December 31, 2015
2 Samuel 1-Part 2
The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen! 2 Samuel 1:19
LET IT GLOW
I am so thrilled at the progress my brother is making in his rehab facility. He is walking with a walker and driving a wheelchair. On my way out after visiting him the other day, I stopped by the desk and thanked a couple of ladies for their work there and expressed my appreciation. They smiled and thanked me, also wished me a nice day. It only takes a couple of minutes, but makes others feel good about what they are doing, although they get paid for it. Kindness goes a long way. Look for an opportunity today.
We, friends, we are almost at the end of our road traveling in this year. Are we looking back or forward?
Keep traveling steadily along His pathway and in due season He will honor you with every blessing. Psalm 37:34
We can see the deep grief David had for Saul and Jonathan when he learned of their death in the battle against the Philistines in verses 17-27.
How does he pay tribute to Israel's fallen?
- He describe them as the pride and joy of Israel and mighty heroes. (verse 17)
- They shed the blood of their enemies and pierced the bodies of mighty heroes. (verse 22)
- They were beloved and gracious; swifter than eagles and stronger than lions. (verse 23)
- Saul dressed the women luxuriously in scarlet clothing, decorated with gold. (verse 24)
- David loved Jonathan so very much like a brother and Jonathan's love for David was deep. (verse 26)
How strong is our friendship to friends and family, and the Lord Jesus? Do we talk with Jesus throughout the day, as though He was sitting next to us in the car, walking with us as we shop for groceries, share a meal with our loved ones? Are we thanking Him for all the blessings running over as tea poured into a filled cup?
I have stared sending 3 different people a hand written thank you card each week that are serving in some capacity in our church. Everyone needs appreciated and acknowledged for their faithfulness. Some have even thanked me for the card. Card? What card? Oh, yeah, that one. We both smile. Shouldn't we do that while they are alive, letting folks know we love them and appreciate them?
LET IT GROW
David showed a gracious and forgiving attitude toward Saul, who spent years seeking him in order to kill David. The commitment shared between David and Jonathan was a noble, loyal, and selfless devotion. (MacArthur)
What an example for us to follow is David right here. When we are battered and bruised, can we forgive those who caused it?
Life application Study Bible explains this poem:
He had every reason to hate Saul, but he chose not to. Instead, he chose to look at the good Saul had done and to ignore the times Saul had attacked him. It takes courage to lay aside hatred and hurt and to respect the positive side of another person, especially an enemy. David restated the deep brotherhood and faithful friendship he had with Jonathan. He was not implying any wrong relations, as homosexuality was forbidden in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13.
How loyal are we to our friends? Are we there for them when times are tough, as well as easy? Love never fails. Is Jesus our best friend and Savior?
LET IT GO
Be forgiving and faithful to others.
Show my appreciation to others.
Share the love of Jesus today.
Keep looking forward, learn from the past, and live in the present.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
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