Only One Touch

O. T. #684  "Only One Touch"
January 28, 2016
2 Samuel 6-Part 2
...the oxen stumbled  and Uzzah reached out his hand and steadied the Ark of God. 
2 Samuel 6:6

LET IT GLOW

There are times that one touch can bring us love, peace, and assurance. On the other hand, one wrong touch inappropriate can be the beginning of a downward spiral into sin. We must be constantly be aware of what we are doing and how it effects others and our witness. It was only one touch of a man in today's lesson that caused his death.

The Ark of God was Israel's national treasure and was ordinarily kept in he tabernacle. However, it had been gone some 50 years. It was at Abinadab's house 20 of those years. David realized God had blessed Abinadab, he wanted to bring it home in Jerusalem so his nation could be blessed.

What happened?

• David got 30,000 of his elite troops together and he led them to pick up the Ark of God.
• They put the Ark on a new cart to transport it.
• Abinadab's two sons were guiding the cart as it left their house.
• Ahio was walking in front of the procession.
• David and all the people of Israel were celebrating before the Lord by singing songs and playing instruments.
• The oxen pulling the cart stumbled and one of the men, Uzzah, reached out and steadied the Ark of God.
• Uzzah was struck dead by God because the LORD was angered that he did such a thing.

Can you feel and hear the excitement in the air among the Israelites? It was a 10 mile march up to the house where the Ark was being kept.

There was the sound of music and there was the delight of obedience beating in the heart of David. (Swindoll)

The Philistines had used a cart to transport the Ark (1 Sam. 6:7), but they were not under the covenant with God as Israel was. What is permissible for one may not be for God's child. God had given instructions to Mosses many years earlier. Only the Levite priests were allowed to move it, using golden poles through the rings and upon their shoulders. (Numbers 3 and 4, and Exodus 25)

Have you heard folks say, "It doesn't matter what you do, just do something, even if it's wrong?"
They have it all wrong. We should nothing until it's right, and then do it with all your might, as Swindoll advises.

David's first mistake concerning this matter was to not consult the Lord. Instead, he consulted his political leaders (1 Chron. 13). It seems that instead of David being intent on glorifying the Lord, he was more motivated to unify the nation. His next mistake was to ignore God's Word. If only David had found out God's way of moving the Ark, then the life of one man would have been spared. If only. What things might be prevented if we had consult the Lord first?

Do we conform to this world? Christians are told in Romans 12:2 to not be, but to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. This is needful daily, and perhaps hourly.



LET IT GROW

David was king and the decision maker. He knew that in order for the people to worship, they needed the Ark of the Covenant. In order to get it down the hill from the home of Abinadab, the quickest and best way to do it was on a cart. After all, the Philistines had used one.

The mood of the procession quickly changed when one man did one thing-Uzzah touched the Ark of God. What's wrong with that? He was only trying to keep it from falling off the cart.The judgment of God resulted in this one act. The reason was that this sacred, gold object which represented God's presence, was so special to God. He was in the midst of His children there. (I wonder if Jesus sat upon the Mercy Seat as they brought their offerings to Him.) No one was to touch the Ark. It was not an ordinary wooden box.

Touching the Ark was in direct violation of God's law and was to result in death (Num. 4:15). This was a means of preserving God's holiness and the fear of drawing near to Him without appropriate preparation.  (MacArthur)

Uzzah's act was innocent and of good intention, but it was without proper regard for the awesome and holy presence of Yahweh represented by the Ark. (Falwell)

Do we touch things we are not supposed to be involved in as a Christian? Are we touching the lives of others with love of Jesus? Are we carrying the message of Jesus' salvation upon our shoulders to a lost world? Are we asking God what He wants us to do before we jump in and do it?


LET IT GO

Turn to God and His Word for directions before I do something questionable.

Obey.

A Wooden Chest

O. T. #683  "A Wooden Chest"
January 27, 2016
2 Samuel
...to bring up from thence the ark of God.  2 Samuel 6:2

LET IT GLOW

I have a small wooden box, or chest, on my shelf is  precious to me. Oh, it looks like just an ordinary one, nothing fancy or gold laden, but it belonged to my Dad. He kept what few earthly things he had that were precious to him, inside it. I think that Mom gave it to him, so that is special  and important to me. My siblings have the contents, but I have the chest. David felt the same way toward a much larger wooden chest, the Ark of the Covenant, yet he didn't possess it. Shall we learn more about this chest?

For nearly 50 years, the Ark of the Covenant had remained at Kirjath-jearim (1 Samuel 6:21-7:2). This was after the Philistines had captured it and decided to return the Ark. In Psalm 132:1-6, David made a vow sealed by an oath to the Lord. He is intent upon honoring the Lord by returning the Ark to Jerusalem. Therefore, David prepared a special tent for it there in Jerusalem. It took 3 months for this task to be accomplished. We will get into that tomorrow.

I found some detailed information about the Ark in Charles Swindoll's book, David, A Story of Passion & Destiny:

• This box or chest was made of wood, rectangular in shape, gold-plated inside and out. It had a decorative gold border around it, forming a rim.
• On top was the Mercy Seat made of gold. On either end was a hammered gold cherubim (meaning angel). They faced each other, with wings outstretched over the golden grate. Apparently each one was small because solid gold would have made it top heavy and awkward to carry.
• Inside was 3 objects: a golden jar containing manna from the wilderness, Aaron's ancient rod, and the tablets of stone.
• At the base of the 4 corners of the Ark was a fixed ring of gold, so the gold-plated poles could slip through for the Levites to carry it on their shoulders. This was God's specific instructions for transporting the Ark.

Upon that box shone the glory of God over the golden grate, top, this Mercy Seat. This piece of furniture in the tabernacle was set apart to God. Every aspect of the Israelite worship was important to God.

Are we respecting God's house of worship were we go to give Him the glory as our Creator and Savior? The Ark represented God's presence, so do we expect to bow before our God in our local house of worship and His sanctuary to find His presence? Do we take seriously His Word of instruction for us to follow?

LET IT GROW

This box was just a symbol, a picture of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was made of gold, which speaks of His deity, and of wood, which speaks of His humanity. It was not two boxes; it was one box. It was both wooden and gold. Jesus is God, yet man. (J. Vernon McGee)

After a few skirmishes with the Philistines, the first thing on David's royal agenda was to restore the ark to its place of prominence within Israel.

In verse 1, I see the preparation David to bring the Ark home. He gathered 30,000 elite troops, marching together, with a purpose, a mission. It was only about a 10 mile hike for the armed men protecting  such precious cargo.

To what extent are we willing to go in order to carry out the will of God. Even if it requires a little bit of sacrificing, it is worth it after all. We will receive a blessing, too.

LET IT GO

Whatever is required to sacrifice so I will do the will of God, give it.

Be willing to go the second mile with others because of love.

Worship God in spirit and in truth in His house of worship.


* It is sweet that the Lord brought this to my mind since today for Dad would have been 94 on his birthday today. Time to get the old chest down for remembrance of him.

Caught Up in The Mix Up

O. T. #682 "Caught Up in The Mix Up"
January 26, 2016
2 Samuel 5-Part 5
After he arrived from Hebron, David took...  2 Samuel 5:13

LET IT GLOW

Never would I have thought that I would see such unusual types of so called "families" in our society. I don't need to list them here. You can name some. We probably have some in our own extended families. I know I do. And it saddens me because the children involved are so mixed up as to what is to be the norm for a normal family or God's standard for the family. Genesis describes marriage between one man and one woman, not alike nor several at a time. David was caught up in the mix up, too.

David moved into his brand spanking new palace in Jerusalem, known as the City of David and Zion. Along with him came his wives and many concubines, according to verse 13. Why are the name of his sons born there? After all, God does not approve of polygamy. God our Creator established guidelines for us to live by, resulting in happiness and blessings. Two among those sons born in Jerusalem to David were Nathan and Solomon.

Although David sincerely sought after the God, he had weaknesses like any other person. One of his weaknesses was his desire for many wives. Sadly, the children born to these wives caused David and his kingdom much grief. (Life Application Study Bible)

The multiplication of David's wives and concubines was in direct violation of Deuteronomy 17:7. These marriages probably reflected David's involvement in international treaties and alliances that were sealed by the marriage of a king's daughter to the other participants in the treaty. (The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

Today's society is getting so mixed up in the matter of the family. There are children who have more than one set of parents and grandparents plus siblings. Some children have a family that is not according to God's Word, with queers establishing themselves as parents. These poor children are growing up so mixed up. What are we teaching our children?


LET IT GROW

There were two sons among the list found here which may be familiar. Solomon became king of Israel, although it split during his reign and Babylon captured Israel. He is noted as being the richest and wisest man during that time. He followed in his father's example and sadly enough Solomon had many wives. However, in his lineage came Joseph, Mary's husband and influenced Jesus during his childhood.

Through Nathan's line came Mary, the mother of Jesus. The Lord Jesus Christ received the blood line and the legal title to the throne of David through Nathan and Solomon. That is why this information is recorded for us here.  (J.Vernon McGee)

We may not know who and what God will use for His honor in our life and our family. Are we upholding the Word of God to others? There just might be a wise man or rich man in our lineage, but will they be a godly man?

LET IT GO

Keep holding up the standards found in the Word of God to apply in my family and society.

Let go of the past and hold onto faith in the present and future.



 

A New Palace

O. T. #681  "A New Palace"
January 25, 2916
2 Samuel 5-Part 4
...and they built David a new palace.  2 Samuel 5:11 NLT

LET IT GLOW

We spent many years of the 17 years we were gone away from here living in apartments, rent houses, and parsonages. Although they became our home, they just were not ours to do as we pleased. One day, we'd like to have a new house. Oh, don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed living 9 years in the house in which I grew up. However, it is too small to have overnight guests and family visiting. Also, we are at the age that we need two bathrooms. It has met our needs well and I am grateful to my parents for their gift. It would be quite difficult to give up, but maybe she can provide for another family the comfort they need, too. Today we read where David was built a new palace as king. You will never guess who helped build it. Who wouldn't love to have a new palace to live in today?

David had spent about 12 years on the run from King Saul. Then he became king over Judah, the southern region of the nation of Israel, reigning 7 1/2 years. Now David is established as king of Israel, the northern section of the nation of  God's nation. Not only was David established as king, but he was exalted, having been chosen by God.

David's accomplishments were outstanding during the 33 years in Jerusalem.
According to Charles Swindoll's book David, he:

• spread the territory of Israel from 6,000 to 60,000 square miles;
• set up extensive trade routes that reached throughout the known world;
• from that, wealth came into Israel like the nation had never known before;
• unified the nation under Jehovah God, creating a national interest in spiritual things;
• destroyed the idol altars;
• was a remarkable man, a brilliant organizer, manager, planner, and battlefield leader.

What are our accomplishments for the Lord Jesus? Are we bringing others to Him?

LET IT GROW

Can you guess who helped build David a brand new palace to live in as king of Israel? It was a foreigner.

King Hiram was the first international king to recognize David as the leader of Israel. Tyre was dependent on Israel for much of its food and for its inland trade routes. Later on, Hiram (possibly the son of this Hiram) supplied cedar for building the temple (1 Kings 5:1-18). (D. Jeremiah)

Not only did King Hiram send cedar timber, but he also send stonemasons and carpenters to build David a palace. So David got a new house in which to live. Aren't we happy for him, after all the years he didn't have one?

What did David realize, mentioned in verse 12? He realized that the LORD had confirmed him as king over Israel and had greatly blessed his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel.

What better note can we end on today? To have the confirmation that we are in God's will and being blessed while we serve Him in it.

Dear ones, keep on faithfully serving our Lord Jesus until He calls us home or He comes back to earth as King Jesus to reign. Either way, we will be with Him. How glorious that will be! And we will have a new home, too!

LET IT GO

Be content to live wherever God sends and provides.

Faithfully serve Him in my neighborhood and world.

No Part Left Out

O. T. #681  "No Part Left Out"
January 22, 2016
2 Samuel 5-Part 3
...he reigned thirty three years over all Israel and Judah.  2 Samuel 5:5

LET IT GLOW

It is a common thing for us to put together an item needing assembly, isn't it? Well, at our house, we have put together several shelves and computer desks, with parts left over. Does that mean there was a part left out? Not necessarily. Sometimes the manufacturer is kind to include extras. Obviously, there were no needed parts left out.  There was no part of Israel left out that David did not reign as king. Let's see what is happening today. Brr. Winter is here, so I got to go get some hot tea first. Join me?

David established a fort and conquered Jerusalem from the Jebusites. What a victory! David established this city, known as the city of David and Zion, for Israel's capitol. He extended the city starting at the supporting terraces and working inward.

KJV uses the word millo, which means the fill, which probably referred to a fill for defense purposes, like a huge casemate wall.  (Falwell)

MacArthur describes it as stone-filled terraces built to serve as part of Jerusalem's northern defenses, since the city was most open to attack from that direction.

Did you know that terraces were built in biblical times? I learn something new every day from reading God's Word. Are we staying faithful to the reading of His Word? It is quite an adventurous and informative book, as well as encouraging.
Are you waiting for a victory in our life? Keep the faith, dear one, for God knows your needs.


LET IT GROW

As said before, David was 30 years old when he reigned in Jerusalem. He was king over Judah 7 1/2 years before he became king over Israel, where he reigned 33 years. It was the entire nation that David is king of now, northern and southern.

 Verse 9 of NLT says David became more and more powerful, because the LORD of Heaven's armies was with him.

Isn't that what we need-the LORD of Heaven's army with us? He is, Christian. It may not seem like it at times, but His is always with us.  
Do we invite Christ Jesus to reign over all of our life? If He is left out of any part, then we are rebelling  and trouble is coming our way. If He is reigning as king of our heart, then we will have peace and victory.

LET IT GO

                               ...of my will and surrender to God's will.
                               ...and give Him all parts of my life to reign as King Jesus.
                               ...and trust in Him.

Tearing Down Walls

O. T. #680  "Tearing Down Walls"
January 21, 2016
2 Samuel 5-Part 2
David made the fortress his home, and that is why it is called the City of David. He extended the city from the supporting terraces to the surrounding area, while Joab rebuilt the rest of Jerusalem.  2 Samuel 5:7-8


LET IT GLOW

Before we moved into our house, we had to tear down one wall and replace it in our bedroom. Since we were doing that, we replaced the floor, also. I now realize that because people have deeply hurt me throughout the years, I built up walls in my life. That was not going to happen again. I would keep my distance, not become close to others. Let me tell you, that can be a lonely life-no friends. We were meant to not be isolated in our relationships, but have loving relationships. David had to penetrate Jerusalem, though it wasn't through the walls, but another way at first.

The Jebusites, who were the original inhabitants of the land, were living in Jerusalem. They taunted David by saying their blind and lame could keep him out of their city. They thought they were safe, but they did not consider that David's God ,who anointed him as king over all of Israel, was all powerful.

The Jebusites had a clear military advantage, and they boasted of their security behind the impregnable walls of Jerusalem also called Zion. But they soon discovered that their walls would not protect them. (Life Application Study Bible)

David's plan was to enter the city through its water tunnel.  This citadel was Jerusalem's weakest point, called the gutter.

Liberty Bible Commentary explains: The meaning of this word was unknown until the early party of the last century (1900's) when Warren discovered a shaft forty feet deep connecting to a water tunnel that led outside the walls to a water supply used in siege.

Our relationship with God is our only safety and security for our life. Anything else is a false security. Do we think that the mighty walls that surround us will protect us-walls of stone, a comfortable home, a secure job? These can be broken down or taken away from us. God is the only security which cannot be taken away from us. He will never leave us nor forsake us.

In what do we put our security and trust? The devil know where our weakest point is in our life? Is he attacking you there, over and over again? Turn to God and His word for help.

LET IT GROW

David's troops were successful in capturing Mount Zion and became his fort. Then conquering the city of Jerusalem. It became the capital of Israel and known as the city of David. It was near Mount Zion where the temple of Jewish worship was built. Israel built David a palace there and he reigned as king of Israel for 33 years.

Jerusalem is destined to become more than the capital city of a short-lived empire. It will become the Holy City, the center of worship for the Jews, and the city of the death, and resurrection, of Jesus. (Illustrated Bible Handbook by Lawrence O. Richards)

Jerusalem will be the greatest city of the world one day when Jesus comes to reign as its King. All hail King Jesus! We will later live in the New Jerusalem, too. How exciting it will be. We don't want any of our loved ones to miss out, do we? So let's get them ready to be a citizen there by telling them about Jesus, the Savior of the world.
Do we have walls built up in our life so people can not get in to hurt or even love us?

LET IT GO

Tear down the walls that I have built to protect myself form hurts.

Love people to Jesus.

Surrender to Jesus as my King today.

A New King in All of Israel

O. T. #679  "A New King in All of Israel"
January 20, 2016
2 Samuel 5
And they anointed him king of all Israel.  2 Samuel 5:3b

LET IT GLOW

There's a new king in town. He was the shepherd boy that God chose to rule our nation. He is only 30 years old, but he seeks the Lord's will about things and follows the instructions by faith. So God gives him the victory. The new king of Israel is David. Wouldn't that be a great story in the newspaper or on the nightly news? It won't be long until America has a new president. I wonder who it will be. Pray with me that it will be the one God choses for us.

There was no one left in King Saul's family to take over as king of Israel's northern territory, to succeed or claim the throne. Mephibosheth was a crippled child and Jonathan's son, but he did not qualify. It is about time they recognized David was God's anointed choice as their king. He had served 7 1/2 years as king over Judah, the southern section of this nation. Civil war was coming to an end.

Look at verses 1-5. Did you notice that the word all? In this verse, the Hebrew meaning for the word  all  means any, every, altogether. (There are 6 pages in Strong's Exhausted Concordance listing the Old Testament passages which contain the word all.)

Who were the all that is spoken of in these 5 verses?

• all the tribes of Israel (verse 1)
• al the elders of Israel (verse 3)
• all Israel and Judah (verse 5).

All of the tribes of Israel came to David in Hebron. They recalled David had served as a leader in Saul's army. There is a figurative application of David feeding God's people of Israel and being their captain. He was called to shepherd God's flock and be their leader.

All the elders of Israel came to King David in Hebron. Her made a league, covenant, with them. so they anointed David as king over Israel. This is the third time David was anointed-by Samuel. the people of Judah, and now the rest of the tribes. David was 30 years old when he began to reign and he reigned 40 years.

Liberty Bible Commentary informs us that the word anointed (mashach in Hebrew) corresponds to the English words "Messiah" and "Christ."

Is Jesus your Good Shepherd? Who is our king? Is it King Jesus? One day He will rule as king over all the earth for 1,000 years. Are you ready to bow before your King? Does your King have all of you? Have we surrendered our all to Him?

LET IT GROW

Before David goes to Jerusalem to capture the city from the Jebusites (Canaanites), let's see how he prepared.

The One Year Chronological Bible (NLT) jumps to 1 Chronicles 11 and 12. There we find out that David had 120,000 troops armed with every kind of weapon join his army. Israel had a big party which lasted for three days. There was great joy throughout the land of Israel.

When the Philistines heard the latest news, they were determined to capture David. He got wind of this some how and then asked the Lord what he should do. God told David to go fight them, for he would be victorious. And it was so. David captured Jerusalem and the Philistines' idols and burnt them.

Jerusalem is the one city mentioned the most in the Bible. It is located in the northern land of Benjamin. It was an excellent location for a fortified city, since it was on a hill surrounded by deep valleys on three sides. It had a good water supply and was close to travel routes for trade. Neither Judah nor Benjamin tribes were  able to keep possession of Jerusalem.

After a while, the Philistines went to the valley of Rephaim to conquer the Israelites. God gave specific instructions to David as to his procedures in the battle-don't attack them head on, but circle them. When David heard the sound of marching feet in the tree tops, it was a signal that the Lord was moving ahead of them to strike down the Philistines. God gave the victory.

1 Chronicles 14:17 tells us so David's fame spread everywhere, and the LORD caused all the nations to fear David.

Do we seek the Lord's will before we go into a spiritual battle. He has the right technique for our victory? Do follow those directions when we receive them? Are we living by faith or by sight? Following God by faith pleases Him. He can do great things for us if only we ask and obey.

LET IT GO

Ask for God's will before I jump in a situation.

Obey His leading and instructions.

Watch for His victory and give God the glory for it.

At Death's Door

O. T. #678  "At Death's Door"
January 19, 2016
2 Samuel 4-Part 3
As the LORD liveth, who hath redeemed my soul out of all my adversity.  2 Samuel 4:9

LET IT GLOW

The second time I was at death's door followed a colonoscopy test. My sodium and potassium were on the verge of being depleted. (They keep the heart beating.) God in His mercy rescued/redeemed me with several IV's in my arm at the hospital. Certainly, I am thankful for Him. Do you have a Redeemer?

Two men brought to David the head of King Ishbosheth, king of Israel. They were expecting a reward for such a feet. However, David was not willing to give them anything but the sentence of death for their act of murder. Unbeknown to them, they were at death's door. Although they had removed David's last obstacle hindering him from being king over both Israel and Judah, he was not pleased with the way it was obtained.

David recognized God as having redeemed him during those 12 years that Saul hunted him with the intent of killing David.

Redeemed in the Hebrew language means to buy back something that has been given up or sold out. This is an extremely important theological term in both the Old Testament and New Testament. The Bible is in one sense a history of redemption. In the New Testament it is the death of Jesus Christ upon the cross that is the price for buying us back from the certain condemnation and destruction of our sins. The Old Testament shows that God is always working to accomplish the redemption of His people.  (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Others in the Bible have written about their Redeemer:

• Job in Job 19:25,
• David in Psalm 19:14,
• the children of Ephraim, written by David in Psalm 78:35, and
• Isaiah in chapters 41-63.

Jesus is my Blessed Redeemer, as Third Day sings about. Is He your Redeemer? You may encounter people today who need  this Redeemer as their own, although they just may not realize it today. Will we point them to Him and tell them about Him?

LET IT GROW

David did not reward such a murderous action since it was forbidden by God. However, cold-blooded murder was not acceptable by God and David delivered the death penalty.

As this is the year of our presidential election, do we consider candidates who support the Biblical principles that God has provide for us to live by?

LET IT GO

Tell others about our Blessed Redeemer.

Changes

Friends, I have been notified that in order to read my blog, a person must have a goggle address. This saddens me because I can see fewer people coming to read it for the first time. I consider this as a mission project the Lord has called me to do. I am not sure if anything can be done about this decision. However, I will continue to write and praying everyone who has faithfully joined me will continue. 

In His Service and Grace,
Linda

Where Are His Relatives?

O. T. #677 "Where Are His Relatives?"
January 18, 2016
2 Samuel 4-Part 2
One day David asked, "Is there anyone in Saul's family still alive...  2 Samuel 9:1

LET IT GLOW

Friends, I just read that Google is requiring my readers to have a Google account in order to read my postings. I am sorry for this. I wondered why my reading count had diminished lately as well as my having difficulty getting onto the site where I write these posts. It saddens me to think fewer folks will be reading the Word of God with me or find it by accident and still get to read it. Anyway, here we go.

Since Ishbosheth, King Saul's son, has died, the only heir to the throne for Israel was Jonathan's son Mephibosheth.  His original name is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 8:34 as Merib-Baal, which was derived from the idol Baal. Samuel changed his name to Mephibosheth, which means "He Strikes Down Shame." Mep was not a candidate to inherit the throne since he was crippled and a child. Once Ishbosheth was gone, there was no real threat to David's kingship. (D. Jeremiah)

Mephibosheth would have been only 12 years old when Ishbosheth died.
What caused him to be crippled in life?
When Mep was only 5 years old when word came about the death of Saul and Jonathan in the battle with the Philistines. When Mep's nurse heard this news, she picked up the boy and fled. However, in her haste, she dropped him and he became crippled.

Are we careful in our interactions with new Christians? We could end up crippling them spiritually in what we say.

LET IT GROW

We find out more of the story in chapter 9:

• David is king and he inquires about any relatives of Saul's. One of David's servants knew a servant from Saul's family.
• David sent for Ziba, the servant.
• He asked if there was anyone left in Saul's family to whom he could show kindness.
• David was told about Jonathan's son who was crippled in both feet.

We will wait to see how David showed kindness to Mephibosheth when we get to chapters 9, 16, and 19.

Do we seek ways to show kindness to others? Especially to those with whom we do not get along well? Those are the ones we especially need to show the love of Jesus. Do we consider that Christians are all relatives in God's family? How are we treating our relatives?

LET IT GO

                               ...and let God love others through me.

                                ...and forgive those who hurt me.

When the Tables Turn

O. T. #676 "When the Tables Turn"
January 14, 2016
2 Samuel 4
So David ordered his young men to kill them, and they did. 2 Samuel 4:12 

LET IT GLOW

Joab took revenge for his brother Asahel's death by killing Abner, who murdered him. Abner led a rebellion by putting Isbosheth on the throne of Israel after his father died. Speaking in reference to that murderous incident of Joab and Abishai's, David said, "May the Lord repay these evil men for their evil deeds."
Now, we need to endure another murder in our reading about today.

Notice that when the word got out about this, Isbosheth lost all courage and all Israel became paralyzed with fear. His army was weak after Abner was gone. He knows that he doesn't have a chance against David's army so he Isbosheth can maintain control over Israel. Abner was his source of courage instead of God. The king collapsed under the pressure and crisis. What will he do?

When the tables are turn on us, what do we do? Do we seek the Lord's will for us, or do we go with our feelings and our will? Will we allow fear to paralyze us or faith in God and trust him for it? By trusting God, we become bold in our response to the shaking events.


LET IT GROW

Okay now, stay with me on the events leading up to the second murder. There were two brothers, Baanah and Recab, who were captains in Ishbosheth's army and from Beeroth in the territory of Benjamin. I'll call them R & B. One day R & Be went to the king's house around noon when Ishbosheth was taking a siesta. His door keeper was exhausted from sifting wheat and he fell asleep, leaving the king's enterance unguarded.

The NLT gives a footnote saying in the Greek version, "So they went into the house pretending to fetch wheat, but they stabbed him in the stomach. The Recab and Baanah escaped."

The thing is, R & B got into the palace. They struck, killed, and cut off the head of King Isbosheth. How gruesome! These honry guys fled across the Jordan Valley through the night and took the king's head to David. They were thinking David would reward them. Actually, the opposite happened.

David was trusting God to unite Judah and Israel, not as a result of murder. He had R & B killed, then hung their handless and feetless bodies beside the pool of Hebron for an example. Beware lest the table turn on us. We do reap what we sow.

LET IT GO

Watch what I do because I may not like to reap what I sow.

Let God take revenge for me.

Revenge Can Be Deadly

O. T. #675 "Revenge Can Be Deadly"
January 13, 2016
2 Samuel 3-Part 3
So Abner died in revenge for the death of Asahel, Joab's brother.  2 Samuel 3:27b HCSB

LET IT GLOW

Just for review: Abner, who had been Saul's general in his army, made Ishbosheth king over Israel after Saul died. Abner had killed one of Joab's brothers (Asahel) in self-defence. David served as king of Judah during 7 1/2 years.  Then a crazy thing happened-Ishbosheth accused Abner of taking his concubine, which symbolized Abner's desire to take over his kingdom and a traitor, in those days. During Abner's anger, he devised a plan to give David Israel. He even went to David about it, telling him all that was in the works.Of course David was accepting it all. David let Abner be free to return home, but he was encountered along the way by Joab, Asahel's brother. Joab pulled Abner aside like he wanted to talk. Instead, Joab killed Abner, the same way he had killed his brother-stabbing him in the stomach.

What a mess. Jealousy, anger, revenge all lead to no good. They can lead us down the wrong path where we do and say things we often live to regret. They can be deadly, also. Every day we hear in the news was such matters in our neighborhood, state, nation, and world. Are we nipping it n the bud, before it leads to worse sins?

LET IT GROW

David did not know what Joab was doing to Abner. Joab had killed Abner in Hebron, a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7)where Abner should have been safe from an avenger (Numbers 35:22-25). Joab did not care and he did as he pleased. (Life Application Study Bible)

Looking at verse 29, we read of David saying that Joab's descendants would be unclean, unhealthy, and in want. Why was David so harsh?

• David was grieved over the loss of a skilled military officer.
• He wanted to place the guilt of Abner's murder on Joab, not himself.
• He was on the verge of becoming king over the entire nation, and utilizing Abner was the key to winning over the northern tribes. Abner's death could have revived the civil war.
• Joab violated David's agreement to protect Abner. Joab's murderous act ruined David's plans, and David was especially angry that his own commander had committed the crime.(LASB)

Abner was honored with a funeral procession. David ordered Joab to mourn with his people. Maybe others did not know what had happened so David was trying to prevent any more trouble. If it was so, David would not have been thinking about justice but strengthening his kingdom.

David told his soldiers that a great leader had fallen in Israel that day. We have had leaders in our nation who have passed on, also.

Whew! I am glad that is over; but wait, there is another assassination coming in the next chapter.

What can we learn from all of this? We should leave justice to God allowing Him to be the One to take revenge for us. (Romans 12:19) We should not rejoice when our enemy suffers. When we seek revenge on our own terms, we loose peace of mind and lessen the chances of peace with them.

LET IT GO

Be aware of my wrong attitudes towards others.

Confess my sins and ask for love for my enemies.

Recognize those wrong attitudes in other people so I can help them over come them.

                                                   

Now is the Time

O. T. #674 "Now is the Time"
January12, 2016
2 Samuel 3-Part 2
...you wanted to make David your king. Now is the time!  2 Samuel 3:17b-18a NTL

LET IT GLOW

Now is the time. What is it that God has been waiting for you to do, and you have been putting it off? I can think of some things in my own life.

Do you recall who Abner was? He was the chief captain in King Saul's army. Then after Saul's death, Abner raised up Ishbosheth, the son of Saul, to be the next king over Israel. Also, David became king over Judah, the southern portion of God's nation. Keep in mind that this nation was divided into two sections. Some time must have gone by since the names of David's 6 wives and 6 sons in Hebron are listed here.

Well, back to Abner who is our main character today. Abner is accused of having relations with the concubine that to belong to the former Saul, which now belonged to King Ishbosheth. Abner became very angry for the rebuke. Although it was a minor incident, to help us better understand this controversy, we need to know how it was back then-you didn't take the king's woman, any of them.

"Taking a king's concubine was considered a power move for the throne. Abner usurped Ishbosheth's authority so the king made a false accusation against Abner," David Jeremiah explains.

Whether Abner actually took the concubine into his harem, it is debatable. The important thing is Isbosheth felt it was so and Abner was going to attempt to take over his kingdom. If he got caught or was accused, we don't know for sure. Being an older man of high position for quite some time, Abner was not going to listen to the whippersnapper, young king.

We see Abner's reaction, anger that got the better of him and he said some things in verses 7-8:

• Abner asked if he was a dog head. This word can mean to yelp, to attack, or a male prostitute in Hebrew.
• In the NLT, he asked shouting, "Am I some Judean dog to be kicked around like this?"
• After all I have done for your father, Saul, and his family and friends by not handing you over to David, is this my reward-that you find fault with me about this woman?
• Whether it was said in a moment of anger or was on Abner's mind for some time, we can't read between the lines, but Abner promised to do everything he could to help David get what the LORD promised him. Seems that everyone knew God intended David to be king of His nation.
• Abner intended to establish the throne of David over Israel (northern section) and Judah (southern section) of God's nation.
• Ishbosheth didn't dare say another word because he was afraid of what Abner might do.

Wow! What a turn around. David had been king over only Judah for 7 1/2 years. Now it was about to change. God can change the heart of your enemies in a flash! It is remarkable what He can do. Why do we underestimate our God's abilities to change folks? He can turn things around using just the thing which only God knows will bring His result. Keep trusting Him, friends. continue to pray for them.

LET IT GROW

Then Abner sent messengers to David saying, "Doesn't the entire land belong to your? Make a solemn pact with me, and I will help turn over all of Israel to you."

How did David react? He agreed, with one condition-return Michal, David's first wife and Saul's daughter, whom David purchased with the lives of 100 Philistines. (verses 13-14) Abner did so.

Abner consulted the elders of Israel and Benjamin saying, Now is the time! God chose David to save His people Israel from the hands of the Philistines and from all their enemies.

So Abner took 20 men with him to Hebron and David through a great party and feast. Abner offered to call a great assembly in Israel to support David as their king and offered a covenant with David making it so. "You will rule over everything your heart desires, David," Abner offered.

Now is the time. What is it that the Lord has for you to do, for now is the time? Are you listening to His instructions? All things are possible with God.


LET IT GO

                               ... the past, and look to the future.

                                ... of my wants and choose God's desires for me.

                                ... of my will to do His will.

                                ... and trust Jesus to do whatever.

How Many Wives Did David Have?

O. T. #673  "How Many Wives Did David Have?"
January 11, 2016
2 Samuel 3
These are the sons born to David in Hebron...2 Samuel 3:2-5

LET IT GLOW

The civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David was a long drawn out ordeal. It
cost both sides of a nation to weaken-Israel and Judah. They lost sight of God's vision and purpose for them, which was to settle into the Promised Land (Gen 12:7), drive out the Canaanites (Deut. 7:1-4), and obey God's laws (Deut. 8:1). So they fought with each other instead of uniting for those purposes. Their energies depleted and their resources were being exhausted.
Do we ever consider if we have common goals with our enemy that are bigger than our differences?
Do we loose sight of our purpose? How can we work together instead of separate? What would it take to bring us together working toward a common goal?
David grew stronger in Judah and Saul's house grew weaker in northern Israel.


LET IT GROW


David was in Hebron for 7 1/2 years. During that time he committed polygamy. During that time, having more than one wife was a socially acceptable practice by kings. (Keep in mind, David is in his thirty's.) David had six sons by six different wives  mentioned here, while others are mentioned in 5:14. Not mentioned here are Michal, his first wife who returned to David, was barren, and Bethsheba, who wed David in Jerusalem, whose first son with David died. He did not set a good example for his sons to follow. His family became a mess because of it.

Swindoll lists the total size of David's immediate family as 20 sons and 1 daughter, excluding the children of concubines not named in Scripture.

 Polygamy was one of the dark spots in David's life that later came back to haunt him. God warned against it specifically in Deuteronomy 17:14-17.

The MacArthur Bible Commentary explains about the six sons which David born while he is in Hebron:

1. Ammon, son of Ahinoam the Jezreelite; he raped and defiled his half-sister Tamar and later by the command of Absalom, was killed for his crime (chapter 13).
2. Chileab, son of Abigail the widow of Nabal the Carmelite; he apparently died before he was able to enter into position to contend for the throne, because nothing more is said about him.
3. Absalom, son of Maacah, a Geshurite princess from a region in Syria, not Israel; David may have married her as part of a diplomatic agreement made with Taimai, the Geshurite king, to give David an ally north of Ishbosheth; later Absalom, in fear for his life, fled to Geshur.
4. Adonijah, son of Haggith; he was a prominent figure in the contention for David's throne at the end of his reign (1 Kings 1-2), but was assassinated, allowing  the throne to be given to Solomon; she was probably married to David after his accession to the throne.
5. Shephatiah, whose name means "The Lord judges," was the son of Abital, whose name meant "My Divine Father is Dew." (Nothing more is said about them.)
6. Ithream, son of Eglah, last on the list.

The inclusion of these sons indicates all who would have been in contention for the throne. His enormous family became an important issue later in his life. Rape, murder, rebellion, and greed all resulted from the jealous rivalries among the half brothers. Sounds like Jacob. David would have known about his forefather Jacob,his 12 sons and their jealousy with Joseph. But, as now, men's hormones are raging while in their 30's, yet that is no excuse for David's sinful ways.

Are we teaching our sons and grandsons the ways of God concerning commitment to one wife in marriage?

LET IT GO

Try to be at peace with everyone, humbling myself.

Pray for God's solution to resolving my differences with others.

Share God's ways for our life concerning sex and marriage and faithfulness.

Call Off the Dogs

O. T. #672  "Call Off the Dogs"
January 8, 2016
2 Samuel 2-Part 6
When will you call off your men from chasing their Israelite brothers?  2 Samuel 2:26c NLT

LET IT GLOW

In my neck of the woods, a good dog is a protector for its master. You can sick 'em on someone that you don't want in your yard and they will attack to protect their owner. So when a person pulls up their truck in the yard, they better not get out of their until the master has called off their dog, lest they get attacked by the dog. So it was with the army. The leader had to stop his troops from pursuit of the enemy. Such was the case of Joab.

We left a sad scene-Abner, commander of the former King Saul, killed David's nephew, Asahel. Abner warned the young man to go home, but he would not. So Asahel's two brothers, Joab and Abishai set out after Abner to take revenge. The Benjaminites joined Abner's troops to regroup on a hill. Joab and his troops were pursuing them when Abner shouts down a proposal to Joab:

• Must we always be killing each other?
• Don't you realize that bitterness is the only result?
• When will you call off your men from chasing their Israelite brothers?

Apparently Joab listened to Ahab. Joab answer to Ahab, "God only knows what would have happened if you hadn't spoken, for we would have chase you all night if necessary." So Joab and his men stopped chasing Ahab. Joab and his troops let Ahner and his troops pass by through the Jordan valley. All returned home.

When Joab and his troops returned home, their death toll was 19, yet Ahab's  was 360, all from the tribe of Benjamin. Joab took his brother's body to Bethlehem and buried him.

Are we the peace maker when a dispute occurs? Instead of people getting hurt in our own disagreement, do we call off the dogs and settle it with forgiveness and "I'm sorry?" Disputes between neighbors have been known to last for decades with the families always trying to take revenge. It takes a bigger person to forgive and love in spite of.

LET IT GROW

After burying his brother, Joab and his troops traveled all night to return home at Hebron by daybreak. He called off the dogs. (Joab was winning the battle, but he was killing his relatives in the process. He could have wiped them out at the rate they were going, but chose not to do so.)

Looking at chapter 3 and verse 1, we read of a summary of all this mess.

That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul's dynasty became weaker and weaker.

Looks like they realize that their enemy is not each other, but the Philistines, as we go into the third chapter.

Are we fighting the wrong ones? Do we realize that the devil is our real enemy, not that person?

LET IT GO
                      and forgive.
                                 and love my so called enemy.
                                 and recognize the devil as my actual enemy.
                                 and call off the dogs; talk good and not bad about the person.

Is it Worth it After All?

O. T. #671 "Is it Worth it After All?
January 7, 2016
2 Samuel 2-Part 5
"Go fight someone else!" Abner warned.  2 Samuel 2:21a

LET IT GLOW

I have made some wrong decisions in my lifetime. I paid the price for them, too. Today we see how David's nephew made a wrong decision and paid for it.

The civil war continues in Israel and weakens her. This internal war was between the north and south (David's kingdom of Judah).
J.V. McGee said it depleted the resources and energy of the nation. It was indeed a tragic thing.

First, let's look at David's side. Did you know David had a sister? We know he had 7 brothers. David's father Jesse brought them to Priest Samuel as he looked for the next king of Israel appointed by God. Then David turned out to be the one, found in 1 Samuel 16. However, there is no mention of David having a sister in that particular story. She is not included in the list of women of the Bible as having achieved or being special in someway. She is known for being the mother of her 3 sons. Anyone know what I'm talking about? Others don't remember your name, but they know you are your son or daughter's mother? Yes, indeed. But that's okay.

Well, Zeruiah, David's sister, had 3 sons mentioned in verse 18: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. They are in their Uncle David's army.
What do we know about these 3 guys?

• Joab was the leader of David's military force. We already read about his meeting with Abner, who had been Saul's army leader and made Ishbosheth king of the northern section of Israel.
• Abishai accompanied David to the camp of Saul when David had the opportunity to kill Saul and encouraged the murder of Saul, but David refused.
• Asahel is described as being single-minded with dogged determination; though he was extremely flee-footed, his determination proved to be fatal in verse 23. (MacArthur)

David could not have had more supportive leaders in his military than these three men, granted, they were family, too.

How supportive are we to our family members, our extended family members? As age has creped up on me, it seems to have drawn my cousins closer together. This could have been due to our closeness during our childhood. Although, the teen times and young adult times, we went our own ways. It is great to renew these bonds.

LET IT GROW

Now that we know who these guys are, let's look at what they did. Do you will recall that little contest or battle between Abner and Joab's 12 warriors each? They represented Saul and David. All of those men died, thus David's forces defeated Abner. This kind of strife continues.

What happens next?

• Asahel, who runs fast, chases Abner, not stopping for anything.
• Abner asks Asahel if it was him, and he affirmed it.
• Abner tells Abishel to take on one of the younger men, but Abishel does not do so.
• Abner warned Abishel to go away or he'd kill him.
• Abishel refused.
• Abner rammed the butt of his spear through Asahel's stomach, coming out his back. That must have been some force to do that.
• Asahel died and was left where he fell. People would pass by tht spot and see him.

I think that is enough of killings for one day, as least for me.

Persistence is a good trait if it is for a worthy cause. But if the goal is only personal honor or gain, persistence may be nor more than stubbornness. Asahel's stubbornness not only cost him his life, but it also spurred unfortunate disunity in David's army for years to come (1 Kings 2:28-35). Before you decide to pursue a goal, make sure it is worth your devotion.  (Life Application Study Bible)

What are out motives? Although we should do our best, is our pursuit of a goal going to cost us and others in the long run? Sometimes a promotion requires more time away from family. Is it worth it after all?

LET IT GO

Be sure my motives for doing things are not for selfish gain.

Consider if others will or will not benefit.

Am I being warned to stop a pursuit, like Asahel?

More importantly, is it God's will for me at this time?

Who is Molding Your Life?

O. T. #670  "Who is Molding Your Life?
January 6, 2016
2 Samuel 2-Part 4
"O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the Lord. "Look, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel!"  Jeremiah 18:6

LET IT GLOW

Clay has no plans of its own, no aspirations for service, nor reluctance to perform its given task. It is just clay. Moldable, pliable , totally submissive to the will of its master. God looks for those who will allow Him to shape them into the instruments He requires to do His divine work. He can mold us into whatever kind of instrument He requires. (Blackaby)

Are we willing to be moldable clay in God's hands? Abner was not; David was.

Two new kings for the nation Israel? How does this work for them? Shall we check it out?

• Abner, who served as King Saul's commander in his army and was loyal to the king and his descendants, made a decision. He made Ishbosheth, Saul's son, king over the northern tribes of Israel. (Abner would have known that David was God's intended next king.) Abner must have had a considerable amount of political power.
• Ishbosheth was 40 years old and only reigned 2 years. This was the name the writer of this book used for him. Actually, Ishbosheth's name meant "Man of the Shameful Thing." His name was originally Esh-Baal. Such name changes probably occurred when Baal worship rose in popularity. (MacArthur) 
• At this point, David controlled Judah and Simeon and the Philistines retained control over large sections of the north, so Ishbosheth's kingdom was actually quite small. There is no evidence that he had widespread support among the Israelites. (D. Jeremiah)

What can we learn from this? Evil is always fighting the good ones. Are we letting God fight the battles for us? He can melt those strong wills like clay on the potter's wheel formed with water. If it does not turn out like the potter wishes, he can start over.

LET IT GROW

One day Abner and Joab (leader of David's army) met at the pool of Gibeon (where Saul was from) in an attempt to prevent civil war (verses 12-13) Their efforts did not work.

Rather than an all-out war, Abner proposed a representative contest between champions on behalf of the opposing armies. Because all 24 of the contestants lay fallen and dying in combat (verse 15,16), the contest settled nothing, but exciting passions so that a battle between the two armies ensued (v. 17). (MacArthur)

How gruesome! Each one grabbed his opponent by the hair and thrust his sword into the other's side so that all of them died. A fierce battle followed that day  and Abner and the men of Israel were defeated by the forces of David.
To me, it was such a needless battle, but Abner was determined to be in power. He didn't stop to think that God was on David's side so that meant he would have victory.
Israel was divided north and south., so there was tension between them. Since this took place at Gibeon, it is suggested that Joab was gaining more territory and Abner was attempting to stop it.

Why can't people settle their differences? Self gets in the way, raising its ugly head, resulting in sin.
Do we keep settling the small squabbles before they become outright war? 

LET IT GO

Submit to God's agenda.

Be like clay.

Allow Him to shape me into the person He wants me to be.

Showing Kindness

O. T. #669  "Showing Kindness"
January 5, 2016
2 Samuel 2-Part 3
verse????

LET IT GLOW

It is never out of style to show kindness. Saying thank you goes a long way, too. Sometimes it isn't what you say, but stopping to listen to someone that is he kind gesture. It may be the only personal touch of love that person gets today.

So David and his people moved into Hebron as God directed, and ruled there for 7 1/2 years as their king. He was coming back home to his family roots, the tribe of Judah.This was only a section of Judah, though. We could describe those years as his being humbly and patiently waiting upon God's timing for his kingdom to expand. Although he was limited in his reign, David doesn't complain.

Life Application Study Bible  and The MacArthur Bible Commentary give us some information about this city:

• This was the largest city at that time, so later on David made it his capital.
• Hebron was centrally located in Judah and the highest elevation of any town in Judah.
• Many key trade routes converged at Hebron, making it difficult for supply lines to be cut of in wartime.
• Hebron was located about 20 miles south southwest of Jerusalem.
• Abraham had live there and Caleb was given the land when the tribes of Israel distributed their Promised Land.
• Since David's anointing as king had previously been a private matter with only Priest Samuel and David's family in attendance, the men of Judah publicly anointed him as their king.(v. 4)

David had waited 12-15 years for his moment. Everyone knew about it, even the Philistines. Can you imagine knowing something was going to happen to you and waiting that long for it come to pass?

It is important to determine the will of God before any action is taken. David's public anointing as king would be an opportunity for other tribes to align themselves with David. (Falwell)



LET IT GROW

David sent messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead who had cremated and buried Saul. What was the complimentary message in verses 5-7?

• May the LORD bless you for being so loyal and showing kindness to your master, Saul.
• May the LORD show His kindness and truth by rewarding you with his unfailing love in return.
• David said he would reward them for what they had done, also.
• He asks them to be strong and loyal subjects like the people of Judah, who anointed him as their king.

David is thanking those men for their kindness in recovering the dead bodies of Saul and Jonathan  from the Philistines and taking care of them. He is asking them to join him and the people of Judah so they present a united front to their enemies. David is calling them to a political unity under God and asking them for support as king.

Do we express thankfulness to those who do good deeds in the kingdom work? Are we showing kindness to those who are our teachers and preachers of the Word of God?

LET IT GO

Be a faithful servant of God.

Show His kindness and appreciation to others.

Determine God's will each day for my life and be obedient to wait or carry it out as He leads.

What do we do After the "After?"

O. T. #668  "What do we do After the 'After?'"
January 3, 2016
2 Samuel 2
After this, David...   2 Samuel 2:1

LET IT GLOW

HAPPY NEW YEAR, YA'LL!!!!!!

Did we finish well last year? Did we end on the right note? Did we achieve our goals and resolutions? Did we keep the faith? What kind of witness were we? How did God's grace, joy, and love touch our life?
Were we gracious, joyful, and loving toward others?
Wait a minute. This isn't the end of the road. some of us still have a few more miles to go. We aren't finished here until we take our last breath. Our race isn't over yet. We continue to need the Master's touch. Where is our focus? Are our eyes upon Jesus? God has placed each of us in a specific place and time for His purpose, as was the case with David.

Hebrews 12:2 says, Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.

With all that said and done, let's look at David's life. He is 30 years old now and is getting ready to become Judah's new king. It had been a while since God through Samuel anointed him as king back in his teen years. Twelve years or so David was a fugitive on the run from Saul who sought to kill him. How many hours did he spend discouraged and disillusioned in the wilderness? We have evidence with the Psalms David wrote.

David prepares to reign over God's chosen nation for the next 40 years. He seemed to have grown up now, ready to take on the responsibilities appointed to him. He continued to love God and grow strong in faith. David learned from the past and looked to the future.

Look at verse 1. A new chapter in David's life is about to be written. It begins with the words he spoke to God, After this, David asked the LORD...

After all the bad stuff, after surviving a tragedy, after a challenging year, after the death of a loved one, after your spouse left, after making a life-changing decision, after getting laid off from your job, after_______. (You fill it in to fit your situation.)

What do you do after the "after?" How do you pick up the pieces and carry on or run away? How do you get back on the horse and ride into the sunset, as a cowboys did in the westerns?


LET IT GROW

David's "after" was referring to their time of mourning Saul and Jonathan's deaths. David  asked his LORD what he should do. Wise step, David. God knows the best direction for us to take. He has the best path mapped out if we would only seek it.

What did David ask? If he should go up to one of the cities of Judah. (Was it time now?)
God told David to go up. (That was a yes.)
David asked where he should go to. (He wanted to be in the appointed place. Enough of running around.)
God told him to go to Hebron. (When David asked a specific question, God gave a specific answer.)

There, David reigns for 7 1/2 years in Judah at Hebron. Does he complain or get anxious? No, David waited patiently upon the Lord. He didn't rush into Jerusalem and take over.

So David and his enterouge of two wives, family, and 7,000 men army with their families and animals journeyed to Hebron and settled in there. Such humility we can admire in David.

Ahhh-verse 4, finally it happened. We waited a long time for his "then": Then the men of Judah came to David and anointed him king over the people of Judah. (NLT)

After the "after" then a "THEN." So the waiting is worth a "then" to happen. Keep the faith, dear struggling one. Your "then" will come in Gods timing.

It took our church 3 years to build a new sanctuary, debt free. Before that, we spent a few years with making plans for the wrong type of building. We spent, wasted, thousands of dollars on architects for it. We struggled with getting local governmental approvals. Finally, when we backed off and sought the Lord's direction, it all fell into place, even the money and workers. To God be the glory!

We made it through all the struggles, controversies, and  discouragements, as David. Where we are now is-we are after the "after," and now then we are waiting for the "then." After building the building, we have been praying, and feel we are suppose to build the church (people). People are getting a vision for visitation. It is exciting times. So many in our small community are lost and need our Savior; they need a loving family; they need a purpose for living; they need help with children, etc.
Your neighborhood in your world needs the same things, too. After your "after," pray, then your "then" will happen. This could be the year that God does something marvelous in your life! Just think, there are dozens of things God wants to teach us and dozens of ways He wants to work in our midst.

LET IT GO

Pray, pray, pray.

Submit to God.

Listen to God.

Obey God.

Watch Him work.

Give God the glory.