A Bloody Mess

O. T. #970  "A Bloody Mess"
April 28, 2017
2 Chronicles 22
But when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the seed royal of the house of Judah. 2 Chronicles 22:10

LET IT GLOW

This is a rather difficult chapter. Hopefully this will help clear up any confusion:

1. Names are confusing due to the writer Ezra used two different names for one king (Ahaziah and Azariah). Also, he is the same person in 21:17-Jehoahaz.Who knows why this happened, but it is a mess to keep straight.
2. There were two kings, from the northern and southern nations, with the same name-Ahaziah. Although Israel's Ahaziah ruled for 2 years from 853B.C.-852B.C. and Judah's king Ahaziah ruled for only 1 year, 841B.C., after him.
3. Since Ezra focused on the nation of Judah's history,  chart shows after the godly King Jehoshaphat ruled 25 years, then came 2 evil kings (Jehoram and Ahaziah) and one evil queen (Athaliah), who was the daughter of King Ahab and Jezebel of Israel.
4. An evil king is in reference to them worshiping an idol (Baal in this time) and not worshiping God.

King Jehoram in chapter 21, was married to Athaliah, identified above. So keep in mind, her family influence was great and evil. She was the queen in Judah. After her husband died, their son, Ahaziah ruled. He was the youngest son, due to his brothers being killed, that reigned.

What is told about King Ahaziah?

• He only ruled one year as king in Judah.
• His walk of life was in the ways of the house of Ahab, since his mother gave him wicked counsel, encouraging him to do wrong. 
• He did evil in the sight of the LORD.
• His advisors led to ruin.
• He joined Jehoram, king of Israel and Ahab's son, to war with Syria, of which they lost. Jehoram was injured during that battle.
• He went to visit Jehoram, maybe took a fruit basket, well, maybe not.
• While there, this guy Jehu came and killed Ahaziah's nephews, which was of God, for the Lord annointed Jehu to cut off the house of Ahab. Ahaziah fled to Samaria, but was found and brought to Jehu and slain.

This is a bloody period. What a bloody mess, for sure. God recorded it to teach us that He judges sin. We don't get by with sin. May as well fess up, for we will sooner or later.
We need to warn folks that our sins will find us out, eventually.


LET IT GROW

Now we read of Queen Athaliah reign in Judah.

•  She had influence in her son's life led him to moral corruption, idolatry, and folly in being induced to war with the Syrians. (MacArthur)
• She arose and destroyed all the seed royal of the house of Judah, except for one (Joash who was 1 year old and hid in the Temple from her.) Had she been successful, the line of David would have been destroyed and the coming Messiah would not have been of that lineage. So God protected this little one from the evil one. Similar to the happening of Pharoah trying to destroy the baby boys in Egypt, but Moses was hid and spared his life; Herod trying to kill the baby Messiah in Bethlehem, so Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt.
• What an evil woman-she killed her own grandchildren! Her thirst for power was unquenchable.

Makes me want to puke. How could a woman do such a heartless thing to her own family! Satan has always been active in believers' lives, striving to bring destruction.
But God stepped in and the priests and Levites protected this next king and line of David for 6 years. Can you wait to read how this evil is ended and good prevails? Read the next chapter. YES! God's plan is carried out.

Here's some advice from Life Application Study Bible: When you seek words of advice, listen carefully and use God's Word to test all things. Hold on to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21).


LET IT GO

Endure the evil deeds and words of others while staying faithful to God.

Forgive those who trespass against me. In the same way I forgive others, I will be forgiven.

Even if they don't ask my forgiveness, I must forgive them in order to please God.

Trust God with the outcome-good prevails against evil.

Promises Kept and Broken

O. T. #969  "Promises Kept and Broken"
April 27, 2017
2 Chronicles 21-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

How many are hurting today due to a loved one not keeping their promise? Even though people fail, there is One who keeps His promises. Read on with me today friends to find out who it is and find encouragement.

What Jehoram deserved was being destroyed by God. Yet, God's grace was shown due to His promise of the Davidic dynasty to have a lasting king in Judah of David's family on the throne forever. Jehoram was very wicked, killed his brothers and other rivalries to the throne. He turned from worshiping God to Baal worship, which was idolatry, and led Judah down that path of sin. (But the  line of David continued on, even through unfaithful king of Judah.)

Before this time, the prophet Elijah confronted the 450 prophet of Baal at a campfire, only they began with  watered down wood and God showed Himself all-powerful as He brought down fire from heaven and consumed Elijah's sacrifice and not Ahab's (1 Kings 18). Elisha took Elijah's place, performing several miracles found in 2 Kings 2-8.

Under the Davidic covenant God made, He promised to give a light to him and his sons forever. That light was Jesus Christ, a descendant of Judah and David, who is the Messiah and Savior.

Are there times that we need reassured that God keeps His promises to us? What does the New Testament say?

God is faithful, by whom we were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.  (1 Corinthians 1:9)

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Faithful is He that calleth you who also will do it.  (1 Thessalonians 5:24)

Let's hold onto the promises of God, friends. God is faithful, although we may not see it right now. Be assured, He is working things out for His glory and our good. Are we remaining faithful to God, even when people do not keep their promises to us?

LET IT GROW

During Jehoram's reign, the Edomites revolted against Judah and crowned their own king. You will recall that he Edomites were a part of the army alliance with the Moabites and Ammonites to fight Judah in the last chapter. God turned those enemies of Judah against themselves and killed each other.
What did Jehoram do? He led his full army with chariots to fight, but the Edomites surrounded them Jehoram's army rose up at night and killed the Edomites around them. Even so, the Edomites remained independent from Judah. At the same time, Libnah revolted from under Jehoram's rule, because he had forsaken the GORD God of his fathers.

God sent a message through Elijah to the king, saying because of his whoring with other gods, a great plague would come upon the people and Jehoram would have a great sickness from a bowel disease (a form of dysentery). Sure enough, the king suffered with an incurable disease in his bowels for two years before his death.

Jehoram only reigned as king over Judah for 8 years, yet his bad influence remained-the worship of idols.

He was not killed in battle or by treachery-he died by a lingering and painful disease. Punishment for sin is not always immediate or dramatic. But if we ignore God's laws, e will eventually suffer the consequences of our sin.  (Life Application Study Bible)

Folks, there is no guarantee that if we raise up a child in church and God's Word, that they will not turn away. Such was the case of Jehoram. His father Jehoshaphat was very faithful to God. The child becomes an adult making their own decisions and are responsible for their own actions. However, we can pray for their repentance and return to faith in God. How many testimonies are there like the prodical son! Pray for our loved ones who have gone astray. Where is the verse that says when the straying child is old they will not depart from their teachings of God?

Proverbs 22:6 promises us Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

Have we seen this in action? In our storms, God is faithful.

LET IT GO

Hold onto a faithful God.

Pray for our loved ones who have allowed broken promises to discourage them in their faith.

Keep training those sweet children in God's Word; difficulties will be encountered and their faith challenged; pray for them daily that their faith in God will not fail.

When it Does Not Look Good

O. T. #968  "When it Does Not Look Good"
2 Chronicles 21
April 26, 2017
But when Jehoram had become solidly established as king, he killed all his brothers and some of the other leaders of Judah.  2 Chronicles 21:4 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Oh dear ones, this does not look good, by only reading the first four verses, I can tell. Just when I learned to spell his name, King Jehoshaphat up and dies. Well, looking at a chart of the kings of Judah and Israel, after David and Solomon reigned as kings over a united Israel, it split into two nations of Judah and Israel Now there followed Solomon the 2 bad kings, which refers to their worshiping idols and not God, named Rehoboam and Abijah. Then two good kings, Asa and son Jehoshaphat, brought Judah revival, back to worshiping God. Now, sadly, the next 3 kings of Judah returned to idolatry. That is where we are in this chapter.

Who was King Jehoram?

• He was the oldest son of Jehoshaphat who became (was designated as) Judah's king following his father.
• He had 6 brothers, whose names are mentioned in verse 2.
• Each of Jehoshaphat's sons received valuable gifts of gold and silver and costly items, as well as some of Judah's fortified (fenced)towns. (verse 3)
• Most likely Obadiah prophesied during this king's reign, MacArthur tells us.

So far, so good. but we know a spiritual decline is coming.
Are we staying faithful to God each day as we read His Word, pray, and live His way a Spirit controlled life? Even when those around us turn away?

LET IT GROW

Hold onto your hat because evil is coming to Judah:

• King Jehoram was married to Athaliah, who was one of the daughters of King Ahab and Jezebel (the most wicked woman ever known) of Israel. (What a mistake, for that family worshiped an idol Baal instead of God.)
• He learned to do evil from them.
• Jehoram became solidly established and then he killed his brothers and some of the other leaders in Judah.

How horrid! In doing this, Jehoram certainly eliminated all his completion. He and his wife started changing Judah into a nation like Israel, where assassination was a preferred method of changing government.
God was so gracious to not destroy Judah.


LET IT GO

Keep serving God where He has put me, even when my situation does not  good.

Stay faithful, even when others around me are rebellious.

Need Rest Round About You?

O . T. #966  "Need Rest Round About You?"
April 24, 2017
2 Chronicles 20-Part 3
And he walked in the way of Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing that which was right in the sight of the LORD. 2 Chronicles 20:32

LET IT GLOW

The two verses which stand out in this chapter are around the battle in which Judah joined Israel against those 3 "ite" groups-verse 15b says, ...for the battle is not yours, but God's  and verse 21 says Praise the LORD; for His mercy endureth forever.

We left the army of Judah marching into Jerusalem carrying the spoils of the battle, in which they did not have to fight, for God caused their enemies to turn on each other and demolished all of themselves.
So the realm of Jehoshaphat was quiet: for his God gave him rest round about.

Now who couldn't use some "rest round about you?" I sure could. There have some turmoil issues surrounding me, one after another attack I coming. I feel like a pioneer traveling in a wagon train that is surrounded by Indians, as in the westerns. Well, the only difference is my battles are the Lord's, not mine to worry about, for I will praise Him though it because His mercy endures forever. Do I hear an amen? (I have to keep reminding myself of it today.)

LET IT GROW

Okay, do you recall those 3 unwise decisions which King Jehoshaphat made?
He allowed his son to marry King Ahab's daughter of Israel (family worshiped the idol Baal) and he joined Ahab in fighting Israel's enemies. The third mistake he made was to ally himself with the very wicked King Ahaziah in an attempt to gain wealth. (Wiersbe)

Although this king did what was pleasing in the Lords sight, he did not remove all the pagan shrines in the land, so the people never fully committed themselves to follow the God of their ancestors.

Together Joe and Ahaziah built a fleet of trading ships. Eliezer prophesied against Jehoshaphat:
Because you have allied yourself with King Ahaziah, the Lord will destroy your work. (verse 37b) So the ships met with disaster and never put out to sea.

God wrecked the ships and put the whole enterprise to an end? Yep, the king lacked discernment and let himself get involved in another alliance which was helping the enemy and brought disgrace upon the name of the Lord. Why did he not learn from his previous alliance?
Do we know people like that? They seem to make the same mistakes over and over again, lacking discernment. Maybe we are included there.

Do we pray about situations? Is it the best solution to my problems? Is this partnership the best idea, with our goals being the same? Are we both believers? Those are a few things to consider before making a partnership.

LET IT GO

Instead of striking back, ask God to take your case, bring justice, and restore your reputation. (Unknown source)

But I have spared you for a purpose-to show you My power and to spread My fame throughout the earth. (Exodus 9:16 NT)

James tells us to ask God for wisdom.

On Time to Gather the Goodies

O. T . #966 "On Time to Gather the Goodies"
April 24, 2017
2 Chronicles 20-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

King Jehoshaphat ordered Judah to fast and he was crying out to God in prayer while standing in the courtyard of the Temple. Why were they so desperate? Their enemies, the Moabites and Ammonites (descendants of Lot) , and Edomites (Syria), although distant relatives, were on their way to attack Judah. (God prohibited Israel from destroying them, even though those nations would not allow Israel to pass through their land on the way to the Promised Land, back in Deuteronomy 2.) The king was inquiring of God what they should do.

The Lord sent an answer through Jahaziel, who was a descendent of Asaph in David's time:

• Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's. (verse 15)
• Tomorrow march out against them.
• You will find them coming up through the ascent of Ziz at the end of the valley that opens into the wilderness of Jeruel.
• But you will not even need to fight.
• Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord's victory.
• He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem.
• Do not be afraid or discouraged.
• Go out against them tomorrow, for the LORD is with you!

Does it sound familiar? Those were David's words, The battle is not yours, but God's, to the Philistines and Goliath in I Samuel 17:47.

Do we organize everything in our family around God? Or are our schedules made around our children's activities? Which gets priority when there is a conflict in Bible study at church or ball games?

Are we on the Lord's side when the enemy comes against us? Will we stand and watch Him fight for His children? Will we do what is right or yield to the wrong?

He will never leave us.  God will be our strength when we ask. Our God is the Lion of Judah. He will fight for us, all we need to do is praise Him.

LET IT GROW

The king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the LORD and praising Him for His holy splendor, singing:
Praise the LORD; for His mercy endureth for ever. (verse 21)

What happened?
At that moment, when they began to sing to praise the Lord, He set ambushments (liers in wait) against Judah's enemies; then they turned on each other, fighting and destroying themselves.

Liberty Bible Commentary explains:

Whether the Lord employed supernatural agents or surprised the enemy by an unexpected attack by the inhabitants of the area, is not clear. What is clear is that the Lord inflicted the enemy nations with panic and turned them on each other, and every one helped to destroy another. (Similar to Gideon's circumstance in Judges 7) When Judah arrived on the scene, they were too late for the battle, but right on time to take away the spoil of them.

 Not a single one of the enemy escaped. Judah was too late for the battle, for God had already taken care of things before they arrived. What a wonderful and powerful God we serve! Who wouldn't rather be too late to fight, but on time to gather the goodies.

Judah got the plunder-equipment, clothing, other valuables-more than they could carry. There was so much that it took them 3 days just to collect it all. On the fourth day, Judah met in the Valley of Berchah (Blessing), which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the LORD there.

Can you imagine the excitement when the king and the army of Judah returned to Jerusalem playing instruments and overjoyed for the victory the LORD had given them over their enemies. They marched to the Temple.

On top of all of that, the fear of God came upon all the surrounding kingdoms that heard how God had fought against the enemies of Israel. There was peace for Jehoshaphat's kingdom for God gave him rest on every side.

LET IT GO

Stand for God's Word and ways.

Trust Him to fight my battles.

Wait upon the Lord God.

Praise Him for the victories.

Utterly Dependent

O. T. #965  "Utterly Dependent"
April 21, 2017
2 Chronicles 20
You are powerful and mighty; no one can stand against you! 2 Chronicles 20:6

LET IT GLOW

Quick, do something Jehoshaphat. Your enemy is moving into your territory. What are you going to do? Text your commanders. Get those swords and cannons ready. Well, I got a little carried away there. Who do we turn to in our time of desperate need? Who is our utter dependence upon to rescue us? God is my refuge and strength. What about you, friends? Are we like children who are utterly dependent upon their parents for everything-utterly dependent upon God?

Utterly is an adverb which means completely.
So am I completely dependent upon my God for everything?

What was going on? The Moabites and Ammonites, descendants of Lot, were located east of the Jordan River, while the Edomites, children of Esau, lived on the south. Those armies were moving around the south end of the Dead Sea, as far north as En-Geedi, at the middle of the western shore. The enemies were invisible to the people on the other side of the mountains to the west, which was a common route.

What was King Jehoshaphat's response to the news? It was the combination of prayer (verses 3-13), prophecy (verses 14-17), and praise (verses 18-22) that brought him the victory.

Taking a closer look at the events which led up to God's victory for Judah, we see:

• The king was terrified of the news and begged the LORD for guidance.
• He ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting-a national fast; throughout Judah they sought the LORD's help. No that was getting serious, going without food to pray. Reminds me of Esther.
• Jehoshaphat lead the way as he stood in the courtyard of the Temple and prayed to their God.
• He acknowledged God's sovereignty. (verse 6) God is the only God in heaven; ruler over all the kingdoms of the earth; He is all-powerful and mighty, so none can stand against Him.
• He reminded God of His previous acts of mercy. God had driven out Israel's enemies when they entered the Promised Land; He gave them land promised to Abraham; God's people settled there and built Him a Temple to honor His name; when they were face with calamity like war, plague, or famine, God's people could stand in His presence and cry out for Him to save them, thus God would hear and rescue them.
• Won't You stop them, God? We are powerless.
• We don't know what to do, so we look to You for help.

Talk about being desperate, humble, and sincere. The king was begging God for help.
Do we as leaders ask God for His direction? Do we intercede for our national leaders, asking God to give them wisdom in their daily decisions? Now is a crucial time, with the threats of enemies of ISIS and North Korea. It is a real time of need for our nation and our world. Will you join me in prayer? It is time for us to get serious in our Christian walk, don't you think so?

LET IT GROW

Jehoshaphat made the appropriate spiritual response-appealing to God in prayer and fasting, His promises, and the glory and reputation of God, which were at stake since He was associated with Judah. (MacArthur)

In our prayers, we, too should acknowledge God's:

• sovereignty,
• presence,
• goodness,
• possession, and
• our utter dependence upon Him. (verses 6-12) (The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

If you wish to find out how God responded to this king's prayer and this nation's fasting, read on. We will discuss it next time.
In the meantime, are we utterly depending upon God for all our needs? His love and mercy never end.


LET IT GO

Acknowledge my utter dependence upon God, and our nation, too.

Thank God for His faithfulness, goodness, and presence.

Pray and fast for a national revival.

Ask for God's protection over us and His beloved Israel.

Thank Him and praise the One True Living God.

Settling Squabbles

O. T. #964  "Settling Squabbles"
April 21, 2017
2 Chronicles 19-Part 2
You must always act in the fear of the LORD, with faithfulness and an undivided heart. 
 2 Chronicles 19:9

LET IT GLOW

As a teacher, I spent many years settling squabbles among children. I tried to do so being just and doing what was right and showing impartiality. Parents do a similar thing between siblings every day. When people live together, disagreements will occur. Judah's king knew it was important to settle disagreements and handle lawbreakers. He established some guidelines. 

King Jehoshaphat of Judah appointed judges, instructed them how to render judgment. He reformed the judicial system in Jerusalem. Some of the judges were Levites and priests, only accountable to the Lord. Amariah the high priest was their supervisor, not the king. They would serve as an appeals court for the regional judges. The final authority in case which involved the king himself, was Zebadiah, ruler of the house of Judah, along with the Levites.

Are we praying for our Supreme Court justices as they interpret the laws of our land and make important decisions?

LET IT GROW

What were the principles the king established for those judges to rule?
The MacArthur Bible Commentary lists them as being:

1. accountability to God (verse 6)
2. integrity and honesty (verse 7)
3. loyalty to God (verse 9)
4. concern for righteousness (verse 10)
5. courage (verse 11).

In verse 7, the king tells the judges to let the fear of the LORD be upon them and to take heed and do it. He instructed them to show no injustice, partiality, nor take bribes.

Look at verse 9. Jehoshaphat charged the judges to always:

• act in the fear of the Lord, with faithfulness and an undivided heart;
• not sin against the Lord so he would not be angry with them, lest the judges be guilty of the same;  
• take courage as they fulfilled their duties, and may the Lord be with those who do what is right.

Doe that sound like good instructions for us who are leaders in the church and in other organizations, doesn't it?

LET IT GO

Fear the Lord God with faithfulness and an undivided heart.

Sin not against the Lord.

Be honest and show integrity.

Be courageous as I do right, asking the Lord God to direct me.

Caught Up in the Moment

O. T. #963  "Caught Up in the Moment"
April 19, 2017
2 Chronicles 19

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever been with a group and got caught up in the moment, said or did something you regretted later? Been there, done that. Who hasn't?
I wonder if King Jehoshaphat got caught up in the moment as he spoke with King Ahab about their huge armies and victories of their two countries. Whatever happened, Joe went out to battle with Ahab, king of Israel, to help him fight his battle. He should have let the king fight his own battles and not get involved. It almost cost Joe his own life, as it did Ahab.

Well, King Jehoshaphat got home, then what happened?

• He returned in peace. (verse 1)
• He was met by Prophet Jehu with a rebuke his alliance with Ahab-Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you. (verse 2 NIV)
• However, Joe did some good by removing the idols in Judah, reforming Judah, and setting his heart on seeking God.

Who doesn't agree with Jehu? What a dangerous expedition for a king of an outside country to butt in and involve his army in a little squabble. Helping the ungodly, too. And to beat all, for him to wear his kingly robe, probably purple, on the battlefield-a bright and distinct target.
Joe had done such good things beforehand, then was caught up in the moment. He should have never gone to visit his ungodly man and would not have gotten tempted to get involved.

Sometimes it I better for us to stay at home. Sometimes it is not, as in David's case. Do we repent and repair the damage we do while in sin?
Our daily decisions do have consequences. Do we look at all angles when making decisions? Lead me today, Lord Jesus, where you want me to go. Guide my footsteps.


LET IT GROW

In verses 5-11, King Jehoshaphat initiated new reforms within Judah's judicial system.
What is a godly judge like?

• They recognize that they are not judging for man, but for the Lord. (verse 6)
• They act out of fear for God, respect Him and His laws, and not out of fear of the people.
• They show no injustice, no partiality (no respect of persons), nor do they take bribes (gifts). (verse 7)

Moses had chosen men who were capable faithful and honest to help him judge disputes among the people in Exodus 18:21-22). Effective leaders get the job done, faithful leaders make sue the fob is done in God's way and according to God's timing. (Life Application Study Bible)

Are we helping to instill God's wisdom in our future leaders? Are we teaching them God's values? Demonstrating the godly life before them? Loving the sinner, but hating their sin?


LET IT GO

Take rebuke when it I justifiable, listening and learning from it.

Show justice to others, no impartiality, take no bribes.

Forgive those who do me wrong. Love them like Jesus does to me, showing mercy.

Be a godly leader.

Ask the Lord before getting involved in another's battles.

In a Bad Situation

O. T. #962 "In a Bad Situation"
April 18, 2017
2 Chronicles 18-Part 2


LET IT GLOW

*Oops, folks, I had to make a correction on yesterday's post: Jehoshaphat did not marry Ahab's daughter, but it was his son that did. I hope you caught that before I did.
Also, this is lengthy, but important lessons are here for us to learn from, so please read it all the way through.

Well, I can't point my finger at this king. When I was a teenager, I made some wrong decisions and almost got myself in a very bad situation. If God had not opened my eyes and rescued me, what a mess my life could have been. King Jehoshaphat did get into a bad situation. Shall we see if he as rescued?

There are a lot of nuggets to find in this chapter:

• Jehoshaphat had great riches and was highly esteemed in Judah. This was a sign of God's blessing. (Although, it may have been a downfall, too.)
• He should have known better than to allow and encourage his son, Jehoram, to marry the daughter of wicked Jezebel and Ahab. (We read of Prophet Elijah's showdown against the 450 prophets of Baal, Jezebel had Naboth killed so the king could get his land, and Ahab caused 3 years of famine for Israel because of disobedience in worshiping idols.)
• Before Jehosaphat joined forces with Ahab against Ben-hadad, he wanted to find out what the Lord had to say about the matter, whether they would be victorious or not. (Ahab had previously joined with Ben-hadad of Syria to fight Assyria. Evidently, Ben-hadad had not kept an agreement to return all of Israel's cities.)
• Ahab's 400 false prophets told the kings to go ahead, for God would give them victory. They always pleased their king. Jehosaphat was not convinced of God's approval.
• He asked for a prophet of the Lord to come so they could ask the same of him. (Micaiah was summoned, but had always prophesized bad things for Ahab, so he was reluctant to ask Micaiah again.) What a wise decision.
• Micaiah said that he would say only what God said to him-Israel's master would be killed, meaning Ahab.
• This prophet had a vision of heavenly activity, where the heavenly armies were asked by the Lord who would go entice King Ahab to go into battle against Ramoth-gilead so he could be killed. (This reminds me of Job's sufferings to be allowed for his testing of faith.)
• The volunteer spirit's plan was to inspire all of Ahab's prophets to speak lies, as it happened.
• The LORD pronounced Ahab's doom, Micaiah told the kings.

There it is, the truth of what would happen if the kings continued their plan for battle-Ahab's death.
Do we hear the truth, even if it slaps us in the face?
Speaking of slapped in the face, that truthful prophet got slapped by Zedekiah, who said, "Since when did the Spirit of the LORD leave me to speak to you?" Micaiah replied, "You will find out soon enough when you are trying to hide in some secret room."
Ahab ordered Micaiah to be put into prison until the king returned from the battle. What a mess. Israel's king was so deep in sin and rebellion that he ordered a godly man to be punished for delivering God's message.

Do we recognize the truth, even if it slaps us in the face? How do we react when truth about our sins is revealed to us?

LET IT GROW

So what happened? Did these two kings go to battle in spite of the warning? Were they successful or did the prophecy come true?

• Israel and Judah went into battle against Ramoth-gilead, led by their kings.
• King Ahab had a plan, one in which he tried to get Jehoshaphat killed-Ahab would disguise himself and Jehoshaphat would wear his royal robes. Jo went along with it. They did it. What a stupid plan for Jo, I don't mind saying so either. Why did this king not see that he would be a sitting duck for the arrows?
• The enemy's King Aram, ordered his chariot commanders to attack only the king of Israel. They thought it was the man in the royal robes, but not so. They went after Jehoshaphat instead of Ahab.
• Jehoshaphat called out and the LORD saved him. God turned the attackers away from chasing him.
• Get this, an Aramean soldier randomly shot an arrow at the Israelite troops and it hit Ahab between the joints of his armor. Do you suppose an angel was riding upon that arrow guiding it?
• Ahab ordered his chariot be turned around. "Get me out of here! I'm badly wounded!" Ahab instructed.
• The battle continued all that day, with Ahab propping himself up in his chariot facing the Aramean. That evening, just as the sun was setting, he died.

In 2 Kings 22, we read of Ahab's chariot being washed out after he died. His blood was licked up at that place, the pool of Samaria, which was where prostitutes bathed. This was promised by the LORD in 1 Kings 21:19-dogswould lick up Ahab's blood in the same place where Naboth's blood was licked up by dogs.

Ahab, the spiritual harlot, was associated with the physical harlots at his death, according to the Word of God. Ahab's death fulfilled the prophecies spoken by Elijah and Micaiah.  (MacArthur)

Although Jehoshaphat was faithful to follow in his father Asa's ways of doing what pleased the Lord, he also followed in his faulty ways of not closing down all the high places of idolatry.

Oooeee! Jehoshaphat got himself surrounded by trouble, but the Lord rescued him anyway.
Isn't that like us? We cry out to the Lord to rescue us after we got our self into a mess? Or is it just me that does that?
He should have stayed away from Ahab and kept his son from that wicked family. They will regret it later.


LET IT GO

Seek the Lord's will and do it.

Make sure I go to the right places, associate with the right people, do the right things-with godly believers.

Asking One More Time

O. T. #961 "Asking One More Time"
April 17, 2017
2 Chronicles 18
But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there not also a prophet of the LORD? We should ask him the same question." 2 Chronicles 18:6

LET IT GLOW

Although he was a great king of Judah, Jehoshaphat made some unwise decisions, according to Wiersbe:
1. His family married into the godless family of Israel's King Ahab.
2. He united with Ahab in fighting Israel's enemies.
3. He allied himself with King Ahaziah in an attempt to gain wealth. (Chapters 17-20)


Jehoshaphat started out following God, but his son, Jehoram,  married Ahab's daughter Athaliah. They were an idol (Baal) worshiping family. He went to visit Ahab, who gave him a great banquet.  Ahab persuaded Joe to join him in fighting his battles-at Ramoth-Gilead. (No disrespect but I'm typing on my phone-computer and his is a long name. Computer trouble)😄

"I am as thou art and my people are as thy people" was Joe's reply.

Don't do it Joe. Do not be joined with an unbeliever.
2 Corinthians 6:14 says, Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.
Are we heeding Paul's warning? What fellowship does light and dark have? So much pain could be avoided if only.

LET IT GROW

At least  Joe was smart in that he wanted to see what the Lord had to say about the battle first.
So Ahab summoned his 400 prophets, who worshipped Baal and not the God of Judah.
Yes, go right ahead. God will give the king victory. They were appeasing their king. (Not speaking for God)
Joe wasn't convinced for he asked for one more man, prophet, who could consult the LORD. He wanted to ask him if they should go to battle.
Yes there was one, but Ahab hated him. Why? He only prophecied trouble for Ahab.
Duh!  You aren't listening, Ahab. Joe reprimanded him. Let's hear him.

We are going to stop there in the story. Micaiah was fetched quickly. (verse 8)
Do we seek the directions of God? Are we ready to obey it when we get it?
Do we ask one more time what God says about out situation?

LET IT GO

Warn our family and friends to not be unequally yoked, joined with an unbeliever.
Seek God's will in my decisions.
Be willing to obey whatever the answer.

Easter 2017

April 14, 2017

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!
Since today is Good Friday and this Sunday is Easter, I thought it appropriate to step away from our Old Testament study and take a look at the New Testament.

How can I share the gospel with someone who may be visiting this blog for the first time?
I think the first step is our believing that the Bible was written as direct revelation of God to the men who wrote it. All of this has to be taken as truth by faith.

Next, looking at the life of Jesus Christ. He was Deity in diapers, as Swindoll put it. His conception and birth was a miracle in itself. Jesus came to earth with a purpose-to be Savior.

Third, His life was one of a perfect man and sinless. He performed many compassionate miracles, taught the truth of the Old Testament, and came to fulfill the Law.

Fourth, Jesus endured the false accusations and trials, beatings, and the pain of desertion and ultimately death on the cross. All was because He loved us so much that Jesus was God in man form, the expected Messiah, the Savior of mankind.

Last, Jesus was placed in a highly guarded tomb after He died. After 3 days, He arose from the dead and appeared to many people as evidence of His resurrection. Jesus Christ is not a dead man, but a Living Savior! He wants to give us eternal life with Him. Will you believe this?

You see, we all sin. There is no way we can do enough good works in order to meet God's requirements for payment for sin. It's just that we have to come to the point of admitting it-we are sinners in need of a Savior. Sin separates us from God, for He cannot look upon sin. Jesus is our way to come to God, the bridge so to speak. Now, it is one of God's rules-sin must be paid for by the shedding of blood. In order for us to not have to pay for our sins, we ask Jesus to be the propitiation, our substitute, for our sins, so to speak.
his happens when we ask Him to forgive us of our sins and be our Savior.

Here are some verses to confirm this:
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal lie through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)

If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved. (Romans 10:13)

For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.  (Ephesians 2:8)

So dear one, have you asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins and be your Savior? His loving arms are open wide, waiting.

An update on Rose, my sister in law: They began heading home yesterday and should arrive today! We are so excited and grateful for God sparing her life.

Have a wonderful Easter celebration Sunday!

What a Great Man

O. T. #960  "What a Great Man"
April 13, 2017
2 Chronicles 17
He was deeply committed to the ways of the LORD. 2 Chronicles 17:6 NLT

LET IT GLOW

As Prophet Ezra wrote these two Chronicles, he gave God's viewpoint of the kings and recorded what God considered important during the reigns of these men. It was the second revival period in Judah.(McGee)

Here we have King Asa, overall was a good king in Judah, died and his son Jehoshaphat took his place. Both were bold followers of God in their early reign as king, then strayed.

What do we learn about Jehoshaphat from J. Vernon McGee?

• He strengthened the kingdom of Judah against Israel, the northern kingdom. (verse 1)
• Jehoshaphat took precautions to protect his kingdom. (verse 2)
• He walked in the first ways of David, not the way David waked in his old age, but when he was a young king, trusted the Lord. (verse 3)
• The king received presents from other nations, which was a sign of God's approval-material prosperity. (verses 4-5)
• He carried out a national program of religious education as he sent out the Levites and priests to teach God's Word to the people. (verses 6-9)
• Also, he removed pagan shrines. (verse 6)

A nation-wide revival resulted in Judah due to the king's emphasis on God's Word.
Are our churches and Christian schools emphasizing Bible teaching? Knowing and obeying Biblical teachings is the first step to getting people and a nation t live as they should. Personal and family devotions are essential in the believer's life in order for us to live as God intended.


How deeply are we committed to the Lord Jesus? Are we following the example of Jehoshaphat?


LET IT GROW

What else happened in this chapter?

• Kingdoms feared Judah and did not make war. (verse 10) Judah's revival effected others.
• Jehoshaphat had to build great storage places to house all the gifts that were given to him. (verse 12)
• This king became more and more powerful. (verse 12 NLT) King James uses the phase waxed greatly exceedingly. (verse 12)
• He had much business in the cities of Judah. (verse 13)
• His great army consisted of 780,000 men from Judah and 180,000 from Benjamin. this enormous army totaled 1,126,000 mighty men of valor. (verses 13-19)

What a great ruler of God's people.

McArthur gives us three strategic moves of Jehoshaphat, spiritually speaking:

1. he obeyed the Lord(verses 3-6);
2. he removed false worship from the land (verse 6);
3. he sent teachers who taught the people the law of the Lord (verses 7-9).

This strategy invoked God's blessings and protection. The Lord rewarded the king for his commitment by causing their neighboring nations to fear Judah and voluntarily giving gifts.

Are we obeying God, removing any idols, and teaching His Word?


LET IT GO

Obey God's Word and Holy Spirit's directions.

Stay committed to Him; look for anything that could take my time, heart, thoughts away from worshiping Jesus.

Be faithful to teach the Bible.

Missed Our Chance

O. T. #959  "Missed Our Chance"
April 12, 2017
2 Chronicles 16-Part 2
At that time, Hanani the seer came to Kin Asa and told him "Because you have put your trust in the king of Aram instead of the LORD your God, you have missed your chance to destroy the king of Aram."  2 Chronicles 16:7

LET IT GLOW

Will we miss our chance to serve God? Have we missed our chance to do His will? Are we making a difference in kingdom work? Are we missing out on blessings by sitting on the sidelines? I don't want to miss my chance to share the love of Jesus to someone. Do you?

There were some events which I left out previously. It was in King Asa's 16th year as Judah's king, as well as the 36th year after Israel divided into nations, that Baasha, king of Israel, invaded Judah and began building the city of Ramah. It was located 4 or 5 miles north of Jerusalem. His purpose was to prevent any northern Jews from joining Asa. This would have been effective in blocking the traffic entering or leaving Jerusalem.

Asa panicked and turned to the king of Syria, took silver and gold from the treasury of the Temple.
He sent it to King Ben-hadad as a bribe to make a compact between the two nations, and to persuade him to break his treaty with Israel. Ben-hadad agreed, then sent his army to attack towns in Israel, which was successful. So the king of Israel abandoned his project of building Ramah. Then Asa called out the men of Judah to tear down the city of Ramah. The materials were used to fortify two other towns.

Asa's first mistake was turning to a pagan king instead of God. His second mistake was to take money which was given to God. We see his lack of faith in God.

Are we trusting in money instead of God? Are we missing out on experiencing the working of God in our world?


LET IT GROW

Then Hanani, a seer, came to Asa with bad new. A seer was an advisor. Because Asa relied on a
pagan king instead of God, then the king of Syria would escape from Judah's conquering.
Asa missed his chance for victory over ruling Syria and Israel. We know that Assyria goes on to capture Israel  48 years later.
The result of Asa's sin was for Judah  to have wars. It was about 284 years later when Babylon would tear down the Temple in Jerusalem and take Jews in Judah captive. (Keep in mind, Ezra is writing this book to those Jews who returned to rebuild the Temple after 70 years in captivity.)
Asa's disease in his feet is described as exceeding great. He eventually died.

Our decisions can have consequences in which effect generations to come. Are we teaching them to put their trust in God and to obey Him?

Verse 9 reminds us that God's eyes run to and fro looking for an opportunity to help those who trust in Him.

Folks, Jesus came, endured death on the cross, and rose from the grave in order that we escape having to pay for our sins and have eternal life in heaven. Is there someone in our life that needs to hear the good news and have hope? Will we be the one God uses to bring them to Jesus as Savior? Let's not miss the chance to share.

LET IT GO

Trust God in all situations.

Turn to Him in time of need.

Share salvation in Jesus Christ.

Do You Need Strength?

O. T. #959  "Do You Need Strength?
April 11, 2017
2 Chronicles 16
For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him. 2 Chronicles 16:9a

LET IT GLOW

Do we need strength today? I sure do. Wow, did this verse come at a good time in my life. I hope my discouragement has not rubbed off on you. It is not my intent. I just try to be real, not pretending.

Life's challenges can get us down at times. They can make us feel too weak to fight the battle. Let's not give up, friends! His love never fails. Keep our heart loyal to God. He is watching over us continually. He wants to show us His strength in our life. Are we looking for God, seeking Him? Yes,
God is looking for you and me so He can show us His strength to carry on, being that our heart is perfect  toward Him. (I had to repeat those words so they would soak into my mind and heart.)

Perfect, in the Hebrew language, means complete, peaceable, quiet, whole.

Are we quiet before the Lord? Are we at peace with Him?

Psalm 73:26b says, God is the strength of my heart. My portion forever.

In Experiencing God Day By Day, the authors explain:

If your heart is loyal to God, you do not have to look for Him. He is already looking for you! God told King Asa that He continuously watches for those who are steadfast in their commitment to Him. When He finds them, He makes His presence powerfully evident to them. Asa's faith in God faltered. God encouraged Assa to take courage in knowing that God never rests or sleeps. He is never distracted, but diligently seeks individuals whose hearts are completely committed to Him.

LET IT GROW

God used King Asa to bring revival to the southern kingdom. (Although, the northern kingdom never did have revival.)
According to J. Vernon McGee, there are certain bridges on the road to revival which we must cross:

1. a knowledge of the Word of God; (chapter 15) (Judah obeyed the Word of God in worship sacrifices.)
2. scriptural separation; (Asa removed the idols in Judah and his grandmother as queen.)
3. faith in God.

When Baasha, king of Israel, came in a civil war against Judah, Asa did not turn to God, but to the king of Syria , Ben-hadad, their ancient enemy. Before this God had delivered Judah from the Ethiopians and Lubims. Yet he now lacked faith.

How did Asa's life exhibit faithlessness in his last 6 years?

• anger at truth (verse 10)
• oppression of God's prophet and people (verse 10)
• seeking man, not God. (verse 12) (MacArthur)

Asa did not receive the rebuke and repent. Therefore, the rest of our key verse says, Herein thou hast done foolishly; therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

Asa had a foot disease the last 3 years of his life. Again, he did not seek God for healing, but a doctor. He put Hanani, a prophet, into stocks in prison. Although Asa only went partway with God in partial obedience, God had used him.

Paul told us we were not only saved by faith, but we are to live by faith. (Romans 1:16-17)
It impossible to please God without faith. (Heb. 11:6)
We are to run with patience the race that is set before us. (Heb. 12:1)

Do we take our problems to the Lord Jesus, laying them at His feet?
Are we allowing hateful people to discourage our faith?
Is Jesus our hope?
By His wounds we are healed.


LET IT GO

Remain in God's Word, even through the discouraging times.

Keep standing for His commands.

Stay faithful to God; thank Him for His faithfulness.

*We thought Rose was coming home Monday, but so far not so. he has fluid on her lungs and they are trying to get it off. Praying she and her husband get to come home for Easter. What a testimony of the power of God-Jesus' resurrection and Rose's recovery!

Giving Our All or Giving Up

O. T. #957  "Giving Our All or Giving Up"
April 10, 2017
2 Chronicles 15-Part 2
All in Judah were happy about this covenant, for they had entered into it with all their heart.
2 Chronicles 15:15

LET IT GLOW

When we don't get our mountains removed, our waters parted, answers don't come, problems remain unsolved, what do we do? Do we continue to trust in God's ways and will along with His timing? Do we continue giving our all or do we give up?
Jesus didn't give up; He gave His all-even His life for us. He stayed focused on His purpose, in spite of the tall mountains, the high waters, and problems.
In today's story, King Asa of Judah gives his all. Want to find out to whom? Read on.

King Asa was instructed by God through Azariah to stay and seek God, and be strong. If Judah did not, they would be like Israel, they would have problems.
What happened next?

• Asa was encouraged and tore down all the idols in the land, then repaired the altar of the LORD.
• Judah made a huge amount of sacrifices unto God-700 cattle and 7,000 sheep and goats from the soils of battle. (verse 11)
• They entered into covenant to seek the Lord with all their heart and all their soul.(verse 12)
• Whoever did not would be put to death, whether young or old, man or woman, according to Deuteronomy 17:2-6. (verse 13)
• Judah sought the Lord with their whole desire and He was found, then given rest. (verse 15)

Do we seek God with all of our heart and all of our soul?
Is He our whole desire? Are we resting in Him?


LET IT GROW

What was one of the things Asa did in Judah? He put away the abominable idols in the land.
What did verse 13 say? Did it exclude the family of the king? No it did not.  In fact, Asa proved his commitment to God whenever he removed his grandmother as queen of Judah.
Why would he do such a thing? She had put up an idol in a grove. Idols are like worshiping Satan in the place of God. So Asa cut down the idol, broke it, and burned it in the Kidron Valley.

Although the pagan shrines were not removed from Israel, nevertheless, Asa wholeheartedly followed the Lord his entire life. He brought in silver, gold, and utensils into the Temple. There was no war until the 35th year of Asa's reign.

Wholehearted commitment pleases God. Are we tentative, indecisive, or afraid of responsibility. Is there an area in our life where we lack commitment totally to God? Peace will result whenever we give it to God.
The Lord is with those who are with Him. Do we ask Him to be with us, to direct our steps all the day long? What about our thoughts?
Does God have our highest priority, even above our family? In Luke 14:26, Jesus warned about not doing so.

LET IT GO

Continue to give my all to Jesus, my heart and soul and service.

Let it Lord Jesus encourage me.

Don't give up; keep giving love away.

Stay, Seek,. and Strengthen

O. T. #956  "Stay, Seek, and Strengthen"
April 8, 2017
2 Chronicles 15
The LORD will stay with you as long as you stay wit Him! Whenever you seek Him, you will find Him! But if you abandon Him, He will abandon you.  2 Chronicles 15:2

LET IT GLOW

Azariah was sent by God's Spirit to King Asa with a message:

• Hear Me Asa, Judah, and Benjamin. It was evident to whom the message was intended. God is present and powerful in defense of  His people. It was evident in Asa's 41 year reign as king over Judah, and Israel's 8 wicked kings.
• The LORD will stay with you as long as you stay with Him.
• Whenever you seek Him, you will find Him.
• But if you abandon Him, He will abandon you.
• Be strong and courageous, for your work will be rewarded.

King Asa wisely welcomed people who had a close relationship with God and he listened to their messages. (Life Application Study Bible)

Are we in close contact with people who are Spirit-filled?
Do we regularly spent time in prayer and discussion with those who can help explain and apply God's message?
Will we be strong and courageous as we carry on God's work?

LET IT GROW

In verses 3-5, Azariah described Israel the northern kingdom without:

• the True God (turned to idol worship);
• a priest to teach them (Jeroboam expelled God's priests from Israel);
• the Law to instruct them;
• a problem-free and troubled-free time (nation fought against nation, city against city).

Asa and Judah had been warned that they could end up like Israel.
Are we faithfully worshiping and serving the True God?
Do we listen to our pastor and teachers of the Word and apply what we have learned?

LET IT GO

Stay with God through prayer, Bible study, and worship.

Seek His will and ways.

Be strong in faith and courageously serve God; be faithful to the end.

 Know that one day rewards will be given.

*Sorry for not joining you in study on Friday, but Roses' daughter needed me to take her to the emergency room. It was 2 am before I got home. Needless to say, I slept a lot yesterday. Then she needed a prescription picked up. I am beginning to think I need a white nurse's cap or candy striper uniform. If we are open to the needs of theirs, God will use us in unusual ways.
If Rose continues to improve, she will be traveling home Monday and Tuesday. Praise the Lord!

Finding Rest

O. T. #955  "Finding Rest"
April 6,2017
Chronicles 14
And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, it is nothing with Thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power; help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on Thee.  2 Chronicles 14:11

LET IT GLOW

Asa is now reigning as king over Judah some 41 years. He was the son of Abijah (reigned 3 years), grandson of Rehoboam (reigned 17 years), great grandson of Solomon (reigned 40 years), and great-great-grandson of David (reigned 40 years). Beginning with Asa, there were only 8 good kings out of 20 who reigned over Judah.

Reading over the chapter, did you notice a word which appeared three times-rest. It has different meanings in the Hebrew language:

• In verse 6, the land had rest, which means to repose; appease; quiet; be still;
• The second rest in the same verse, the LORD gave rest to Asa, which means to settle down; cease; quiet;
• In verse 11, the people rested on God, which means to support one's self.

Who doesn't need some rest today? We all live in hurry up, fast-paced world. It is evident in our schedule, in our driving, in our attitude.
What does God tell us through Psalm 46:10:Be still and know that I am God...
What a challenge for us today. Are we trusting Him to rescue us today? To be present with us today? But are we being still so we can hear His small, gentle voice?

LET IT GROW

What kind of man was King Asa? J. Vernon McGee describes him as a man of:

• absolute outstanding character (verses 5-6), taking down the altars and idols and did what was right in the eyes of the LORD his God (verse 2);
• peace (verses 6-7), but Ethiopia made war with Judah, not the other way around;
• prayer (verses 11-12), displaying remarkable faith, for he knew God's victories did not depend upon the number or strength of men;
• great military victory (verses 8-15) with 300,000 warriors and 280,000 warriors from Benjamin using small shields and bows.

Asa appealed to God's omnipotence (power) and reputation in verse 11.  Should we do the same, also?
Are we a man or woman of outstanding character, peace, prayer, faith, and victory, like Asa?

LET IT GO

Be a woman of outstanding character.

Be a prayer warrior.

Be a person of great faith in God.

Overwhelmed

O. T #954 "Overwhelmed"
April 5, 2017
2 Chronicles 13-Part 2
When Judah realized they were being attacked from the front and the rear, they cried out to the Lord for help.  2 Chronicles 13:14 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Sometimes I  get overwhelmed by the discouragements, verbal attacks, and worries of life. How about you? During those times I want to throw up my hands and quit, run away, start afresh, but then when I cry out to God, He gives me strength to endure. It's when I allow Him to pick up the pieces, calm the raging seas, bring down those mountains, and put my life back together again, leaning on the Everlasting Arms of Jesus, I get walking by faith again.. Yes, He picks me up, dusts me off, and fills me with hope and His strength. Today's king cried out to the Lord his God. What happened to him?

King Abijah was Rehobam's son and Solomon's grandson, who reigned over Judah. He tried to unite his nation with Israel through a battle. Although his army was out numbered by 800,000 to 400,000, and surrounded, Judah called upon the Lord for help. When God intervened, Judah won and beat the odds against them, killing 500,000 Israelites. Victory came because they trusted in God.

So what happened next?
Abijah and his army pursued Jeroboam's troops of Israel, captured some of their towns and some villages. Bethel was included in that group.

Who can stop the Lord Almighty, the Lion of Judah?

Paul said in 2 Corinthians 12:10, For when I am weak, then I am strong.

King Abijah sought the Lord for help and it came. Do we in our time of need?
How do we respond when the enemy surrounds us? When the arrows of affliction strike us, do we let it deepen our character, regroup us from their momentary setbacks, turn us to Jesus, renew our faith?

LET IT GROW

Get this friend-Jeroboam never regained his power during Abijah's lifetime and finally he died after the Lord struck him down. Now, Israel still had kings who continued to reign.

Meanwhile, Abijah of Judah grew more and more powerful in his kingdom. Scripture says he married 14 wives and had 22 sons and 16 daughters.

I was looking for some verses which went along these lines. David wrote many in the Psalms as he asked God to deliver him from troubles, enemies, and death. God was faithful in David's life.

As the song goes, His love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me; on and on it goes; it overwhelms and satisfies my soul; I never have to be afraid. His love is never failing and never ending.

Great is the Lord and worthy to be praised!


LET IT GO

Recognize my weaknesses and turn to the One who is strong-King Jesus.

Cry out to Him for help.

Trust it to come.

Then give glory to the Lord Most High.

Beating the Odds

O. T. #953  "Beating the Odds"
April 4, 2017
2 Chronicles 13

... because they relied upon the LORD God of their fathers.  2 Chronicles 13:18
LET IT GLOW

Have you ever felt like you are fighting against the odds? That people are against you everywhere you turn. And to beat all, you are striving to live a godly life, stand for what is right and God's ways. Hateful words slice you like a sword, cutting your heart into pieces. Some people ignore you, walking th other direction when they see you. Yet, you know as a Christian, we are told to love our enemies. That is my life today. Well Judah faced all the odds against them, the army of Israel was numbered at 2:1 odds. Shall we see how they beat the odds?

King Solomon's son Rehoboam died. Then his son Abijah (also called Abijam) reigned over Judah as king.
What do we know about King Abijah?

• He ruled as king for only 3 years. (verse 2) He wasn't considered a good king, but wicked.
• He was not only young and tenderhearted, but was very foolish. (McGee)
• He abandoned the Law of the Lord, like his father. (At the peak of his popularity and power, Rehoboam abandoned God. This resulted in destruction because God allowed Judah to be conquered by Egypt.-Life Application Study Bible)
• Abijah did try to reunite the 10 northern tribes with the 2 southern tribes, but Jeroboam made himself king so he was not about to make peace and loose it all.
• He criticized Jeroboam's idolatry of worshiping 2 golden calves and using pagan priests.
• The king declares the LORD is their God and their Aaronic priesthood used the Mosaic articles in their worship, offerings, and sacrifices.

What a contrast of Judah still serving the Lord and Israel serving idols.
Do we cherish anything of more value than God? Beware least it becomes our golden calf and it one day drags us down like Israel.

LET IT GROW

We read here about an open conflict between Israel (800,00 men) and Judah (400,000 men).  Judah was outnumbered 2:1. What happened next?

• Jeroboam and Israel ambushed  Judah and Abijah, surrounding them in the front and back.
• Judah cried unto the LORD and the priests blew their trumpets.
• The men of Judah gave a shout and God killed Jeroboam and 500,000 Israelites using Judah's army.
• Now Judah beat the odds, 4:3, with divine intervention.

Are we remaining on God's side, allowing Him to beat all odds for us? If He can do it for Adbijah, can't He do it for us? Just cry out to Him as Judah did.

LET IT GO

                     ... of any idols in my life before they drag me down.

                                ... of pride and trusting in myself.

Rely upon Jesus today for victory in my life.

Keep serving Him and praising Him.

*Certainly an example today is Rose. Her odds going into the surgery to replace a heart valve was 3:4, with a 75% chance of survival. Although we almost lost her more than once, God intervened and it will be 4 weeks this Thursday since her operation and she is doing well. Hopefully she will get to come home this week. I'm praying the trachea tube will be removed.

Son, Son, What Are You Doing?

O. T. #952  "Son, Son, What Are You Doing?
April 3, 2017
2 Chronicles 12


LET IT GLOW

Son, son, what are you doing? I wonder if Rehoboam's mother asked him that question. Maybe she did, maybe not, or perhaps she was already dead by this time. We don't know the answer. However, she wad named Naaamah and an Ammonite.
You may wonder why do I think she would she have asked that. Here's why:

• Well, for one thing, we read of his polygamy back in chapter 11, where he married two cousins, and ended up having 1 wives and 60 concubines, who gave birth to 28 sons and 60 daughters. Although it was a sign of wealth and importance in the world at that time, polygamy was against God's laws.
• Rehoboam was 41 years old when he became king of Judah, and reigned 17 years in Jerusalem.
• During his reign, Judah built pagan shrines and set up sacred pillars and Asherah poles on every high hill and under ever green tree. (They even had prostitutes, both male and female.)
• They did evil (idolatry) in the Lord's sight and provoked His anger due to their sin.
• Rehoboam was an evil king, for he did not seek the LORD with all his heart.

Now, do you see what I mean? J. Vernon McGee enlightens us:
Rehoboam's mother was an Ammonite.
David had been very friendly with the Ammonites, although they had made war against him. Rehoboam was the grandson of David. She undoubtedly had something to do with the character of this man. Also, she is mentioned in 1 Kings14. Should she bear part of the responsibility for the way her son turned out? If he was a good king, she would have been proud to share in the credit for the way he turned out; If he was an evil king, she must bear part of the blame. (Note, we are responsible for our own actions.)

How are our children turning out? Have they taken on our good or bad ways?


LET IT GROW

God brought judgment upon Judah by allowing the Egyptians to conquer them. As Jerusalem was attacked, so was the Temple and the palace, along with their wealth.
King Shishak of Egypt ransacked the treasuries of the LORD's Temple and the royal palace; he stole everything, including the golden shields.
What a humbling experience for the king. He had only known wealth and luxury, expecting it to go on.

In verse 12, we read of Rehoboam's repentance and God's grace, resulting in Judah not being destroyed. When we leave God out of our lives, we loose more spiritually than we could ever gain financially.

What a tragic story-Rehobom did not determine in his heart to seek the Lord. Although, God's grace is available when we turn away from God and enter a sinful lifestyle. That is good news!

LET IT GO

Live by faith, not by sight.

Seek God with all my heart.

Repent whenever I sin.