Young love and lust

Amnon was “in love” with Tamar and just had to have her. He schemed, seduced and eventually raped her. But once the conquest was over, his lust quickly turned to hate. The damage was done. Relationships were ruined. Tamar was desolate. Amnon was still discontent and Absalom was vengeful. (2Sam 13:1-22) Young men be warned. That feeling of “love” is most likely hormones. If you act out sexually, your sexual tension will return and you will have to deal with the relational effects of carelessly joining your soul to another. Young women beware! What he says is love is more likely lust. Love is not a feeling, it is a commitment. If he can’t commit to honor you before sex, he will not honor you after he has what he wants. Don’t be his next victim. (1Co 6:15-20, 1Pe 2:11)

Walking wounded

Even the most heinous, high handed sins can be forgiven, but we must still deal with the trouble they cause in our lives. David’s sin with Bathsheba against Uriah was forgiven, but the child (the product of their union) died. David’s family rebelled and lived in constant conflict. (2Sam 12:10-14) I’m sure that life was significantly less sweet for David after his transgression. However, it must be noted that David did not quit. He confessed and repented (Psa 51). He mourned, and he got up, washed, worshipped and ate (2Sam 12:20). We cannot let sin defeat us. The righteous man falls seven times, and rises again (Pro 24:16).

Proactive Benevolence

Most of the time we wait for a need to present itself before we respond. David deliberately sought out a need so that he could “show God’s kindness.” (2Sam 9:3) Our world is so needy that I think it drives us to denial. We can’t help everyone, so we help no one. Many times when we do help we get scammed or taken advantage of. If we actively looked for someone to help then we would regain the inititative, making it less likely that we would choose a con artist. We should do more than “random acts of kindness.” We should do more than respond. We should strategize, mobilize and act to help those around us. Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10)

Devotion back log

April 23, 2011
Proud, pragmatic party poopers
Times of success and prosperity call for acknowledging, enjoying and sharing God’s blessings. David danced and sang. He sacrificed and worshipped. He shared the blessing with everyone in Israel (1Ch 16:1-3). During these times of celebration it doesn’t pay to be a party-pooper. David’s wife, Michal, held him in contempt for his boundless enthusiasm. She remained childless for her attitude of derision (2Sam 6:21-23). Sometimes extravagant worship is appropriate. Beware the attitude of the disciples toward the woman who anointed Jesus with her expensive perfume (Mat 26:6-13). It is possible to be too pragmatic, or too proud and miss God’s blessings.

April 24, 2011
When a good idea is not God’s idea
David had a great idea to build a temple. Nathan agreed. What could be wrong with honoring God with a temple? But God had other plans. It wasn’t that the temple was a bad idea, but it wasn’t God’s plan for David. (2Sam 7:1-17) We should be aware of this as we consider God’s plan for our lives. It may not be what everyone thinks is a good idea. There are not “cookie cutter” Christians. We should remain open to God’s plan for us based on the special gifts he has bestowed upon us. David was a warrior-king, but apparently not a temple builder. Are you grateful for the gifts God has given you? Are you doing what he specifically designed you to do? Or are you trying to pull off good ideas that are not God’s ideas? Paul wrote, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” Phil 3:12 (KJV)

Wait for the Lord

David achieved his destiny through faith and patience. The Lord has chosen and anointed David to lead Israel long before he was installed as king. He had to endure his time in the wilderness, fight his battles and wait for the Lord to clear his way to the kingdom. After Saul’s death the people gathered and acknowledged, “You’ve been our leader all along, even while Saul was king.” (1Ch 11:1) If David had grown impatient and asserted his obvious authority, he might have short-circuited the whole process. He seemed to sense where God was moving and went with the flow. “That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” (Heb 6:12 (KJV))

The proper use of power

Ishbosheth rebuked Abner for an illicit sexual relationship. An insulted Abner turned on him and handed the kingdom to David. (2Sam 3:6-11) Abner made a pact with David that cost him his life at the hands of a vengeful Joab (2Sam 3:22-27). Recab and Baanah murdered Ishbosheth thinking it would win them favor with David. It cost them their lives (2Sam 4:5-8). In these accounts we gain insight into the high stakes game of power politics where “might is right.” If you want to play, you’ll probably pay. Meanwhile, David seems to stay above it all. He mourns for Abner, and executes justice on the murderers of Ishbosheth (2Sam 3:33-39, 2Sam 4:9-11) gaining the approval of the people. Don’t be naïve about the extents to which humans will go in order to achieve power. Jesus sends us as sheep in the midst of wolves and tells us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Mat 10:16). We are to leverage our “power” for service. The meek will inherit the earth (Mat 5:5) The last shall be first (Mat 20:16).

Bought with blood

One day David expressed a longing for water from a well in Bethlehem. The only problem was, Bethlehem was in enemy hands. Three of David’s warriors penetrated the Philistine lines and retrieved some water for David. He refused to drink it, but poured to the ground as a sacrifice saying, “This water is as precious as the blood of the men who secured it.” (2Sam 23:17, 1Ch 11:19) We enjoy many freedoms and luxuries purchased with the blood of warriors. Perhaps it would be appropriate to acknowledge their sacrifice by denying ourselves for a period of time. Our greatest freedom was purchased with the blood of the greatest Warrior. (Zeph 3:17) In light of such sacrifice, all we can do is deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily and follow him. (Luk 9:23).

Saul’s legacy

“So Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord.” (1Ch 10:13) This is a very sad verse. Not that Saul died, because we all die, but that this was the final word on Saul. Lest we look down our noses in disdain, we should remember that “there, but for the grace of God, go I.” This should evoke a holy fear and determination to be faithful. We should mourn as David did, “Oh how the mighty have fallen.” (2Sam 1:19) We should learn from Saul’s failure as David did. While we can’t be perfect, we can be faithful. We can keep trusting and never quit.

The secret of suffering

What enabled David to endure exile and kept him from taking matters into his own hands to curtail his suffering? He had a deep trust that God would reward him for doing the right thing even though it was causing him great pain. (1Sam 26:23-24) In Psalm 56:8-11 he reveals the secret of his perseverance. God was keeping track of his sorrows and was able to restore the wasted years. If God was on his side, men could not hurt him. If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how will he not also with him freely give us all things? (Rom 8:31-32)

Devotion back log

April 15, 2011
You can only steer a moving ship
“The Lord helps those who help themselves.” Contrary to popular belief, this phrase is not Scriptural. But I can see why people would think it was. David was on the run and he helped himself to the show bread (1Sam 21:6). God did not count it against him. When David felt threatened by kin Achish he acted insane to escape. (1Sam 21:12) Later in Psalm 34:6-7, he credits the Lord with his deliverance. David’s preservation was the Lord’s doing, but David was an active participant in it. Waiting on the Lord does not imply inactivity. Rather, it is an active trust. A relationship with the Lord is a synergistic work. He prepares the work and we walk in them. (Eph 2:10)

April 16, 2011
What is at stake in your life?
David believed that his life was linked to God’s glory. When he says, “Be exalted, O God” he means in his life. For David, God’s glory was at stake in his success or failure (Psa 57:5-6). His deliverance results in praise from David and a growing band of people who witnessed God’s goodness to David (Psa 142:7). Do you believe that God’s glory is at stake in your life? Will your life bring him praise or will it wane into obscurity without highlighting God’s goodness and glory?

April 17, 2011
Love them all and let God sort them out
Never return evil for evil. Against his men’s advice and a sense of justice, David did not kill Saul when he had a chance (1Sam 24:4-8). Later Abigail prevented David from killing Nabal in anger (1Sam 25:26-39). The world is full of “personalities” from crazy (Saul) to foolish (Nabal). These people will threaten and offend us. It is in our best interest to wait for God, who sees the heart, to sort it out. We cannot know all the details of every situation, therefore we cannot set ourselves up as judges. Even when our cause seems right, we should wait on the Lord to put down one and exalt another. Jesus said, “Love your enemies.” (Mat 5:44) Paul said “Do not return evil for evil.” (Rom 12:17) Peter said “keep entrusting yourself to Him who judges righteously.” (1Pe 2:23) Never extract your own revenge.

The fearful favor of God

With success comes jealousy. The counterpart to God’s favor is conflict. As God blessed David, Saul was more and more threatened, and David bore the brunt of his guile (1Sam 18:1-16). God blesses us with success not simply for our own enjoyment, but so that we might do his work. God’s work normally involves confronting evil (i.e. Goliath 1Sa 17:45-47). God’s purpose in granting David victory over Goliath was that the whole world would know that there is a God in Israel. He is ultimately bringing glory to himself. If we experience the discomfort of confrontation in the effort, that is a risk that God is willing to take. The truth is, it may be more than discomfort that we endure. For Jesus, death was the requirement for success and God’s glory (Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 53:10-12). Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit (Joh 12:24).

A sad life but a sure eternity

In many ways I identify with Saul (as I’m sure most of us do). He was an insecure, reluctant leader (1Sam 15:17). He was guided by his fear of people more than his obedience to God (1Sam 15:24). In the end, these attitudes cost him the kingdom. Worse yet, the Lord removed the Holy Spirit from him and replaced Him with a tormenting spirit of depression and fear. (1Sam 16:14) That is terrifying to me. It must have been scary to David as well for he prayed “take not Thy Holy Spirit from me” (Psa 51:11). Having said that, I think we’ll see poor old Saul in heaven. Disobedience will cost us blessing and reward but not salvation (1Co 3:10-15). By the grace of God, the Spirit given to Christians abides permanently (2Co 1:21-22). He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it (Phil 1:6). Nothing can snatch us from His hand (John 10:27-29).

A Hard Saying

Early in his career Saul made a kingdom ending decision. He did not wait for Samuel, the man of God, but officiated at a sacrifice himself (1Sa 13:7-14). I must admit that I always feel sorry for Saul when I read this. It seemed like his heart was right. He was trying to do the right thing. Samuel was late and the Philistines were pressing in as Saul’s army faded away. Nevertheless, stepping into the role of priest was a career-ending offense. But Samuel was not a priest either. He was from the tribe of Ephraim (1Sam 1:1-2). Additionally, Saul had a priest with him. Apparently, Ahijah who was of the tribe of Levi and who was wearing the ephod, never spoke up! (1Sam 14:3) Ahijah finally weighs in much later when Saul is trying to decide to continue his pursuit of the Philistines. He uses the Urim and Thummim to discover Jonathan’s error of eating honey against the oath (an offense for which he is apparently forgiven) (1Sam 14:36-46). All the lines are blurred in this account. The rules are unclear. I can only conclude that God is weighing hearts, not actions (1Sam 13:14). There must be something in Saul that the author does not adequately describe.

The spark of leadership

Saul was a reluctant leader from the start. He felt the burden right away and expressed his doubts (1Sa 9:20-21). But the Lord equipped Saul for leadership by giving him the Holy Spirit and a new heart (1Sa 10:6,9). Interestingly, Saul was apparently unaware of his new status because when Samuel came to publicly anoint him, he hid among the baggage (1Sa 10:22). Even after his inauguration as king, he went back to plowing the fields (1Sa 11:5). The Holy Spirit in Saul was seeking occasion to demonstrate his power. King Nahash of Ammon provided the opportunity when he threatened the people of Jabesh. It was then that Saul finally rose up in leadership to defend his people (1Sa 11:6). He raised 330,000 warriors and defeated Nahash. After some hesitation, he seemed to be off to a good start as Israel’s first king. God will never lead you where his grace cannot keep you. He will equip you for the task to which he calls you. Rest in Him and He will work through you.

Remove the obstacles

The people grieved and mourned under the oppression of the Philistines. God raised up Samuel to deliver the message of the “magic formula.” (forgive my sarcasm) Samuel said, “If you are really serious about wanting to return to the Lord, get rid of your foreign gods and you images of Ashtoreth. Determine to obey only the Lord…” (1Sam 7:3) Too often our heads understand the problem, our hearts are troubled but our hands will not be moved. We will not take action. We will not get rid of the things that stand between us and our Lord. Just like the rich young ruler (Mark 10:21-23), it’s easier said than done. We rationalize and justify until nothing is actually required of us. It’s not rocket science; if you want to be close to God, obey.

When in charge, take charge

God held Eli, the priest, accountable for his failure to lead. He knew that his sons were abusing their positions of power by robbing the people and seducing young women (1Sam 2:22). He rebuked them, but he never removed them. His nepotism caused him to honor his sons more than he honored God (1Sam 2:29). Ultimately, God judged Eli and his family because his sons were blaspheming God and he failed to discipline them (1Sam 3:13). Failure to lead is a serious offense. God expects us to use our influence to bring glory to him and to minister to his people. Certainly, the sons’ overt sins deserved judgment, but God also held Eli accountable for his passive response. “Since we all have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly…he who leads, with diligence.” (Rom 12:6-8)

Expectation management

Buried in the genealogies is the quick statement about an obscure man named Jabez: “He prayed that God would expand his territory, bless all he did, and keep him from all trouble and pain.” (1Ch 4:9-10) What? Who does this guy think he is? It seems selfish and immoral to pray for a pain free life when we live in a world so filled with tragedy. What is more amazing is that Chronicle records that God granted his request. Now, this may be hyperbole. I’m sure Jabez had the same tribulations that we all face; hard work, loss of loved ones etc. But, apparently, his life was easier than most. A couple of years ago a book called The Prayer of Jabez became very popular. I never read it, but I can understand its appeal. Regardless of the popularity of the concept, a trouble free life is not likely, and probably not a worthwhile pursuit. Paul said, “all those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2Ti 3:12) Jesus said, “In this world you will have tribulation.” (Joh 16:33)

God honors the committed

Ruth committed herself to her mother in law. Though the future was uncertain, she left her family and her land to honor and provide for Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17). God honored Ruth’s faith and commitment through a kinsman redeemer, Boaz. Boaz ensured the security and prosperity of both women. He said to Ruth, “May the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have taken refuge, reward you fully for what you have done (Ruth 2:11-12). Are you honoring your commitments? Are you loving your neighbor as yourself? (Mat 22:39)

Sexual rights gone wrong

When everyone does what is right in his own eyes the nation is on the slippery slope of disaster. When they could not get a man, a band of frustrated homosexuals raped a woman to death. Then the tribe of Benjamin rallied around them to defend their “rights.” What began as Sodom-like sexual deviance in Israel, ended in a civil war in which thousands were killed (Judg 19-20). This is surely some of Israel’s dirtiest laundry and God chose to include it in the book that millions would read for millennia to follow. I believe that this account is here to warn us about the social erosion caused by sexual sin. Homosexuality has always been present, but until now it was not recognized as a civil right. It was considered sin or at least mental illness. When sexual sin is legitimized as a protected “right” can judgment be far behind?

The source of my weakness

I don’t understand why God chose to use Samson. He lived in blatant sin and violation of his Nazirite vow. The token that God associated with his strength was the length of his hair. The one thing that made Samson “successful” was his curly locks. (Judg 16:17,0) (It has to be said that Samson’s end was not good. Ultimately, he paid the price for his loose living. (Judg 16:21,30)) The Lord is the source of infinite strength. What is limiting His strength in our lives? We all fall short in many ways, but is there one area of disobedience that keeps the Lord from blessing us with victory and success? What is the source of my weakness? Lord, open my eyes that I may know the “surpassing greatness of your power toward me.” (Eph 1:18-19)

Devotion back log

April 2, 2011
You’ll never find Easy Street
Being a leader and doing what God calls you to do is not without challenges, temptations and tragedies. After Gideon’s victory over the Midianites, Ephraim complained to Gideon that he recruited them too late (Judg 8:1). Gideon’s victory soon turned into temptation. With the plunder he made a golden ephod which became an idol (Judg 8:27). Finally, one of his sons, Abimelech, killed seventy of his other sons in order to gain power. So Gideon’s legacy was dragged through the mud (Judg 8:35, 9:16-17). If you’re waiting for life to get easy, you might as well give up. Faith is required all the way. It’s a race to the end and a fight to the finish (2Ti 4:7).

April 3, 2011
Leader’s lead
Leaders attract followers. Jephthah was rejected by his family and exiled from his land. His wisdom is questionable and he made a rash vow (Judg 11:35). He attracted “worthless rebels” (Judg 11:3), but people followed him and asked him to lead (Judg 11:6). Good or bad, people follow a leader. Are you a leader? Is anyone following you? Do your best to lead in obedience to Christ, with integrity and justice. Use the gift of leadership for God’s people, not your own agenda.

April 4, 2011
Unwilling participants
Samson’s parents were distressed when he chose a wife from among the Philistines. They didn’t realize that God was at work creating an opportunity to instigate conflict between Israel and the Philistines (Judg 14:4). God was using Samson in spite of himself. Does the fact that God can use our transgression to accomplish his plan exonerate us? Not at all. Samson still paid the consequences of his errors. I’m certain that God would prefer to use our obedience, but nothing, not even our sin, will stand in the way of his plan. They key is to join him in what he is doing. Abide in him and bear much fruit (John 15:5).

No servant can serve two masters

God’s people were living in fear, terrorized by the Midianites. They had forsaken the Lord and forgotten his covenant. Their “hero” is discovered hiding in a winepress (Judg 6:12). Gideon didn’t feel like a hero. He was timid and suspicious of the angel of the Lord. He asked the question I have often wondered in reference to the church, “If the Lord is with us, why has all of this happened to us?” (Judg 6:13). The answer for Israel was that they were worshipping Baal. The answer for the American church is that we are worshipping Mammon. God acknowledges Gideon’s tentativeness and commands him, “Go in the strength you have (however little it may be) and rescue Israel…I am sending you.” (Judg 6:14) God instructs him to do something radical in direct confrontation to the idol worshipping culture he lived in; tear down the altar of Baal and the Asherah pole (Judg 6:25-26). His actions earned him the name Jerubaal (meaning let Baal defend himself) because Baal was under attack! (Judg 6:32). For us timid believers hiding in our culture, isn’t it time to take radical action against the god of our culture? Let Mammon defend himself! (Mat 6:24, Luk 16:9-15).