Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 15; 1-30 This section tells the story of how Absalom deceitful heart plots against his father to become king over Hebron and Israel. It's amazing how people forget the strength of David and the Lord he served and then knowing the truth yet listening to a man of no integrity because of his bitterness that has eaten him over the years since his brothers death.
It also shows you that during this tribulation that David was going through he wrote the most beautiful Psalms, Psalms in trusting God, his confidence in God, his prayer for help and then his cry of anguish. Psalm 62: 1-12,41: 1-13, 63: 1-11, 61: 1-8, 3: 1-8, 22: 1-18.
David still had his loyal followers who knew that David walked with God in all ways and they trusted David because of this and yet David at the same time flees his home - Zadok the priest was there with all the Levites carrying the ark of the covenant of God. They set the ark of God down and Abiathar offered sacrifices until the people had finished marching past. The king then instructed Zadok Return the ark of God to the city. and if I find favour in the Lord's eyes He will bring me back and allow me to see both it and its dwelling place. When all this was going on David was climbing Mount Olives weeping as he ascended, His head was covered, and he was walking barefoot. and then his prayer for help. Lord how my foes increase! There are many who attack me, Many say about me, "There is no help for him in God" But You, Lord are a shield around me, and my glory, and the One who lifts up my head. I cry aloud to the Lord, and He answers me comes from Psalm 3: 3 It's one of my favourite versed,
David's cry of anguish. Psalm 22: 15 My strength is dried up like baked clay; my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth. You put me into the dust of death. For dogs have surrounded me; a gang of evildoers has closed in on me; they pierced my hands and my feet, I can count all my bones; people look and stare at me, They divided my garments among themselves, and they cast lots for my clothing.
How history repeats itself in the New Testament.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 30, 2012
April 29, 2012
120 - David and his family
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 12: 26-31 - 1 Chronicles 20: 1-13
2 Samuel 13: 1 - 39, 14: 1-33
Psalm 21: 1-13
When reading today's word and realizing that we are not much different in family life as it was in David's time. They seemed to have had also a lot of trouble bringing up their kids. I think also in those days children and respect went hand in hand and the fear of the Lord was a constant reminder to them to obey and honour their parents. It must have been heart braking to find out that one of your sons raped your daughter and then a couple of years later one of your sons then gets the rapist son murdered because of hate of what he had done to the sister. Very sad indeed.
And so the story goes... David's son Absalom had a beautiful sister named Tamar. And David's son Amnon had not a good desire on this Tamar all he wanted was to bed her so he went to his friend Jonadab and this Jonadab gave some ill advise in what to do to get her to his bed. This Amnon followed this friends instructions by playing ill and then asking his father to send Tamar to his room bake bread and feed him by her hand. So David obliged and Tamar was sent for and did what was required by her and so the evil plot to gain Tamar into his bed began and this poor girl begged him not to do it but Amnon in his state of want raped her and then got disgusted by her and chased her out of his room. My thoughts on this I find this man a self centered man a man one could not trust.Absalom, Tamar's brother finds out and he shelters her in his home but that was not the end of that as this made Absalom very bitter and angry that his brother could do such a thing to his beautiful sister. David finds out about this rape and he was furious. I do note here in these chapters it does not say what David did to his son? I wonder what I would have done in those days...?
The matter does not rest there as with Absalom a few years later his sheep shearers were at Baal-hazor near Ephraim, and Absalom then invited the king and his servants to go with him but the king declined his invitation but begged for his brother Amnon to go with them. David was a bit hesitant about it but decided to let him go.
Now Absalom puts his plan into action and tells his young men to watch Amnon until he is in a good mood from the wine and then strike him and kill him and not to be afraid as he would take the blame for the killing.
Then deceit comes into action by telling the king that all his sons are dead not even one of them have survived Strange thing to tell the king and I wonder why? So in response to this news David stood up and tore his clothes and lay down on the ground, and all his servants stood by with their clothes torn. But Jonadab, son of David's brother Shimeah, told David My lord must not think they have all been killed it is only Amnon that is dead. And he told David that Absalom has planned this since he disgraced his sister Tamar. With all this going on Absalom fled to Talmai son of Ammihud king of Geshur where he stayed here 3 years. It must have been very hard for David mourning for one son then grieving for the loss of the living whom you know was just doing what he felt was right in protecting his sister. The love of this brother must have been beautiful.
Absalom is persuaded to return by his father but David still does not want to see his face then a woman is sent by Joab to tell him her life's story very similar to what is happening in David's life but because David still did not want to see Absalom, Absalom failed to see the reason for his return if his father refuses to see him. And so Joab speaks with David and David then summoned Absalom who came to the king and bowed down with his face to the ground before the king. Then the king kissed Absalom. A beautiful ending to such a tragic story in the life of David's family.
David and Joab also capture Rabbah and he took the crown from the head of their king and it was placed on David's head. The crown weighing 75 pounds of gold and a precious stone in it.
David writes a Psalm of victory 21: 1-13
13 Be exalted, Lord in Your strength; we will sing and praise your might.
Blessings for a beautiful Lord's day
Kathleen.
2 Samuel 12: 26-31 - 1 Chronicles 20: 1-13
2 Samuel 13: 1 - 39, 14: 1-33
Psalm 21: 1-13
When reading today's word and realizing that we are not much different in family life as it was in David's time. They seemed to have had also a lot of trouble bringing up their kids. I think also in those days children and respect went hand in hand and the fear of the Lord was a constant reminder to them to obey and honour their parents. It must have been heart braking to find out that one of your sons raped your daughter and then a couple of years later one of your sons then gets the rapist son murdered because of hate of what he had done to the sister. Very sad indeed.
And so the story goes... David's son Absalom had a beautiful sister named Tamar. And David's son Amnon had not a good desire on this Tamar all he wanted was to bed her so he went to his friend Jonadab and this Jonadab gave some ill advise in what to do to get her to his bed. This Amnon followed this friends instructions by playing ill and then asking his father to send Tamar to his room bake bread and feed him by her hand. So David obliged and Tamar was sent for and did what was required by her and so the evil plot to gain Tamar into his bed began and this poor girl begged him not to do it but Amnon in his state of want raped her and then got disgusted by her and chased her out of his room. My thoughts on this I find this man a self centered man a man one could not trust.Absalom, Tamar's brother finds out and he shelters her in his home but that was not the end of that as this made Absalom very bitter and angry that his brother could do such a thing to his beautiful sister. David finds out about this rape and he was furious. I do note here in these chapters it does not say what David did to his son? I wonder what I would have done in those days...?
The matter does not rest there as with Absalom a few years later his sheep shearers were at Baal-hazor near Ephraim, and Absalom then invited the king and his servants to go with him but the king declined his invitation but begged for his brother Amnon to go with them. David was a bit hesitant about it but decided to let him go.
Now Absalom puts his plan into action and tells his young men to watch Amnon until he is in a good mood from the wine and then strike him and kill him and not to be afraid as he would take the blame for the killing.
Then deceit comes into action by telling the king that all his sons are dead not even one of them have survived Strange thing to tell the king and I wonder why? So in response to this news David stood up and tore his clothes and lay down on the ground, and all his servants stood by with their clothes torn. But Jonadab, son of David's brother Shimeah, told David My lord must not think they have all been killed it is only Amnon that is dead. And he told David that Absalom has planned this since he disgraced his sister Tamar. With all this going on Absalom fled to Talmai son of Ammihud king of Geshur where he stayed here 3 years. It must have been very hard for David mourning for one son then grieving for the loss of the living whom you know was just doing what he felt was right in protecting his sister. The love of this brother must have been beautiful.
Absalom is persuaded to return by his father but David still does not want to see his face then a woman is sent by Joab to tell him her life's story very similar to what is happening in David's life but because David still did not want to see Absalom, Absalom failed to see the reason for his return if his father refuses to see him. And so Joab speaks with David and David then summoned Absalom who came to the king and bowed down with his face to the ground before the king. Then the king kissed Absalom. A beautiful ending to such a tragic story in the life of David's family.
David and Joab also capture Rabbah and he took the crown from the head of their king and it was placed on David's head. The crown weighing 75 pounds of gold and a precious stone in it.
David writes a Psalm of victory 21: 1-13
13 Be exalted, Lord in Your strength; we will sing and praise your might.
Blessings for a beautiful Lord's day
Kathleen.
April 28, 2012
119 -David's prayer for forgiveness
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 12: 1- 25
Psalm 6: 1-10l, 51: 1-19, 32: 1-11, 103: 1-22
The Lord send Nathan to David with a parable of a rich man with many lambs and a poor man with only 1 ewe who he adored. When a traveller came by the rich man found it hard to give one of his lambs but took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for his guest.
David was furious and said to Nathan that this man deserves to die. Because he has done this thing and shown no pity. He must pay back with four of his lambs.
Then Nathan said to David you are that man. This is what the Lord God of Israel says. I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. I gave your master's house to you and your master's wives into your arms, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah, and if that was not enough, I would have given you even more. Why then have you despised the command of the Lord by doing what I consider evil? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife as your own wife you murdered him with the Ammonites sword.
The Lord said to David I am going to bring disaster to you and your own family. I will take your wives and give them to another before your very eyes, and he will sleep with them publicly.
David cried out to Nathan. I have sinned against the Lord.
Then Nathan said to David that the Lord has taken away his sin, - However because you treated the Lord with such contempt in this matter the son born to you will die.
I can't imagine being told that your child is going to die. This must have been such a trying time for David and his wife knowing that your child is going to die. Through all this David still put his trust in the Lord he wrote the most beautiful Psalms of Prayer of forgiveness and love and mercy and prayer for help. David too fasted while his son was ill but when his son passed away he stopped fasting and went and put clean clothes on and sat down to a meal.
Some of the verses I found so beautiful and one can see it's straight from David's heart.
Psalm 103: 8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and full of faithful love 13. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him 14. For He knows what we are made of remembering that we are dust.
Psalm 51: 11 David speaks of the Holy Spirit with him.Do not banish me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me 13 Restore the joy of Your salvation to me and give me a willing spirit.
Psalm 32: 5 Then I acknowledge my sin to You and did not conceal my iniquity, I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and You took away the guilt of my sin.
After his son died David comforted his wife Bathsheba and slept with her, she conceived a son and named him Solomon. The Lord loved him, He sent a message through Nathan the prophet who named him Jedidiah, because of the Lord
Blessings
Kathleen.
2 Samuel 12: 1- 25
Psalm 6: 1-10l, 51: 1-19, 32: 1-11, 103: 1-22
The Lord send Nathan to David with a parable of a rich man with many lambs and a poor man with only 1 ewe who he adored. When a traveller came by the rich man found it hard to give one of his lambs but took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for his guest.
David was furious and said to Nathan that this man deserves to die. Because he has done this thing and shown no pity. He must pay back with four of his lambs.
Then Nathan said to David you are that man. This is what the Lord God of Israel says. I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul. I gave your master's house to you and your master's wives into your arms, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah, and if that was not enough, I would have given you even more. Why then have you despised the command of the Lord by doing what I consider evil? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife as your own wife you murdered him with the Ammonites sword.
The Lord said to David I am going to bring disaster to you and your own family. I will take your wives and give them to another before your very eyes, and he will sleep with them publicly.
David cried out to Nathan. I have sinned against the Lord.
Then Nathan said to David that the Lord has taken away his sin, - However because you treated the Lord with such contempt in this matter the son born to you will die.
I can't imagine being told that your child is going to die. This must have been such a trying time for David and his wife knowing that your child is going to die. Through all this David still put his trust in the Lord he wrote the most beautiful Psalms of Prayer of forgiveness and love and mercy and prayer for help. David too fasted while his son was ill but when his son passed away he stopped fasting and went and put clean clothes on and sat down to a meal.
Some of the verses I found so beautiful and one can see it's straight from David's heart.
Psalm 103: 8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and full of faithful love 13. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him 14. For He knows what we are made of remembering that we are dust.
Psalm 51: 11 David speaks of the Holy Spirit with him.Do not banish me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me 13 Restore the joy of Your salvation to me and give me a willing spirit.
Psalm 32: 5 Then I acknowledge my sin to You and did not conceal my iniquity, I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and You took away the guilt of my sin.
After his son died David comforted his wife Bathsheba and slept with her, she conceived a son and named him Solomon. The Lord loved him, He sent a message through Nathan the prophet who named him Jedidiah, because of the Lord
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 27, 2012
118 - David and Bathsheba.a
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 9: 1-13 10: 1-19 1Chronicles 19: 1-19
2 Samuel 11: 1-27
1 Kings 15: 5 Because David did what was right in the Lord's eyes, and he did not turn aside from anything He had commanded him all the days of his life, except in the matter of Uriah the Hittite.
Psalm 20: 1-9 This is a prayer of victory.
David honours Saul's household because of Jonathan. He enquires if anyone knows any remain from Saul's family. There was a servant called Ziba and he told David that Jonathan has a son called Mephibosheth who is lame in his feet. David brings Mephibosheth to his home restores back Saul's land to him but he was to eat at his table from now on. So Ziba was put in charge of farming the land.
David's victory over the Ammonites - The king of the Ammonites dies and his son Hanun becomes king in his place. David sends condolences with his emissaries to the king but Hanun's leaders said that David was spying on their land and so they shaved their beards and heads on the one side and snipped their clothing David got to hear about this and sent someone to tell them to remain in Jericho until their beards and hair grew. And so the war began with the Ammonites and David gained victory over them.
David then commits adultery with Uriah wife while he was out at war. David saw this woman from the roof top and she was bathing - a very beautiful woman and David sent messengers to her and she came to him and he slept with her. Afterwards she returned home but the woman had conceived and she notified David that she was pregnant. On Uriah's return David called him and he said he was to go to his wife but when he left David he returned to his post David heard this and this was repeated then David gave orders for him to go to war and to be put in the front line and march towards the city so Joab followed Davids orders and Uriah was killed. David sent the message to Uriah's wife and she mourned for her husband then David sent for her and she became his wife and she bore him a son.
The Lord considered what David had done to be evil.
Blessings
Kathleen.
2 Samuel 9: 1-13 10: 1-19 1Chronicles 19: 1-19
2 Samuel 11: 1-27
1 Kings 15: 5 Because David did what was right in the Lord's eyes, and he did not turn aside from anything He had commanded him all the days of his life, except in the matter of Uriah the Hittite.
Psalm 20: 1-9 This is a prayer of victory.
David honours Saul's household because of Jonathan. He enquires if anyone knows any remain from Saul's family. There was a servant called Ziba and he told David that Jonathan has a son called Mephibosheth who is lame in his feet. David brings Mephibosheth to his home restores back Saul's land to him but he was to eat at his table from now on. So Ziba was put in charge of farming the land.
David's victory over the Ammonites - The king of the Ammonites dies and his son Hanun becomes king in his place. David sends condolences with his emissaries to the king but Hanun's leaders said that David was spying on their land and so they shaved their beards and heads on the one side and snipped their clothing David got to hear about this and sent someone to tell them to remain in Jericho until their beards and hair grew. And so the war began with the Ammonites and David gained victory over them.
David then commits adultery with Uriah wife while he was out at war. David saw this woman from the roof top and she was bathing - a very beautiful woman and David sent messengers to her and she came to him and he slept with her. Afterwards she returned home but the woman had conceived and she notified David that she was pregnant. On Uriah's return David called him and he said he was to go to his wife but when he left David he returned to his post David heard this and this was repeated then David gave orders for him to go to war and to be put in the front line and march towards the city so Joab followed Davids orders and Uriah was killed. David sent the message to Uriah's wife and she mourned for her husband then David sent for her and she became his wife and she bore him a son.
The Lord considered what David had done to be evil.
Blessings
Kathleen.
117 - David's songs of victory and thanksgiving.
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 22: 1-51 & Psalm 18: 1-50 144: 1-15Speak of the same things of victory and thanksgiving.
I love David's strength and witness with I love You, Lord, My strength The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my mountain where I seek refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies.
David always gave thanks and praise to the Lord for his guidance and deliverance. He stood firm on God's promises and listened to His masters voice. God - His way is perfect and makes My way perfect.the word of the Lord is pure He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him For who is God besides the Lord/ And who is a rock? Only our God. God He clothes me with strength!
We can learn a lot from David in His walk with God no matter what happened in his life he knew God was his rock and his salvation
I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips" Psalm 34:1
Blessings
Kathleen
2 Samuel 22: 1-51 & Psalm 18: 1-50 144: 1-15Speak of the same things of victory and thanksgiving.
I love David's strength and witness with I love You, Lord, My strength The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my mountain where I seek refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies.
David always gave thanks and praise to the Lord for his guidance and deliverance. He stood firm on God's promises and listened to His masters voice. God - His way is perfect and makes My way perfect.the word of the Lord is pure He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him For who is God besides the Lord/ And who is a rock? Only our God. God He clothes me with strength!
We can learn a lot from David in His walk with God no matter what happened in his life he knew God was his rock and his salvation
I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips" Psalm 34:1
Blessings
Kathleen
April 25, 2012
116 - David's Military records and victories
Kathleen's thoughts
2 samuel 8: 9-18 ... 1 Chronicles 18: 9-17 Is...David's government and officers named .
Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army;
Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was court historian;
Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests;
Seraiah was court secretary;
Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and
David's sons were chief officials.
Joram Congratulates David -
Edom subdued -
Spoils dedicated
And The Lord made David victorious wherever he went.
2 Samuel 23: 8-39... 1 Chronicles 11; 10-14 Speaks about David's mighty men.
Psalms 60: 1-12 & 108: 6-13 is Davids prayer for deliverance. What I found interesting is this from Psalm 60: 1-3 God, You have rejected us; You have broken out against us; You have been angry, Restore us! You have shaken the land and split it open. Heal its fissures, for it shudders. You have made Your people suffer hardship; Is this a earthquake that David is speaking here? This has brought to mind that when God is angry the earth always shakes...Food for thought. We are having so many earthquakes today???
1 Kings 11: 15-20 is about David striking down all the males in Edom and at the time Hadad a small boy escaped and went to Egypt where the Pharaoh gave to him a wife who was Queen Tahpenes sister and she gave him a son Genubath and Tahpenes weaned him herself and Genubath lived with the Pharaoh sons.
I find this so amazing how all this history has been documented so many years ago. So here we can see that our Father in heaven is a Father of Order and everything is recorded for our children to remember and never to forget about our inheritance as it is written in Deuteronomy.
Blessings
Kathleen.
2 samuel 8: 9-18 ... 1 Chronicles 18: 9-17 Is...David's government and officers named .
Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army;
Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was court historian;
Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelech son of Abiathar were priests;
Seraiah was court secretary;
Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and
David's sons were chief officials.
Joram Congratulates David -
Edom subdued -
Spoils dedicated
And The Lord made David victorious wherever he went.
2 Samuel 23: 8-39... 1 Chronicles 11; 10-14 Speaks about David's mighty men.
Psalms 60: 1-12 & 108: 6-13 is Davids prayer for deliverance. What I found interesting is this from Psalm 60: 1-3 God, You have rejected us; You have broken out against us; You have been angry, Restore us! You have shaken the land and split it open. Heal its fissures, for it shudders. You have made Your people suffer hardship; Is this a earthquake that David is speaking here? This has brought to mind that when God is angry the earth always shakes...Food for thought. We are having so many earthquakes today???
1 Kings 11: 15-20 is about David striking down all the males in Edom and at the time Hadad a small boy escaped and went to Egypt where the Pharaoh gave to him a wife who was Queen Tahpenes sister and she gave him a son Genubath and Tahpenes weaned him herself and Genubath lived with the Pharaoh sons.
I find this so amazing how all this history has been documented so many years ago. So here we can see that our Father in heaven is a Father of Order and everything is recorded for our children to remember and never to forget about our inheritance as it is written in Deuteronomy.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 24, 2012
115 - Israel increases her territory and David is in prayer with thanksgiving.
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Chronicles 17: 3-27, 18:1-8 Here it describes God's covenant with David that his offspring will built a house for God and that future generation will be remembered "I will appoint him over My house and My kingdom forever, and his throne will be established forever: After David heard this from Nathan the prophet he went in sat in the Lord's presence and said "Who am I , Lord God, and what is my house that You have brought me thus far? What You have done so far was a little thing to You, Lord God, for You have also spoken about Your servant's house in the distant future. And this is a revelation for mankind, Lord God. What more can David say to You? You know your servant, Lord God, Because of Your word and according to Your will, You have revealed all these great things to Your servant.
Psalms 2: 1-12 is God's chosen King
Psalm 110 1-7 The Lord declared to my Lord; "Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies Your footstool" The Lord will extend Your mighty scepter from Zion. Rule over Your surrounding enemies. Your people will volunteer on Your day of battle. In holy splendor, from the womb of the dawn, the dew of Your youth belongs to You. The Lord has sworn an oath and will not take it back; "Forever, You are a priest like Melchizedek" The Lord is at Your right hand. He will crush kings on the day of His anger. He will judge the nations, heaping up corpses, He will crush leaders over the entire world. He will drink from the brook by the road; therefore, He will lift up His head.
Psalm 16: 1-16 David's prayer of confidence.
Psalm 9: 1-20 David's thanks giving.
2 Samuel 8: 1-18 & 1n 1 Chronicles 18: 1-8Territorial gains over the Philistines, Moab, the King of Zobah and Syria. David was victorious wherever he went.
Blessings
Kathleen
Isa, 54: 2 Enlarge the site of your tent, and let your tent curtains be stretched out; do not hold back; lengthen your ropes, and drive your pegs deep:
1 Chronicles 17: 3-27, 18:1-8 Here it describes God's covenant with David that his offspring will built a house for God and that future generation will be remembered "I will appoint him over My house and My kingdom forever, and his throne will be established forever: After David heard this from Nathan the prophet he went in sat in the Lord's presence and said "Who am I , Lord God, and what is my house that You have brought me thus far? What You have done so far was a little thing to You, Lord God, for You have also spoken about Your servant's house in the distant future. And this is a revelation for mankind, Lord God. What more can David say to You? You know your servant, Lord God, Because of Your word and according to Your will, You have revealed all these great things to Your servant.
Psalms 2: 1-12 is God's chosen King
Psalm 110 1-7 The Lord declared to my Lord; "Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies Your footstool" The Lord will extend Your mighty scepter from Zion. Rule over Your surrounding enemies. Your people will volunteer on Your day of battle. In holy splendor, from the womb of the dawn, the dew of Your youth belongs to You. The Lord has sworn an oath and will not take it back; "Forever, You are a priest like Melchizedek" The Lord is at Your right hand. He will crush kings on the day of His anger. He will judge the nations, heaping up corpses, He will crush leaders over the entire world. He will drink from the brook by the road; therefore, He will lift up His head.
Psalm 16: 1-16 David's prayer of confidence.
Psalm 9: 1-20 David's thanks giving.
2 Samuel 8: 1-18 & 1n 1 Chronicles 18: 1-8Territorial gains over the Philistines, Moab, the King of Zobah and Syria. David was victorious wherever he went.
Blessings
Kathleen
Isa, 54: 2 Enlarge the site of your tent, and let your tent curtains be stretched out; do not hold back; lengthen your ropes, and drive your pegs deep:
114 - David gives thanks and praises before the Lol
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Chronicles 16: 4-43 This chapter speaks of hymns of praise prepared and sung
Then in chapter 17: 1-2 David had settled into his palace, he said to Nathan the prophet, "look I am living in a cedar house while the ark of the Lord's covenant is under tent curtains" So Nathan told David " Do all that is on your heart, for God is with you.
That is also found in 2 Samuel 7: 1-3
2 Samuel 7; 4-17 God covenant with David. That night the Lord spoke to Nathan the prophet and said that he has lived from place to place in a tent and never once have I asked you to build me a house. Nathan was commissioned to tell King David this. The Lord declares to you; The Lord Himself will make a house for you, When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendants who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. And so Nathan spoke all these words and this entire vision to David.
When David returned home Michal confronted David by saying he is a disgrace the way he behaved dancing in the streets before the slave girls like a vulgar person would expose himself. His reply was "I was dancing before the Lord who chose me over your father and his whole family to appoint me ruler over the Lord's people Israel. I will celebrate before the Lord, and I will humble myself even more and humiliate myself. I will be honoured by the slave girls you spoke about" And Saul's daughter Michal had no child to the day of her death.
Psalms 105 & 98 God and His people.
David's Psalms are so beautiful especially the praise and worship ones. Do read them.
Blessings
Kathleen.
1 Chronicles 16: 4-43 This chapter speaks of hymns of praise prepared and sung
Then in chapter 17: 1-2 David had settled into his palace, he said to Nathan the prophet, "look I am living in a cedar house while the ark of the Lord's covenant is under tent curtains" So Nathan told David " Do all that is on your heart, for God is with you.
That is also found in 2 Samuel 7: 1-3
2 Samuel 7; 4-17 God covenant with David. That night the Lord spoke to Nathan the prophet and said that he has lived from place to place in a tent and never once have I asked you to build me a house. Nathan was commissioned to tell King David this. The Lord declares to you; The Lord Himself will make a house for you, When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendants who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He will build a house for My name and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. And so Nathan spoke all these words and this entire vision to David.
When David returned home Michal confronted David by saying he is a disgrace the way he behaved dancing in the streets before the slave girls like a vulgar person would expose himself. His reply was "I was dancing before the Lord who chose me over your father and his whole family to appoint me ruler over the Lord's people Israel. I will celebrate before the Lord, and I will humble myself even more and humiliate myself. I will be honoured by the slave girls you spoke about" And Saul's daughter Michal had no child to the day of her death.
Psalms 105 & 98 God and His people.
David's Psalms are so beautiful especially the praise and worship ones. Do read them.
Blessings
Kathleen.
113 - The ark restored.
Kathleen's thoughts
Psalm 15:1-5, 68: 19-35,132: 1-18, 97:1-12, 24:1-10
1 Chronicles 15: 1-24
2 Samuel 6:
Psalms ...68 Speaks of David's song of triumph. May the Lord be praised! Day after day He hears our burdens' God is our salvation.
132... The Temple praised.
97... God the supreme Ruler. The Lord reigns Let the earth rejoice; let the many coasts and islands be glad. 6. The heavens proclaim His righteousness; all the peoples see His glory.9...For You, Lord, are the Most High over all the earth; You are exalted above all the gods.
15.. What God requires... Lord, who can dwell in Your tent? Who can live on Your holy mountain?
The one who lives honestly practices righteousness, and acknowledges the truth in his heart
Who does not slander with his tongue, who does not harm his friend or discredit his neighbour.
Who despises the one rejected by the Lord, but honours those who fear the Lord,, who keeps his word whatever the cost,
Who does not lend his money at interest or take a bribe against the innocent the one who does these things will never be moved.
A very interesting requirement Which is quite easy to keep and yet we find it very hard in living our daily lives
24... The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the Lord
David orders the Levites to carry the ark which he had prepared a tent for it and the reason for this David said is the Lord has chosen them to carry the ark of the Lord and to minister before Him forever. For the Lord our God burst out in anger against us because you Levites were not with us the first time, for we didn't inquire of Him about the proper procedures. So the priest and the Levites consecrated themselves to bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel.
In Chronicles 15 The Musicians were chosen. The Levites carried the ark of God the way Moses had commanded according to the word of the Lord on their shoulders with poles.
In 2 Samuel the ark is brought to Jerusalem. King David was dancing with all his might before the Lord wearing a linen ephod. He and the whole house of Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of the ram's horn. Michal Saul's daughter saw King David dancing in the street and she despised him in her heart. The ark is set in place and they offered burnt offerings and fellowship in God's presence. David blesses the people.
Blessings
Kathleen.
Psalm 15:1-5, 68: 19-35,132: 1-18, 97:1-12, 24:1-10
1 Chronicles 15: 1-24
2 Samuel 6:
Psalms ...68 Speaks of David's song of triumph. May the Lord be praised! Day after day He hears our burdens' God is our salvation.
132... The Temple praised.
97... God the supreme Ruler. The Lord reigns Let the earth rejoice; let the many coasts and islands be glad. 6. The heavens proclaim His righteousness; all the peoples see His glory.9...For You, Lord, are the Most High over all the earth; You are exalted above all the gods.
15.. What God requires... Lord, who can dwell in Your tent? Who can live on Your holy mountain?
The one who lives honestly practices righteousness, and acknowledges the truth in his heart
Who does not slander with his tongue, who does not harm his friend or discredit his neighbour.
Who despises the one rejected by the Lord, but honours those who fear the Lord,, who keeps his word whatever the cost,
Who does not lend his money at interest or take a bribe against the innocent the one who does these things will never be moved.
A very interesting requirement Which is quite easy to keep and yet we find it very hard in living our daily lives
24... The earth and everything in it, the world and its inhabitants, belong to the Lord
David orders the Levites to carry the ark which he had prepared a tent for it and the reason for this David said is the Lord has chosen them to carry the ark of the Lord and to minister before Him forever. For the Lord our God burst out in anger against us because you Levites were not with us the first time, for we didn't inquire of Him about the proper procedures. So the priest and the Levites consecrated themselves to bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel.
In Chronicles 15 The Musicians were chosen. The Levites carried the ark of God the way Moses had commanded according to the word of the Lord on their shoulders with poles.
In 2 Samuel the ark is brought to Jerusalem. King David was dancing with all his might before the Lord wearing a linen ephod. He and the whole house of Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of the ram's horn. Michal Saul's daughter saw King David dancing in the street and she despised him in her heart. The ark is set in place and they offered burnt offerings and fellowship in God's presence. David blesses the people.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 23, 2012
112 - David's decision to bring back the ark
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 5,6
1 Chronicles 13: 1-4 14: 13-17
Psalms 139: 1-24, 78: 1-11, 68: 1-18, 78: 67-72
The reading of Psalms today is beautiful, I have taken but a few verses which touched my heart 139: 13-14,16, 23,24. For It was You who created my inward parts; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I will praise You, because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful and I know this very well.... Your eyes saw when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began. Search me, God and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.
Then in Psalms 78: 5,6,7. He established a testimony in Jacob and set up a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children so that a future generation children yet to be born might know. They were to rise and tell their children so that they might put their confidence in God and not forget God's works and keep His commandments.
Psalm 78: 71 He brought him from tending ewes to be shepherd over His people Jacob over Israel, His inheritance. He shepherded them with a pure heart and guided them with his skillful hands.
This reminds me of Jesus also known as the good Shepherd and God says If my sheep would hear my voice.
When one reads Samuel and the Chronicles David consults in pray all the time with the Lord about when and how he must fight to win wars. God guides him and he wins and the Philistines knew this.
David plans to bring back the ark from Kiriath-kearo, When they came to Nacon's threshing floor, Uzzah reached out to the ark of God and took hold of it, because the oxen had stumbled. The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah and God struck him dead on the spot for his irreverence and he died there next tot he ark of God. David was saddened and angry because of the Lord's outburst against Uzzah but David also feared the Lord that day and said How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me. David then took the ark to the house of Obed-edom where it remained there 3 months. and the Lord blessed Obed-edom and his whole family.
Blessings
Kathleen.
2 Samuel 5,6
1 Chronicles 13: 1-4 14: 13-17
Psalms 139: 1-24, 78: 1-11, 68: 1-18, 78: 67-72
The reading of Psalms today is beautiful, I have taken but a few verses which touched my heart 139: 13-14,16, 23,24. For It was You who created my inward parts; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I will praise You, because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful and I know this very well.... Your eyes saw when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began. Search me, God and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.
Then in Psalms 78: 5,6,7. He established a testimony in Jacob and set up a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers to teach to their children so that a future generation children yet to be born might know. They were to rise and tell their children so that they might put their confidence in God and not forget God's works and keep His commandments.
Psalm 78: 71 He brought him from tending ewes to be shepherd over His people Jacob over Israel, His inheritance. He shepherded them with a pure heart and guided them with his skillful hands.
This reminds me of Jesus also known as the good Shepherd and God says If my sheep would hear my voice.
When one reads Samuel and the Chronicles David consults in pray all the time with the Lord about when and how he must fight to win wars. God guides him and he wins and the Philistines knew this.
David plans to bring back the ark from Kiriath-kearo, When they came to Nacon's threshing floor, Uzzah reached out to the ark of God and took hold of it, because the oxen had stumbled. The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah and God struck him dead on the spot for his irreverence and he died there next tot he ark of God. David was saddened and angry because of the Lord's outburst against Uzzah but David also feared the Lord that day and said How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me. David then took the ark to the house of Obed-edom where it remained there 3 months. and the Lord blessed Obed-edom and his whole family.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 20, 2012
111 - Jerusalem becomes the capital city
Kathleen's thoughts
Psalm 58: 1-11 Punishment of the wicked
Psalm 93: 1-5 God the great King
Psalm 95: 1-11 A song of praise
Psalm 118: 1-29 A prayer of thanksgiving
Psalm 101: 1-8 David's promise
Just some verses from the book of Psalms in today's readings that have meant a lot to me in my reading of the word over the years. 118: 6. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear; what can man do unto me? 7. The Lord taketh my part with them that help me; therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. 8. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. 14. The Lord is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.22.
The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. 23. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. 24. This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. 28. Thou art my God, and I will praise thee; thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for His mercy endureth for ever. (KJV)
Psalm 101: 2 I will pay attention to the way of Integrity. When will You come to me? I will live with integrity of heart in my house. 6. The one who follows the way of integrity may serve me.
David was a man of integrity and he stood by it no matter what. He had a lot of compassion as well and love to give to his people that he reigned over and they knew that.
2 Samuel 5: 6-10 David took up residence in the stronghold and he named it "The City of David" So Jerusalem became the capital city and David became more and more powerful, and the Lord God was with him.
2 Samuel 5: 13-16 & 1 Chronicles 3: 5-9 When David took residence in Jerusalem he took more wives who were concubines and 13 sons were born to him and a sister Tamar
2 Samuel 5:17 & 1 Chronicles 14:8 is about the wars against the Philistines. When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over all Israel, they all went in search of David; when David heard of this, he went out to fact them.
The Gadites joined David
2 Samuel 23; 13-17 David wants water to drink and 3 of his men broke through the Philistine camp and drew water from the well at the gate of Bethlehem which was a dangerous exercise and on returning with the water David refused to drink because it was water that he wanted
could have gotten the 3 men killed. His word was this "I would never do such a thing in the presence of God! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?" Such were the exploits of the three warriors.
Makes one think of his righteousness with the Lord. Romans 12: 1 Therefore brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 19, 2012
Up-date on Chareen's travels to SA
Dear friends who visit this blog
Chareen has arrived safely in South Africa, thanks to those who prayed for safe travel.
Leaving OZ and spending a day in Hong Kong Disney world they truly enjoyed themselves and hoping one day to go back and to finish their travel around the wonderful world of Disney.
They arrived in JHB tired but very excited meeting the family again after a long absence and since then have not stopped talking and sight seeing!
They drove up to Hoedspruit to celebrate her husband Paul's parents 50th Wedding Anniversary with all Paul's siblings and their families and friends. It's been a joyous time all round.
They took a journey to the Kruger National park and were delighted in seeing 4 of the big 5 and 4 of the small 5's and I do believe the camera has not stopped clicking on arrival.
So here's hoping loads of photos will be sent.
Chareen has been doing her Bible study each day but unfortunately has not at times had access to the Internet hence the falling behind in her writings.
May the Lord bless you as you continue to journey through God's word with me until Chareen returns to OZ.
Kathleen
110 - David made king over Israel.
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 3,4,5
1 Chronicles 11: 1-3, 12: 23-40, 29:26
Interesting read today - God unites Israel through David's reign as king. Even after Saul's death David still respects the house of king Saul. Abner changes sides and promises to hand all Israel over to David and David makes a covenant with him but first he has to bring Michal Saul's daughter to see him.
David sends a messengers to Ish-bosheth son of Saul "Give me back my wife, Michal. I was engaged to her for the price of 100 Philistine foreskins" So Ish-bosheth sent Michal to David.
Abner conferred with the elders of Israel. you wanted David to be king over you now you need to take action as the Lord has spoken. Through My servant David I will save My people Israel from the power of the Philistines and the power of all Israel's enemies.. So Abner said to David he will gather all Israel to my lord the king and they will make a covenant with you and you will rule over all you desired. So David dismissed Abner and he went in peace.
Now Joab returned with David's soldiers. When Joab heard that Abner son of Ner came to see the king and found out that David dismissed him and he went in peace. Joab questioned David "what have you done? Joab told David that Abner has come here to deceive you and find out the activities and everything your doing. Joab leaves David and he sent messengers to bring Abner back and while at the gate Joab confronted Abner but at the same time stabbing him in the stomach but it kills him but Joab says it's in revenge for killing his brother Asahel.
David hears about this and was saddened by it and David orders for Joab to die.
David makes Israel mourn over the loss of Abner by saying " Tear your clothes, put on sackcloth, and mourn over Abner" King David walked behind the funeral procession. They buried Abner in Hebron. and King David wrote a lament for Abner and sang it.
Ish-bosheth Saul's son is murdered in his bed by Rechab and Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Berrothite. David was angered by this and ordered these two men to die by cutting off their hands and feet and hanging their bodies by the pool in Hebron. they too Ish-bosheth's head and buried it in Abner's tomb in Hebron.
2 Samuel 5: 1-3 & 1 Chronicles 11: 1-3
The Lord also said to you " You will shepherd My people Israel and be ruler over Israel" So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron. King David made a covenant with them at Hebron in the Lord's presence, and they anointed David king over Israel.
1 Chronicles 12: 23-40 is the list of David's warriors. 23...The numbers of the armed troops who came to David at Hebron to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, according to the Lord's word, were as follows. Please read the verses in your bible.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 18, 2012
109 - David becomes king.
Kathleen's thoughts
2 Samuel 1,2,3,4
1 Chronicles 8: 29-40, 29: 27, 3: 1-4
Mephibosheth's son of Jonathan who's feet were crippled and his nurse picked him up and fled when she heard the news of the death of Saul and Jonathan and while doing this the nurse dropped him and he became lame.
David hears of Saul and Jonathan's death from a man that claims to have killed Saul by his sword because of his injuries and brought Saul's crown that was on his head and the armband that was on his arm. David was deeply mourned by their deaths and then David questioned this man "How is it that you were not afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord's anointed?" Then David summoned one of his servants and struck him and he died.
David sings a lament for Saul and his son Jonathan. 2 Samuel 1: 17-27. David mourned deeply for Jonathan as he loved him so.
1 Chronicles 8: : 35-44, 9: 35-44 is Saul's descendants
David becomes king.
2 Samuel:5:4 1 Kings 2:11 & 1 Chronicles 29:27
David was 3o years old when he began his reign and he reigned seven years in Hebron and 33 years in Jerusalem.
David blesses the men of Jabesh-gilead who buried Saul.
Ish-bosheth was made king of Israel and he ruled over Gilead, Asher, Jezreel, Ephraim, Benjamin over all Israel. he was 40 years old and he ruled for two years. The house of Judah followed David and over a period of time David's army became very strong in numbers and strength,
2 Samuel 3: 2-5 and 1 Chronicles 3: 1-4 are the sons of David who were born to him in Hebron.
From reading today's word one can see the compassion David had for his people and his king Saul and his son Jonathan. One can also see that God was with him in all ways.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 17, 2012
108 - the deaths of Saul and Jonathan.
Kathleen's thoughts.
1 Samuel 28,30,31.
1 Chronicles 10: 1-14
After today's reading I sit here and ponder on what Saul did by going to a medium and consulting with her it gives me the shivers down my spine. Speaking with the dead is so against God's word and yet here Saul does it and speaks to Samuel - was it Samuel? The words that he spoke all happened to him.
And so Saul and his sons died on the same day. Saul, when he saw he was loosing the battle he asked his armour bearer to slay him but he refused so Saul after being wounded by the Philistines fell on his own sword and died and when his armour bearer saw this he did the same. Saul's sons Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malchishua also died in this battle.
The next day the Philistines came to strip the slain they found Saul and his 3 sons dead so the cut off Saul's head stripped his armour and sent messengers throughout the land of the Philistines letting them know what had happened and they placed Saul's armour in the temple of their gods and hung his skull in the temple of Dagon.
A dreadful way to end your reign as king of Israel.
The Jabesh-gilead heard what they had done to Saul the sent brave men to retrieve Saul's body and his sons and they buried their remains under a oak in Jabesh and fasted seven days.
David in the mean time was away from home in Ziklag and when David arrived back after the the third day to find that his town was burnt down and his entire army's and theirs and his family were taken. David consulted with the Lord and the Lord replied Pursue them for you will certainly overtake them and rescue the people. And this David did and he recovered everything the Amalekites had taken he also rescued his two wives, Nothing of theirs was missing from the youngest to the oldest. David then distributes his spoil.
Blessings
Kathleen
April 16, 2012
107 - David confronts Saul
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 25,26,17,28,29
1 Chronicles 12; 1-7 & 19-22
David marries Abigail, he also married Ahinoam of Jezreel, and the two of them became his wives. But Saul had given his daughter Michal, David's wife, to Palti son of Laish, who was from Gallim.
Once again David spares Saul from his sword. David and Abishai came to the troops and Saul was lying there asleep. Abishai said to David "Today God has handed your enemy over to you. Le me thrust the spear through him into the ground just once. But David said "Don't destroy him for who can lift a hand against the Lord's anointed. So David took the spear and the water jug by Saul's head and left.
David crossed to the other side and from the mountain shouted to the troops and to Abner son of Ner why didn't you protect your lord the king when one of the people came to destroy him? Saul recognized David's voice. David again asked Saul why are you pursuing me I have done nothing to harm you I have just saved you and David returned Saul's spear and jug. David said to Saul Just as I considered your life valuable today, so may the Lord consider my life valuable and rescue me from all trouble"
David retires to Gath.
So David went to Achish son of Maoch, the king of Gath. David and his men stayed with Achish in Gath. David said to Achish, If I have found favour with you, let me be given a place in one of the outlying towns, so I can live there. So Achish gave Ziklag to him and it still belongs to the kings of Judah today. David stayed in the Philistine territory a year and 4 months.
David deceives Achish
Achish says to David You know, of course, that you and your men must march out in the army with me. But David is prevented from fighting with them as the Philistines noted that he was David, servant of King Saul of Israel. and told Achish to send him back as it will only cause confusion in their fight and so David went back to Philistine and Achish soldiers marched on to Jezreel.
We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair, we are persecuted but not abandoned; we are struck down but not destroyed 2 Cor 4: 8-9
blessings
Kathleen.
106 - The integrity of David.
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 23, 24,25
Psalm 17: 1-15, 57: 1-11, 108: 1-13.
David spares Saul's life. On his return from pursuing the Philistines Saul was told that David is in the wilderness near En-gedi. And once again Saul went to look for David to kill him and Saul took 3,000 men and on his journey he stopped by a cave. David and his men were at the back of the cave and David got up secretly and cut off the corner of Saul's robe while he was in the cave.
Davids conscience bothered him because he cut off the corner of Saul's robe. David also persuaded his men, and he did not let them rise up against Saul. Saul left the cave and it was then that David shouted after Saul and told him what he had done and that he could have killed him but spared his life because he was anointed by God. Saul acknowledges his fault. Saul tells David "Now I know fore certain you will be king, and the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand.
Chapter 25:1 Samuel dies and is buried in Ramah.
Nabal a very rich man and his wife Abigail who was an intelligent and beautiful woman but Nabal was harsh and evil in his dealings. While David was in the wilderness he protected his shepherds and never harmed anything from them but Nabal would not listen to David's request and rejected giving food and supplies to David. David was angry when he heard this and was on his way to wipe out Nabals family. But Abigail who was a righteous woman took the food and supplies to David and fell before David and was sorry for what her husband had done and that she did not know at the time what he requested from her husband and found out from their staff. Abigail did all this without her husband knowing. When she returned to her home her plan was to tell her husband but he was feasting and drunk so she told him the next morning and he had a seizure and became paralysed and about 10 days later the Lord struck Nabal dead.
David wrote Psalms of prayer 17: 8 Guard me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings. Psalm of confidence. 57: 5 God, be exalted above the heavens let Your glory be above the whole earth. 9. I will praise You, Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations. 10. For Your faithful love is as high as the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches tot he clouds. 11. God, be exalted above the heavens let Your glory be over the whole earth.
Blessings
Kathleen
April 14, 2012
105 - Saul's desire to capture and kill David
Kathleen's thoughts
Psalm 52: 1-9 Speaks of God's judgment and grace. Verse 8 But I am like a flourishing olive tress in the house of God; I trust in God's faithful love forever and ever. 9. I will praise You forever for what you have done. in the presence of Your faithful people, I will put my hope in Your name, for it is good.
Psalm 109: 1-31 David complains about the deceitful mouths and the wickedness of the people. 30. I will fervently thank the Lord with my mouth; I will praise Him in the presence of many. 31. For He stands at the right hand of the needy, to save him from those who would condemn him.
Psalm 140: 1-13. David prays to God for protection against the enemy. Verse 6. I say to the Lord, You are my God Listen, Lord, to my cry for help. 7. Lord God, my strong Saviour, You shield my head on the day of battle. 8. Lord, do not grant the desires of the wicked; do not let them achieve their goals. Otherwise, they will become proud.
Psalm 31: 1-24 The prayer of trust in God that David has. 3. For You are my rock and my fortress; You lead and guid me because of Your name. 4. You will free me from the net that is secretly set for me, for You are my refuge. 5. Into Your hand I entrust my spirit; You redeem me, Lord, God of truth. 23. Love the Lord , all His faithful ones, The Lord protects the loyal, but fully repays the arrogant. 24. Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord.
Psalm 54: 1-7 The prayer for protection. 1. God, save me by Your name, and vindicate me by Your might! 2. God, hear my prayer; listen to the words of my mouth. 3. For strangers rise up against me, and violent men seek my life. They have no regard for God. Selah. 4. God is my helper; the Lord is the sustainer of my life. 5. He will repay my adversaries for their evil. Because of Your faithfulness, annihilate them. 6. I will sacrifice a free will offering to You. I will praise Your name, Lord, because it is good. 7. For He has delivered me from every trouble, and my eye has looked down on my enemies.
1 Samuel 23: 6-13. 14-15 -16 -18 In these verses Saul is so desperate now all he wants is to kill David but the Lord is looking after David and Saul knows this but continues to try and flush David out of the hills but David goes to the Lord in prayer and saves him.
Isa. 59:19 When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will put him to flight.
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 13, 2012
104 - David's victory.
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 22, 23
Psalm 142: 1-7 141: 1-10 64: 1-10, 35: 1-28
David leaves Gath and takes refuge in the cave of Adullam and his brothers and his father's whole family join him there.
David continues to write his Psalms with prayer for help 142 & 35, protection in 64 and evening prayer 141.
1 Samuel 22: 2 In addition, every man who was desperate, in deb or discontented rallied around him, and he became their leader. About 400 men were with him.
1 Chronicles 12: 16-18 says that other Benjaminites and men from Judah also went to David at the stronghold.
Saul is so eaten up with jealousy that he calls Ahimelech the priest and his father's whole family who were priests in Nob. All of them came to the king. He questioned Ahimelech "why did you and Jess's son conspire against me? You gave him bread and a sword and inquired of God for him, so he could rise up against me and wait in ambush, as is the case today.
Ahimelec replied to the king telling him that David is a faithful servant the king's son-in-law and captain of your bodyguard and honoured in your house and he did not know any of this.
So Saul said "You will die, Ahimelech - you and your father's whole family" The kind ordered the bodyguards to kill them but they refused so he gave Doeg to execute the priests! so he killed 85 men who wore linen ephods He also struck down Nob, the city of the priests, with the sword both men and women, children and infants oxen donkeys and sheep.
The son of Ahimelech Abiathar escaped and went to David.
The Lord sends David to save Keilah.
Abiathar tells David about Saul and Doeg killing the priests of the Lord Then David said Don't be afraid, for the one who wants to take my life wants to take your life. You will be safe with me
Blessings
Kathleen.
103 - Psalms of praise and thanks giving. By David.
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 20,21
Psalms 26: 1-1,2 34: 1-22, 56, 1-13
Jonathan's loyalty and love for David is shown in these two chapters. Saul even tried to kill Jonathan for standing by David and Jonathan saves David by sending him away after making a covenant with David 1 Samuel 20: 14 If I continue to live, treat me with the Lord's faithful love, but if I die 15 Don't ever withdraw your faithful love from my household - not even when the Lord cuts off every one of David's enemies from the face of the earth's 16 The Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, "May the Lord hold David's enemies accountable" 1o7o Jonathan once again swore to David in his love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself.
David writes the most beautiful Psalms and some favourite verses are...
Psalm 26: 2 Test me, Lord, and try me; examine my heart and mind 3. For Your faithful love is before my eyes, and I love by Your truth.
Psalm 34: 1 I will praise the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. 7. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him and rescues them. 18. The Lord is near the brokenhearted; He saves those crushed in spirit.
Psalm 56: 3 When I am afraid, I will trust in You, 4. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not fear. What can man do to me.? 8 You Yourself have recorded my wanderings. put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not in Your retreat. 10. In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise. 11 In God I trust; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
Blessings
Kathleen.
April 12, 2012
102 - God is our refuge!
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 19,20,
Psalm 59: 1-17, 7: 1-17,25: 1-22
Today's readings is about Saul and his perpetual struggle with David's victory gains over war and the people praising him so he is once again out there to try and kill David.
Jonathan, Saul's son protects David from Saul's sword by telling him what is happening and David is at a loss for he has not sinned against his king and he asks Jonathan.
David's wife helps him escape from Saul's men by lowering him out the window.
David during this time wrote some beautiful Psalms with prayer.
Psalm 25: 4 Make Your ways known to me Lord; teach me Your paths...5 Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation...8 The Lord is good and upright; therefore He shows sinners the way. 9 He leads the humble in what is right and teaches them His way. 10 All the Lord's ways shows truth to those who keep His covenant and decrees. 11 Because of Your name, Lord, forgive my sin, for it is great. 14. The secret counsel of the Lord is for those who fear Him, and He reveals His covenant to them. 16 Turn to me and be gracious to me for I am alone and afflicted. 22 God, redeem Israel, from all it's distresses.
In Psalm 7 David's prayer if for justice
The friendship between Jonathan and David was strong and this I find amazing how God protects David through Saul's son.
Blessings
Kathleen.
103 - A committed Friendship
 |
| The escape of David through the window Gustave Dore - 1866 |
Chareen's Thoughts
- Jonathan and David arrange a secret code to let David know if it's safe to return.
- David's absence is noticed and Saul becomes angry. Jonathan now knows that Saul is determined to kill David.
- As per their arrangement Jonathan gave David the sign that Saul is determined to kill him. The two meet and a pledge is made between them
- David then prays for vindication Psalm 26
- David then flees to Ahimelech who is frightened of him but gives him bread and Goliaths sword.
- David writes a song of God's goodness Psalm 34
- Then he prays to God and declares his trust in the Lord Psalm 56
Blessings
Chareen
I WILL bless the Lord at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My life makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble and afflicted hear and be glad.
O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt His name together
April 11, 2012
102 - Save me from all those who pursue and persecute me
 |
| David and Jonathan Rembrandt 1642 |
Chareens Thoughts
- King Saul ordered everyone to kill David but Jonathan loved David and warned him.
- David has full confidence in the Lord and reassures Jonathan. Psalm 11 IN THE Lord I take refuge [and put my trust]; how can you say to me, Flee like a bird to your mountain? ...
- Jonathan spoke to his father and Saul took an oath not to have David killed and David returned to work for Saul.
- Once again there is a war with the Philistines and after the war King Saul tries to kill David. He escapes home and his wife warns him that the kings attendents lie in wait to kill him.
- Michal helps David and David prays again for safety Psalms 59
- So David fled to Samuel in Ramah. Saul sent three sets of agents to fetch David and they failed so he himself went.
- David prayed for justice. Psalms 7 O LORD my God, in You I take refuge and put my trust; save me from all those who pursue and persecute me, and deliver me, ...
- David then prays for guidance and protection Psalm 25 Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long. ...
- David flees from there and meets up with Jonathan who reassures him. Jonathan is sure that his father is not wanting to kill David but David is not sure so the two of them come to an agreement to find out King Sauls intentions.
Blessings
Chareen
April 10, 2012
101 - David and Goliath.
Kathleen's thoughts
Blessings
1 Samuel 17,18
Psalm 23: 1-6, 5: 1-12, 12: 1-86
David comes before Saul and says he will fight Goliath.
Saul says he is but a youth but David speaks with wisdom ans says Your servant has killed lions and bears; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them. For he has defied the armies of the living God. Then David said these wonderful words "The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine,.
Saul then gave permission for him to fight but first gave him his armour which was far too heavy and cumbersome for David. He removed it then told Saul I'm not used to them.
David took five smooth stones from the wadi and put them in the pouch, in his shepherd's bag.with his sling in his had he approached the Philistine.
Can you just see the two of them standing facing each, it must have been a awesome but frightening sight for the Israelites. But the Lord is with you where ever you go.
And so David kills Goliath with his stone and sling, the stone hitting his temple and it kills him.
When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they ran and then the Israelites shouting their battle cry and chased the Philistines there were bodies strewn all along the shaarim road to Gath and Ekron.
David came to the Saul with the Philistines head still in his hand it was here that Saul asked who's son are you.
From this day Saul kept David with him and Jonathan (Saul's son) made a covenant with David because he loved him as much as himself. Then Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave it to David along with his military tunic, his sword, his bow and his belt.
David wrote Psalm 23. The Lord is my Shepherd. After all these years we still sing this Psalm and preach it and what a blessing it has been to many.
David fought many battles for Saul and was victorious and was highly praised by the Israelites
Saul's threatened by David's victory for what ever and where ever David is and does the Lord's hand is upon him. So with the result is Saul tries to kill David twice but David got away from him. Saul was afraid of David because he knew the Lord was with him.
David prays for protection Psalm 5
Saul tries to marry David to his daughter Merab but David said no then again to Michal for Saul knew she loved David. Saul sets a price of 100 Philistine foreskins to take revenge on his enemies but by so doing this Saul's intentions was to cause David's death at the hands of the Philistines. But once again David won the battle and gave what Saul requested and David then married Michal.. And once again Saul became even more afraid of David and from here on Saul was David's enemy.
David prayer for help Psalm 12
I would love to have heard David sing and play the harp. His wisdom and guidance from the Lord must have shone all around him.
Blessings
Kathleen.
100 - Samuel anoints David
Kathleen's thoughts.
1 Samuel 16,17
Psalm 19: 1-14
Psalm 8: 1-9
I love the book of Psalms. As you can see from Chareen's thoughts she has placed today's readings there so I will not repeat them here.
The rise of David is our reading today.
Samuel is sent to Bethlehem and was told by the Lord to "fill your horn with oil and go I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem because I have selected a king from his sons"
Samuel was afraid and asked the Lord How can I go as Saul will hear about this and will kill me. the Lord tells Samuel to take a cow for a sacrifice and if any one asks you, you to say I have come to sacrifice to the Lord then invite Jesse to the sacrifice and I will let you know who you are to anoint for Me.
And so Samuel did what the Lord required of him and consecrating themselves then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. Each son was brought before Samuel until the youngest which was not there but out tending the sheep for his father. Samuel told Jesse he will not eat until the child returns from the field and so Jesse sent for him. Then the Lord said to Samuel "anoint him for he is the one" so Samuel anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the Lord took control of David from that day forward.
One of my favourite verses is found here from 1 Samuel 16: 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him, man does not see what the Lord see, for man sees what is visible, but the lord sees the heart.
The spirit of the Lord leaves Saul. He becomes very troubled so he commanded his servants to find him someone who plays well and bring him to me. He was told that the son of Jesse plays the harp and the Lord is with him.
So Saul sends a message to Jesse to send his son David . Jesse took a donkey loaded it with bread and skin of wine and one young goat and sent them by his son David to Saul.
Saul admired David immensely and he became Saul's armor-bearer. and so David played the harp for Saul when he became troubled.
Jesse Davids' father had 8 sons, 3 of the oldest sons followed Saul to the war and their names were Eliab, Abinadab and Shammah and David was the youngest but David kept going back and forth from Saul to tend to his fathers flock in Bethlehem.
Every morning and evening for 40 days the Philistines came forward and took their stand and one day Jesse had told his son David about Goliath's challenge and also to give to his brothers half-bushel of roasted grain along with loaves of bread and he must hurry to the cam and also take 10 portions of cheese to the field commander and at the same time to check the welfare of his brothers. Jesse told David where to find them they are with Saul and all the men of Israel who are in the Valley of Elah fighting with the Philistines. This David did but when he arrived there at the perimeter of the camp the army was marching out to its battle formation shouting their battle cry.
David left his supplies with the quartermaster and ran to the battle line to ask his brothers how they were and while this happened the champion Goliath from Gath came forward shouting his usual words which David heard. When the Israelite men saw this they were terrified and retreated. So David asked what will be done for the man who kills that Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? So the people told him about the offer. David's oldest brother Eliab listened as he spoke to the men and became angry with him. David said to him "what have I done now?" It was just a question.
Psalm 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.
Blessings
Kathleen.
99 - The decline of Saul
Kathleen's thoughts
Samuel left Saul and never returned to him again. Samuel mourned for Saul and the Lord regretted He had made Saul king over Israel.
1 Samuel 13,14,15
Saul's son Jonathan decided to go out on his own with his attendant who carried his weapons to fight the Philistine garrison on the other side, but he did not tell his father.
What he said to his attendant was this... Lets cross over to the garrison of these uncircumcised men perhaps the Lord will help us then his attendant responded "do what is in your heart you choose. So Jonathan said we'll cross over to the men and then let them see us. If they say, "wait until we reach you' then we will stay where we are and not go to them' but if they say, "Come on up, then we'll go u, because the Lord has handed them over to us and that will be our sign. And so the latter happened and Jonathan told his armor bearer the Lord has handed them over to Israel. The earth shook and caused confusion and terror from God and it spread Saul's watchmen saw the confusion and panicking of the troops which scattered in all directions so Saul helped to destroy the enemies by calling the priests and the ark which caused panic in the Philistine camp. When Saul told to stop what they were doing and Saul and his troops marched to battle and the philistines were fighting against each other in great confusion. The Lord saved Israel that day.
In chapter 14: 23 - 35 Saul told the soldiers not to eat and he also said this Cursed is the man who eats food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies. and none of the troops ate. but this curse was unknown to Jonathan he did not know this and dipped his staff into honey and ate and gained strength When Jonathan found out he replied "My father has brought trouble to the land, just look how much better I am that I have gained strength I can now continue to fight and his fathers troops were weak from fighting. Because of exhaustion they rushed to the plunder and ate and this was reported to Saul.
When Saul found out he was greatly troubled and told them to bring the food to him and not to sin against the Lord by eating meat with blood in it. So every one of the troops brought his ox that night and slaughtered it there. It was the first time Saul built an altar to the Lord.
Chapter 14: 36 -46 Jonathan is set free from the curse
The fight between the Philistines continued - The conflict with the Philistines was fierce all of Saul's days, so whenever Saul notice any strong or brave men, he enlisted them.
Chapter 15; 1-9 Samuel's instructions to Saul...The Lord of Hosts says; ;I witnessed what the Amalekites did to the Israelites when they opposed them along the way as they were coming out of Egypt now go and attack the Amalekites and completely destroy everything they have Do not spare them Kill men women, children, infants, oxen's and sheep camels and donkeys
Saul disobeys the orders by capturing the King Agag of Amalek alive and keeping the the best sheep cattle and fatlings, as well as the young rams and the the best of everything else. they were not willing to destroy them.
Chapter 15: 10-21 The word of the Lord came to Samuel. I regret that I made Saul King for he
has turned away from following Me and has not carried out My instructions. Samuel became angry and cried to the the Lord the whole night!.
Samuel challenges Saul and Saul says he has obeyed the Lord and the troops brought back the sheep cattle fron the plunder and the best is set apart to sacrifice to the Lord you God at Gilgal and he also told Samuel he captured king Agag
So here we see disobedience brings the wrath of God on oneself.
Samuel speaks to Saul with these words Chapter 15: 22-23 (KJV)
Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams...For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubborninness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou has rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.
That must have been a true wake up call to Saul.
Saul confesses I have sinned, I have transgressed the Lord's command and your words. Samuel also said to Saul he would not return with him because of him rejecting the Lord. When Saul turned to go Saul crabbed the hem of his garment and it tore. Saul cried out to Samuel and asked him to honour him by coming back with him before the elders of his people and before Israel. Samuel did go back with him. Saul then bowed down and worshiped the Lord.
Samuel then told Saul to bring Agag kin of Amalek when he came in from of Samuel, Samuel said to him As you sword has made women childless, so your mother will be childless among women. and he then hacked Agag to pieces before the Lord of Gilgal.
Samuel left Saul and never returned to him again. Samuel mourned for Saul and the Lord regretted He had made Saul king over Israel.
Blessings
Kathleen.
98 - Saul made King over Israel.
Kathleen's thoughts
1 Samuel 11,12,,13
God protects Israel against the Ammonirtes. Saul is made King. Chapter 11: 15 So all the people went Gilgal, and there in the presence they made Saul king. There they sacrificed fellowship offerings in the Lord's presence, and Saul and all the men of Israel greatly rejoiced.
Samuel speaks here on integrity and challenges the nation if they have found any wrong in him and declared this before the Lord this...12: 5 He said to them, 'The Lord is a witness against you, and His anointed is a witness today that you haven't found anything in my hand/" "he is a witness," they said.
Verse 13 Now here is the king you've chosen, the one you requested, Look, this is the king the Lord has placed over you. If you fear the Lord, worship and obey Him, and if you don't rebel against the Lord's command, then both you and the king who rules over you will follow the Lord your God. 15 However, if you disobey the Lord and rebel against His command, the Lord's hand will be against you and against your ancestors.
Verse 12: 16-18 Samuel speaks here about the great evil they have done against the Lord by requesting a king for themselves. It was wheat harvest this day and what happened next was... Samuel called on the Lord, and on that day the Lord sent thunder and rain. As a result, all the people greatly feared the Lord and Samuel.
Verse 12; 19-25 This is where Samuel shows his love for his people and requests them to fear the Lord and worship Him faithfully with all your heart, considering the great things He has done for you. BUT... However, if you continue to do what is evil, both you and your king will be swept away.
Saul was 30 years old when he became king and he reigned for 42 years over Israel.
Saul's disobedience causes him to loose control. His faith wavered and did not have the patience to wait for Samuel to arrive and went ahead and did the sacrifices before the Lord on his own and Samuel said to Saul You have been foolish . You have not kepi the command which the Lord your God gave you. It was at this time that the Lord would have permanently established your reign over Israel, but now your reign will not endure.
The Lord has found a man loyal to Him, and the Lord has appointed him as ruler over His people, because you have not done what the Lord commanded.
Blessings
Kathleen.
Hebrews 13:5 ...I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. I will not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let down My hold on you...6. So we take comfort and are encouraged and confidently and boldly say, The Lord is my Helper; I will not be seized with alarm. What can man do to me?
101 - Envy, jealousy, and wrath are like rottenness
 |
| David offering the Head of Goliath to King Saul Rembrandt 1627 |
- David is brought before King Saul and says he will face Goliath.
- The Lord hands Goliath over to David and the Israelites pursue the Philistines. David is brought before Saul.
- Jonathan committed himself to David and they became friends.
- After David slew Goliath he wrote Psalm 23.
- 1 Samuel 18:5 And David went out wherever Saul sent him, and he prospered and behaved himself wisely; and Saul set him over the men of war. And it was satisfactory both to the people and to Saul's servants.
- It is at this point that Saul tries to kill David twice. David prays for protection: Psalm 5:1-5
- King Saul offers his daughter Merab to David and David says no. King Saul hears that his daughter Michal loved David and so he offers her to David. He asks for one hundred foreskins as payment. God is with David and blesses him so he pays King Saul in full. As a result of this David became Sauls enemy and did not appear before Saul again.
- Saul realises that the Lord is with David and becomes afraid of him. David prays for help. Psalm 12
Saul envied Davids popularity and the result of this is his scheming to kill David. It drove a wedge between them to the point that David became Saul's enemy.
Envy is a dangerous emotion and destroys you and those around you
Blessings
Chareen
April 09, 2012
100 - The Lord looks on the heart
 |
| Saul and David |
1 Samuel 16 - 17
- I enjoyed this conversation between the LORD and Samuel. It shows the depth of God's love and His desire for our fellowship!
THE LORD said to Samuel, How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill your horn with oil; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite. For I have provided for Myself a king among his sons. Samuel said, How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me. And the Lord said, Take a heifer with you and say, I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. And invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; and you shall anoint for Me the one I name to you. 1 Samuel 16:1-3 - But the Lord said to Samuel, Look not on his appearance or at the height of his stature, for I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7
- Samuel anointed David to be the next king of Israel. 1 Samuel 16:12-13 Jesse sent and brought him. David had a healthy reddish complexion and beautiful eyes, and was fine-looking. The Lord said [to Samuel], Arise, anoint him; this is he. Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed David in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward. ...
- I must confess the following verse has bothered me since the first time I read it: But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented and troubled him. 1 Samuel 16:14 The part that bothers me is: an evil spirit from the Lord
- One of the young men said, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who plays skillfully, a valiant man, a man of war, prudent in speech and eloquent, an attractive person; and the Lord is with him. 1 Samuel 16:18 I pray our sons would be known this way.
- David is now in the service of Saul and Saul admired and trusted him so much he has made David his armour bearer.
- It is at this point that Goliath challenges the Israelites. For forty days Goliath challenged Israel and then David arrived in camp with food and supplies for his brothers from his father. He asks: And David said to the men standing by him, What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?
It's amazing to read about the heart of David and his attitude. Look at the Psalms he wrote about the Lord our God.
Psalm 19
To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.
1THE HEAVENS declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows and proclaims His handiwork.(A) 2Day after day pours forth speech, and night after night shows forth knowledge.
3There is no speech nor spoken word [from the stars]; their voice is not heard.
4Yet
their voice [in evidence] goes out through all the earth, their sayings
to the end of the world. Of the heavens has God made a tent for the
sun,(B)
5Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber; and it rejoices as a strong man to run his course.
6Its
going forth is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the ends
of it; and nothing [yes, no one] is hidden from the heat of it.
7The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the [whole] person; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure and bright, enlightening the eyes.
9The [reverent] fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
10More
to be desired are they than gold, even than much fine gold; they are
sweeter also than honey and drippings from the honeycomb.
11Moreover, by them is Your servant warned (reminded, illuminated, and instructed); and in keeping them there is great reward.
12Who can discern his lapses and errors? Clear me from hidden [and unconscious] faults.
13Keep
back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have
dominion over me! Then shall I be blameless, and I shall be innocent and
clear of great transgression.
14Let
the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in
Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, impenetrable] Rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 8
To the Chief Musician; set to a Philistine lute, or [possibly] to a particular Hittite tune. A Psalm of David.
1O LORD, our Lord, how excellent (majestic and glorious) is Your name in all the earth! You have set Your glory on [or above] the heavens. 2Out of the mouths of babes and unweaned infants You have established strength because of Your foes, that You might silence the enemy and the avenger.(A)
3When
I view and consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon
and the stars, which You have ordained and established,
4What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of [earthborn] man that You care for him?
5Yet You have made him but a little lower than God [or heavenly beings], and You have crowned him with glory and honor.
6You made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet:(B)
7All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field,
8The birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatever passes along the paths of the seas.
9O Lord, our Lord, how excellent (majestic and glorious) is Your name in all the earth!
Blessings
Chareen
April 08, 2012
99 - The fear of man brings a snare
 |
| Saul Reproved by Samuel for Not Obeying the Commandments of the Lord John Singleton Copley |
Chareen's Thoughts
1 Samuel 13-16 - Today we continue reading about Jonathan and King Saul.
- Jonathan is a man of courage and is with his father King Saul leading the army. We read how he goes forward and slays 20 men on his own.
- Unknown to him his father takes an oath and forbids everyone from eating till they have conquered. Jonathan eats some honey and is condemned to death but the people save him from Saul.
- The Lord instructs Saul to destroy Amalek, all it's people, animals and city. The people destroy the city and all people accept it's king and they keep some of the animals.
- When Samuel challenges Saul about this disobedience he passes the blame to the people and justifies his actions ....
- Samuel replies: Samuel said, Has the Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as idolatry and teraphim (household good luck images). Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.
- Saul then tries to repent. Samuel kills the king from Amalek and they part ways.
- Samuel mourned Saul and the LORD regretted He had made Saul king over Israel.
The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high. Proverbs 29:25 You can see the evidence of this in the life of Saul.
At his own coronation as king: Therefore they inquired of the Lord further, if the man would yet come back. And the Lord answered, Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage 1 Samuel 10:22
When he is declared king the word says: But some worthless fellows said, How can this man save us? And they despised him and brought him no gift. But he held his peace and was as if deaf. 1 Samuel 10:27.
In Samuel 13 the people are fearful and he waits for Samuel to come and sacrifice but after 7 days he does not see Samuel and the people start to leave in fear he makes a sacrifice himself to encourage the people.
In Samuel 14 He forbids the people to eat and takes an oath, then before the people declares: For as the Lord lives, Who delivers Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely die. But not a man among all the people answered him.
When he finds out it is his son and prepares to kill him But the people said to Saul, Shall Jonathan, who has wrought this great deliverance to Israel, die? God forbid! As the Lord lives, there shall not one hair of his head perish, for he has wrought this great deliverance with God this day. So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die. 1 Samuel 14:45.
Then when he is sent to destroy Amalek and is challenged we read: 1 Samuel 15:9 Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, oxen, fatlings, lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them; but all that was undesirable or worthless they destroyed utterly. and this excuse 1 Samuel 15:15 Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites; for the people spared the best of the sheep and oxen to sacrifice to the Lord your God, but the rest we have utterly destroyed. Lesson learned you can not lead well and will sin if you fear the people.
- Whoever despises the word and counsel [of God] brings destruction upon himself, but he who [reverently] fears and respects the commandment [of God] is rewarded Proverbs 13:13
Be blessed today as you walk humbly before your God
Chareen
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
