O. T. #705 "Plan B"
March 1, 2016
2 Samuel 11-Part 5
... but he did not go down to his house. 2 Samuel 11:13
LET IT GLOW
So, what do you do when plan A fails? You go to plan B, right? That was exactly what David did. He schemed to bring Uriah home from the battlefield, to spend time with his wife, Bathsheba, so it looked like he was the father of her child, when David actually was. No one ever needed to know what David had done. However, Uriah was a faithful soldier and did not go home for the night, but spent the night at the palace entrance. He ruined David's plan A.
Well then, David devised a plan B. He wasn't going to give up. David told Uriah to spend the day there in Jerusalem, then he could return to the army later. (It was obvious that David knew he was disobeying God's laws by keeping his sin a secret, trying to cover it up.) David had to have time to devise another plan. (David wouldn't dare think of telling the truth and admitting his sin.)
What was plan B?
David invited Uriah to dinner and got him drunk. (verse 13)
But even then he did not get Uriah to go home. Nope, Uriah spent another night at the palace entrance. (It's okay to shake your head and giggle with me here.) Honestly, really David, do you not get it?
When people get mixed up into a sin, they don't think clearly. They don't care who they hurt, but are out to please themselves. Usually there is no remorse, but sometimes there is. Forgiveness awaits.
LET IT GROW
David, David, David. You are Israel's hero king; a man after God's own heart. What are you doing?
Did his messengers not have any nerve to approach the king and his sin? Apparently not.
Even under the influence of wine, Uriah was a more disciplined man than sober David! (Wiersbe)
There's a lot to be said about Uriah. He was a loyal soldier. He did not let a steak dinner with plenty of wine change his ways.
Now here's a panic stricken king, frustrated to the point of rage over his failing plan. No matter what he does, he can't pull off his strategy of deception. He can steal the man's wife, but he can't manipulate the woman's husband. Uriah will not cooperate. So David, in greater panic, escalates his plot to the next level. (Swindoll)
When plan A and plan B do not happen, what do we do next? We go to plan C, right? Do we stop to consider that plan A just may not have been in accordance to God's will so it failed? Are we so headstrong that we have to have our way no matter who is hurt? Do we know others like that?
We sometimes face situations with only two apparent choices, and both seem wrong. When that happens, we must not lose sight of what God wants. The answer may be to seek out more choices. By doing this, we are likely to find a choice that honors God. (Life Application Study Bible)
Next is plan C, and what a crazy, horrible plan it is.
LET IT GO
When plan A and plan B do not work, back off and take a good look at the situation.
Be willing to change my ways when God does not let it be for me.
Put in in God's hands before all else fails.
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Plan A
O. T. #704 "Plan A"
February 29, 2016
2 Samuel 11-Part 4
Then David sent word to Joab: "Send me Uriah, the Hittite." 2 Samuel 11:6a NLT
LET IT GLOW
As we attended our business conference held in San Diego last week, we stayed in a lovely hotel on the bay front, with our room on the 18th floor. We could look out our window and see so many sights-the beautiful blue bay water, a 2 mile long bridge connecting the land with an island, a ship from Costa Rica unloading truck pods full of Dole fruit at the shipping dock, and palm trees. Also, down below us we had full view of the swimming pools and women sunbathing in bikinis. My husband had to focus on the right views. Like David, he could have been tempted into sin with beautiful women. However, his focus did not end up as David's did. Throughout the day, by focusing on the right views, we learned how those huge pods were unloaded and placed on the tractor trailer to move into the warehouse. (They used giant claws.) It took two days to unload so many pods, then it was gone. That is how we can enjoy fruit around our country. (I don't know if the fruit was canned before or after shipping it or whether I was fresh fruit.)
It was a one night stand with King David and Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, a faithful warrior in Israel's army. And she became pregnant with David's child while the wife of another man. We will see how this one sin of David's leads him further down the wrong path.
It was the season for warfare. David was not with his army. He was taking the day off, lounging around the palace. He was not where he was supposed to be. He went walking out on his roof to get some fresh air, to overlook his kingdom, to get a clear mind, or whatever. Then he caught sight of a beautiful woman bathing on her roof and sent for her. Lust turned into adultery. Bathsheba's husband, Uriah, was out in the battlefield during this episode.
David didn't fall suddenly; some chinks had already begun to form in his spiritual armor. Clearly, David realized his God-given privilege. He realized the hand of God was on him. He realized that the Lord's blessing was abundant. But there were areas of private neglect beginning to take their toll. (Swindoll)
2 Samuel 5:13 tells us that David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem and he had more children. This contradicted God's commands in Deuteronomy 17:14-17, which says the king whom the Lord appointed over Israel was to not have multiple wives for himself.
David was in his fifty's and at an all-time high in his success story. He had money power, authority, and fame. Although, his polygamy eroded his integrity. Those wives and concubines turned the heart of the king from the Lord.
Indulgence was another chink in David's armor. If he had only been where he belonged, with his troops, then the Bathsheba episode would never have occurred.
Swindoll warns us:
David was not a wild rebel or a sexual pervert, but he was one who fell into a period of sin, and that sin had devastating consequences for his family, his reign, and his nation. We are to take heed lest we fall no matter our age. No one ever gets too young or ever gets too old to fall. (Swindoll)
When faced with situations of two apparent choices, we must not loose sight of what God wants.
Ladies, are we striving to be alluring to only our husband?
Men, are you guarding your eyes, mind, and heart so they are faithful to your wife?
Everyone, are we staying faithful to God and in His Word?
Let's be determined before the temptations come.
LET IT GROW
Bathsheba is pregnant and sent word to David (verse 5)
What would he do? Her husband was one of David's loyal and mighty warriors out on the battlefield. It would be obvious that the child was not Uriah's. Besides, David's messengers knew what was going on, but kept silent.
Hey now, David's decision could go in either of two directions. First, he could confess his guilt of sin before the Lord God, counselors, and nation. That was the path he should have taken. The other path, which he took, was one of deception and hypocrisy. Choosing to lie and deceive effected David's family in years to come.
What did David do next while traveling on the wrong path? He made several wrong turns:
Uriah, the faithful warrior, did not go home. (verse 9)
To David's surprise, Uriah slept at the door of the king's house, not with his wife.
Uriah refused to enjoy the luxury, comfort, and pleasures at home while his army and commander were out in the battle.
Uriah was a foreigner, yet he was loyal to Israel. That made David's double sin all the greater. (McGee)
David tried to make it appear that the child was Uriah's, the husband of Bathsheba. All would have turned out well if that had happened, so David thought. However, his plan A did not go as planned. Did you notice it only took David 6 verses to execute plan A?
Does David have a plan B?
When we follow the wrong path leading to sin, do we use similar methods, which lead us further down the road? Or do we confess our sin, turn around, and get on the right path with God? (The wrong path can lead us to various wrong decisions, not just adultery.)
God forgives sins, friend and throws them as far as the east is from the west and remembers them no more. We are the ones who keep bringing them up and beating our self up with them. Leave them at the cross, covered with the blood of Jesus. God on and live for God on His path. Learn from our wrong paths.
LET IT GO
Watch my actions, dress, looks, and conduct so they honor God and are loyal to my husband.
Protect my husband's eyes.
Confess my sins and turn from them.
Stay on the right path God has me on today.
Be careful little eyes what you see, ears what you hear, feet where you go, for the Father up above is looking down on us. Oh be careful!
February 29, 2016
2 Samuel 11-Part 4
Then David sent word to Joab: "Send me Uriah, the Hittite." 2 Samuel 11:6a NLT
LET IT GLOW
As we attended our business conference held in San Diego last week, we stayed in a lovely hotel on the bay front, with our room on the 18th floor. We could look out our window and see so many sights-the beautiful blue bay water, a 2 mile long bridge connecting the land with an island, a ship from Costa Rica unloading truck pods full of Dole fruit at the shipping dock, and palm trees. Also, down below us we had full view of the swimming pools and women sunbathing in bikinis. My husband had to focus on the right views. Like David, he could have been tempted into sin with beautiful women. However, his focus did not end up as David's did. Throughout the day, by focusing on the right views, we learned how those huge pods were unloaded and placed on the tractor trailer to move into the warehouse. (They used giant claws.) It took two days to unload so many pods, then it was gone. That is how we can enjoy fruit around our country. (I don't know if the fruit was canned before or after shipping it or whether I was fresh fruit.)
It was a one night stand with King David and Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, a faithful warrior in Israel's army. And she became pregnant with David's child while the wife of another man. We will see how this one sin of David's leads him further down the wrong path.
It was the season for warfare. David was not with his army. He was taking the day off, lounging around the palace. He was not where he was supposed to be. He went walking out on his roof to get some fresh air, to overlook his kingdom, to get a clear mind, or whatever. Then he caught sight of a beautiful woman bathing on her roof and sent for her. Lust turned into adultery. Bathsheba's husband, Uriah, was out in the battlefield during this episode.
David didn't fall suddenly; some chinks had already begun to form in his spiritual armor. Clearly, David realized his God-given privilege. He realized the hand of God was on him. He realized that the Lord's blessing was abundant. But there were areas of private neglect beginning to take their toll. (Swindoll)
2 Samuel 5:13 tells us that David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem and he had more children. This contradicted God's commands in Deuteronomy 17:14-17, which says the king whom the Lord appointed over Israel was to not have multiple wives for himself.
David was in his fifty's and at an all-time high in his success story. He had money power, authority, and fame. Although, his polygamy eroded his integrity. Those wives and concubines turned the heart of the king from the Lord.
Indulgence was another chink in David's armor. If he had only been where he belonged, with his troops, then the Bathsheba episode would never have occurred.
Swindoll warns us:
- Our greatest battles don't usually come when we're working hard; they come when we have some leisure, when we've got time on our hands, when we're bored.
- Ladies should give thought to what they buy and give thought before they buy.
- Women need to give thought to their actions, dress, looks, and conduct.
- Men should not linger when they happen upon some alluring object, but turn away and refuse to linger.
- If you don't run, you will fall. It's only a matter of time. David took a second look, was staring and blinded by desire.
David was not a wild rebel or a sexual pervert, but he was one who fell into a period of sin, and that sin had devastating consequences for his family, his reign, and his nation. We are to take heed lest we fall no matter our age. No one ever gets too young or ever gets too old to fall. (Swindoll)
When faced with situations of two apparent choices, we must not loose sight of what God wants.
Ladies, are we striving to be alluring to only our husband?
Men, are you guarding your eyes, mind, and heart so they are faithful to your wife?
Everyone, are we staying faithful to God and in His Word?
Let's be determined before the temptations come.
LET IT GROW
Bathsheba is pregnant and sent word to David (verse 5)
What would he do? Her husband was one of David's loyal and mighty warriors out on the battlefield. It would be obvious that the child was not Uriah's. Besides, David's messengers knew what was going on, but kept silent.
Hey now, David's decision could go in either of two directions. First, he could confess his guilt of sin before the Lord God, counselors, and nation. That was the path he should have taken. The other path, which he took, was one of deception and hypocrisy. Choosing to lie and deceive effected David's family in years to come.
What did David do next while traveling on the wrong path? He made several wrong turns:
- He sends a message to Joab to send Uriah the Hittite to the palace to see him.
- During a steak dinner or maybe it was mutton, David asks Uriah how the battle, the men, and Joab were doing. It was a pretention of consultation.
- This first time, David gave Uriah permission to go home and rest, as well as gave him a gift (probably a doggy bag of meat). David was trying to absolve his guilt by giving Uriah the opportunity to be with his wife.
Uriah, the faithful warrior, did not go home. (verse 9)
To David's surprise, Uriah slept at the door of the king's house, not with his wife.
Uriah refused to enjoy the luxury, comfort, and pleasures at home while his army and commander were out in the battle.
Uriah was a foreigner, yet he was loyal to Israel. That made David's double sin all the greater. (McGee)
David tried to make it appear that the child was Uriah's, the husband of Bathsheba. All would have turned out well if that had happened, so David thought. However, his plan A did not go as planned. Did you notice it only took David 6 verses to execute plan A?
Does David have a plan B?
When we follow the wrong path leading to sin, do we use similar methods, which lead us further down the road? Or do we confess our sin, turn around, and get on the right path with God? (The wrong path can lead us to various wrong decisions, not just adultery.)
God forgives sins, friend and throws them as far as the east is from the west and remembers them no more. We are the ones who keep bringing them up and beating our self up with them. Leave them at the cross, covered with the blood of Jesus. God on and live for God on His path. Learn from our wrong paths.
LET IT GO
Watch my actions, dress, looks, and conduct so they honor God and are loyal to my husband.
Protect my husband's eyes.
Confess my sins and turn from them.
Stay on the right path God has me on today.
Be careful little eyes what you see, ears what you hear, feet where you go, for the Father up above is looking down on us. Oh be careful!
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Dear Friends,
I am flying back home from San Diego on Thursday, February 25, so I am away from my office with commentaries. We have been on a business trip, but enjoyed some sight seeing and history of the city. Inspirational speakers gave me some ideas which can not only be applied in the business world, but also in the spiritual realm, also.
Thank you for being so faithful in sharing the Word with me. We will continue our study with David's arrangements for Uriah on Monday.
Psalm 51: 12 says, Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
This week, the Lord has been restoring my joy as I have enjoyed the palm trees, the ocean, hearing testimonies of heroic veterans, seen a military base, and getting acquainted with other business owners and Christians around our country. He has blessed me with the sights of His creations of mountains, desert, stingrays, and beautiful flowers and gardens. Also, spending time with my husband, away from the demands and busyness of our schedule.
Now that I am refreshed and ready to return home, and the cold weather. Maybe even some snow, too. Did I say that? Like David, I can says, Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. (Ps. 51:1)
How great is His unfailing love. Even when we need restored, His joy, and willing to obey Him, His love is unfailing toward us and for us!
Have a great week end everyone.
In His love,
Linda
I am flying back home from San Diego on Thursday, February 25, so I am away from my office with commentaries. We have been on a business trip, but enjoyed some sight seeing and history of the city. Inspirational speakers gave me some ideas which can not only be applied in the business world, but also in the spiritual realm, also.
Thank you for being so faithful in sharing the Word with me. We will continue our study with David's arrangements for Uriah on Monday.
Psalm 51: 12 says, Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
This week, the Lord has been restoring my joy as I have enjoyed the palm trees, the ocean, hearing testimonies of heroic veterans, seen a military base, and getting acquainted with other business owners and Christians around our country. He has blessed me with the sights of His creations of mountains, desert, stingrays, and beautiful flowers and gardens. Also, spending time with my husband, away from the demands and busyness of our schedule.
Now that I am refreshed and ready to return home, and the cold weather. Maybe even some snow, too. Did I say that? Like David, I can says, Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. (Ps. 51:1)
How great is His unfailing love. Even when we need restored, His joy, and willing to obey Him, His love is unfailing toward us and for us!
Have a great week end everyone.
In His love,
Linda
Weaknesses and Temptations
O. T. #703 "Weaknesses and Temptations "
2 Samuel 11-Part 3
February 25, 2916
LET IT GLOW
None of us are immuned to temptations. It is how we react to them that counts. Even the king of Israel was not immuned while at home in his palace. And neither are we, dear ones.
David sent Joab and his army to battle against the Ammonites, and they were victorious.
Rabbah was an Ammonite capital city about 24 miles east of the Jordan River opposite Jericho.
But David tarred still in Jerusalem. (verse 1)
We aren't told why he did not lead his army as a king was expected to do. If only David had gone that day and every time he should have, then this chapter would have had a different outcome. But he didn't and it didn't.
David was not a youth now, but in his 50's, middle aged. He should have gotten a handle on his weakness by now-women. He had numerous wives and concubines.
In verses 2-4, we read where David saw, sent, and took. He saw the beautiful woman bathing and coveted her. Then David sent for her, and took her as his wife. Bathsheba was subject to the king ad was required to do his bidding. (D. Jeremiah)
However, we do not read where she told him it was wrong in God's eyes to commit adultery and he should not have multiple wives and concubines (Deut. 17:16-17). Did she resist or was she excited to go to the king's bedroom?
In Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament, we read...
It is easy to see how David got into this sin:
LET IT GROW
David involved others in his sinful plan. First, he inquired as to who she was. Now, he was told that she was Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah. She was married to one of the bravest and committed men in David's army. He sent messengers to bring Bathsheba to him and David lay with her.
In his book, Temptation, Dietrich Bonhoeffer wisely strides at the heart of the problem that you and I, like David wrestle with.
James 4:7 tells us to Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.
James 1 teaches us about temptation.
Joseph ran when the Pharoah's wife tempted him in the same way as David was. Only Joseph ran away because he could not sin against God. Prepare yourself, ladies and gentlemen. Sadly, we see in our society now days the openness of the temptation to be unfaithful to our spouse. Just because it appears that everyone is doing it, be assured, not everyone is.
Let's remember that grace and mercy and forgiveness are available when we repent of our sins.
It is good that I am reminded of this story as we prepare to go into the big city, stay at a beachside resort, and associate with people of the world.
LET IT GO
Purpose right now in my heart to remain a faithful wife with Christian principles.
Keep my eyes open to the temptations around me and my man.
Stay in the Word.
2 Samuel 11-Part 3
February 25, 2916
LET IT GLOW
None of us are immuned to temptations. It is how we react to them that counts. Even the king of Israel was not immuned while at home in his palace. And neither are we, dear ones.
David sent Joab and his army to battle against the Ammonites, and they were victorious.
Rabbah was an Ammonite capital city about 24 miles east of the Jordan River opposite Jericho.
But David tarred still in Jerusalem. (verse 1)
We aren't told why he did not lead his army as a king was expected to do. If only David had gone that day and every time he should have, then this chapter would have had a different outcome. But he didn't and it didn't.
David was not a youth now, but in his 50's, middle aged. He should have gotten a handle on his weakness by now-women. He had numerous wives and concubines.
In verses 2-4, we read where David saw, sent, and took. He saw the beautiful woman bathing and coveted her. Then David sent for her, and took her as his wife. Bathsheba was subject to the king ad was required to do his bidding. (D. Jeremiah)
However, we do not read where she told him it was wrong in God's eyes to commit adultery and he should not have multiple wives and concubines (Deut. 17:16-17). Did she resist or was she excited to go to the king's bedroom?
In Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament, we read...
It is easy to see how David got into this sin:
- he was self-confident, after enjoying victories and prosperity;
- he was disobedient, staying home when he should have been on the battlefield;
- he was idle, lying in bed in the evening;
- he was self-indulgent, giving freedom to his desires when he should have been disciplining himself;
- he was careless, allowing his eyes to wander and yielding to the "lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes" (1 John 2:16)
LET IT GROW
David involved others in his sinful plan. First, he inquired as to who she was. Now, he was told that she was Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah. She was married to one of the bravest and committed men in David's army. He sent messengers to bring Bathsheba to him and David lay with her.
In his book, Temptation, Dietrich Bonhoeffer wisely strides at the heart of the problem that you and I, like David wrestle with.
With irresistible power, desire seizes mastery of the flesh. All at once a secret, smoldering fire is kindled. The flesh burns, and is in flames. It makes no difference whether it is a sexual desire, or ambition, or vanity, or desire for revenge, or love of fame and power, or greed of money...
At this moment God is quite unreal to us. Satan does not here fill us with hatred of God, but with forgetfulness of God... The lust thus aroused envelopes the mind and will of man in deepest darkness. Is what the flesh desires really sin in this case? The Bible teaches us in times of temptation in the flesh, there is one command: Flee!Everyday we are being tempted in some way or another.
James 4:7 tells us to Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.
James 1 teaches us about temptation.
Joseph ran when the Pharoah's wife tempted him in the same way as David was. Only Joseph ran away because he could not sin against God. Prepare yourself, ladies and gentlemen. Sadly, we see in our society now days the openness of the temptation to be unfaithful to our spouse. Just because it appears that everyone is doing it, be assured, not everyone is.
Let's remember that grace and mercy and forgiveness are available when we repent of our sins.
It is good that I am reminded of this story as we prepare to go into the big city, stay at a beachside resort, and associate with people of the world.
LET IT GO
Purpose right now in my heart to remain a faithful wife with Christian principles.
Keep my eyes open to the temptations around me and my man.
Stay in the Word.
Down and Out
O. T. #702 "Down and Out"
February 24, 2016
2 Samuel 11-Part 2
From the roof he saw a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful in appearance.
2 Samuel 11:2 (NASB)
LET IT GLOW
FYI-Friends, I am going to be in San Diego, CA next week for a business meeting, so I am trying to get all of the lessons done ahead of time. If I don't make it, please join me next Monday.
Believe me, after this lesson, I am evaluating all the clothes I am taking on my trip. I want it to honor God and my husband. I do not want to be a stumbling block to other men while there. My blouses will not be allow my body to be down and out, putting it nicely. If only Bathsheba had done the same.
Late one afternoon, after his rest, King David went walking up on the roof of the palace. Wait a minute. David's army led by Joab was out fighting against the Ammonites. Apparently this chapter took place during the time of chapter 10.
The roof of a house was where people often spent their evenings, in that day. There were no front porches or patios in the rear of their homes. On the flat roof today is where families still gather in the Jerusalem area.
So, can you see David pacing back and forth on top of his roof. Maybe he was wondering how the battle was coming along, if his army was winning. Probably it was heavy on his mind, since he did not go with his men, as he usually did. Was some guilt there too?
What happened next, David's little decisions grew into big mistakes. His life went spiraling down as he looked down and out over his city. Afterwards, he became down and out, alright. Then David's eyes caught sight of a beautiful woman taking a bath on the roof of her house. He finds out that her name was Bathsheba, which is ironic, since she was taking a bath. Let's leave David on his roof, all bug-eyed for a moment and talk about her.
Bathsheba was the unlikely link between Israel's two most famous kings-David and Solomon. She was lover and wife to one, mother to the other. Her adultery with David almost brought an end to the family through which God brought good. Eventually Jesus Christ, the salvation of mankind, was born as a descendant of David and Bathsheba. (Life Application Study Bible)
Neither David nor Bathsheba were where they should have been. Bathsheba could have bathed inside her house instead of up on the roof. Or she could have waited until evening when it was getting close to dark. David should have been out with his army at war. Both decisions were little wrong decisions, which seemed harmlessly unimportant at the time. Yet, they put these two out of their normal place.
Little day-to-day choices prepare us to make the right big choices later. Do we include God in all of our choices? Are we asking Him what He wants us to do today or go today? Do we let our heart lead us astray or in the right way?
LET IT GROW
Our greatest battles don't usually come when we're working hard; they come we have some leisure, when we've got time on our hands, when we're bored. (Swindoll)
Perhaps David heard some humming and splashing sown below, just beyond his backyard.
Raymond Brown suggests:
That's my soap box. Just as I don't want women causing my husband to lust and sin, in thoughts or otherwise, so I do not want to be the same for another's husband. We don't hear of any girls named Bathsheba, do we?
Okay, we have covered both views of the uncovered woman. Will we influence our girls to honor God in their dressings?
LET IT GO
Pass by the mini skirts and low cut blouses, and search for decent clothing for me.
Honor God in my appearance all of the time.
Be alluring to only my husband in private.
February 24, 2016
2 Samuel 11-Part 2
From the roof he saw a woman bathing; and the woman was very beautiful in appearance.
2 Samuel 11:2 (NASB)
LET IT GLOW
FYI-Friends, I am going to be in San Diego, CA next week for a business meeting, so I am trying to get all of the lessons done ahead of time. If I don't make it, please join me next Monday.
Believe me, after this lesson, I am evaluating all the clothes I am taking on my trip. I want it to honor God and my husband. I do not want to be a stumbling block to other men while there. My blouses will not be allow my body to be down and out, putting it nicely. If only Bathsheba had done the same.
Late one afternoon, after his rest, King David went walking up on the roof of the palace. Wait a minute. David's army led by Joab was out fighting against the Ammonites. Apparently this chapter took place during the time of chapter 10.
The roof of a house was where people often spent their evenings, in that day. There were no front porches or patios in the rear of their homes. On the flat roof today is where families still gather in the Jerusalem area.
So, can you see David pacing back and forth on top of his roof. Maybe he was wondering how the battle was coming along, if his army was winning. Probably it was heavy on his mind, since he did not go with his men, as he usually did. Was some guilt there too?
What happened next, David's little decisions grew into big mistakes. His life went spiraling down as he looked down and out over his city. Afterwards, he became down and out, alright. Then David's eyes caught sight of a beautiful woman taking a bath on the roof of her house. He finds out that her name was Bathsheba, which is ironic, since she was taking a bath. Let's leave David on his roof, all bug-eyed for a moment and talk about her.
Bathsheba was the unlikely link between Israel's two most famous kings-David and Solomon. She was lover and wife to one, mother to the other. Her adultery with David almost brought an end to the family through which God brought good. Eventually Jesus Christ, the salvation of mankind, was born as a descendant of David and Bathsheba. (Life Application Study Bible)
Neither David nor Bathsheba were where they should have been. Bathsheba could have bathed inside her house instead of up on the roof. Or she could have waited until evening when it was getting close to dark. David should have been out with his army at war. Both decisions were little wrong decisions, which seemed harmlessly unimportant at the time. Yet, they put these two out of their normal place.
Little day-to-day choices prepare us to make the right big choices later. Do we include God in all of our choices? Are we asking Him what He wants us to do today or go today? Do we let our heart lead us astray or in the right way?
LET IT GROW
Our greatest battles don't usually come when we're working hard; they come we have some leisure, when we've got time on our hands, when we're bored. (Swindoll)
Perhaps David heard some humming and splashing sown below, just beyond his backyard.
Raymond Brown suggests:
- Bathsheba cannot be entirely excused of her part in this.
- She was careless and foolish, lacking in the usual Hebrew modesty, for she would not have washed in a place where she knew she could not be overlooked.
- From her roof-top she would often have looked out to the royal palace and must have known that she could be seen.
- If she would have thought seriously about her action she would not have put temptation in David's path.
- It is not enough merely to avoid sin ourselves. Christians must ensure that they do not become a stumbling block to others (Rom. 14:12-13).
That's my soap box. Just as I don't want women causing my husband to lust and sin, in thoughts or otherwise, so I do not want to be the same for another's husband. We don't hear of any girls named Bathsheba, do we?
Okay, we have covered both views of the uncovered woman. Will we influence our girls to honor God in their dressings?
LET IT GO
Pass by the mini skirts and low cut blouses, and search for decent clothing for me.
Honor God in my appearance all of the time.
Be alluring to only my husband in private.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Little Decisions, Big Mistakes
O. T. #701 "Little Decisions, Big Mistakes"
February 23, 2016
2 Samuel 11
In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war, David sent Joab and the Israelite army to fight the Ammonites. 2 Samuel 11:1 NLT
LET IT GLOW
What are the three things that we remember about David? He killed Goliath the giant, he became king over Judah and Israel, and he committed adultery and murder so he could have Bathsheba as his wife.
We have read about the triumphs of David, but now we see the trouble of David. God raised up David to be one of the great kings of the earth. However, this "man after God's own heart" was a sinner like you and me. David's noted sin led his life into a series of heartbreaks. It is stands out like blackberries in a bowl of ice cream, bitter with the sweet. Scripture doesn't play down his sin, for God calls it sin and David is punished for it. This man brings trouble into his house by one act.
Lest we point our fingers in disappointment toward David, we can find fornication, adultery, and sin in a closet in our own family, whether in the past or the present. So, we will not excuse it, nor enlarge it. We will call it what it is-sin is sin against God, and can be against others, also. God forgives confessed sin. So I am not going to look for any rocks to throw. Stay with me, friends.
Look at verse 1. What time of the year was it? It was the season when kings went to war. What does that mean? It's like the "open season" for hunters in our states. It is the only acceptable and lawful time to hunt and kill certain animals and birds. This protects the animals so the mothers are around to raise their babies. Now, we also have a number that limits the hunter as to how many they can kill in a season, also. This is so protects the hunted, so they do not become scarce. (That was free, in case you don't know how it is for the county folk.)
For a little background and we can better understand, Life Application Study Bible explains the situation:
For every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven. (verse 1)
He says there is a time to be born and die; to kill and heal; to break down and build up; to weep and laugh; to mourn and dance; to cast away and gather stones; to embrace and refrain from embracing; to get and loose; to keep and cast away; to rend and sew; to keep silent and to speak; to love and hate; to war and be at peace.
Didn't Solomon pretty well sum up life? He covered all aspects of what we experience.
How do we handle those times? Do we all them to separate us from our God or to bring us closer to Him?
LET IT GROW
That explains why spring was the time of the year when kings normally go to war. Although, this time, David did not join his troops in battle. No, he sent Joab, his army commander, and his Israelite army to fight the Ammonites. What resulted? They destroyed the Ammonite army and laid siege to the city of Rabbah.
The successful siege put an end to the Ammonites power. From this time on, the Ammonites were subject to Israel. (12:26-27) Life Application Study Bible
Victory was had for Israel, but without David leading. Instead, he was leading them down the path of sin, adultery.
Verse 1 says, However, David stayed behind in Jerusalem.
That was how he made his mistake. Normally, David was leading his army, but this time, for some unknown reason to us, he did not this time. Little did he know at the time that one little decision was going to end up in a big mistake. Whether David was just tired physically or tired of the battles, he still didn't go. I read that he would have been in his 50's by this time. We can speculate down the road, but it really doesn't matter in the scope of things, does it? He chose to stay behind in Jerusalem, in his palace.
There was a time that I was headed down the wrong road due to a little decision, but thankfully, the situation did not end up in a big mistake, and ruin my life, as it could have. God got me out of it before that happened. Thank You God for rescuing me, even when I didn't know I needed it.
Are we aware of how important even our little decisions can be for us? Do we seek the Lord's direction for them? Do we even stop to think that our little decisions can lead to our big mistakes?
LET IT GO
Be where the Lord wants me to be.
Seek His will, always.
Consider the little decisions outcomes of what could happen.
Let of the wrong decisions made in the past and life in the present.
Thank You Jesus for Your forgiveness.
February 23, 2016
2 Samuel 11
In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war, David sent Joab and the Israelite army to fight the Ammonites. 2 Samuel 11:1 NLT
LET IT GLOW
What are the three things that we remember about David? He killed Goliath the giant, he became king over Judah and Israel, and he committed adultery and murder so he could have Bathsheba as his wife.
We have read about the triumphs of David, but now we see the trouble of David. God raised up David to be one of the great kings of the earth. However, this "man after God's own heart" was a sinner like you and me. David's noted sin led his life into a series of heartbreaks. It is stands out like blackberries in a bowl of ice cream, bitter with the sweet. Scripture doesn't play down his sin, for God calls it sin and David is punished for it. This man brings trouble into his house by one act.
Lest we point our fingers in disappointment toward David, we can find fornication, adultery, and sin in a closet in our own family, whether in the past or the present. So, we will not excuse it, nor enlarge it. We will call it what it is-sin is sin against God, and can be against others, also. God forgives confessed sin. So I am not going to look for any rocks to throw. Stay with me, friends.
Look at verse 1. What time of the year was it? It was the season when kings went to war. What does that mean? It's like the "open season" for hunters in our states. It is the only acceptable and lawful time to hunt and kill certain animals and birds. This protects the animals so the mothers are around to raise their babies. Now, we also have a number that limits the hunter as to how many they can kill in a season, also. This is so protects the hunted, so they do not become scarce. (That was free, in case you don't know how it is for the county folk.)
For a little background and we can better understand, Life Application Study Bible explains the situation:
Winter is the rainy season in Israel when crops are planted. Spring was a good time to go to war because the roads were dry, making travel easier for troop movement, supply wagons, and chariots. In Israel, wheat and barley were ready to be harvested in the spring. These crops were an important food source for traveling armies.David's son Solomon said it well as he wrote Ecclesiastes chapter 3:
For every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven. (verse 1)
He says there is a time to be born and die; to kill and heal; to break down and build up; to weep and laugh; to mourn and dance; to cast away and gather stones; to embrace and refrain from embracing; to get and loose; to keep and cast away; to rend and sew; to keep silent and to speak; to love and hate; to war and be at peace.
Didn't Solomon pretty well sum up life? He covered all aspects of what we experience.
How do we handle those times? Do we all them to separate us from our God or to bring us closer to Him?
LET IT GROW
That explains why spring was the time of the year when kings normally go to war. Although, this time, David did not join his troops in battle. No, he sent Joab, his army commander, and his Israelite army to fight the Ammonites. What resulted? They destroyed the Ammonite army and laid siege to the city of Rabbah.
The successful siege put an end to the Ammonites power. From this time on, the Ammonites were subject to Israel. (12:26-27) Life Application Study Bible
Victory was had for Israel, but without David leading. Instead, he was leading them down the path of sin, adultery.
Verse 1 says, However, David stayed behind in Jerusalem.
That was how he made his mistake. Normally, David was leading his army, but this time, for some unknown reason to us, he did not this time. Little did he know at the time that one little decision was going to end up in a big mistake. Whether David was just tired physically or tired of the battles, he still didn't go. I read that he would have been in his 50's by this time. We can speculate down the road, but it really doesn't matter in the scope of things, does it? He chose to stay behind in Jerusalem, in his palace.
There was a time that I was headed down the wrong road due to a little decision, but thankfully, the situation did not end up in a big mistake, and ruin my life, as it could have. God got me out of it before that happened. Thank You God for rescuing me, even when I didn't know I needed it.
Are we aware of how important even our little decisions can be for us? Do we seek the Lord's direction for them? Do we even stop to think that our little decisions can lead to our big mistakes?
LET IT GO
Be where the Lord wants me to be.
Seek His will, always.
Consider the little decisions outcomes of what could happen.
Let of the wrong decisions made in the past and life in the present.
Thank You Jesus for Your forgiveness.
Monday, February 22, 2016
In the End
O. T. #700 "In the End"
February 22, 2016
2 Samuel 10-Part 3
After that, the Arameans were no longer willing to help the Ammonites. 2 Samuel 10:19 NLT
LET IT GLOW
What's happening now to David? Another battle for David was foolishly started by the Ammonites. What he meant for good, they took as evil. King Nahash,s father had died and David sent ambassadors to show his sympathy, but they considered that the men were only spying. As a result, the Ammonites shaved half of each of those men's beards and cut off half of the robes, exposing their behinds, which was humiliating.
Then the ammonites realized they had caused David to become angry. So they prepared to protect themselves by hiring Syrian solders (33,000 total) to join their army.
How does word get around back then? It sure seemed to. The Ammonite troops protected the gates of their city while the hires went into the fields to fight.
Hanun didn't admit his fault, but prepared for war instead.
It can be a difficult thing, admitting our wrongs and mistakes, even sins. Do we apologize, seeking peace, or let it go on and on without trying to make amends?
David's army commander was Joab. He told his troops ahead of the battle, Be strong! We must prove ourselves strong for our people and for the cities of God. May the Lord's will be done.
(verse 12)
They should use their minds to figure out the best technique and using their resources. Joab knew the outcome was in God's hands. (Life Application Study Bible)
Are we using our minds and resources to obey God? Do we trust Him for the outcome?
LET IT GROW
As Joab and the Israeli army advanced toward the hired soldiers in the field near the city of the Ammorites, and the hired soldiers fled away. Seeing them running, the Ammorites ran, too. It doesn't pay to pay someone to do your dirty work, does it? I have seen people do that. They talk about a situation and persuade another person to confront one, being ugly in the approach. Getting chewed out isn't fun, especially when you are in the right in the first place and one will not accept it. In the long scope of it all, God sees all and knows all. He takes revenge for us when we let Him. Usually, it turns out to be harsher than we would have done to get back at them.
Then the Arameans called Syrians, summoned more of their troops across the Euphrates River. This time David led his troops into battle, but the Arameans fled. David's forces killed 7,000 charioteers and 40,000 foot soldiers. This resulted in the Arameans surrendering and becoming servants of David. After that, the Armeans would not help the Ammonites.
God gave Israeli army victory so they returned back to Jerusalem.
Sometimes you have to stand up against the wrong, even if you are alone, even if the opposition is strong. With God on our side, we will be victorious in the end.
LET IT GO
Stand strong in the Lord.
Be courageous and fight for God's will to be done.
See God fight for me, and give Him the glory for the victory.
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