Scripture:
II Kings 13:19 "And the man of God was angry with him, and said, 'you should have struck five or six times; then you would have struck Syria till you had destroyed it! But now you will strike Syria only three times'".
Observation:
The king wanted to know from the prophet whether or not he could defeat Syria in battle. The prophet says to him "take these arrows and strike the ground with them". He didn't say how many times to strike the ground, yet when the conversation is over, the King is told that because he only struck the ground three times instead of more, he would only strike Syria three times. Basically he would strike once for each time he struck the arrows on the ground. This seems unfair, but God was testing to see how passionate he was about defeating his enemy.
Application:
Sometimes we give up way too easily. God may want us to wrestle and fight with some things and we give up too easily. God is looking for passionate people who will go hard after Him and do everything they do, with all their heart. It seems like nothing to strike and arrow on the ground three times instead of ten, but God wants to know we are going to go over and above the call of duty. One strike would have been obedience, but God really wanted him to go much harder. We can't give up too easily.
Prayer:
Lord, help me go all the way and be passionate for you. Let me do above the call of duty. Let me go hard after You and see You work through my life.
Love You,
Jeff
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Faithful Dealings
Scripture:
II Kings 12:15 "Moreover they did not require an account from the men into whose hand they delivered the money to be paid to workmen, for they dealt faithfully".
Observation:
Jehoash had decided to repair the temple. He was a good king who did right in the eyes of the Lord. He put an offering bucket in God's house and as it was filled, he paid people to work on the temple. The workmen were faithful to the Lord and to the King and therefore the king did not require an account of the money and how it was spent. He just wanted to know the job was done.
Application:
Today there are contracts, amendments, revisions, and everything has to be a major legal battle because people are no longer trustworthy. Now we have to constantly look over people's shoulders and watch how they spend because there is a lack of trust in our society. I believe God wants His people to have such faithful dealings that we don't have to check out what they are doing. When our yes is yes and our no, no, I believe we will see more trust restored. A handshake use to seal the deal, but now, because we don't fear the Lord, we have several signatures to attest what is to be done.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to be faithful in all my dealings. Help me to walk in integrity of heart before You and man. Help me to make my yes mean yes and my no mean no. Teach me to be a person who can be fully trusted at all times. I want to walk purely before You Lord. I want to be trustworthy in every area and I want those who know me best to respect me most.
Thanks Lord,
Jeff
II Kings 12:15 "Moreover they did not require an account from the men into whose hand they delivered the money to be paid to workmen, for they dealt faithfully".
Observation:
Jehoash had decided to repair the temple. He was a good king who did right in the eyes of the Lord. He put an offering bucket in God's house and as it was filled, he paid people to work on the temple. The workmen were faithful to the Lord and to the King and therefore the king did not require an account of the money and how it was spent. He just wanted to know the job was done.
Application:
Today there are contracts, amendments, revisions, and everything has to be a major legal battle because people are no longer trustworthy. Now we have to constantly look over people's shoulders and watch how they spend because there is a lack of trust in our society. I believe God wants His people to have such faithful dealings that we don't have to check out what they are doing. When our yes is yes and our no, no, I believe we will see more trust restored. A handshake use to seal the deal, but now, because we don't fear the Lord, we have several signatures to attest what is to be done.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to be faithful in all my dealings. Help me to walk in integrity of heart before You and man. Help me to make my yes mean yes and my no mean no. Teach me to be a person who can be fully trusted at all times. I want to walk purely before You Lord. I want to be trustworthy in every area and I want those who know me best to respect me most.
Thanks Lord,
Jeff
Friday, May 29, 2009
God's Incredible Timing
Scripture:
II Kings 8:5 "'Look, my Lord the king!' Gehazi exclaimed. 'Here is the woman now, and this is her son - the very one Elisha brought back to life'".
Observation:
The king was talking to Gehazi, Elisha's servant and told him to tell some of the incredible things he had seen Elisha do. Gehazi had just told him the story of Elisha raising a young man from the dead and at that very moment he and his mother walk into the room to make an appeal for support during a time of famine. She ends up leaving with lots of supplies because she was at the right place at the right time.
Application:
God's timing is impeccable! He is truly amazing. He knows where you are and when you are there. He knows how to meet your needs and can bring about the most remarkable answers to prayer when we listen to His voice. Notice this answer had two parts: first she showed up at just the right time which means God was working in her about exactly when she was to get there. She may have been frustrated by the line she had to wait in to see the king, but she got there at exactly the right time to get her needs met. Second, the servant of the prophet had just told the story so he had to be in the right place at the right time. God can arrange anything to bless His people. We should trust Him more and believe He truly is in control when we want Him to be.
Prayer:
Lord, Your timing is incredible! You always send Your answer, right on time. Sometimes this frustrates me because Your time and mine are not always the same. I choose Your timing and choose to trust You every moment of every day. Order my steps today that I may lead someone to Christ. Order my steps today so I might be in the right place at the right time to see You do a miracle.
You're the Best!
Jeff
II Kings 8:5 "'Look, my Lord the king!' Gehazi exclaimed. 'Here is the woman now, and this is her son - the very one Elisha brought back to life'".
Observation:
The king was talking to Gehazi, Elisha's servant and told him to tell some of the incredible things he had seen Elisha do. Gehazi had just told him the story of Elisha raising a young man from the dead and at that very moment he and his mother walk into the room to make an appeal for support during a time of famine. She ends up leaving with lots of supplies because she was at the right place at the right time.
Application:
God's timing is impeccable! He is truly amazing. He knows where you are and when you are there. He knows how to meet your needs and can bring about the most remarkable answers to prayer when we listen to His voice. Notice this answer had two parts: first she showed up at just the right time which means God was working in her about exactly when she was to get there. She may have been frustrated by the line she had to wait in to see the king, but she got there at exactly the right time to get her needs met. Second, the servant of the prophet had just told the story so he had to be in the right place at the right time. God can arrange anything to bless His people. We should trust Him more and believe He truly is in control when we want Him to be.
Prayer:
Lord, Your timing is incredible! You always send Your answer, right on time. Sometimes this frustrates me because Your time and mine are not always the same. I choose Your timing and choose to trust You every moment of every day. Order my steps today that I may lead someone to Christ. Order my steps today so I might be in the right place at the right time to see You do a miracle.
You're the Best!
Jeff
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Open My Eyes
Scripture:
II Kings 6:16-17 "So he answered, 'do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them'. And Elisha prayed, and said, 'Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see'. The the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha".
Observation:
Elisha had been surrounded with an army coming after him. He remains calm when his servant tells him. The servant can't figure this guy out because he isn't even stressed out about it. Elisha asked the Lord to open his servant's eyes and the servant could see a larger army of chariots of fire and horses all around. Wow! He must have been amazed.
Application:
God has so many more resources than we give Him credit for. With Him, nothing is impossible! He can chase off armies with a word. He can sends legions of angels at any moment. Sometimes we stress out because things look like we are in a bad situation. If only we could see into the spirit world, I believe we would react so much differently in our tough times. If we could see from God's perspective, nothing would ever look impossible. God knows what He is doing and just needs us to see what He is up to sometimes.
Prayer:
Lord, Open my eyes that I may see You are in control. You never leave us or forsake us. I know this, but it would really help to see what You see and to be able to stand stronger because I have seen the glory of the Lord. Teach me to have faith as if I had seen what the servant of Elisha saw. You said, blessed are those who have not see, yet believe. I want to be one who sees, but if I don't let me still believe just as strong that You and Your armies are with me when I am in a bad place.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
II Kings 6:16-17 "So he answered, 'do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them'. And Elisha prayed, and said, 'Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see'. The the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha".
Observation:
Elisha had been surrounded with an army coming after him. He remains calm when his servant tells him. The servant can't figure this guy out because he isn't even stressed out about it. Elisha asked the Lord to open his servant's eyes and the servant could see a larger army of chariots of fire and horses all around. Wow! He must have been amazed.
Application:
God has so many more resources than we give Him credit for. With Him, nothing is impossible! He can chase off armies with a word. He can sends legions of angels at any moment. Sometimes we stress out because things look like we are in a bad situation. If only we could see into the spirit world, I believe we would react so much differently in our tough times. If we could see from God's perspective, nothing would ever look impossible. God knows what He is doing and just needs us to see what He is up to sometimes.
Prayer:
Lord, Open my eyes that I may see You are in control. You never leave us or forsake us. I know this, but it would really help to see what You see and to be able to stand stronger because I have seen the glory of the Lord. Teach me to have faith as if I had seen what the servant of Elisha saw. You said, blessed are those who have not see, yet believe. I want to be one who sees, but if I don't let me still believe just as strong that You and Your armies are with me when I am in a bad place.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Serving Brings Blessing
Scripture:
II Kings 3:11 "But Jehoshaphat said, 'Is there no prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of the Lord by him?' So one of the servants of the king of Israel answered and said, 'Elisha the son of Shaphat is here, who poured water on the hands of Elijah'".
Observation:
When Israel needed someone who could speak on the Lord's behalf, they found the person who had "poured water on the hands of Elijah". Pouring water was what a servant did for his master. Elisha would pour water over Elijah's hands when they needed washing. Serving Elijah was a great blessing to Elisha.
Application:
Here we see that God raises up those who humble themselves under His hand. It is the one who serves others that will be raised up. Elisha didn't promote his ministry with slick publications and nice printed materials to let everyone know he was the next great prophet, he simply served the man of God. As he was serving, people realized he had spent much time in the presence of the man of God. You catch what you are around. He was associated with the right person through serving faithfully. There is no great immediate blessing in helping wash someone's hands, but the final rewards of servanthood go a long way.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to serve others with all my heart, expecting nothing in return. I realize that You raise up those who are willing to serve in another person's ministry. Teach me to be the servant of all.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
II Kings 3:11 "But Jehoshaphat said, 'Is there no prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of the Lord by him?' So one of the servants of the king of Israel answered and said, 'Elisha the son of Shaphat is here, who poured water on the hands of Elijah'".
Observation:
When Israel needed someone who could speak on the Lord's behalf, they found the person who had "poured water on the hands of Elijah". Pouring water was what a servant did for his master. Elisha would pour water over Elijah's hands when they needed washing. Serving Elijah was a great blessing to Elisha.
Application:
Here we see that God raises up those who humble themselves under His hand. It is the one who serves others that will be raised up. Elisha didn't promote his ministry with slick publications and nice printed materials to let everyone know he was the next great prophet, he simply served the man of God. As he was serving, people realized he had spent much time in the presence of the man of God. You catch what you are around. He was associated with the right person through serving faithfully. There is no great immediate blessing in helping wash someone's hands, but the final rewards of servanthood go a long way.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to serve others with all my heart, expecting nothing in return. I realize that You raise up those who are willing to serve in another person's ministry. Teach me to be the servant of all.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Stirred up by Others
Scripture:
I Kings 21:25 "But there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord, because Jezebel his wife stirred him up".
Observation:
Ahab gets a terrible word over his life here and his leadership and is remembered as one of the worst kings in the history of Israel. The problem is that this verse tells us why. It says his wife stirred him up to do evil. He did it, but his wife stirred him up to do it. He gets the bad rap because he listened to those around him instead of listening to the Lord.
Application:
There will be many who try to stir up wrong things in our lives. Our lives will be full of people who want to stir us up to do wrong, but we always have a choice. Ahab went down in history as a terrible king because he gave in to the pressure of his wife and listened to her over the voice of God. When we stand before God, the person who tried to stir us up to do wrong won't be there with us. We will be judged on our actions and can't blame someone else for what we did. We must never use "the devil made me do it" or "my friends made me do it" excuse.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to follow Your ways and not live a life of excuses. I want to fulfill Your will for my life and not allow people to stir me up of get me off track. I don't want to blame someone else for my lack of obedience. Help me Lord to be strong when trials come and stand for Your word and what is right.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
I Kings 21:25 "But there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord, because Jezebel his wife stirred him up".
Observation:
Ahab gets a terrible word over his life here and his leadership and is remembered as one of the worst kings in the history of Israel. The problem is that this verse tells us why. It says his wife stirred him up to do evil. He did it, but his wife stirred him up to do it. He gets the bad rap because he listened to those around him instead of listening to the Lord.
Application:
There will be many who try to stir up wrong things in our lives. Our lives will be full of people who want to stir us up to do wrong, but we always have a choice. Ahab went down in history as a terrible king because he gave in to the pressure of his wife and listened to her over the voice of God. When we stand before God, the person who tried to stir us up to do wrong won't be there with us. We will be judged on our actions and can't blame someone else for what we did. We must never use "the devil made me do it" or "my friends made me do it" excuse.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to follow Your ways and not live a life of excuses. I want to fulfill Your will for my life and not allow people to stir me up of get me off track. I don't want to blame someone else for my lack of obedience. Help me Lord to be strong when trials come and stand for Your word and what is right.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
Monday, May 25, 2009
How Much Longer Will You Waiver?
Scripture:
I Kings 18:21 "How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the Lor dis God, follow Him! But if Baal is God, then follow him! But the people were comepletely silent.
Observation:
Elijah was jsut called the troubler of Israel by King Ahab. He felt he was the only man of God left on the planet and the only one who would take a stand. He felt alone, but knew his God was God and was more powerful than Baal.
Application:
Elijah is saying to us today that we need to make up our mind to either serve God or not. If we are going to do something, do it with all our heart. WE need to make up our mind who or what we are going to serve and do it with all our heart.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be all or nothing for You. I want to serve You wholeheartedly and won't do it half way. I will do whatever You ask me to do.
I love you lord,
Jeff
I Kings 18:21 "How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the Lor dis God, follow Him! But if Baal is God, then follow him! But the people were comepletely silent.
Observation:
Elijah was jsut called the troubler of Israel by King Ahab. He felt he was the only man of God left on the planet and the only one who would take a stand. He felt alone, but knew his God was God and was more powerful than Baal.
Application:
Elijah is saying to us today that we need to make up our mind to either serve God or not. If we are going to do something, do it with all our heart. WE need to make up our mind who or what we are going to serve and do it with all our heart.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be all or nothing for You. I want to serve You wholeheartedly and won't do it half way. I will do whatever You ask me to do.
I love you lord,
Jeff
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Glory of the Lord
Scripture:
I Kings 8:10-11 "When the priests came out of the Holy Place, a think cloud filled the Temple of the Lord. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the Lord filled the Temple".
Observation:
Solomon had just dedicated an incredible temple to the Lord. Israel had worked on it and built it with precision, using only the finest materials money could buy anywhere on earth. When they placed the Ark of the Covenant in it's resting place, a thick cloud filled the building until the priests could not do their functions. The glorious presence of the Lord filled the place.
Application:
We are the temple of the Holy Spirit and should be filled at all times with the cloud of God's presence. In the OT, the presence of God was limited to one place at a time, wherever the Ark was. When Jesus died, the veil of the Temple was torn in two and the presence of God was now accessible for any follower of Jesus Christ. There was nothing the priests could do to make the presence come or go, but while it was there, they were amazed! Much preparation went into making the temple just right so that the Lord would bless it. We should be spending time every day asking God to purify and cleanse our temples, that the presence of the Lord may be with us at extreme levels. I want the glory of the Lord around me at all times.
Prayer:
Fill me with Your glory! I want to be overflowing in Your glory until nobody can deny the awesomeness of my God. At the dedication of the Temple, nobody could argue about whether the presence of God was there or not, they could see it! I want to live a life that others can look at and see the glory of the Father. Jesus, you said, "Herein is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit". Help me to bear more fruit than I have in the past. I want my life to bring You glory.
I Love You,
Jeff
I Kings 8:10-11 "When the priests came out of the Holy Place, a think cloud filled the Temple of the Lord. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the Lord filled the Temple".
Observation:
Solomon had just dedicated an incredible temple to the Lord. Israel had worked on it and built it with precision, using only the finest materials money could buy anywhere on earth. When they placed the Ark of the Covenant in it's resting place, a thick cloud filled the building until the priests could not do their functions. The glorious presence of the Lord filled the place.
Application:
We are the temple of the Holy Spirit and should be filled at all times with the cloud of God's presence. In the OT, the presence of God was limited to one place at a time, wherever the Ark was. When Jesus died, the veil of the Temple was torn in two and the presence of God was now accessible for any follower of Jesus Christ. There was nothing the priests could do to make the presence come or go, but while it was there, they were amazed! Much preparation went into making the temple just right so that the Lord would bless it. We should be spending time every day asking God to purify and cleanse our temples, that the presence of the Lord may be with us at extreme levels. I want the glory of the Lord around me at all times.
Prayer:
Fill me with Your glory! I want to be overflowing in Your glory until nobody can deny the awesomeness of my God. At the dedication of the Temple, nobody could argue about whether the presence of God was there or not, they could see it! I want to live a life that others can look at and see the glory of the Father. Jesus, you said, "Herein is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit". Help me to bear more fruit than I have in the past. I want my life to bring You glory.
I Love You,
Jeff
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Largeness of Heart
Scripture:
I Kings 4:29 "And God gave Solomon wisdom an exceedingly great understanding, and largeness of heart like the sand on the seashore".
Observation:
In a dream, God asked Solomon what he wanted more than anything else and Solomon answered wisdom and understanding to be able to lead God's people. God gave Solomon wisdom that was above the wisest in all the earth. In this passage it says that God also gave him "largeness of heart". You could say Solomon was "big hearted". He was given wealth, peace, wisdom, understanding and favor, yet the bible records that god also gave him largeness of heart to use all these gifts right.
Application:
Many people want the blessings of Solomon to be in their lives, but not many would want the largeness of heart to give it away. largeness of heart says that we have a big heart toward others. Largeness of heart means that you can feel what others feel, have compassion on them and reach out to help them without thinking of yourself. God loves a cheerful giver! He loves the one with a big heart toward helping others.
Prayer:
Lord, I want largeness of heart to be a characteristic of my life. Give me a big heart for people. Give me a big heart that will fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. I love You Lord and ask you today to increase the size of my spiritual heart. Let me have the compassion of Christ and let it be seen. May people know I am a disciples by my love for others.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
I Kings 4:29 "And God gave Solomon wisdom an exceedingly great understanding, and largeness of heart like the sand on the seashore".
Observation:
In a dream, God asked Solomon what he wanted more than anything else and Solomon answered wisdom and understanding to be able to lead God's people. God gave Solomon wisdom that was above the wisest in all the earth. In this passage it says that God also gave him "largeness of heart". You could say Solomon was "big hearted". He was given wealth, peace, wisdom, understanding and favor, yet the bible records that god also gave him largeness of heart to use all these gifts right.
Application:
Many people want the blessings of Solomon to be in their lives, but not many would want the largeness of heart to give it away. largeness of heart says that we have a big heart toward others. Largeness of heart means that you can feel what others feel, have compassion on them and reach out to help them without thinking of yourself. God loves a cheerful giver! He loves the one with a big heart toward helping others.
Prayer:
Lord, I want largeness of heart to be a characteristic of my life. Give me a big heart for people. Give me a big heart that will fulfill Your plans and purposes for my life. I love You Lord and ask you today to increase the size of my spiritual heart. Let me have the compassion of Christ and let it be seen. May people know I am a disciples by my love for others.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
God's Path to Success
Scripture:
I Kings 2:2-3 "Take courage and be a man. Observe the requirements of the Lord your God, and follow all His ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and laws written in the Law of Moses so that you will be successful in all you do and wherever you go".
Observation:
After 40 years as king of Israel, David is about to die and he gives advice to his son Solomon who had just been inaugurated as king. Instead of telling him how to command armies, influence people and run the country to be successful as king, he tells him success will come when he follows all the requirements, decrees, laws and regulations in the Law of Moses. David realized that real leadership comes through the blessing of God, which comes from obedience to God in every area.
Application:
David kept God first until the very end of his life. Even at the end, he was telling his son Solomon to follow the Laws of God closely in order to have success. Today we try to use every success technique, then ask God to bless it instead of blessing God and allowing Him to give us the techniques for success. God is looking throughout the earth for those whose hearts are loyal to Him. He searches for those who love Him deeply and are committed to Him. He loves to bless His children, but blessing comes through obedience. Most of us love His grace, but don't like to talk about obedience. David told Solomon to follow closely every command of the Lord. Let's put the first things first!
Prayer:
Obedience is better than sacrifice. Lord, help me to walk in absolute obedience at all times. Help me to seek Your will more diligently and follow You to the end faithfully. Teach me to follow You with all my heart and leave the results to You. I love You Lord and want to obey You every word. Help me obey You every command.
I love you and put my trust in You,
Jeff
I Kings 2:2-3 "Take courage and be a man. Observe the requirements of the Lord your God, and follow all His ways. Keep the decrees, commands, regulations, and laws written in the Law of Moses so that you will be successful in all you do and wherever you go".
Observation:
After 40 years as king of Israel, David is about to die and he gives advice to his son Solomon who had just been inaugurated as king. Instead of telling him how to command armies, influence people and run the country to be successful as king, he tells him success will come when he follows all the requirements, decrees, laws and regulations in the Law of Moses. David realized that real leadership comes through the blessing of God, which comes from obedience to God in every area.
Application:
David kept God first until the very end of his life. Even at the end, he was telling his son Solomon to follow the Laws of God closely in order to have success. Today we try to use every success technique, then ask God to bless it instead of blessing God and allowing Him to give us the techniques for success. God is looking throughout the earth for those whose hearts are loyal to Him. He searches for those who love Him deeply and are committed to Him. He loves to bless His children, but blessing comes through obedience. Most of us love His grace, but don't like to talk about obedience. David told Solomon to follow closely every command of the Lord. Let's put the first things first!
Prayer:
Obedience is better than sacrifice. Lord, help me to walk in absolute obedience at all times. Help me to seek Your will more diligently and follow You to the end faithfully. Teach me to follow You with all my heart and leave the results to You. I love You Lord and want to obey You every word. Help me obey You every command.
I love you and put my trust in You,
Jeff
Monday, May 18, 2009
God's Amazing Mercy
Scripture:
II Samuel 24:14 "And David said to Gad, 'I am in great distress. Please let us fall into the hand of the Lord, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall into the hand of man'".
Observation:
David had numbered the people, which he knew was not God's will, even though in verse 1 it says that God moved David to do it. He knew better and brought judgement onto Israel. In his distress and under a plague coming on the people, David says, please let me fall into the hand of God and not man because God has great mercy. David understood that God's mercy is incredible, yet man can be extremely judgmental.
Application:
It is better to fall into the hands of a loving God than into the hands of His creation. People can be very hurtful and revengeful, but God is full of mercy having compassion on us for generations. It is better to leave be in God's hands than anywhere else in the world. He is a just God and will take care of us. David was very wise and knew the Lord intimately. He knew of God's grace.
Prayer:
Lord, teach us to lean on you at all times. Thank You for Your amazing mercy. You withhold the judgment I deserve and sent Your Son to take my punishment. WOW! You blow me away with You faithfulness to us. Thank You for not being like us.
Your Son,
Jeff
II Samuel 24:14 "And David said to Gad, 'I am in great distress. Please let us fall into the hand of the Lord, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall into the hand of man'".
Observation:
David had numbered the people, which he knew was not God's will, even though in verse 1 it says that God moved David to do it. He knew better and brought judgement onto Israel. In his distress and under a plague coming on the people, David says, please let me fall into the hand of God and not man because God has great mercy. David understood that God's mercy is incredible, yet man can be extremely judgmental.
Application:
It is better to fall into the hands of a loving God than into the hands of His creation. People can be very hurtful and revengeful, but God is full of mercy having compassion on us for generations. It is better to leave be in God's hands than anywhere else in the world. He is a just God and will take care of us. David was very wise and knew the Lord intimately. He knew of God's grace.
Prayer:
Lord, teach us to lean on you at all times. Thank You for Your amazing mercy. You withhold the judgment I deserve and sent Your Son to take my punishment. WOW! You blow me away with You faithfulness to us. Thank You for not being like us.
Your Son,
Jeff
The Reward of Kindness
Scripture:
II Samuel 19:30 "Then Mephibosheth said to the king, 'rather, let him take it all, inasmuch as my lord the king has come back in peace to his own house'".
Observation:
David had shown incredible kindness to Mephibosheth in chapter 9 of II Samuel. He looked for a descendant of Saul and Jonathon he could show kindness to and found Mephibosheth was still alive. Though he didn't have to, David gave him honor and allowed him to eat forever at the king's table. In Chapter 19, Absalom was trying to overthrow his own father and David was in trouble. When the trouble ceased, David comes home and tells Mephibosheth that he wasn't going to give him his inheritance. Mephibosheth said he didn't want the inheritance, he was just glad David was alive and still reigning.
Application:
As I read this, the Lord spoke to my heart and asked this question, "who have you shown such kindness to that they would be willing to give up their inheritance because they appreciate, respect and love you so much?" David showed amazing grace and Mephibosheth was grateful. We, as leaders, should be showing such kindness to people that they are willing to give up everything to be with us. Who respects you to that level?
Prayer:
Lord, let Your light so shine through my life that people want to be around me. Help me demonstrate Your glory everywhere I go. Help me to be so full of Your love and kindness that people see Jesus. I want to live for Your glory Lord.
You are the best!
Jeff
II Samuel 19:30 "Then Mephibosheth said to the king, 'rather, let him take it all, inasmuch as my lord the king has come back in peace to his own house'".
Observation:
David had shown incredible kindness to Mephibosheth in chapter 9 of II Samuel. He looked for a descendant of Saul and Jonathon he could show kindness to and found Mephibosheth was still alive. Though he didn't have to, David gave him honor and allowed him to eat forever at the king's table. In Chapter 19, Absalom was trying to overthrow his own father and David was in trouble. When the trouble ceased, David comes home and tells Mephibosheth that he wasn't going to give him his inheritance. Mephibosheth said he didn't want the inheritance, he was just glad David was alive and still reigning.
Application:
As I read this, the Lord spoke to my heart and asked this question, "who have you shown such kindness to that they would be willing to give up their inheritance because they appreciate, respect and love you so much?" David showed amazing grace and Mephibosheth was grateful. We, as leaders, should be showing such kindness to people that they are willing to give up everything to be with us. Who respects you to that level?
Prayer:
Lord, let Your light so shine through my life that people want to be around me. Help me demonstrate Your glory everywhere I go. Help me to be so full of Your love and kindness that people see Jesus. I want to live for Your glory Lord.
You are the best!
Jeff
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Blessings for Curses
Scripture:
II Samuel 16:12 "And perhaps the Lord will see that I am being wronged and will bless me because of these curses today".
Observation:
David was being cursed and stones were being thrown at him. In this situation, most of us would retaliate in an ungodly way. David says the Lord may "bless me because of these curses today". He, in the Old Testament understood the Sermon on the Mount teachings of Jesus who would later come and talk about these kind of responses. Jesus said, "blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and speak all manner of evil against you". David understood that God fought his battles and always left the results of attacks up to the Lord and didn't retaliate. He understood that God had his back.
Application:
Faith says that God is in control of every part of our lives. When people are against us and say all kinds of bad things about us, we can trust and have faith in His word that tells us we will be blessed when these things happen. David understood that when something bad happened to him that God was watching, loved him, and would respond on his behalf. People of faith in God are people who leave the battles in the and of the Lord. They don't fight their own battles! We must learn this lesson from David's life. God will work on your behalf and bring blessings out of curses if we remain in the right attitude before Him.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me not to fight my own battles, but to trust You more. help me not to feel I must defend myself, my reputation, my feelings etc. I want to be a man faith who understands how You operate. Help me not get stressed out when others don't see my point of view and do what I think is right. I give You permission to work on my behalf by giving up my right to defend myself.
Your Servant,
Jeff
II Samuel 16:12 "And perhaps the Lord will see that I am being wronged and will bless me because of these curses today".
Observation:
David was being cursed and stones were being thrown at him. In this situation, most of us would retaliate in an ungodly way. David says the Lord may "bless me because of these curses today". He, in the Old Testament understood the Sermon on the Mount teachings of Jesus who would later come and talk about these kind of responses. Jesus said, "blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and speak all manner of evil against you". David understood that God fought his battles and always left the results of attacks up to the Lord and didn't retaliate. He understood that God had his back.
Application:
Faith says that God is in control of every part of our lives. When people are against us and say all kinds of bad things about us, we can trust and have faith in His word that tells us we will be blessed when these things happen. David understood that when something bad happened to him that God was watching, loved him, and would respond on his behalf. People of faith in God are people who leave the battles in the and of the Lord. They don't fight their own battles! We must learn this lesson from David's life. God will work on your behalf and bring blessings out of curses if we remain in the right attitude before Him.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me not to fight my own battles, but to trust You more. help me not to feel I must defend myself, my reputation, my feelings etc. I want to be a man faith who understands how You operate. Help me not get stressed out when others don't see my point of view and do what I think is right. I give You permission to work on my behalf by giving up my right to defend myself.
Your Servant,
Jeff
Friday, May 15, 2009
Sudden Changes of Heart
Scripture:
II Samuel 13:15 "Then suddenly Amnon's love turned to hate, and he hated her even more than he had loved her. 'Get out of here' he snarled at her".
Observation:
Amnon was in love with his half sister Tamar for a long time. He was full of lust for her and wanted to be with her so badly. He organized a plan so he could be alone with her. She didn't go along with the plan and he rapes the woman he has loved from a distance for a long time. Immediately afterward, his love is turned to hate and his hate for her was stronger than his love ever was. The sudden change of heart came because he knew he had done wrong and it realized it wasn't worth what he had to pay for it.
Application:
Sin will take you where you didn't want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and eventually destroy your life. Sin always looks appealing and makes you think if you partake, you will be much better off. Then you finally give in and end up hating yourself more in the end because you gave in and found out it wasn't worth it and it only brought about more problems. Once you give in to the sin, you have a "sudden change of heart" and conviction sets in. Sin is never worth the price tag.
Prayer:
Lord, the enemy never tempts us with things that don't appear wonderful. He always makes it look like the sin will help you and make you feel good, but it always turns around to bite you. Teach us to love God more than anything in this world so that our love for You will keep us in the place of absolute satisfaction. Let us be so in love with You that we don't have time to entertain thoughts of sin.
You're the best!
Jeff
II Samuel 13:15 "Then suddenly Amnon's love turned to hate, and he hated her even more than he had loved her. 'Get out of here' he snarled at her".
Observation:
Amnon was in love with his half sister Tamar for a long time. He was full of lust for her and wanted to be with her so badly. He organized a plan so he could be alone with her. She didn't go along with the plan and he rapes the woman he has loved from a distance for a long time. Immediately afterward, his love is turned to hate and his hate for her was stronger than his love ever was. The sudden change of heart came because he knew he had done wrong and it realized it wasn't worth what he had to pay for it.
Application:
Sin will take you where you didn't want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and eventually destroy your life. Sin always looks appealing and makes you think if you partake, you will be much better off. Then you finally give in and end up hating yourself more in the end because you gave in and found out it wasn't worth it and it only brought about more problems. Once you give in to the sin, you have a "sudden change of heart" and conviction sets in. Sin is never worth the price tag.
Prayer:
Lord, the enemy never tempts us with things that don't appear wonderful. He always makes it look like the sin will help you and make you feel good, but it always turns around to bite you. Teach us to love God more than anything in this world so that our love for You will keep us in the place of absolute satisfaction. Let us be so in love with You that we don't have time to entertain thoughts of sin.
You're the best!
Jeff
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Integrity of Heart
Scripture:
II. Samuel 11:11 "The Ark and the armies of Israel and Judah are living in tents, and Joab and my master's men are camping in the open fields. How could I go home to wine and dine and sleep with my wife? I swear that I would never do such a thing".
Observation:
David had stayed home from battle and gotten into trouble with Uriah's wife Bathsheba. She was pregnant and David was trying to get them to sleep together so Uriah would think the baby was his. Uriah had such integrity of heart that he would not sleep at home with his wife while the battle was going on. He wouldn't accept wining and dining while some of his people were fighting for their lives.
Application:
Today, most of us would have said, "praise God, look how the Lord is blessing me. I get to go home and wine and dine and be with my wife". Uriah had a different spirit. He couldn't allow himself to be at ease while those he served with were in trouble. What we would call a blessing from the Lord, he wouldn't receive. We would do well to examine our integrity. Instead of receiving the easy way and thanking God for it, sometimes we would be better off taking the hard way.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be a man of integrity. Help me be a person who does the right thing when it feels good and when it doesn't. Help me not to see "the easy life" as God's blessing all the time, but to test the spirit to see if it is from God. It is so easy to receive the good and reject the bad, but I want to follow Your will for my life. Show me when to accept the blessings and when to turn them down. I want to be in step with Your Spirit.
love You,
Jeff
II. Samuel 11:11 "The Ark and the armies of Israel and Judah are living in tents, and Joab and my master's men are camping in the open fields. How could I go home to wine and dine and sleep with my wife? I swear that I would never do such a thing".
Observation:
David had stayed home from battle and gotten into trouble with Uriah's wife Bathsheba. She was pregnant and David was trying to get them to sleep together so Uriah would think the baby was his. Uriah had such integrity of heart that he would not sleep at home with his wife while the battle was going on. He wouldn't accept wining and dining while some of his people were fighting for their lives.
Application:
Today, most of us would have said, "praise God, look how the Lord is blessing me. I get to go home and wine and dine and be with my wife". Uriah had a different spirit. He couldn't allow himself to be at ease while those he served with were in trouble. What we would call a blessing from the Lord, he wouldn't receive. We would do well to examine our integrity. Instead of receiving the easy way and thanking God for it, sometimes we would be better off taking the hard way.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be a man of integrity. Help me be a person who does the right thing when it feels good and when it doesn't. Help me not to see "the easy life" as God's blessing all the time, but to test the spirit to see if it is from God. It is so easy to receive the good and reject the bad, but I want to follow Your will for my life. Show me when to accept the blessings and when to turn them down. I want to be in step with Your Spirit.
love You,
Jeff
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Preparing a Place for His Presence
Scripture:
II Sam. 7:2 "See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains".
Observation:
David was a man after God's own heart. He wanted the right things in life. Here we see David feeling bad because he was living in a nice cedar house and God's presence had to be in a tent. He wanted to build a house for God that would make God look good! He had a desire to see God blessed before himself.
Application:
The American dream is to build a nice house, have a nice car and a great retirement program so we can relax and enjoy life. David was more concerned about God's house than he was his own. We must be people who are about God's business as our first priority. It is so easy to get ensnared in the ways of the American dream and pursue it with all our hearts, but where is God in this picture. What about building His kingdom? It tends to get lost in the shuffle.
Prayer:
Lord, please help me to keep the main the the main thing. Help me to keep my heart on the harvest and my eyes on You. As David was concerned about a place for Your presence, so I want to prepare a place for Your presence. I want to walk with you, talk with you and hear your voice. Help me not to get entangled in the American dream, but to dream God dreams!
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
II Sam. 7:2 "See now, I dwell in a house of cedar, but the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains".
Observation:
David was a man after God's own heart. He wanted the right things in life. Here we see David feeling bad because he was living in a nice cedar house and God's presence had to be in a tent. He wanted to build a house for God that would make God look good! He had a desire to see God blessed before himself.
Application:
The American dream is to build a nice house, have a nice car and a great retirement program so we can relax and enjoy life. David was more concerned about God's house than he was his own. We must be people who are about God's business as our first priority. It is so easy to get ensnared in the ways of the American dream and pursue it with all our hearts, but where is God in this picture. What about building His kingdom? It tends to get lost in the shuffle.
Prayer:
Lord, please help me to keep the main the the main thing. Help me to keep my heart on the harvest and my eyes on You. As David was concerned about a place for Your presence, so I want to prepare a place for Your presence. I want to walk with you, talk with you and hear your voice. Help me not to get entangled in the American dream, but to dream God dreams!
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Revenge Belongs to the Lord
Scripture:
II Samuel 4:10 "Someone once told me, 'Saul is dead,' thinking he was bringing me good news. But I seized him and killed him at Ziklag. That's the reward I gave him for his news".
Observation:
David was persecuted terribly by Saul. Generally, when you have been tormented by someone and they are gone, you are happy. It was normal for new kings to kill all the descendants of former kings so they would not be a threat to the new monarchy. Not for David, he realized the Lord was with him and would take care of him. He truly trusted God with his life, future, and family etc. He was a man of faith (trust). He trusted God to defend him against his enemies and God always did.
Application:
God would not ever want us to be proud of destroying another person, whether in word or in deed. Jesus said, "love your enemies". He wants us to trust Him for our lives. It is much easier to take things into our own hands and fight our battles. We should be more like David, who did not get joy about the defeat of his enemies, but was sorrowful about it.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be more like David. Teach me Your ways and let me learn of You. Show me how to treat those who offend me and how to handle difficult situations with tact, love and care. Help me respond better when criticized and not be defensive.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
II Samuel 4:10 "Someone once told me, 'Saul is dead,' thinking he was bringing me good news. But I seized him and killed him at Ziklag. That's the reward I gave him for his news".
Observation:
David was persecuted terribly by Saul. Generally, when you have been tormented by someone and they are gone, you are happy. It was normal for new kings to kill all the descendants of former kings so they would not be a threat to the new monarchy. Not for David, he realized the Lord was with him and would take care of him. He truly trusted God with his life, future, and family etc. He was a man of faith (trust). He trusted God to defend him against his enemies and God always did.
Application:
God would not ever want us to be proud of destroying another person, whether in word or in deed. Jesus said, "love your enemies". He wants us to trust Him for our lives. It is much easier to take things into our own hands and fight our battles. We should be more like David, who did not get joy about the defeat of his enemies, but was sorrowful about it.
Prayer:
Lord, let me be more like David. Teach me Your ways and let me learn of You. Show me how to treat those who offend me and how to handle difficult situations with tact, love and care. Help me respond better when criticized and not be defensive.
I love You Lord,
Jeff
Monday, May 11, 2009
Weak Though Anointed
Scripture:
II Samuel 3:39 "And I am weak today, though anointed king; and these men, the sons of Zeruiah, are too harsh for me. The Lord shall repay the evildoer according to his wickedness".
Observation:
Saul has dies and David has become king. He has seen a lot of problems, murders, etc. At this point he makes a powerfully revealing statement. David didn't mind sharing his weakness and admitting when he was having problems. He makes the statement, "I am weak today, though anointed king". He then gives his problems to the Lord and says the Lord will repay the evildoer for their wickedness.
Application:
It's okay to admit when you feel weak. It is also seen here that you can be weak, yet anointed. Paul said that in his weakness Christ made him strong. Paul also understood the grace of God and realized that it was okay to be weak. Sometimes we like to put up a nice image that everything is always good. Strong leaders are able to say, "I'm having a bad day, but God is still with me and I'm still anointed". May this ink into our hearts and lives as we pursue God every day.
Prayer:
Lord, help me get off the performance treadmill that says I have to be perfect and can't have any weaknesses. I want the weight of perfectionism lifted from my shoulders. Help me Lord to be able to say "I am weak today, though anointed". Help me not to carry an image that everything is okay when it isn't. Help me be real with those You have called me to lead.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
II Samuel 3:39 "And I am weak today, though anointed king; and these men, the sons of Zeruiah, are too harsh for me. The Lord shall repay the evildoer according to his wickedness".
Observation:
Saul has dies and David has become king. He has seen a lot of problems, murders, etc. At this point he makes a powerfully revealing statement. David didn't mind sharing his weakness and admitting when he was having problems. He makes the statement, "I am weak today, though anointed king". He then gives his problems to the Lord and says the Lord will repay the evildoer for their wickedness.
Application:
It's okay to admit when you feel weak. It is also seen here that you can be weak, yet anointed. Paul said that in his weakness Christ made him strong. Paul also understood the grace of God and realized that it was okay to be weak. Sometimes we like to put up a nice image that everything is always good. Strong leaders are able to say, "I'm having a bad day, but God is still with me and I'm still anointed". May this ink into our hearts and lives as we pursue God every day.
Prayer:
Lord, help me get off the performance treadmill that says I have to be perfect and can't have any weaknesses. I want the weight of perfectionism lifted from my shoulders. Help me Lord to be able to say "I am weak today, though anointed". Help me not to carry an image that everything is okay when it isn't. Help me be real with those You have called me to lead.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Friday, May 8, 2009
Secure in the Lord
Scripture:
I Samuel 25:29 "Even when you are chased by those who seek to kill you, your life is safe in the care of the Lord your God, secure in his treasure pouch!"
Observation:
If anyone had a reason to fight back, it was David. Yet he chose to trust in the name of the Lord his God. He basically says if you are in the will of the Lord, nothing can touch you. God will take care of you and keep you secure in His treasure pouch. We have "treasure" in earthen vessels. We are the Lord's treasure and He will take care of us.
Application:
The Lord watches over us and wants to bless us. When we do things His way, He will take care of you in any situation. God loves His children and they are like a treasure to Him. The safest place on earth is in God's treasure pouch!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for reminding me this morning that You will take care of me. Sometimes it is hard to trust when you feel like things are not going right. Sometimes we feel like we are not being taken care of and so we take things into our own hands. I want to trust the Lord my God more and to know that I am His treasure. Thanks for reminding me of your goodness towards me this morning Lord.
Your Son,
Jeff
I Samuel 25:29 "Even when you are chased by those who seek to kill you, your life is safe in the care of the Lord your God, secure in his treasure pouch!"
Observation:
If anyone had a reason to fight back, it was David. Yet he chose to trust in the name of the Lord his God. He basically says if you are in the will of the Lord, nothing can touch you. God will take care of you and keep you secure in His treasure pouch. We have "treasure" in earthen vessels. We are the Lord's treasure and He will take care of us.
Application:
The Lord watches over us and wants to bless us. When we do things His way, He will take care of you in any situation. God loves His children and they are like a treasure to Him. The safest place on earth is in God's treasure pouch!
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for reminding me this morning that You will take care of me. Sometimes it is hard to trust when you feel like things are not going right. Sometimes we feel like we are not being taken care of and so we take things into our own hands. I want to trust the Lord my God more and to know that I am His treasure. Thanks for reminding me of your goodness towards me this morning Lord.
Your Son,
Jeff
Let God Fight Your Battles
Scripture:
I Samuel 24:12 "May the Lord judge between us. Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are trying to do to me, but I will never harm you".
Observation:
After much times living in caves and running through the wilderness for his very life, David had a perfect opportunity to kill Saul. He refused, against the will of those with him, to kill Saul. Saul was trying desperately and openly to kill David, but David refused to take Saul's life when he had the perfect chance.
Application:
We must learn from David to let the Lord fight our battles. Though he had every right to kill Saul, David refused and said, "Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are doing, but I will never harm you". We need to learn from David that God has a plan and that He will take care of our enemies. We must never fight for ourselves, but let God arise and take care of it. he is more able than I could ever be. When given the opportunity, I hope I would do the same thing.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to trust You more. It is easier to fight for myself than to let You fight my battles. It is natural to defend myself and preserve myself, but You said, He that saves his life will lose it, and he that loses his life will save it. Teach me to trust You more. I hear You speaking to me, help me obey and not stress out on the things I want to control. You are in control.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
I Samuel 24:12 "May the Lord judge between us. Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are trying to do to me, but I will never harm you".
Observation:
After much times living in caves and running through the wilderness for his very life, David had a perfect opportunity to kill Saul. He refused, against the will of those with him, to kill Saul. Saul was trying desperately and openly to kill David, but David refused to take Saul's life when he had the perfect chance.
Application:
We must learn from David to let the Lord fight our battles. Though he had every right to kill Saul, David refused and said, "Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are doing, but I will never harm you". We need to learn from David that God has a plan and that He will take care of our enemies. We must never fight for ourselves, but let God arise and take care of it. he is more able than I could ever be. When given the opportunity, I hope I would do the same thing.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to trust You more. It is easier to fight for myself than to let You fight my battles. It is natural to defend myself and preserve myself, but You said, He that saves his life will lose it, and he that loses his life will save it. Teach me to trust You more. I hear You speaking to me, help me obey and not stress out on the things I want to control. You are in control.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
Thursday, May 7, 2009
When Spears are Flying
Scripture:
I Samuel 19:10 "Then Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he slipped away from Saul's presence; and he drove the spear into the wall. So David fled and escaped that night".
Observation:
These chapters are amazing. David has defeated Goliath of Gath. He is gaining popularity in Israel, and has already been anointed King, yet he is being attacked by his leader. He is attacked with a spear by Saul, yet never retaliates with force. David knew his rightful place as King, but would not fight against the person God had placed into that position before him. Instead of fighting for what was right, he fled.
Application:
Some battles are not meant to be fought. Some battles we are to simply flee away from, even when you know you are right. Instead of fighting, which David was good at, he chose to flee. Many times we get ourselves into trouble when we try to defend ourselves instead of just allowing God to retaliate. We must remember that vengeance belongs to the Lord and He will repay. We like to take vengeance when treated wrongly, but when we take vengeance, God can no longer fight for us. Let Him fight the battle and you just flee. God is in control! He will raise you up at the right time.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me that some battles are not worth fighting. Teach me to die to the flesh that wants to defend myself when accused of things I didn't do. Forgive me for taking things into my own hands instead of allowing You to fight for me. Help me to truly put my trust in You. You alone are my salvation! You alone are my source, provider and deliverer! You are my God and I love You.
You're the Best!
Jeff
I Samuel 19:10 "Then Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he slipped away from Saul's presence; and he drove the spear into the wall. So David fled and escaped that night".
Observation:
These chapters are amazing. David has defeated Goliath of Gath. He is gaining popularity in Israel, and has already been anointed King, yet he is being attacked by his leader. He is attacked with a spear by Saul, yet never retaliates with force. David knew his rightful place as King, but would not fight against the person God had placed into that position before him. Instead of fighting for what was right, he fled.
Application:
Some battles are not meant to be fought. Some battles we are to simply flee away from, even when you know you are right. Instead of fighting, which David was good at, he chose to flee. Many times we get ourselves into trouble when we try to defend ourselves instead of just allowing God to retaliate. We must remember that vengeance belongs to the Lord and He will repay. We like to take vengeance when treated wrongly, but when we take vengeance, God can no longer fight for us. Let Him fight the battle and you just flee. God is in control! He will raise you up at the right time.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me that some battles are not worth fighting. Teach me to die to the flesh that wants to defend myself when accused of things I didn't do. Forgive me for taking things into my own hands instead of allowing You to fight for me. Help me to truly put my trust in You. You alone are my salvation! You alone are my source, provider and deliverer! You are my God and I love You.
You're the Best!
Jeff
Prophetic Confidence
Scripture:
I Sam. 17:46 "This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel".
Observation:
David was a young man who was taking on a giant probably twice his size and strength. He honestly doesn't have a chance, but he knew his God. As he is approaching the giant from Gath, David runs directly at him and tells him that he was going to take his head off and feed his body to the animals. There doesn't appear to be any doubt in David's mind that God was going to empower him to defeat the enemy. His confidence was in God and not himself and he knew that God would somehow defeat this man who defied God. He knew God would not allow this one man to defy Him.
Application:
When we go into battle, many times we are fearful and wondering what the outcome will be. When we are going through hard times and can't see how victory could ever come, we must be like David who began to prophesy his destiny. We must not look at the size of the problem, but the size of our God. We must know God well enough that we know what battles He will defend us in and what battles are not His. Fear can never control us a believers, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and and sound mind. Be confident in the Lord Your God. He is able to bring you through any situation life or the enemy throws at you.
Prayer:
Lord, let us be strong in You and not ourselves. David did not rely on his own strength, but knew You would fight the giant. He knew You well enough to know that You would not allow him to lose this particular battle. I want my confidence back! I want to know You are going to build Your church and the gates of hell are not going to prevail against it. I want to walk in confidence in my calling again.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
I Sam. 17:46 "This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel".
Observation:
David was a young man who was taking on a giant probably twice his size and strength. He honestly doesn't have a chance, but he knew his God. As he is approaching the giant from Gath, David runs directly at him and tells him that he was going to take his head off and feed his body to the animals. There doesn't appear to be any doubt in David's mind that God was going to empower him to defeat the enemy. His confidence was in God and not himself and he knew that God would somehow defeat this man who defied God. He knew God would not allow this one man to defy Him.
Application:
When we go into battle, many times we are fearful and wondering what the outcome will be. When we are going through hard times and can't see how victory could ever come, we must be like David who began to prophesy his destiny. We must not look at the size of the problem, but the size of our God. We must know God well enough that we know what battles He will defend us in and what battles are not His. Fear can never control us a believers, for God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and and sound mind. Be confident in the Lord Your God. He is able to bring you through any situation life or the enemy throws at you.
Prayer:
Lord, let us be strong in You and not ourselves. David did not rely on his own strength, but knew You would fight the giant. He knew You well enough to know that You would not allow him to lose this particular battle. I want my confidence back! I want to know You are going to build Your church and the gates of hell are not going to prevail against it. I want to walk in confidence in my calling again.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
The Fear of God or the Fear of Man
Scripture:
I Samuel 15:24 "I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice".
Observation:
Saul has grieved the heart of God and is being rejected as the king of Israel. He did not fully obey the Lord and in this passage we see why. It says that Saul feared the people and obeyed their voice. He lost his Kingdom because he was more interested in pleasing people than pleasing God.
Application:
Most people get into sin because they are trying to please people. Fearing man and what man thinks causes young people to sin instead of doing what they know is right because they want their friends to like them. Fearing man causes church leaders to do what the people want instead of what God ha given them to do. Politicians are more concerned about pleasing people than about doing what is right. We live in a world that is influenced so strongly by what the people want and think. We must concentrate on what God wants for us more than what others say about us.
Prayer:
Lord, as they prayed in Acts, grant us boldness that we would not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Help us be confident in Your word and not be swayed by the opinions of man. Teach us to rely on You instead of the voice of the crowd. Saul listened to what man had to say and his kingdom was taken from him. May we always listen and obey the voice of the Lord.
Your Son,
Jeff
I Samuel 15:24 "I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice".
Observation:
Saul has grieved the heart of God and is being rejected as the king of Israel. He did not fully obey the Lord and in this passage we see why. It says that Saul feared the people and obeyed their voice. He lost his Kingdom because he was more interested in pleasing people than pleasing God.
Application:
Most people get into sin because they are trying to please people. Fearing man and what man thinks causes young people to sin instead of doing what they know is right because they want their friends to like them. Fearing man causes church leaders to do what the people want instead of what God ha given them to do. Politicians are more concerned about pleasing people than about doing what is right. We live in a world that is influenced so strongly by what the people want and think. We must concentrate on what God wants for us more than what others say about us.
Prayer:
Lord, as they prayed in Acts, grant us boldness that we would not be ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Help us be confident in Your word and not be swayed by the opinions of man. Teach us to rely on You instead of the voice of the crowd. Saul listened to what man had to say and his kingdom was taken from him. May we always listen and obey the voice of the Lord.
Your Son,
Jeff
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
A Different Person
Scripture:
I Samuel 10:6 "At that time the Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them. You will be changed into a different person".
Observation:
Samuel is anointing Saul to be the king then people wanted. He speaks to Saul and tells him that the Spirit of the Lord was going to come upon him. He tells him the Spirit of the Lord is going to make him a different person. God did what he prophesied through Samuel.
Application:
When God anoints a person, they will become a different person. A shy person may become bold. A Weak person will become strong. The anointing will make you what you thought you would never be. When God anoints you with His power, you feel like you could march through a troop and leap over a wall! In this day, we need some men and women of God who have cried out to Him until they have been anointed with fresh oil and become the people of God.
Prayer:
Father, let your anointing come upon my life. I want Your presence and power in my life and ministry. I need Your empowerment, because in the flesh, I cannot do what I know You have called me to do as I am right now. I need to be a different man, but i don't want that to be a man of my own making. I want it to be You all the way! Work in my heart and make me the man You want me to be.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
I Samuel 10:6 "At that time the Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them. You will be changed into a different person".
Observation:
Samuel is anointing Saul to be the king then people wanted. He speaks to Saul and tells him that the Spirit of the Lord was going to come upon him. He tells him the Spirit of the Lord is going to make him a different person. God did what he prophesied through Samuel.
Application:
When God anoints a person, they will become a different person. A shy person may become bold. A Weak person will become strong. The anointing will make you what you thought you would never be. When God anoints you with His power, you feel like you could march through a troop and leap over a wall! In this day, we need some men and women of God who have cried out to Him until they have been anointed with fresh oil and become the people of God.
Prayer:
Father, let your anointing come upon my life. I want Your presence and power in my life and ministry. I need Your empowerment, because in the flesh, I cannot do what I know You have called me to do as I am right now. I need to be a different man, but i don't want that to be a man of my own making. I want it to be You all the way! Work in my heart and make me the man You want me to be.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
Saturday, May 2, 2009
We Want a King
Scripture:
I Samuel 8:19-20 "But the people refused to listen to Samuel's warning. 'Even so, we still want a king,' they said. 'We want to be like the nations around us. Our king will judge us and lead us into battle'".
Observation:
God wanted to be Israel's king from the beginning. They were meant to be a theocracy where God led the nation, but they continually strayed away from that and longed to be like the other nations. God longed to lead them, but their hearts wanted to be like everyone else. Samuel had told them what it would be like to have a regular king. He shared how bad the situation would be, but they wanted it anyway.
Application:
Will we ever learn? To this day, the same scenario goes on and on. God wants to lead us and guide us into all truth. He wants to be our God and has wonderful plans for our lives, but we always want to be like somebody else. Our fallen nature wants what others have, thinking the grass is greener in the neighbor's lawn. We must come to the place of absolute trust that God's will is better than our own. Absolute dependence on Him is the best and only place to be. Our lives need to be centered on Him and we must choose to do things His way. His way is best and our way will never take us where we need to go.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life be centered on You and Your will. When times are difficult, teach me to trust You. Show me how to be a good follower. I don't want to make my plans, then ask You to bless them. I want to follow Your plans. Help me not to lean on my own understanding, but to follow You voice. I want to trust You more than I do right now. I want Your will for my life!
You are a great father. Help me be a great son.
Jeff
I Samuel 8:19-20 "But the people refused to listen to Samuel's warning. 'Even so, we still want a king,' they said. 'We want to be like the nations around us. Our king will judge us and lead us into battle'".
Observation:
God wanted to be Israel's king from the beginning. They were meant to be a theocracy where God led the nation, but they continually strayed away from that and longed to be like the other nations. God longed to lead them, but their hearts wanted to be like everyone else. Samuel had told them what it would be like to have a regular king. He shared how bad the situation would be, but they wanted it anyway.
Application:
Will we ever learn? To this day, the same scenario goes on and on. God wants to lead us and guide us into all truth. He wants to be our God and has wonderful plans for our lives, but we always want to be like somebody else. Our fallen nature wants what others have, thinking the grass is greener in the neighbor's lawn. We must come to the place of absolute trust that God's will is better than our own. Absolute dependence on Him is the best and only place to be. Our lives need to be centered on Him and we must choose to do things His way. His way is best and our way will never take us where we need to go.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life be centered on You and Your will. When times are difficult, teach me to trust You. Show me how to be a good follower. I don't want to make my plans, then ask You to bless them. I want to follow Your plans. Help me not to lean on my own understanding, but to follow You voice. I want to trust You more than I do right now. I want Your will for my life!
You are a great father. Help me be a great son.
Jeff
Scared or Overjoyed?
Scripture:
I Samuel 5:10, 6:13 "So they sent the Ark of God to the town of Ekron, but when the people of Ekron saw it coming they cried out, 'They are bringing the Ark of the God of Israel here to kill us too!' The people of Beth-shemesh were harvesting wheat in the valley, and when they saw the Ark, they were overjoyed".
Observation:
When the people of Ekron saw the Ark of God coming, they were sacred to death. When the people of Beth-shemesh saw the Ark coming, they were overjoyed. What is the difference? The same presence and power of God in two different places can bring two very different results.
Application:
God is incredibly powerful and should be feared, but when you are in right relationship with Him, His presence will make you overjoyed. Though God doesn't exhibit it during our time to the degree he did back in Samuel's day, our God should be feared for His ability to wipe out those who are not right with Him. Everywhere the Ark went while in the presence of the Philistines, bad things happened but when the Ark came back to Israel, joy came. You don't want to be an enemy of God. Satan will one day get what is coming to him and God's wrath will be poured out again. Sometimes we cry out "Lord I want Your presence". Are we in the place to really receive His presence when He comes in power?
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing! I worship You. It is awesome that the Philistines were so scared of You. They were not scared of the people of Israel, but You. Teach me the fear of the Lord, it is the beginning of wisdom. Teach me to honor You better. You presence is incredible and nothing is too difficult for You. Let the world know again that You are God! Demonstrated Your great power again that this world may turn to You. I love Your presence! let it become more real to me every day.
Jeff
I Samuel 5:10, 6:13 "So they sent the Ark of God to the town of Ekron, but when the people of Ekron saw it coming they cried out, 'They are bringing the Ark of the God of Israel here to kill us too!' The people of Beth-shemesh were harvesting wheat in the valley, and when they saw the Ark, they were overjoyed".
Observation:
When the people of Ekron saw the Ark of God coming, they were sacred to death. When the people of Beth-shemesh saw the Ark coming, they were overjoyed. What is the difference? The same presence and power of God in two different places can bring two very different results.
Application:
God is incredibly powerful and should be feared, but when you are in right relationship with Him, His presence will make you overjoyed. Though God doesn't exhibit it during our time to the degree he did back in Samuel's day, our God should be feared for His ability to wipe out those who are not right with Him. Everywhere the Ark went while in the presence of the Philistines, bad things happened but when the Ark came back to Israel, joy came. You don't want to be an enemy of God. Satan will one day get what is coming to him and God's wrath will be poured out again. Sometimes we cry out "Lord I want Your presence". Are we in the place to really receive His presence when He comes in power?
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing! I worship You. It is awesome that the Philistines were so scared of You. They were not scared of the people of Israel, but You. Teach me the fear of the Lord, it is the beginning of wisdom. Teach me to honor You better. You presence is incredible and nothing is too difficult for You. Let the world know again that You are God! Demonstrated Your great power again that this world may turn to You. I love Your presence! let it become more real to me every day.
Jeff
Friday, May 1, 2009
Sleeping Near the Ark
Scripture:
I Samuel 3:3 "The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was sleeping in the tabernacle near the Ark of God".
Observation:
Samuel is such a great character in scripture. Here he is, an outsider because he is officially not a Levite and he shouldn't really even be in the Tabernacle, yet he is so hungry for God that he is sleeping in the Tabernacle near the Ark of the Covenant. This guy wanted to be around the presence of the Lord. When you sleep in the tabernacle, you are hungry to be around the presence of the Lord.
Application:
I want to be so hungry for God that I would do things that may seem strange to others. I want to sleep in the presence of the Lord. In his day, the presence of the Lord was only manifested in one place. Today the presence of the Lord is everywhere at all times. We have a greater opportunity than Samuel to enter the presence of the Lord, yet many times we don't even acknowledge Him. When you are seeking the presence of the Lord, you will begin to hear the voice of the Lord. Samuel was sleeping in the tabernacle when he heard the voice of God for the first time in his life. May we be more cognizant of God's presence at all times and long for it.
Prayer:
Lord, I want more of You in my life. I want to be desperate enough to sleep in Your presence. I want to be sensitive to Your voice and hear it clearly for every area of my life. Help me to remember You when I lie down and when I rise up. I want to live a life that opens the windows of Your blessing. Wake me up tonight and talk to me.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
I Samuel 3:3 "The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was sleeping in the tabernacle near the Ark of God".
Observation:
Samuel is such a great character in scripture. Here he is, an outsider because he is officially not a Levite and he shouldn't really even be in the Tabernacle, yet he is so hungry for God that he is sleeping in the Tabernacle near the Ark of the Covenant. This guy wanted to be around the presence of the Lord. When you sleep in the tabernacle, you are hungry to be around the presence of the Lord.
Application:
I want to be so hungry for God that I would do things that may seem strange to others. I want to sleep in the presence of the Lord. In his day, the presence of the Lord was only manifested in one place. Today the presence of the Lord is everywhere at all times. We have a greater opportunity than Samuel to enter the presence of the Lord, yet many times we don't even acknowledge Him. When you are seeking the presence of the Lord, you will begin to hear the voice of the Lord. Samuel was sleeping in the tabernacle when he heard the voice of God for the first time in his life. May we be more cognizant of God's presence at all times and long for it.
Prayer:
Lord, I want more of You in my life. I want to be desperate enough to sleep in Your presence. I want to be sensitive to Your voice and hear it clearly for every area of my life. Help me to remember You when I lie down and when I rise up. I want to live a life that opens the windows of Your blessing. Wake me up tonight and talk to me.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
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