cave that day with his life.
David’s conviction was very real, … that he must not kill God’s anointed king and leave the vengeance to God. And this principle, based in God’s righteousness, was so strong in David’s character that he “ripped his men up” with his verbal arguments to refrain from the temptation to take the life of God’s king – even if that very king would have killed David in a heartbeat. As we’d say today, “Go figure!”
Years later, as Swindoll points out, David’s son, Solomon, would write in Proverbs 16: 7, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” And this would certainly apply here. Righteousness, i.e., God’s way, has a persuasive power to move the hearts of those who see it in action. In other words, if we, who believe in doing life God’s way, actually live that out, those around us will be persuaded by the Godly integrity of our life.
And so, I must ask myself, “Am I living out God’s will and His way enough so that my life influences others?” Another word picture of this is the one from Jesus’ command in Matt. 5: 16, which would have me reflecting His Light into the dark world through my Godly living so that The Father’s Light is seen and He is glorified. When David made his argument that he could not take Saul’s life in that cave, it was David holding a piece of Saul’s robe in his hand, showing these men that he had the opportunity to kill him but believed it wrong which convinced those men that they too must follow God’s way and not follow their own fleshly feelings.
I hope we all know and follow God’s will when we’re confronted by the temptation to do things the way the world would have us do them. Right now I’m thinking of what God’s word says in 1st John 2: 15 – 16, which says … “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” And that way, the righteous way, … God’s way, … can be very difficult at times. However, if we’re going to be that light, shining in the darkness of the world, to influence others, we have to be like David in that cave and do the right thing.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to do life Your way and to shine Your Light into the darkness. Amen
2009 – Day 120.May 01 – Godly Persuasion
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 24: 1 - 7 … 1 Now it happened, when Saul had returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, “Take note! David is in the Wilderness of En Gedi.” 2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men from all Israel, and went to seek David and his men on the Rocks of the Wild Goats. 3 So he came to the sheepfolds by the road, where there was a cave; and Saul went in to attend to his needs. (David and his men were staying in the recesses of the cave.) 4 Then the men of David said to him, “This is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold, I will deliver your enemy into your hand, that you may do to him as it seems good to you.’” And David arose and secretly cut off a corner of Saul’s robe. 5 Now it happened afterward that David’s heart troubled him because he had cut Saul’s robe. 6 And he said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD.” 7 So David restrained his servants with these words, and did not allow them to rise against Saul. And Saul got up from the cave and went on his way.
My Journal for Today: What a remarkable scenario! Here is David who has been pursued by a maniacal king who is intent on taking David out; and in one almost comical moment as David was in a cave near En Gedi “relieving himself,” he finds Saul napping in the same cave where David and his men had taken refuge. And to show his men that Saul was there, he cuts off a small portion of Saul’s robe. And then God grips David’s conscience for cutting the robe; and David persuades his men, who would have liked to take Saul out, that they should be restrained and let Saul leave the cave, which is what transpired.
As Swindoll points out in his devotional for today, David had to have used very strong and persuasive words to convince David’s mighty men that they should not take advantage of this situation and eliminate the king who pursued David. But David’s words did just that; and they were strong words. In the Hebrew the phrase “restrained his servants” is the Hebrew expression “shaca” (pr. “shawka”), which literally means “to tear” or “rip apart.” So, whatever David said ripped these men to the core; and they were dissuaded from killing Saul, allowing him to leave the cave that day with his life.
David’s conviction was very real, … that he must not kill God’s anointed king and leave the vengeance to God. And this principle, based in God’s righteousness, was so strong in David’s character that he “ripped his men up” with his verbal arguments to refrain from the temptation to take the life of God’s king – even if that very king would have killed David in a heartbeat. As we’d say today, “Go figure!”
Years later, as Swindoll points out, David’s son, Solomon, would write in Proverbs 16: 7, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” And this would certainly apply here. Righteousness, i.e., God’s way, has a persuasive power to move the hearts of those who see it in action. In other words, if we, who believe in doing life God’s way, actually live that out, those around us will be persuaded by the Godly integrity of our life.
And so, I must ask myself, “Am I living out God’s will and His way enough so that my life influences others?” Another word picture of this is the one from Jesus’ command in Matt. 5: 16, which would have me reflecting His Light into the dark world through my Godly living so that The Father’s Light is seen and He is glorified. When David made his argument that he could not take Saul’s life in that cave, it was David holding a piece of Saul’s robe in his hand, showing these men that he had the opportunity to kill him but believed it wrong which convinced those men that they too must follow God’s way and not follow their own fleshly feelings.
I hope we all know and follow God’s will when we’re confronted by the temptation to do things the way the world would have us do them. Right now I’m thinking of what God’s word says in 1st John 2: 15 – 16, which says … “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” And that way, the righteous way, … God’s way, … can be very difficult at times. However, if we’re going to be that light, shining in the darkness of the world, to influence others, we have to be like David in that cave and do the right thing.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to do life Your way and to shine Your Light into the darkness. Amen
Thursday, April 30, 2009
2009 – Day 119.Apr. 30 – A True Friend
2009 – Day 119.Apr. 30 – A True Friend
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 23: 14 - 18 … 14 And David stayed in strongholds in the wilderness, and remained in the mountains in the Wilderness of Ziph. Saul sought him every day, but God did not deliver him into his hand. 15 So David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life. And David was in the Wilderness of Ziph in a forest. 16 Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God. 17 And he said to him, “Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Even my father Saul knows that.” 18 So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David stayed in the woods, and Jonathan went to his own house.
My Journal for Today: I’m glad that Swindoll brings up the relationship which David had with Jonathan again. It is a truly remarkable friendship, isn’t it? And we read just how remarkable in this short passage highlighted today.
Here is this young kid, whom Jonathan’s dad, who just happens to be the king, has sworn to kill; and Jonathan, who normally would be the 1st born, heir apparent, reaches out and befriends the one man who is anointed to become the King. And this might lead one to ask, “What’s wrong with this picture?”
Well, there’s a lot that is very unnatural about the friendship between Jonathan and David. The normal thing would be for Jonathan to be jealous of David and to do all he could to undermine David so that he could take over and be the king in the future. And then there is the depth of this friendship, which goes way beyond what most “friends” would think, say, or do for a “friend.”
That’s why I agree with scholars who write about Jonathan as a type of Christ in the Old Testament. Because, when we think about normal, human friendships, the covenant friendship exhibited by Jonathan for David is the kind of “friendship” which Christ has for you and me as Christians. This friendship, exhibited by Jonathan for David, is like that described in John 15: 15, where Jesus says, “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you."
How many friends do you have like Jonathan was for David? How many friends do you have where the relationship is a “covenant” friendship; … where the friend would die for you, and even more importantly, would live for you. It’s a friendship where you can regurgitate any emotion all over your friend; and he’ll be there to hold your head … to support you … to protect you … to encourage you … or to say by you, … no matter what. How unnatural is such a relationship? And yet this was the friendship between Jonathan and David; and Jonathan had the character of Christlikeness way before Christ walked the earth.
I personally think that this relationship comes from Scripture to illustrate just how super-natural it is for Christ to love us in our humanity; and it is also there to illustrate the kind of relationship we should have for our closest friends, especially like the relationship we should have for our spouse. Remember that Christ’s covenant love/friendship with the Church is often pictured in the New Testament by a covenant marriage relationship; and that’s the kind of love and friendship any Christian should have for a true friend, especially a spouse, whom God has given you to share life with as a “friend.”
My friend should be someone I would give over all my possessions whenever that friend has need. It would be someone I would share their burdens or their victories … 100%. It would be someone for whom I would set aside all other earthly titles and/or loyalties. And as I said, it would not only be someone for whom I would die but for whom I would totally live.
I hope you have a friend like that. I do; and I am blessed.
My Prayer for Today: Jesus, You call me “friend;” but You have also given me another who is a Jonathan for me; and in this dear one, I am a blessed soul. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 23: 14 - 18 … 14 And David stayed in strongholds in the wilderness, and remained in the mountains in the Wilderness of Ziph. Saul sought him every day, but God did not deliver him into his hand. 15 So David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life. And David was in the Wilderness of Ziph in a forest. 16 Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God. 17 And he said to him, “Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Even my father Saul knows that.” 18 So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David stayed in the woods, and Jonathan went to his own house.
My Journal for Today: I’m glad that Swindoll brings up the relationship which David had with Jonathan again. It is a truly remarkable friendship, isn’t it? And we read just how remarkable in this short passage highlighted today.
Here is this young kid, whom Jonathan’s dad, who just happens to be the king, has sworn to kill; and Jonathan, who normally would be the 1st born, heir apparent, reaches out and befriends the one man who is anointed to become the King. And this might lead one to ask, “What’s wrong with this picture?”
Well, there’s a lot that is very unnatural about the friendship between Jonathan and David. The normal thing would be for Jonathan to be jealous of David and to do all he could to undermine David so that he could take over and be the king in the future. And then there is the depth of this friendship, which goes way beyond what most “friends” would think, say, or do for a “friend.”
That’s why I agree with scholars who write about Jonathan as a type of Christ in the Old Testament. Because, when we think about normal, human friendships, the covenant friendship exhibited by Jonathan for David is the kind of “friendship” which Christ has for you and me as Christians. This friendship, exhibited by Jonathan for David, is like that described in John 15: 15, where Jesus says, “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you."
How many friends do you have like Jonathan was for David? How many friends do you have where the relationship is a “covenant” friendship; … where the friend would die for you, and even more importantly, would live for you. It’s a friendship where you can regurgitate any emotion all over your friend; and he’ll be there to hold your head … to support you … to protect you … to encourage you … or to say by you, … no matter what. How unnatural is such a relationship? And yet this was the friendship between Jonathan and David; and Jonathan had the character of Christlikeness way before Christ walked the earth.
I personally think that this relationship comes from Scripture to illustrate just how super-natural it is for Christ to love us in our humanity; and it is also there to illustrate the kind of relationship we should have for our closest friends, especially like the relationship we should have for our spouse. Remember that Christ’s covenant love/friendship with the Church is often pictured in the New Testament by a covenant marriage relationship; and that’s the kind of love and friendship any Christian should have for a true friend, especially a spouse, whom God has given you to share life with as a “friend.”
My friend should be someone I would give over all my possessions whenever that friend has need. It would be someone I would share their burdens or their victories … 100%. It would be someone for whom I would set aside all other earthly titles and/or loyalties. And as I said, it would not only be someone for whom I would die but for whom I would totally live.
I hope you have a friend like that. I do; and I am blessed.
My Prayer for Today: Jesus, You call me “friend;” but You have also given me another who is a Jonathan for me; and in this dear one, I am a blessed soul. Amen
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
2009 – Day 118.Apr. 29 – Cave Dwellers
2009 – Day 118.Apr. 29 – Cave Dwellers
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 22: 3 – 23 … 1st Sam. 22 linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 34: … Linked for study …
My Journal for Today: If you were with me yesterday, you saw that Chuck Swindoll took us to three Psalms which were written while David and his mighty men were in the Cave out near En Gedi (see our passage in 1st Samuel 22 and 1st Sam. 24: 1 – 3). And as you read the apparent sequence of David’s attitude transformation from Ps. 142 and Ps. 52, we come to Psalm 34; and we read of a man, a leader of men, who could have “caved” (pardon the pun) to despair or disillusionment; but he didn’t.
No, David may have been in the cave; but the cave didn’t get into David. David chose to put his eyes on His Lord, just as we should when we’ve been led into the caves of life. Perhaps, as you read this, you are in an economic cave, surrounded by the coldness of privation. Perhaps it’s an emotional cave based on some relational brokenness. Perhaps, you’ve come to a spiritual cave where things seem very dark and where God seems very far away or just not there at all. We all have times when we feel like we’re backed into a dark, cold, and dreary cave in life.
BUT, in those moments we can choose to “cave” to our own fears and our flesh, or we can, as did David, exercise our faith in The Lord. Read back through Psalm 34, especially if you’re in a cave right now. Let the hopefulness give you light and warmth; and add to it the truth of passages like Isaiah 41: 10 or Romans 8: 31. And even more with the reality of Deut. 31: 6 or Hebrews 13: 5, you can, like David, realize that God is right there with you in your cave; and He will never forsake you.
God doesn’t promise that we won’t be led into the caves of life; but He does promise to be there with us and to give us the strength to bear up in those cave times of life (see 1st Cor. 10: 13 and 2nd Cor. 12: 9). And these truths and promises are the lights which I’ve memorized over the years which shine light into my caves when I find myself in one. They give me warmth to overcome the shivering cold. They let me know that my God will never abandon me to go it alone. And when I realize that, even in the cave, I have God to give me the warmth and light of His love.
My Prayer for Today: Shine your Light, Lord; … give me Your warmth; and I will walk out of the cave WITH YOU. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 22: 3 – 23 … 1st Sam. 22 linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 34: … Linked for study …
My Journal for Today: If you were with me yesterday, you saw that Chuck Swindoll took us to three Psalms which were written while David and his mighty men were in the Cave out near En Gedi (see our passage in 1st Samuel 22 and 1st Sam. 24: 1 – 3). And as you read the apparent sequence of David’s attitude transformation from Ps. 142 and Ps. 52, we come to Psalm 34; and we read of a man, a leader of men, who could have “caved” (pardon the pun) to despair or disillusionment; but he didn’t.
No, David may have been in the cave; but the cave didn’t get into David. David chose to put his eyes on His Lord, just as we should when we’ve been led into the caves of life. Perhaps, as you read this, you are in an economic cave, surrounded by the coldness of privation. Perhaps it’s an emotional cave based on some relational brokenness. Perhaps, you’ve come to a spiritual cave where things seem very dark and where God seems very far away or just not there at all. We all have times when we feel like we’re backed into a dark, cold, and dreary cave in life.
BUT, in those moments we can choose to “cave” to our own fears and our flesh, or we can, as did David, exercise our faith in The Lord. Read back through Psalm 34, especially if you’re in a cave right now. Let the hopefulness give you light and warmth; and add to it the truth of passages like Isaiah 41: 10 or Romans 8: 31. And even more with the reality of Deut. 31: 6 or Hebrews 13: 5, you can, like David, realize that God is right there with you in your cave; and He will never forsake you.
God doesn’t promise that we won’t be led into the caves of life; but He does promise to be there with us and to give us the strength to bear up in those cave times of life (see 1st Cor. 10: 13 and 2nd Cor. 12: 9). And these truths and promises are the lights which I’ve memorized over the years which shine light into my caves when I find myself in one. They give me warmth to overcome the shivering cold. They let me know that my God will never abandon me to go it alone. And when I realize that, even in the cave, I have God to give me the warmth and light of His love.
My Prayer for Today: Shine your Light, Lord; … give me Your warmth; and I will walk out of the cave WITH YOU. Amen
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
2009 – Day 117.Apr. 28 – Declaration of Dependence
2009 – Day 117.Apr. 28 – Declaration of Dependence
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 22 … Passage linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 142: … Linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 57: … Linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 34: … Linked for study ...
My Journal for Today: Okay, if you’re following along with me, this morning Swindoll really gets us into God’s word concerning David’s dilemma and his declaration of dependence. And he points out that the three Psalms which he’s asked us to read which were likely written chronologically in reverse order, … Psalm 142 first and Psalm 34 last. And Swindoll argues this because there just seems to be a sequence of humility which presents in this way: >>> In Psalm 142, Swindoll points out that David was totally down and out – on his face before God. In Psalm 57, he’s on his knees, begging for deliverance; and in Psalm 34, David is back on his feet and completely grateful for deliverance.
BUT, look at all three of these Psalms in the context of 1st Samuel 22, which is the historical context for the writing of these songs. David is totally dependent upon God in all of these passages, humbled by his circumstances, and vulnerable to bring his need to God, recognizing that God is his only answer, … his only way out. At no time in this sequence, in these songs of dependence, did David show one inkling of independence and pride. There is not one bit of evidence of anger or bitterness to God, … only total dependence and humble submission to his Lord.
That, my dear disciple of Christ, it is David’s heart which was the heart God recognized as a heart after God. It is a heart of dependence, … a heart of humility; and as Swindoll points out, it is a heart which is sadly missing in most Christians today. He points out three things which David had which we, as Christians, should seek after.
First, David hurt enough to admit his need. How many of us, when we’re hurting react by blaming God and even turning away from Him in bitterness, expressing our anger by acting out sinfully in some way?
Secondly, David was vulnerable enough to ask for help. How many of us, when we’re in a bad place, react by going into Lone Ranger mode, wanting to solve the problem alone rather than admitting we need help?
And finally, David was humble enough to learn from God. How many of us, when we’ve been hurt, dig in and let pride take control, not being willing to learn from our defeats? What is it they say these days about the definition of “insanity” as trying to do things the same way over and over and expecting different results?
But independence, pride, and stubborn insanity was NOT the pattern of David’s heart. No, we read in today’s passages a type of Christ, Whom we know from Phil. 2: 5 – 11 [linked] was humble to the point of emptying Himself of His glory, becoming a man, and even dying on a cross to take on the burden of our sin. And that was the picture of David’s heart as well. May it become, as commanded in Phil. 2: 5, our attitude as well.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to be vulnerable like David. Help me to be humble like You. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 22 … Passage linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 142: … Linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 57: … Linked for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 34: … Linked for study ...
My Journal for Today: Okay, if you’re following along with me, this morning Swindoll really gets us into God’s word concerning David’s dilemma and his declaration of dependence. And he points out that the three Psalms which he’s asked us to read which were likely written chronologically in reverse order, … Psalm 142 first and Psalm 34 last. And Swindoll argues this because there just seems to be a sequence of humility which presents in this way: >>> In Psalm 142, Swindoll points out that David was totally down and out – on his face before God. In Psalm 57, he’s on his knees, begging for deliverance; and in Psalm 34, David is back on his feet and completely grateful for deliverance.
BUT, look at all three of these Psalms in the context of 1st Samuel 22, which is the historical context for the writing of these songs. David is totally dependent upon God in all of these passages, humbled by his circumstances, and vulnerable to bring his need to God, recognizing that God is his only answer, … his only way out. At no time in this sequence, in these songs of dependence, did David show one inkling of independence and pride. There is not one bit of evidence of anger or bitterness to God, … only total dependence and humble submission to his Lord.
That, my dear disciple of Christ, it is David’s heart which was the heart God recognized as a heart after God. It is a heart of dependence, … a heart of humility; and as Swindoll points out, it is a heart which is sadly missing in most Christians today. He points out three things which David had which we, as Christians, should seek after.
First, David hurt enough to admit his need. How many of us, when we’re hurting react by blaming God and even turning away from Him in bitterness, expressing our anger by acting out sinfully in some way?
Secondly, David was vulnerable enough to ask for help. How many of us, when we’re in a bad place, react by going into Lone Ranger mode, wanting to solve the problem alone rather than admitting we need help?
And finally, David was humble enough to learn from God. How many of us, when we’ve been hurt, dig in and let pride take control, not being willing to learn from our defeats? What is it they say these days about the definition of “insanity” as trying to do things the same way over and over and expecting different results?
But independence, pride, and stubborn insanity was NOT the pattern of David’s heart. No, we read in today’s passages a type of Christ, Whom we know from Phil. 2: 5 – 11 [linked] was humble to the point of emptying Himself of His glory, becoming a man, and even dying on a cross to take on the burden of our sin. And that was the picture of David’s heart as well. May it become, as commanded in Phil. 2: 5, our attitude as well.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to be vulnerable like David. Help me to be humble like You. Amen
Monday, April 27, 2009
2009 – Day 116.Apr. 27 – Never Alone
2009 – Day 116.Apr. 27 – Never Alone
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 21: 10 – 22: 2 … 1st Sam. 21-22 for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 142: … Linked for study …
My Journal for Today: Have you ever been bummed out and down in the dumpers to the point where you just want to be alone? Well, that’s where David was in this scenario today from 1st Samuel. He was on the run; and Saul was really after him. He was going from place to place and hiding in caves in the wilderness of the Negev. I’ve been there; and it’s a desolate area. One can see how David would be so low. When you read Psalm 142, which was a song of lament David wrote during those times, you can see just how low David felt.
But in the midst of all of this, two very positive things remained. First – and foremost – David never lost sight of his need for God. Yes, reading Psalm 142 shows he was really down; but he was not out because he was crying out to God; and you can sense that David still knew that God was his only answer in these troubled times. Sure, things might be really bad for you now; but there is always God; and He may seem far away; but if you believe as did David, you know God will never leave you nor forsake you (see Deut. 31: 6 or Hebrews 13: 5). And if you believe that, as did David, and cry out to God for Him to show you His light in the darkness, the Lord is there with you. You are NEVER ALONE.
Secondly in today’s passages, you’ll note that David’s loved ones didn’t abandon him in his troubled times. No, even though David would probably have wanted to be alone, his family and his close compatriots came to him; and they stood by David, willing to die with him. When you have a loved one who is down and out, are you willing to live – and die – WITH that person? David’s mighty men were simply not going to let David bear the world’s challenges alone. And they came to him; and they stayed with him.
But even if David had not had this support, God was there with him; and God was allowing these events to reshape the “man after God’s own heart” for later service. In the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen that David had been shaped as a boy in the desert as a shepherd; and God was with him during his high times, when he defeated Goliath. God was also with him as he became Saul’s general, slaying the ten thousands which led to Saul’s jealousy. And God was with David out there in those caves as Saul pursued David, trying to have him killed.
We must never forget, and we must believe, that we are NEVER ALONE.
My Prayer for Today: Thank you, Lord, for always being with me. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 21: 10 – 22: 2 … 1st Sam. 21-22 for study …
Added Passage: Psalm 142: … Linked for study …
My Journal for Today: Have you ever been bummed out and down in the dumpers to the point where you just want to be alone? Well, that’s where David was in this scenario today from 1st Samuel. He was on the run; and Saul was really after him. He was going from place to place and hiding in caves in the wilderness of the Negev. I’ve been there; and it’s a desolate area. One can see how David would be so low. When you read Psalm 142, which was a song of lament David wrote during those times, you can see just how low David felt.
But in the midst of all of this, two very positive things remained. First – and foremost – David never lost sight of his need for God. Yes, reading Psalm 142 shows he was really down; but he was not out because he was crying out to God; and you can sense that David still knew that God was his only answer in these troubled times. Sure, things might be really bad for you now; but there is always God; and He may seem far away; but if you believe as did David, you know God will never leave you nor forsake you (see Deut. 31: 6 or Hebrews 13: 5). And if you believe that, as did David, and cry out to God for Him to show you His light in the darkness, the Lord is there with you. You are NEVER ALONE.
Secondly in today’s passages, you’ll note that David’s loved ones didn’t abandon him in his troubled times. No, even though David would probably have wanted to be alone, his family and his close compatriots came to him; and they stood by David, willing to die with him. When you have a loved one who is down and out, are you willing to live – and die – WITH that person? David’s mighty men were simply not going to let David bear the world’s challenges alone. And they came to him; and they stayed with him.
But even if David had not had this support, God was there with him; and God was allowing these events to reshape the “man after God’s own heart” for later service. In the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen that David had been shaped as a boy in the desert as a shepherd; and God was with him during his high times, when he defeated Goliath. God was also with him as he became Saul’s general, slaying the ten thousands which led to Saul’s jealousy. And God was with David out there in those caves as Saul pursued David, trying to have him killed.
We must never forget, and we must believe, that we are NEVER ALONE.
My Prayer for Today: Thank you, Lord, for always being with me. Amen
Sunday, April 26, 2009
2009 – Day 115.Apr. 26 – Walking In Victory
2009 – Day 115.Apr. 26 – Walking In Victory
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 8 - 15 … Linked for your study …
My Journal for Today: The contrast between these two men is stark; and from this study of character, we learn a great lesson. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that David kept his focus on God; and he walked in victory. Whereas Saul became a prisoner to his own fears and jealousy; and he walked into a self-induced prison of paranoia.
So, we see the answer to the question, “How does a Christian walk in victory?” And the answer is right there, modeled by David. He focused on the Savior (i.e., God) and avoided the trap of falling prey to fear and reacting in anger. In spite of Saul’s hatred and even his aggressive anger, David CHOSE to love his king and to serve him; and he also chose to flee (as we’ll read later) rather than to strike back at his king.
David never took his eyes off of God; and as I sit here, reflecting on today’s passage, I have begun humming that old hymn, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, which has the formula which David used in the face of stress and worldly terror. In fact, I just plugged in my Ipod; and I’m listening to Alisa Dishong sing that old hymn …
Oh soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see.
There’s life for a look at my Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
[The Chorus] Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face;
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
Oh, how I love returning to this old song and singing its truth, especially when I allow myself to look inward at self rather than looking outward to my Savior. In fact, this morning as I listened to Alisa singing this beautiful truth, my mind/heart was taken to a parallel truth from God which I memorized years ago. It’s found in the formula Paul declared in his powerful exclamation from Galatians 6: 9, which says, And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Oh how Satan and the world want us to get wrapped up in self and to take our eyes off of the Savior. And as soon as that happens, we can fall prey to the same demons which captured Saul’s spirit … fear, jealousy, and even paranoia. But if we do not grow weary and look inward to self, keeping our eyes on our Lord, as did David, the ways and circumstances of life, the darkness of our world, will be diminished by the Light of the Savior, … in the light of His glory and grace.
It is my prayer this morning that you know and remember that old hymn and you have joined me, singing the words above to your own heart, no matter what things of this earth are trying to capture your spirit. As Paul also wrote to Timothy (in 2nd Tim. 1: 7 – paraphrased), … you have not been given, as a Christian, a spirit of fear, but rather a Spirit of love and power and of a sound mind. Never forget those truths above, dear one; and let the Spirit of God shine God’s Light into your heart to diminish the darkness of despair and doubt which our enemies would try to bring into your life.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, You are my Light. Shine brightly so that I may follow Your path, fleeing from Satan and self, and keeping my eyes on You, my Jesus. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 8 - 15 … Linked for your study …
My Journal for Today: The contrast between these two men is stark; and from this study of character, we learn a great lesson. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that David kept his focus on God; and he walked in victory. Whereas Saul became a prisoner to his own fears and jealousy; and he walked into a self-induced prison of paranoia.
So, we see the answer to the question, “How does a Christian walk in victory?” And the answer is right there, modeled by David. He focused on the Savior (i.e., God) and avoided the trap of falling prey to fear and reacting in anger. In spite of Saul’s hatred and even his aggressive anger, David CHOSE to love his king and to serve him; and he also chose to flee (as we’ll read later) rather than to strike back at his king.
David never took his eyes off of God; and as I sit here, reflecting on today’s passage, I have begun humming that old hymn, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, which has the formula which David used in the face of stress and worldly terror. In fact, I just plugged in my Ipod; and I’m listening to Alisa Dishong sing that old hymn …
Oh soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see.
There’s life for a look at my Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
[The Chorus] Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face;
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
Oh, how I love returning to this old song and singing its truth, especially when I allow myself to look inward at self rather than looking outward to my Savior. In fact, this morning as I listened to Alisa singing this beautiful truth, my mind/heart was taken to a parallel truth from God which I memorized years ago. It’s found in the formula Paul declared in his powerful exclamation from Galatians 6: 9, which says, And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Oh how Satan and the world want us to get wrapped up in self and to take our eyes off of the Savior. And as soon as that happens, we can fall prey to the same demons which captured Saul’s spirit … fear, jealousy, and even paranoia. But if we do not grow weary and look inward to self, keeping our eyes on our Lord, as did David, the ways and circumstances of life, the darkness of our world, will be diminished by the Light of the Savior, … in the light of His glory and grace.
It is my prayer this morning that you know and remember that old hymn and you have joined me, singing the words above to your own heart, no matter what things of this earth are trying to capture your spirit. As Paul also wrote to Timothy (in 2nd Tim. 1: 7 – paraphrased), … you have not been given, as a Christian, a spirit of fear, but rather a Spirit of love and power and of a sound mind. Never forget those truths above, dear one; and let the Spirit of God shine God’s Light into your heart to diminish the darkness of despair and doubt which our enemies would try to bring into your life.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, You are my Light. Shine brightly so that I may follow Your path, fleeing from Satan and self, and keeping my eyes on You, my Jesus. Amen
Saturday, April 25, 2009
2009 – Day 114.Apr. 25 – A Teachable Spirit
2009 – Day 114.Apr. 25 – A Teachable Spirit
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 5 - 16 … Linked for study to passage …
My Journal for Today: Today’s passage and Swindoll’s devotional presents an interesting and pertinent character study into another interaction and comparison between Saul, the king, and David, the king-to-be. And the focus verse for this study is found in verse 14 of 1st Sam. 18, which in the NKJV says, And David behaved wisely in all his ways, and the LORD was with him.
You’ll note that I underlined the phrase “behaved wisely,” which has differing translations in our scholarly Bibles. It is the Hebrew word “sakai,” which is one of those Hebrew expressions which can take on different colors depending on the circumstances. And the focus of this study is on this Hebrew term, which was attributed to David.
In the NASB, the sentence from 1st Sam. 18: 14 reads thusly, David was prospering in all his way, for the LORD was with him. In the NIV, it reads, In everything he did he had great success, because the LORD was with him. If you read down through 1st Samuel 18 you see that term “sakai” is used four separate times to describe David’s persistent wisdom and/or his spiritual success, given the task of leading Saul’s armies into battle. And we also read the reaction it provoked from Saul, which was rage and jealousy, even to the point of throwing a spear at David in attempted murder.
But David’s character through all of this, even being attacked by Saul, remained quietly teachable and remarkably loyal to his king. David was consistently and persistently “sakai” because he had the Lord’s Spirit upon him. And Swindoll points to a study of the word “sakai” in Proverbs (see Prov. 10: 19 and Prov. 21: 11) that one who exhibits “sakai” is one who generally keeps his mouth shut and one who intentionally grows in “teachability.”
David was still young; but he was learning what to be and what not to be as king from observing Saul; and God was giving David the enabling grace to learn and grow in this quiet, but powerful, quality of teachability. I truly hope that I never lose my drive to be what the Hebrews call “sakai” before my God. And I see, from today’s study, just how much God wants me grow into Christlikeness, Who, of course, was our super model of “sakai,” the One who grew and became the likeness of His Heavenly Father, Jehovah, on earth.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to be teachable and to grow to be “sakai” in Your presence. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 5 - 16 … Linked for study to passage …
My Journal for Today: Today’s passage and Swindoll’s devotional presents an interesting and pertinent character study into another interaction and comparison between Saul, the king, and David, the king-to-be. And the focus verse for this study is found in verse 14 of 1st Sam. 18, which in the NKJV says, And David behaved wisely in all his ways, and the LORD was with him.
You’ll note that I underlined the phrase “behaved wisely,” which has differing translations in our scholarly Bibles. It is the Hebrew word “sakai,” which is one of those Hebrew expressions which can take on different colors depending on the circumstances. And the focus of this study is on this Hebrew term, which was attributed to David.
In the NASB, the sentence from 1st Sam. 18: 14 reads thusly, David was prospering in all his way, for the LORD was with him. In the NIV, it reads, In everything he did he had great success, because the LORD was with him. If you read down through 1st Samuel 18 you see that term “sakai” is used four separate times to describe David’s persistent wisdom and/or his spiritual success, given the task of leading Saul’s armies into battle. And we also read the reaction it provoked from Saul, which was rage and jealousy, even to the point of throwing a spear at David in attempted murder.
But David’s character through all of this, even being attacked by Saul, remained quietly teachable and remarkably loyal to his king. David was consistently and persistently “sakai” because he had the Lord’s Spirit upon him. And Swindoll points to a study of the word “sakai” in Proverbs (see Prov. 10: 19 and Prov. 21: 11) that one who exhibits “sakai” is one who generally keeps his mouth shut and one who intentionally grows in “teachability.”
David was still young; but he was learning what to be and what not to be as king from observing Saul; and God was giving David the enabling grace to learn and grow in this quiet, but powerful, quality of teachability. I truly hope that I never lose my drive to be what the Hebrews call “sakai” before my God. And I see, from today’s study, just how much God wants me grow into Christlikeness, Who, of course, was our super model of “sakai,” the One who grew and became the likeness of His Heavenly Father, Jehovah, on earth.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, help me to be teachable and to grow to be “sakai” in Your presence. Amen
Friday, April 24, 2009
2009 – Day 113.Apr. 24 – A Kindred Spirit
2009 – Day 113.Apr. 24 – A Kindred Spirit
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 1 – 4 … 1 Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 Saul took him that day, and would not let him go home to his father’s house anymore. 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.
My Journal for Today: If you are a “David,” do you have a “Jonathan” in your life. As Swindoll emphasizes by today’s devotional, intimate friends are very rare. Generally we are blessed if we have one; but it’s very rare to have two or more friends who would always be there for you – NO MATTER WHAT! These are friends who don’t keep score, … who defend you when you need defending, … and who will give generously of their time, talents, and treasures to make life better for you.
This was Jonathan, Saul’s first-born son, to David; and in today’s highlight passage we see that Jonathan sealed that friendship with a covenant. The concept of covenant was very important to this middle-eastern culture. When two partners or friends wanted to show that they would be there for the other one, a covenant was “cut” between the two. And if you study “covenant” in the Bible, you’ll see that God established a covenant with Israel which involved the shedding of blood and the exchange of vows.
And though we don’t read of the sharing of blood in today’s passage, we do see the exchange of garments and armament, signifying Jonathan’s and David’s pledge to one another to be there for the other and to fight the other’s battles if necessary. It was a declaration that anything one had the other was welcome to claim; and it also said that each considered the debts incurred by the one to be the debts of the other. Covenant in biblical times was more than a close friendship. It was the joining of one life to another.
Think of the covenant God made with Abraham or with Noah or with Moses and with David. This was God pledging His all for these covenant partners. Think of the way a covenant marriage SHOULD BE. Two take vows to be there for one another ... FOREVER. And in a real covenant marriage, there is an exchange of vows and rings to signify the joining of one life to another. If you’re married, do you see your marriage partner as your covenant partner for eternity? Christ certainly sees what He did on the cross, shedding His blood for anyone who would receive His act of sacrifice, as His New Covenant to mankind.
So, I hope you can see that Jonathan is a type of Christ in today’s passage. Christ was willing to exchange His garments of righteousness for my rags of sin, just as Jonathan was willing to give David his robes and armor, the robes and armor of the son of the king. This was Jonathan willing to set aside everything for David when David received that covenant promise; and I hope you can see Jonathan being a picture of Christ for each of His covenant partners – you and me, if we are Christians.
I hope you have a covenant friend/partner in life. I do in my wife. I do in a dear friend of mine. And above all, I do in Christ.
My Prayer for Today: Lord Jesus, I am bound to You for eternity in covenant love; and You to me. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 18: 1 – 4 … 1 Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 Saul took him that day, and would not let him go home to his father’s house anymore. 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.
My Journal for Today: If you are a “David,” do you have a “Jonathan” in your life. As Swindoll emphasizes by today’s devotional, intimate friends are very rare. Generally we are blessed if we have one; but it’s very rare to have two or more friends who would always be there for you – NO MATTER WHAT! These are friends who don’t keep score, … who defend you when you need defending, … and who will give generously of their time, talents, and treasures to make life better for you.
This was Jonathan, Saul’s first-born son, to David; and in today’s highlight passage we see that Jonathan sealed that friendship with a covenant. The concept of covenant was very important to this middle-eastern culture. When two partners or friends wanted to show that they would be there for the other one, a covenant was “cut” between the two. And if you study “covenant” in the Bible, you’ll see that God established a covenant with Israel which involved the shedding of blood and the exchange of vows.
And though we don’t read of the sharing of blood in today’s passage, we do see the exchange of garments and armament, signifying Jonathan’s and David’s pledge to one another to be there for the other and to fight the other’s battles if necessary. It was a declaration that anything one had the other was welcome to claim; and it also said that each considered the debts incurred by the one to be the debts of the other. Covenant in biblical times was more than a close friendship. It was the joining of one life to another.
Think of the covenant God made with Abraham or with Noah or with Moses and with David. This was God pledging His all for these covenant partners. Think of the way a covenant marriage SHOULD BE. Two take vows to be there for one another ... FOREVER. And in a real covenant marriage, there is an exchange of vows and rings to signify the joining of one life to another. If you’re married, do you see your marriage partner as your covenant partner for eternity? Christ certainly sees what He did on the cross, shedding His blood for anyone who would receive His act of sacrifice, as His New Covenant to mankind.
So, I hope you can see that Jonathan is a type of Christ in today’s passage. Christ was willing to exchange His garments of righteousness for my rags of sin, just as Jonathan was willing to give David his robes and armor, the robes and armor of the son of the king. This was Jonathan willing to set aside everything for David when David received that covenant promise; and I hope you can see Jonathan being a picture of Christ for each of His covenant partners – you and me, if we are Christians.
I hope you have a covenant friend/partner in life. I do in my wife. I do in a dear friend of mine. And above all, I do in Christ.
My Prayer for Today: Lord Jesus, I am bound to You for eternity in covenant love; and You to me. Amen
Thursday, April 23, 2009
2009 – Day 112.Apr. 23 – “Trust Me”
2009 – Day 112.Apr. 23 – “Trust Me”
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 48 - 51 … 48 So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it.
My Journal for Today: All God needed from David was one “Trust Me” moment; and with one smooth stone and a little middle-eastern slingshot, Goliath was felled to the amazement of all in that place that day; but the whole scenario was for God’s glory.
And all God needs from you and me is the trust expressed in Proverbs 3: 5-6 [link provided], a Proverb from God which I truly hope you have memorized and believe deeply in your heart. Because, if you do; and you’ve put that belief into the action of showering your mind with the memories of verses like Romans 8: 31 or 1st Peter 5: 7, you have the stones in your bag and the sling to take down any Goliath in your life.
Think about the stone of Romans 8: 31, which says, “If God be for us, who can be against us.” Or the backup of stone of 1st Peter 5: 6, which declares, “… casting all your cares on [God], for He cares for us.” My brother or sister, if you truly believe those truths; all you have to do is put one of those stones of truth into the sling of surrender to God; and God will do the rest with the reality of Prov. 3: 5-6 trust.
I really don’t need to prolong my devotional entry for today. No, what is needed if for you and me to have a few smooth stones in our shepherd’s bag of life; and then we simply need to go out and confront Goliath, believing that God will take one of the stones He has given us from His word to bring down the enemy. Jesus used three smooth stones like that in the wilderness (see Matt. 4 or Luke 4) to bring down the ultimate enemy; so, let’s take our stones of truth and go forth to take down our Goliaths and to give God the glory.
My Prayer for Today: You have given me the stones, Lord; now I go forward to take my giants down in Your Name. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 48 - 51 … 48 So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it.
My Journal for Today: All God needed from David was one “Trust Me” moment; and with one smooth stone and a little middle-eastern slingshot, Goliath was felled to the amazement of all in that place that day; but the whole scenario was for God’s glory.
And all God needs from you and me is the trust expressed in Proverbs 3: 5-6 [link provided], a Proverb from God which I truly hope you have memorized and believe deeply in your heart. Because, if you do; and you’ve put that belief into the action of showering your mind with the memories of verses like Romans 8: 31 or 1st Peter 5: 7, you have the stones in your bag and the sling to take down any Goliath in your life.
Think about the stone of Romans 8: 31, which says, “If God be for us, who can be against us.” Or the backup of stone of 1st Peter 5: 6, which declares, “… casting all your cares on [God], for He cares for us.” My brother or sister, if you truly believe those truths; all you have to do is put one of those stones of truth into the sling of surrender to God; and God will do the rest with the reality of Prov. 3: 5-6 trust.
I really don’t need to prolong my devotional entry for today. No, what is needed if for you and me to have a few smooth stones in our shepherd’s bag of life; and then we simply need to go out and confront Goliath, believing that God will take one of the stones He has given us from His word to bring down the enemy. Jesus used three smooth stones like that in the wilderness (see Matt. 4 or Luke 4) to bring down the ultimate enemy; so, let’s take our stones of truth and go forth to take down our Goliaths and to give God the glory.
My Prayer for Today: You have given me the stones, Lord; now I go forward to take my giants down in Your Name. Amen
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
2009 – Day 111.Apr. 22 – “The Battle Is Mine”
2009 – Day 111.Apr. 22 – “The Battle Is Mine”
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 15: 40 – 47 … Link to study passage …
My Journal for Today: Let’s make this morning’s message simple. Go to the last verse (v. 47) in today’s highlight passage, as David cries out to this giant before him, “Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into our hands.“ And I have underlined the operant truth for emphasis.
David knew, in his heart, that this battle would showcase God’s strength in the face of his (David’s) weakness; and David had experienced that many times out in the fields, taking defenseless sheep from the mouths of hungry bears/lions. David KNEW that this battle was God’s; and David KNEW that God would prevail. How about you? When you face your Goliath today, will you be able to rely on your deep and abiding relationship with Christ, to let you face down your fears and let God do battle – for His glory – through you?
And I’m telling you that unless you are a practiced warrior, as was David, it will be highly unlikely that you face down your Goliath KNOWING that the battle is God’s, not yours. David had faith; but beyond his faith, David had experience and practice with that faith. He just KNEW that this battle was God’s battle; and so he boldly went forward. Fellow warrior, if you don’t believe that God’s truths like the ones I referred to yesterday (again see Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, 1st Cor. 10: 13, and 2nd Cor. 12: 9) and you have not experienced those truths operating in your life, you are not likely going to march out to face those giants in your life.
But if you KNOW those truths; and you’ve practiced life with them to see them operate, you can and will face down your Goliaths and let God have the glory. That’s why I’m such an advocate of a battle plan which saturates our minds/hearts with God’s truth from His word. My weapon of choice to do battle with my Goliaths is God’s Sword. And I’m saying that if you’re not a warrior who carries a sharpened and practiced sword of the Spirit (see Eph. 6: 17) with you at all times, you’ll not likely be able to give God the battle and let Him win it through you. And if you don’t carry that sharpened and well practiced sword, you will likely cower before your Goliath rather than to face it down boldly as did David.
David’s weapons of choice were a few smooth stones and his sling, with which he was well practiced and skillful. So, my prayer today for all of us is that we take up God’s weapon (which is His truth) and practice with it (memorizing it and meditating on it daily as exhorted by Joshua 1: 8) so that when we are confronted by Goliath, we can pick up that practiced sword or those smooth rocks and let the battle be The Lord’s.
My Prayer for Today: Help me to be Your warrior, Lord; and my battles today are Yours. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 15: 40 – 47 … Link to study passage …
My Journal for Today: Let’s make this morning’s message simple. Go to the last verse (v. 47) in today’s highlight passage, as David cries out to this giant before him, “Then all this assembly shall know that the LORD does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give you into our hands.“ And I have underlined the operant truth for emphasis.
David knew, in his heart, that this battle would showcase God’s strength in the face of his (David’s) weakness; and David had experienced that many times out in the fields, taking defenseless sheep from the mouths of hungry bears/lions. David KNEW that this battle was God’s; and David KNEW that God would prevail. How about you? When you face your Goliath today, will you be able to rely on your deep and abiding relationship with Christ, to let you face down your fears and let God do battle – for His glory – through you?
And I’m telling you that unless you are a practiced warrior, as was David, it will be highly unlikely that you face down your Goliath KNOWING that the battle is God’s, not yours. David had faith; but beyond his faith, David had experience and practice with that faith. He just KNEW that this battle was God’s battle; and so he boldly went forward. Fellow warrior, if you don’t believe that God’s truths like the ones I referred to yesterday (again see Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, 1st Cor. 10: 13, and 2nd Cor. 12: 9) and you have not experienced those truths operating in your life, you are not likely going to march out to face those giants in your life.
But if you KNOW those truths; and you’ve practiced life with them to see them operate, you can and will face down your Goliaths and let God have the glory. That’s why I’m such an advocate of a battle plan which saturates our minds/hearts with God’s truth from His word. My weapon of choice to do battle with my Goliaths is God’s Sword. And I’m saying that if you’re not a warrior who carries a sharpened and practiced sword of the Spirit (see Eph. 6: 17) with you at all times, you’ll not likely be able to give God the battle and let Him win it through you. And if you don’t carry that sharpened and well practiced sword, you will likely cower before your Goliath rather than to face it down boldly as did David.
David’s weapons of choice were a few smooth stones and his sling, with which he was well practiced and skillful. So, my prayer today for all of us is that we take up God’s weapon (which is His truth) and practice with it (memorizing it and meditating on it daily as exhorted by Joshua 1: 8) so that when we are confronted by Goliath, we can pick up that practiced sword or those smooth rocks and let the battle be The Lord’s.
My Prayer for Today: Help me to be Your warrior, Lord; and my battles today are Yours. Amen
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
2009 – Day 110.Apr. 21 – Unique Techniques
2009 – Day 110.Apr. 21 – Unique Techniques
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 17 - 39 … Link to study passage …
My Journal for Today: In today’s devotional from Swindoll, he has a very quotable truth as he writes, “… when facing our own giants, we forget what we ought to remember, and we remember what we ought to forget.” And this refers to how man so often gets wrapped up in externals, ignoring what is really important to do battle against the Goliaths of this life. But fortunately that’s not God’s “M.O.” God looks into the heart of a warrior; and our Lord can/will use what each of us uniquely has to do battle and be a winner in His Name.
I’m certainly glad that I can be a “David” to do battle today; and I don’t have to be a “Saul” to win Christ’s victory. Oh, it is true that I should do as much as I can to be like my Savior as possible; but I don’t have to be someone else or even to wear someone else’s armor in battle. All I have to do is do my best to imitate my Savior; and He will use me – little ole ME – to bring about His victory.
When David looked out at the Philistine, Goliath, who was so intimidating to the Hebrew army and to Saul, David saw only a man. Yes, he was a big man; but was only a man. The only big One in David’s life was God; and David had seen God do battle and defeat intimidating foes, like bears and lions in the past. And David just knew – in faith and from experience – that God could fell any Goliath using the very unique abilities David had available to him. But again, Saul thought the only way David might have a chance was to do a make over and give David his own armor. But as we read, David only felt uncomfortable trying to do battle in his own clothes, using his own, unique battle techniques.
I’m sure glad that I don’t have to be like my Pastor to serve my God. He’s loud; and I’m sort of a soft spoken type. He charismatic; and I’m certainly not. He’s in your face; and I’m a back-off sort of guy. … If I tried to be Pastor Ernie, his armor would fit me about as well as Saul’s fit David. No; … all I have to do is be Bill Berry; and I can use the unique skills and abilities God has given to me to go out on the battle-field and face my Goliaths. And beyond that, I can take my Goliaths down using the unique tools God has gifted me with to do battle.
So, look out there; and when you see a Goliath, trying to face you down, just see another pip-squeek whom God can bring down when you pick up your sling and stones to do battle for God. God only needs you, David, to be His warrior; and Goliath is no match for our God. If you memorize and believe the truths of Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, 1st Cor. 10: 13, and 2nd Cor. 12: 9, my favorite victory verses, you can put those stones into your own unique sling and march forth to take down your Goliath, claiming the victory in Christ’s mighty Name.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, You made me to do battle and take down Goliath in Your Name. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 17 - 39 … Link to study passage …
My Journal for Today: In today’s devotional from Swindoll, he has a very quotable truth as he writes, “… when facing our own giants, we forget what we ought to remember, and we remember what we ought to forget.” And this refers to how man so often gets wrapped up in externals, ignoring what is really important to do battle against the Goliaths of this life. But fortunately that’s not God’s “M.O.” God looks into the heart of a warrior; and our Lord can/will use what each of us uniquely has to do battle and be a winner in His Name.
I’m certainly glad that I can be a “David” to do battle today; and I don’t have to be a “Saul” to win Christ’s victory. Oh, it is true that I should do as much as I can to be like my Savior as possible; but I don’t have to be someone else or even to wear someone else’s armor in battle. All I have to do is do my best to imitate my Savior; and He will use me – little ole ME – to bring about His victory.
When David looked out at the Philistine, Goliath, who was so intimidating to the Hebrew army and to Saul, David saw only a man. Yes, he was a big man; but was only a man. The only big One in David’s life was God; and David had seen God do battle and defeat intimidating foes, like bears and lions in the past. And David just knew – in faith and from experience – that God could fell any Goliath using the very unique abilities David had available to him. But again, Saul thought the only way David might have a chance was to do a make over and give David his own armor. But as we read, David only felt uncomfortable trying to do battle in his own clothes, using his own, unique battle techniques.
I’m sure glad that I don’t have to be like my Pastor to serve my God. He’s loud; and I’m sort of a soft spoken type. He charismatic; and I’m certainly not. He’s in your face; and I’m a back-off sort of guy. … If I tried to be Pastor Ernie, his armor would fit me about as well as Saul’s fit David. No; … all I have to do is be Bill Berry; and I can use the unique skills and abilities God has given to me to go out on the battle-field and face my Goliaths. And beyond that, I can take my Goliaths down using the unique tools God has gifted me with to do battle.
So, look out there; and when you see a Goliath, trying to face you down, just see another pip-squeek whom God can bring down when you pick up your sling and stones to do battle for God. God only needs you, David, to be His warrior; and Goliath is no match for our God. If you memorize and believe the truths of Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, 1st Cor. 10: 13, and 2nd Cor. 12: 9, my favorite victory verses, you can put those stones into your own unique sling and march forth to take down your Goliath, claiming the victory in Christ’s mighty Name.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, You made me to do battle and take down Goliath in Your Name. Amen
Monday, April 20, 2009
2009 – Day 109.Apr. 20 – God Versus Our Giants
2009 – Day 109.Apr. 20 – God Versus Our Giants
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 1 – 16 … Link to study passage ...
My Journal for Today: If I were a betting man, I would wager that this is a story that you know well from Bible lore. David and Goliath; and it’s an allegory for our lives, isn’t it?
We all have Goliaths which we face, … intimidating “giants” which cause us to balk in fear. And like Goliath, they come out day after day, attempting to put us down and see ourselves incapable of overcoming the giant’s challenge. Maybe yours is fear of people, … especially powerful people. Maybe it’s public speaking. Maybe it’s overcoming some emotional wound from your past like sexual abuse or rejection from a parent. We all have our Goliaths.
But if we read on ahead, why didn’t David fear this overwhelming giant? And the answer is quite simple. David was given the discernment to see that Goliath was no match for David’s God. And so it is with our lives as well. When we see God being able to overcome anything which man or the world can put forth, we will not be afraid to stand up to the Goliaths in our lives.
So, … do I have any Goliaths in my life? You can bet on it ! But I have learned a technique, which was taught to me by a mentor years ago. He taught me that I was going to have Goliaths which would show up in my life; and when they did, He said I needed to have my weapons ready to do battle. Reading on in 1st Samuel, we see that David chose to use the weapons which had helped him protect his sheep as a shepherd. They were his sling and a few smooth stones; and David had practiced using them against some very strong foes, like bears and lions.
My mentor taught me to always carry a sharpened, ready, and practiced sword of the Spirit, which we know of, from Ephesians 6: 17 is God’s word. And when I have God’s word deeply embedded in my heart/mind; and I believe its truth, I’m ready for any Goliath who might come along. So, my mentor helped me learn, memorize, and meditate on verses from the Bible which are fear dispelling Scriptures. They are verses like Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, and 2nd Timothy 1: 7. I’ll leave it to you to look those up. But if you don’t have those, or other similar verses, deeply implanted in your mind; and you don’t believe them with all your heart, you are going to be vulnerable to the giants Satan or the world will send your way. But even more than that, you’re going to be very vulnerable to your own heart [see Jer. 17: 9], which will easily deceive you with fears which will cry out to make you believe that the thing you fear is bigger than God.
Nothing we fear is stronger than God! Do you believe that? Because if you don’t, you have Goliaths in your life which are going to cause you to cower in fear and retreat into yourself. And that, my dear fellow Christian, is a place where you don’t want to go. You need to be able to believe in a God Who will deliver you in any circumstance (see John 16: 33 or 1st Cor. 10: 13 or 2nd Cor. 12: 9 or 1st Pet. 5: 7). But the question is, do we know, in our hearts, and believe those verses? And are we ready, as was David, to confront Goliaths and allow God to bring them down?
My Prayer for Today: Give me the stone, Lord. I’m ready to do battle! Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 17: 1 – 16 … Link to study passage ...
My Journal for Today: If I were a betting man, I would wager that this is a story that you know well from Bible lore. David and Goliath; and it’s an allegory for our lives, isn’t it?
We all have Goliaths which we face, … intimidating “giants” which cause us to balk in fear. And like Goliath, they come out day after day, attempting to put us down and see ourselves incapable of overcoming the giant’s challenge. Maybe yours is fear of people, … especially powerful people. Maybe it’s public speaking. Maybe it’s overcoming some emotional wound from your past like sexual abuse or rejection from a parent. We all have our Goliaths.
But if we read on ahead, why didn’t David fear this overwhelming giant? And the answer is quite simple. David was given the discernment to see that Goliath was no match for David’s God. And so it is with our lives as well. When we see God being able to overcome anything which man or the world can put forth, we will not be afraid to stand up to the Goliaths in our lives.
So, … do I have any Goliaths in my life? You can bet on it ! But I have learned a technique, which was taught to me by a mentor years ago. He taught me that I was going to have Goliaths which would show up in my life; and when they did, He said I needed to have my weapons ready to do battle. Reading on in 1st Samuel, we see that David chose to use the weapons which had helped him protect his sheep as a shepherd. They were his sling and a few smooth stones; and David had practiced using them against some very strong foes, like bears and lions.
My mentor taught me to always carry a sharpened, ready, and practiced sword of the Spirit, which we know of, from Ephesians 6: 17 is God’s word. And when I have God’s word deeply embedded in my heart/mind; and I believe its truth, I’m ready for any Goliath who might come along. So, my mentor helped me learn, memorize, and meditate on verses from the Bible which are fear dispelling Scriptures. They are verses like Isaiah 41: 10, Romans 8: 31, and 2nd Timothy 1: 7. I’ll leave it to you to look those up. But if you don’t have those, or other similar verses, deeply implanted in your mind; and you don’t believe them with all your heart, you are going to be vulnerable to the giants Satan or the world will send your way. But even more than that, you’re going to be very vulnerable to your own heart [see Jer. 17: 9], which will easily deceive you with fears which will cry out to make you believe that the thing you fear is bigger than God.
Nothing we fear is stronger than God! Do you believe that? Because if you don’t, you have Goliaths in your life which are going to cause you to cower in fear and retreat into yourself. And that, my dear fellow Christian, is a place where you don’t want to go. You need to be able to believe in a God Who will deliver you in any circumstance (see John 16: 33 or 1st Cor. 10: 13 or 2nd Cor. 12: 9 or 1st Pet. 5: 7). But the question is, do we know, in our hearts, and believe those verses? And are we ready, as was David, to confront Goliaths and allow God to bring them down?
My Prayer for Today: Give me the stone, Lord. I’m ready to do battle! Amen
Sunday, April 19, 2009
2009 – Day 108.Apr. 19 – “Music’s” Effective Ministry
2009 – Day 108.Apr. 19 – “Music’s” Effective Ministry
Passage of the Day: 1St Samuel 16: 21 - 23 … 21 So David came to Saul and stood before him. And he [Saul] loved him greatly, and he [David] became his [Saul’s] armorbearer. 22 Then Saul sent to Jesse, saying, “Please let David stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight.” 23 And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.
My Journal for Today: Did you know that you can make “music” for God? Oh, you may say, as my Pastor might, “Bill, I can’t sing a lick?” But my Pastor, Dr. Ernie, doesn’t let that silence his song. He knows that when he sings to/for God, as off key as the world may hear him, the angels in heaven feel and hear the joy God has imparted into Ernie’s soul. And when I’m around Ernie as he’s singing, his joyful singing, as off key on earth as it might be, is infectious; and I can feel God’s joy emanating from my Brother; … and I feel God’s goodness too. And that is beautiful “singing.”
But David not only sang God’s joy from the heart; he apparently had a song-writing and singing talent which was soothing to Saul’s troubled heart; and David’s song ministered to the heart and soul of this troubled king. What is your “song” which God can use to soothe the savage beast of your fellow man? I put “song” in quotes because your talent or gift may not be musical singing, as is the case for my Pastor. But, maybe you have the “song” of service to give to someone who needs your help. Maybe you have the “song” of mercy to “sing” for someone who desperately needs your merciful touch. Perhaps your “song” of encouragement can reach out and lift up someone, like a king Saul, who is down or depressed and needs the “song” you might have to affirm or unburden that broken-spirited brother or sister.
We may not be able to “sing” musically; but I firmly believe we all have a “song” to sing from the talents and gifts God has given us. And I hope I’m not being too obtuse here with my word picture. My Pastor, who can’t sing a lick, brightens up a room by just walking into it; and he can make me feel like I’m the most important person in the world by just coming up to me, with his ear-to-ear smile and asking, “How’re you doin Bill B.?” When he greets me that way, sometimes hugging me or whacking me on my back, I know I’m loved by my Shepherd; and I feel God’s love coming through my Pastor’s caring acknowledgment. When he does that for me, my brother and friend, Ernie, is “singing” God’s song of love to my soul.
When you reach out and cook a meal for someone who has lost a loved one, you are “singing” God’s caring love for that person? When you share a hug for an unloved or maybe unlovely person whom God has put in your path, you are “singing” in tune with the angels and God’s song is heard by that under appreciated soul. When you help a depressed and lost soul see the love of Christ by sharing your Christian testimony, you “sing” the song of salvation for that desperate and lost person.
So, my fellow Christian choir member, “sing” out for Christ. Someone needs your “song;” someone needs to hear you “singing” with the joy and love of the Lord which you can share with others, … others who probably desperately need to hear God’s love being “sung” by you. But don’t worry that your “song” may not be in tune with the world’s “singing.” Just remember the story I related some days ago from the old Jewish story of the mentally challenged boy who sang loudly and off-key in the Temple, making everyone else feel uncomfortable; until one day when the heaven’s appeared during Sabbath service and the retarded boy was shown to be singing in tune with the heavenly chorus of Angels.
My friend, any time you reach out with God’s love to another troubled soul who needs God’s joy or His peace, you are “singing” God’s song; and you are in tune with the Angels. So, you take your talents or your gifts and you “sing” that song for God in the presence of someone who needs to hear your Godly “song.” The world may hear your “singing” as off key; but always remember that you’ll be singing with God and for God’s glory when you “sing” your song to lift up someone who needs to hear that “song.”
My Prayer for Today: Lord, I sing Your song. Help me to sing it loudly and boldly to those who need to hear it. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1St Samuel 16: 21 - 23 … 21 So David came to Saul and stood before him. And he [Saul] loved him greatly, and he [David] became his [Saul’s] armorbearer. 22 Then Saul sent to Jesse, saying, “Please let David stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight.” 23 And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.
My Journal for Today: Did you know that you can make “music” for God? Oh, you may say, as my Pastor might, “Bill, I can’t sing a lick?” But my Pastor, Dr. Ernie, doesn’t let that silence his song. He knows that when he sings to/for God, as off key as the world may hear him, the angels in heaven feel and hear the joy God has imparted into Ernie’s soul. And when I’m around Ernie as he’s singing, his joyful singing, as off key on earth as it might be, is infectious; and I can feel God’s joy emanating from my Brother; … and I feel God’s goodness too. And that is beautiful “singing.”
But David not only sang God’s joy from the heart; he apparently had a song-writing and singing talent which was soothing to Saul’s troubled heart; and David’s song ministered to the heart and soul of this troubled king. What is your “song” which God can use to soothe the savage beast of your fellow man? I put “song” in quotes because your talent or gift may not be musical singing, as is the case for my Pastor. But, maybe you have the “song” of service to give to someone who needs your help. Maybe you have the “song” of mercy to “sing” for someone who desperately needs your merciful touch. Perhaps your “song” of encouragement can reach out and lift up someone, like a king Saul, who is down or depressed and needs the “song” you might have to affirm or unburden that broken-spirited brother or sister.
We may not be able to “sing” musically; but I firmly believe we all have a “song” to sing from the talents and gifts God has given us. And I hope I’m not being too obtuse here with my word picture. My Pastor, who can’t sing a lick, brightens up a room by just walking into it; and he can make me feel like I’m the most important person in the world by just coming up to me, with his ear-to-ear smile and asking, “How’re you doin Bill B.?” When he greets me that way, sometimes hugging me or whacking me on my back, I know I’m loved by my Shepherd; and I feel God’s love coming through my Pastor’s caring acknowledgment. When he does that for me, my brother and friend, Ernie, is “singing” God’s song of love to my soul.
When you reach out and cook a meal for someone who has lost a loved one, you are “singing” God’s caring love for that person? When you share a hug for an unloved or maybe unlovely person whom God has put in your path, you are “singing” in tune with the angels and God’s song is heard by that under appreciated soul. When you help a depressed and lost soul see the love of Christ by sharing your Christian testimony, you “sing” the song of salvation for that desperate and lost person.
So, my fellow Christian choir member, “sing” out for Christ. Someone needs your “song;” someone needs to hear you “singing” with the joy and love of the Lord which you can share with others, … others who probably desperately need to hear God’s love being “sung” by you. But don’t worry that your “song” may not be in tune with the world’s “singing.” Just remember the story I related some days ago from the old Jewish story of the mentally challenged boy who sang loudly and off-key in the Temple, making everyone else feel uncomfortable; until one day when the heaven’s appeared during Sabbath service and the retarded boy was shown to be singing in tune with the heavenly chorus of Angels.
My friend, any time you reach out with God’s love to another troubled soul who needs God’s joy or His peace, you are “singing” God’s song; and you are in tune with the Angels. So, you take your talents or your gifts and you “sing” that song for God in the presence of someone who needs to hear your Godly “song.” The world may hear your “singing” as off key; but always remember that you’ll be singing with God and for God’s glory when you “sing” your song to lift up someone who needs to hear that “song.”
My Prayer for Today: Lord, I sing Your song. Help me to sing it loudly and boldly to those who need to hear it. Amen
Saturday, April 18, 2009
2009 – Day 107.Apr. 18 – Your Uniqueness
2009 – Day 107.Apr. 18 – Your Uniqueness
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 16: 14 – 23 … Link to passage for study …
My Journal for Today: Don’t you just love the way God does His business – and carries out His will. Sometimes, even without our pro-action, God works out a way for His will to be accomplished by men who are even unaware of how things are coming together. Saul had no – conscious – idea that the young harpist and song-writer he was bringing into the palace at the recommendation of his court was the very one who had been anointed by God to replace him. And David had no idea, prior to his being called from the fields to Saul’s side, that all those years of plucking away at his harp to quiet his sheep would land him in a helping relationship with the king of God’s people. Go figure!
But that’s the point, isn’t it? There are just some things we can’t figure and must simply accept as God’s way of doing business. You may not realize it; but that Spirit-imparted gift or those gifts which you received from God when you were converted and born-again may yet be used for God’s glory in some special way. Who knows; maybe that talent God gave you, and which was developed years ago, may yet be used in some special way in God’s kingdom.
Years ago, when I was in college and moving far away from God (calling myself an “agnostic”), I had to choose a major course of study; and I chose public speaking after I got an “A” in my first speech course. So, I began taking speech and rhetoric courses and discovered – at least to my professor’s judgment – that I had a talent in speaking to groups of people. So, I developed this skill; and it took me into my graduate education where I changed my major from speech education to speech pathology. And in this course correction in my education, I learned that I had a talent to work with those adults who had poor speaking to help them become more proficient in communication. Then, some 20 years after I entered college, which took me away from God, I was broken in spirit and received Him as my Lord and Savior.
It was a few years after that I discovered that my two primary Spirit-given gifts were teaching and encouragement. Now, it didn’t take much brain power on my part to realize that the spiritual gifts which God had imparted to me were a perfect fit with the “natural” talents I had developed in my college and grad school years. Go figure! … But God certainly had figured it all out.
And now I think about it. … God takes me, while I was even rejecting Him all those years, and develops the exact skills which would match up with the gifts - He knew - I would have after I became His child and which could be used in ministry for His kingdom and His glory. And now, here I am using my teaching gifts and speaking talents to teach, preach, and disciple others in my church and in ministry. And now I also use my God-imparted encouragement gifts and the “therapy” talents I learned years ago to lift up, mentor, and encourage men who have become enslaved to sin, helping them to walk free from that imprisonment in Christ. As I look at Christ’s mission statement in Luke 4: 18-19 [link provided], I can now see that He wove together my talents and my gifts to give me the opportunity to serve His kingdom in this same mission.
My beloved fellow disciple, never discount some talent you may have or a Spirit-imparted gift God has given you. You may not yet know how; but God can, and will, use what you have or what He’s given you for His glory. And that’s why I believe every Christian should discover his/her Spiritual gift or gifts. And when you do, many times you will discover that such gifts, when paired with some ability or abilities you have – maybe something, like David, you developed years ago - can be used to advance God’s kingdom.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, use your servants for Your glory. Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 16: 14 – 23 … Link to passage for study …
My Journal for Today: Don’t you just love the way God does His business – and carries out His will. Sometimes, even without our pro-action, God works out a way for His will to be accomplished by men who are even unaware of how things are coming together. Saul had no – conscious – idea that the young harpist and song-writer he was bringing into the palace at the recommendation of his court was the very one who had been anointed by God to replace him. And David had no idea, prior to his being called from the fields to Saul’s side, that all those years of plucking away at his harp to quiet his sheep would land him in a helping relationship with the king of God’s people. Go figure!
But that’s the point, isn’t it? There are just some things we can’t figure and must simply accept as God’s way of doing business. You may not realize it; but that Spirit-imparted gift or those gifts which you received from God when you were converted and born-again may yet be used for God’s glory in some special way. Who knows; maybe that talent God gave you, and which was developed years ago, may yet be used in some special way in God’s kingdom.
Years ago, when I was in college and moving far away from God (calling myself an “agnostic”), I had to choose a major course of study; and I chose public speaking after I got an “A” in my first speech course. So, I began taking speech and rhetoric courses and discovered – at least to my professor’s judgment – that I had a talent in speaking to groups of people. So, I developed this skill; and it took me into my graduate education where I changed my major from speech education to speech pathology. And in this course correction in my education, I learned that I had a talent to work with those adults who had poor speaking to help them become more proficient in communication. Then, some 20 years after I entered college, which took me away from God, I was broken in spirit and received Him as my Lord and Savior.
It was a few years after that I discovered that my two primary Spirit-given gifts were teaching and encouragement. Now, it didn’t take much brain power on my part to realize that the spiritual gifts which God had imparted to me were a perfect fit with the “natural” talents I had developed in my college and grad school years. Go figure! … But God certainly had figured it all out.
And now I think about it. … God takes me, while I was even rejecting Him all those years, and develops the exact skills which would match up with the gifts - He knew - I would have after I became His child and which could be used in ministry for His kingdom and His glory. And now, here I am using my teaching gifts and speaking talents to teach, preach, and disciple others in my church and in ministry. And now I also use my God-imparted encouragement gifts and the “therapy” talents I learned years ago to lift up, mentor, and encourage men who have become enslaved to sin, helping them to walk free from that imprisonment in Christ. As I look at Christ’s mission statement in Luke 4: 18-19 [link provided], I can now see that He wove together my talents and my gifts to give me the opportunity to serve His kingdom in this same mission.
My beloved fellow disciple, never discount some talent you may have or a Spirit-imparted gift God has given you. You may not yet know how; but God can, and will, use what you have or what He’s given you for His glory. And that’s why I believe every Christian should discover his/her Spiritual gift or gifts. And when you do, many times you will discover that such gifts, when paired with some ability or abilities you have – maybe something, like David, you developed years ago - can be used to advance God’s kingdom.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, use your servants for Your glory. Amen
Friday, April 17, 2009
2009 – Day 106.Apr. 17 – God Speaks --- We Respond
2009 – Day 106.Apr. 17 – God Speaks --- We Respond
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 16: 14 – 23 … Link to passage for study …
My Journal for Today: As I read through today’s highlight passage from 1st Samuel and Chuck Swindoll’s devotional, inspired by this Scripture, the old Scout Motto popped into my head. You probably know it – BE PREPARED ! And that is the theme of the message in this journal entry.
Swindoll puts forth a three point lesson (leave it to a preacher ;>) for this devotional. First he says, “God’s solutions are often strange and simple; so, be open.” And Swindoll is right. We often have a tendency to take a simple command or direction from God and try to make it complex or complicated. How often, as with Samuel, having read about it in past devotionals, God had said to go where the Lord instructed. Samuel did exactly that, which resulted in finding young David in Jesse’s family. So, we, too, need to be open to God when He calls us … and to be ready, … no matter how strange the calling might seem. BE PREPARED!
Next, Swindoll posits, “God’s promotions are usually sudden and surprising; so, be ready.” Often, as I go through life, God somehow leads me back to this message. Just the other night at an Elder meeting in our church, one of my brother Elders gave a devotional with this very message, saying that all of the signs of Christ’s second coming are in place; and it could happen at any time; so, … my brother taught, we need to be doing as it says in 1st Thes. 5: 17, … to be in a vigilant attitude of prayer, contemplation, and readiness. So, … BE PREPARED!
Finally, my devotional author writes, “God’s selections are always sovereign and sure; so, be sensitive.” When God speaks, whenever or wherever it happens, we need to be tuned to His frequency; and I maintain that this can only happen when we are in what I call “surrender mode, “ disciplined into the habit of obedience to God’s word and His way. I firmly believe that knowing and following God’s word is how we stayed tuned to God’s sovereign will and timing. If we are not habitually in God’s word and getting to know it more deeply everyday, and if we rely on our own sensitivity to move through life, we are highly vulnerable to our own deceit-ridden hearts (see Jer. 17: 9). But when we seek God’s will from a disciplined and daily search into God’s word, I believe we become more and more sensitive to God’s way of doing business. Yes, again, … BE PREPARED!
In Revelations 19: 7-9 God’s word speaks of the coming wedding feast of the Lamb of God where our Bridegroom comes again for His Bride (which is you and me, the Church). And in this passage it speaks that we need to have our linens ready, which is our purity and obedience. This means that how we live daily, in pure devotion to our Lord, is our way of being ready for Christ’s return. So, I must ask myself, as should you, “Am I ready? Am I prepared? Any time my God speaks, do I hear? When He calls, do I come? And when He sends me, do I go?” If I can answer “YES” to those questions, I AM READY.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, prepare me for Your coming. It could be today! Amen
Passage of the Day: 1st Samuel 16: 14 – 23 … Link to passage for study …
My Journal for Today: As I read through today’s highlight passage from 1st Samuel and Chuck Swindoll’s devotional, inspired by this Scripture, the old Scout Motto popped into my head. You probably know it – BE PREPARED ! And that is the theme of the message in this journal entry.
Swindoll puts forth a three point lesson (leave it to a preacher ;>) for this devotional. First he says, “God’s solutions are often strange and simple; so, be open.” And Swindoll is right. We often have a tendency to take a simple command or direction from God and try to make it complex or complicated. How often, as with Samuel, having read about it in past devotionals, God had said to go where the Lord instructed. Samuel did exactly that, which resulted in finding young David in Jesse’s family. So, we, too, need to be open to God when He calls us … and to be ready, … no matter how strange the calling might seem. BE PREPARED!
Next, Swindoll posits, “God’s promotions are usually sudden and surprising; so, be ready.” Often, as I go through life, God somehow leads me back to this message. Just the other night at an Elder meeting in our church, one of my brother Elders gave a devotional with this very message, saying that all of the signs of Christ’s second coming are in place; and it could happen at any time; so, … my brother taught, we need to be doing as it says in 1st Thes. 5: 17, … to be in a vigilant attitude of prayer, contemplation, and readiness. So, … BE PREPARED!
Finally, my devotional author writes, “God’s selections are always sovereign and sure; so, be sensitive.” When God speaks, whenever or wherever it happens, we need to be tuned to His frequency; and I maintain that this can only happen when we are in what I call “surrender mode, “ disciplined into the habit of obedience to God’s word and His way. I firmly believe that knowing and following God’s word is how we stayed tuned to God’s sovereign will and timing. If we are not habitually in God’s word and getting to know it more deeply everyday, and if we rely on our own sensitivity to move through life, we are highly vulnerable to our own deceit-ridden hearts (see Jer. 17: 9). But when we seek God’s will from a disciplined and daily search into God’s word, I believe we become more and more sensitive to God’s way of doing business. Yes, again, … BE PREPARED!
In Revelations 19: 7-9 God’s word speaks of the coming wedding feast of the Lamb of God where our Bridegroom comes again for His Bride (which is you and me, the Church). And in this passage it speaks that we need to have our linens ready, which is our purity and obedience. This means that how we live daily, in pure devotion to our Lord, is our way of being ready for Christ’s return. So, I must ask myself, as should you, “Am I ready? Am I prepared? Any time my God speaks, do I hear? When He calls, do I come? And when He sends me, do I go?” If I can answer “YES” to those questions, I AM READY.
My Prayer for Today: Lord, prepare me for Your coming. It could be today! Amen
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