"Gimme My Sword!"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 19:31-20:26; Psalm 7; 2 Samuel 21:1-22; 1 Chronicles 20:4-8

(I look *good* in this shot, don't I?)

Scripture Focus

Ishbi-benob…had cornered David and was about to kill him. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue and killed the Philistine. Then David’s men declared, “You are not going out to battle with us again! Why risk snuffing out the light of Israel?” (2 Samuel 21:16-17 NLT)

Observation

So many of the challenges David faced in the latter years of his reign seem traceable to the fallout from his moral failure with Bathsheba and the consequent murder of Uriah, her husband. That debacle is introduced by the observation that, in the spring “when kings normally go out to war”—and under Joab’s leadership, Israel’s troops had—“David stayed behind in Jerusalem” (1 Chron 20:1 NLT)

Everything I’m about to write is pure speculation. There’s not an iota of Scripture in direct support of it. I wonder, however—after reading today’s passage—if this same sort of statement hadn’t been made to David before…if, perhaps, David stayed behind in Jerusalem reluctantly, at the urging of his military or political leaders, and all in the interest of “protecting” David.

Take the sword from the warrior’s hand and there’s likely to be trouble. He or she may comply, but when you take from a person something they so dearly love…the thing they were created to do…the results can be more destructive than if you’d let ‘em go down swinging with the sword in their hand!

(I understand it’s not always as simple as I might be making it here, but…)

We take the same risk when we try to protect aging adults through forced retirement or perhaps the curtailment of activities we don’t think they’re up to anymore. We take the same risk when a spouse reaches a point of life-transition and wants to do something “different” (read “crazy”). We do the same sort of thing in our efforts to protect our kids, maybe trying to guide them towards the career or mate or location we think might be best for them.

I’m thinking today I’d much rather live a vibrant 50 years than a mediocre 90. Gimme my sword—and while you’re at it, grab your sword, too!

"Seeing Clearly--Even Up Close"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 17:15-29; Psalm 3; Psalm 63; 2 Samuel 18-19:30

Scripture Focus

You seem to love those who hate you and hate those who love you. (2 Samuel 19:6 NLT)

Observation

Wow! It gets complicated, doesn’t it? Not with regard to Absalom’s baseless rebellion or any question as to David’s right to rule over Israel, but with regard to all the subplots that accompany the rebellion itself, the battles that result, and David’s return to Jerusalem. Something has happened to David’s leadership, and I think Joab was right when he admonished the king: “You seem to love those who hate you and hate those who love you” (2 Samuel 19:6 NLT).

In battles with foreign enemies, David was an unequaled warrior, but when it came to the management of his own household—and specifically the necessity of disciplining his own sons—David struck out. I wish I knew why that were so.

It is, I’m sure, one of the most difficult tasks of any parent to see his or her children with honest clarity. Too easily we lean one direction or the other—either seeing our children as “never good enough” or seeing our children as “above reproach”. What no parent can afford is a fear of correcting when correction is necessary. What every parent needs is a willingness to let consequences teach life lessons when correction hasn’t been heeded.

One of my favorite verses in this regard comes from the Gospel of John chapter 9, when the parents of the man born blind (and now healed by Jesus) are brought before the Sanhedrin and questioned regarding the status of their son. Their reply? “Ask him. He is of age. He will speak for himself” (John 9:21 NIV).

Their point, of course, was that their son should answer for himself and was responsible for himself. There is some point at which every parent needs to make that decision with regard to his or her children. Every day that moment edges closer for me. When the moment of truth comes, I hope I’m up for it.

“Inviting Trouble”

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 15-17:14

Scripture Focus

Then Absalom would say, “You’ve really got a strong case here! It’s too bad the king doesn’t have anyone to hear it. I wish I were the judge. Then everyone could bring their cases to me for judgment, and I would give them justice!” (2 Samuel 15:3-4 NLT)

Observation

Some people know how to stir the pot, don’t they?

Perhaps…maybe…possibly…David can take some of the blame for what happens in today’s reading to the degree that he failed to adequately address the behavior of his children (as we wrote about regarding yesterday’s reading). But ultimately, Absalom’s actions far outweigh any culpability on David’s part. Absalom was intentional and calculating in his actions. He purposefully and manipulatively “set the table” so that people would compare him favorably in contrast to his father, King David. He skillfully made himself appear both caring and willing to act—and unable to act only because he wasn’t yet the king.

The truth is, it’s worth thinking twice when people are all-too-willing to give ear to your concerns. I hate to be that skeptical about it, but the fact is, sometimes people are just storing up ammo for some future skirmish, or building up credibility for some future opportunity, or—sometimes—just looking for information much more than they’re looking to lend a hand.

Now…what could possibly be even remotely encouraging about a thought like that to start the day? Well, the beauty of it is that—in spite of how dishonest people can be—Jesus is fully able to help us act in wisdom, too. He dealt with the same kinds of manipulative hearts himself on multiple occasions (see, for example, Luke 5:22 and 6:8). The same Holy Spirit that anointed Jesus to act and serve with divine insight is available to every believer who asks and He will grant understanding, whether in a moment’s revelation (see 1 Cor 12:8) or through specific seasons of prayer (James 1:5).

So be encouraged. The battles will be genuine, and are often unavoidable, but “thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” (1 Cor 15:57).

"Goliath Killer?"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 12:26-31; 1 Chronicles 20:2-3; 2 Samuel 13-14:33

Scripture Focus

Then at last David summoned Absalom, who came and bowed low before the king, and the king kissed him. (2 Samuel 14:33 NLT)

Observation

I confess, I'm disappointed.  It all feels “broken” to me today in today's reading. Maybe I just didn’t get enough sleep last night, need something to eat, or some other trifling attitude adjustment, but it all seems askew today. What should be…what's presented as…reconciliation between David and Absalom doesn’t really feel like reconciliation when all is said and done. There’s too much unfinished business floating around that nobody’s taking care of.

It’s the classic case of an “elephant in the room” nobody's willing to talk about.  Actually, it's more like two or three elephants that nobody—especially David—is willing to tackle.

Why did David fail to act when Tamar was raped by her own half-brother? Why did David again fail to act when Absalom murdered Amnon? What kind of foolishness led David to expand his polygamous marriages in a way that resulted in all these fractured relationships between half-siblings? (It made me go back and read 2 Samuel 3, where David is recorded as having fathered children by six different wives—in addition to Michal, whom he’d already married, and Bathsheba, whom he’d married by the time we get to today’s reading.)

Elsewhere we learn that—at least with one other of his sons (Adonijah)—David “never interfered with him by asking, ‘Why do you behave as you do?’” (1 Kings 1:6 NIV).

It just appears that by this point, David’s personal life and family relationships have been cast aside in pursuit of…well, I don’t what—some military campaign or building project? It’s clear David faced some challenges for which there were no easy answers—challenges he, himself, had helped to create. I just wish he’d have tackled some of those challenges as enthusiastically and faith-fully as he’d taken on earlier obstacles. Goliath doesn’t always take the shape of a Philistine giant.

"You Da Man—and that Ain't Good!"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 8:15-18; 1 Chronicles 18:14-17; 1 Chronicles 6:16-30; 1 Chronicles 6:50-53; 1 Chronicles 6:31-48; 2 Samuel 9-10:19; 1 Chronicles 19:1-19

Scripture Focus

Have mercy on me, O God,
     because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion,
     blot out the stain of my sins.
                           (Psalm 51:1 NLT)

Observation

Yesterday, I was Mephibosheth. Today, I am David. In one of the most dramatic turns recorded in Scripture, “In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war…” (2 Samuel 11:1 NLT), David stayed home. He sent out his armies, but he, himself, stayed home.

Plenty has been written about the significance of David’s choices—about what must have motivated him to stay home, or (more accurately) why he lacked the motivation to “go out to war.” Since the Scriptures don’t say anything particularly definitive about the reasons why, I’m not sure we can, either. Truth is, it doesn’t really matter. David’s story remains my story.

Oh, perhaps the details are different, but just like David, I’ve grown weary, distracted, de-energized, and more interested in my afternoon nap (2 Samuel 11:2) than the battle to be fought and won. Those conditions set me up for failure—and there have been plenty of times I’ve chosen just that!

But no matter how great my failure, it is gloriously exceeded by the bountiful grace of God. And I discover that when I run back to Him, the foundation for forgiveness remains the same. He forgives not because I beg enough, or sorrow enough, or even because I promise to never fail again. He forgives because of who He is—full of unfailing love and great compassion. When I am “da man”—and wish I weren’t (“You are that man!”—2 Samuel 12:7)—His unfailing love and great compassion keep open before me the door to reconciliation with Him, and He does “purify me…wash me…[and] give me back my joy again” (see Psalm 51:7-11). Because of who I am? Not for a millisecond. It’s because of who He is—full of unfailing love and great compassion.

"I Am Mephibosheth"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 8:15-18; 1 Chronicles 18:14-17; 1 Chronicles 6:16-30; 1 Chronicles 6:50-53; 1 Chronicles 6:31-48; 2 Samuel 9-10:19; 1 Chronicles 19:1-19

Scripture Focus

And from that time on, Mephibosheth ate regularly at David’s table, like one of the king’s own sons. (2 Samuel 9:11 NLT)

Observation

I am Mephibosheth. I am the child of an unrighteous king, and an unrighteous subject in an unrighteous kingdom. I am lame, broken, scarred, and imperfect. And I am utterly unable to provide for myself what I desperately need and cannot live without.

But that kingdom of darkness which left me both unfit and unable has been superseded by a Kingdom of Righteousness and a Righteous King.

And—wonder beyond words—that righteous King has provided for me that which I cannot provide for myself. He has invited me to His table, made a place for me at His meal, carried me to that feast, and both promised and provided for me all that I need and more—today and forevermore.

How good to be at the King’s Table! How good to sit with Him, feast with Him, talk with Him, rest in Him—and to know that His invitation stands!

"I Will Build A House For You!"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 7:1-17; 1 Chronicles 17:1-15; 2 Samuel 7:18-29; 1 Chronicles 17:16-27; 2 Samuel 8:1-14; 1 Chronicles 18:1-13; Psalm 60

Scripture Focus

I declare that the LORD will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings! (1 Chronicles 17:10 NLT)

Observation

I seem to be using the word “remarkable” a lot, lately. But again today, it is the word that comes to mind.

David has finally secured his reign over all of Israel. Saul, who had sought David’s life, is dead. Those tribes loyal to Saul and reluctant to acknowledge David’s anointing as King have relented, the city of Jerusalem has been secured as a capital city, the Ark of the Covenant has been moved to Jerusalem, and 2 Samuel 7:1 says…

“When King David was settled in his palace and the LORD had given him rest from all the surrounding enemies…” (2 Samuel 7:1 NLT)

…that David expresses to Nathan the prophet the desire of his heart—to build a suitable temple for the Lord.

Nathan’s first reaction is something like, “Sure—go ahead. Sounds good!”

But that night, the Lord speaks to Nathan very specifically. (And I was tempted to write at length about that—how refreshing that Nathan is able to say, “I thought one thing, but the Lord showed me another.” Even for the godliest among us, our first reaction isn’t always the right reaction.) And God instructs Nathan to deliver this message to David:

I declare that the LORD will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings! (1 Chronicles 17:10 NLT)

Indeed, the more of the message you read, the more you understand how good God has been to David:

“I took you from tending sheep in the pasture… I have been with you …and I have destroyed all your enemies… Now I will make your name as famous as anyone who has ever lived on the earth! I will provide a homeland for my people Israel…and I will defeat all your enemies…

“Furthermore, I declare that the LORD will build a house for you—a dynasty of kings!” (1 Chronicles 17:7-10 NLT)

What a remarkable, incredible, lavishly gracious act on God’s part towards David—and towards us. Because this prophetic promise delivered by Nathan (while partially fulfilled in the kingdom of Solomon) was ultimately fulfilled in the Kingdom of our Savior, Jesus Christ. However rich the grace extended by God to David, His grace has been no less rich towards us! “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV)

"Giving Room to Grow"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 6:12; 1 Chronicles 15:1-28; 2 Samuel 6:12-16; 1 Chronicles 15:29; 2 Samuel 6:17-19; 1 Chronicles 16:1-43; 2 Samuel 6:19-23

Scripture Focus

When David returned home to bless his own family, Michal, the daughter of Saul, came out to meet him. She said in disgust, “How distinguished the king of Israel looked today, shamelessly exposing himself to the servant girls like any vulgar person might do!” (2 Samuel 6:20 NLT)

Observation

What a shame—when David returns home to bless his family, he’s rebuked by his own wife!

It’d been a great day of victory—spiritual victory—for David and the nation he leads. The Ark—the symbol of God’s Presence among His people—has been brought to the capital city of Jerusalem, marking it like never before as the religious center for Israel’s worship of Yahweh. The procession was marked by shouts of joy, celebratory music, and David (and others, I’m sure) dancing before the Lord. Better yet, there were government handouts for everybody—“a loaf of bread, a cake of dates, and a cake of raisins” (2 Sam 6:19)!

But Michal, David’s wife, is not part of the procession, and certainly not part of the celebration. Instead, she looks down on David (literally and figuratively) and is “filled with contempt for him” (2 Sam 6:16). When this incredible day is over, she greets her husband with soul-slicing sarcasm:

“How distinguished the king of Israel looked today, shamelessly exposing himself to the servant girls like any vulgar person might do!” (2 Samuel 6:20 NLT)

What’s up with that? I understand that this is a complicated situation. Michal has been passed around like a Christmas fruitcake. She was first given as a bride to David, but then re-gifted to Paltiel when the relationship between David and Saul went south. Then, as part of the negotiations to make David king over all Israel, David insisted on her return. As messed up as it all is, it certainly appears that David loved Michal as she had once loved him (1 Sam 18:20).

But something’s changed with Michal, and now she wants nothing to do with David’s success…or Israel’s progress. Instead of being identified as the wife of David, she’s identified in this passage as the “daughter of Saul”—meaning her connection and identity was tied to what had been instead of what was—now.

I suppose it’s a bit of a stretch to make this connection, but I am amazed at how often women pray and pray for their husbands to come to Christ and long to see their husbands involved in the life of the local church and then—when it happens—grow resentful of the time and energy that husband begins to give to the work of God. All this reminds me—on a larger scale—of how essential it is that married couples leave room in their lives for a spouse to grow, to change, to become someone other than the person they married (or imagined they married).

I understand that statement is fraught with potential complications and situations I could never address here. Still—what if your spouse became sold out to Jesus in a way they never had before? What if your spouse’s heart became enthralled with a Kingdom consciousness that changed who they were, and your relationship as a result? Would Jesus still get first place in all that? Could you still pray, “Whatever you want to do with my spouse—and with me—I want it”?

I suppose I’m rambling on about all this today in part, at least, because of something I heard a fellow pastor say earlier this week: “When a wife won’t allow her husband to change, he may as well just pick up a purse and start following her!” I wouldn’t have said it quite like that—but I appreciate the sentiment. I don’t want to despise what you’re doing in those closest to me, Lord—I want to rejoice in it and encourage it!

"Steadying the Ark"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 5:1-3; 1 Chronicles 11:1-3; 1 Chronicles 12:23-40; 2 Samuel 5:17-25; 1 Chronicles 14:8-17; 2 Samuel 5:6-10; 1 Chronicles 11:4-9; 1 Chronicles 3:4; 2 Samuel 5:13; 2 Samuel 5:4-5; 2 Samuel 5:11-12; 1 Chronicles 14:1-2; 1 Chronicles 13:1-5; 2 Samuel 6:1-11; 1 Chronicles 13:6-14

Scripture Focus

Uzzah reached out his hand and steadied the Ark of God. Then the LORD’s anger was aroused against Uzzah, and God struck him dead because of this. (2 Samuel 6:6-7 NLT)

Observation

Finally—a reading that *ignites* devotional thoughts (instead of numbing the mind)! What do I like from today's reading?

There’s the subtle introduction of “Zadok, a brave young warrior” from the tribe of Levi (1 Chron 12:28). Ezekiel later prophesies that it will be the sons of Zadok who are “the only Levites who may draw near to the LORD to minister before him” in the restored temple (Ezekiel 40:46—chase that one, you Bible scholars!)

There is the mention of the men of Issachar, who “understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take” (1 Chron 12:22)—one of my favorite verses. Oh, how the people of God need leaders “men of Issachar” today!

There is the sensitivity of David in seeking the direction of God and the activity of the Holy Spirit in defeating the Philistines (2 Sam 5:17-25). Any Pentecostal worth his or her salt has to love verse 24—“When you hear a sound like marching feet in the tops of the poplar trees, be on the alert! That will be the signal that the LORD is moving ahead of you…”

But thanks to Mark Buchanan, I’m picking up today on 2 Samuel 6:1-11—David’s first attempt to bring the ark to Jerusalem, his new capital city. It was Mark, in his book Your God Is Too Safe, who first challenged me to consider how much like Uzzah I can be. So the rest of this post quotes Mark, with only minor editing in the interest of space. He writes:

Here is where Uzzah gets me. I’m a pastor. I am “responsible” for the church’s worship. I am paid to make sure it all glows and flows and steps on no one’s toes. And, frankly, it’s hard to preside and participate at the same time. Somebody’s got to make sure the songs move in the right thematic flow, in the perfect emotional key of elation or exhortation or solemnity…

What if the ox stumbles and the ark falls off? Who will reach out their hand and steady it? Who will protect God? Somebody’s got to pay attention here. Not everyone can dance.

Uzzah teaches us, at great personal cost, a valuable lesson about God. God is not safe. He is not a household deity, kept in our safekeeping. And God’s safety is not our business. God takes care of himself.

The safest thing to do with a God like this is not to play it safe with Him. It is to never get so caught up in keeping the traditions or hastening the innovations that we forget to throw ourselves headlong into His brusque and tender embrace. It is to never get so busy protecting God that we fail to take refuge in Him. It is to never become so preoccupied in our Keep God Safe march that we forget to dance before our God with all our might.*

*Mark Buchanan, Your God Is Too Safe: Rediscovering the Wonder of a God You Can’t Control (Grand Rapids, MI: Multnomah Publishers, Inc., 2001), 29-30.

"Fighting Over Power Not Yours To Control"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 3:6-4:3; 2 Samuel 4:5-12

Scripture Focus

Then Abner sent messengers to David, saying, “Doesn’t the entire land belong to you? Make a solemn pact with me, and I will help turn over all of Israel to you.” (2 Samuel 3:12 NLT)

Observation

I confess again today—today’s reading doesn’t exactly flow like a river loaded chock-full of devotional doodads. Honestly, it’s difficult reading—not unlike the last few chapters of Judges, I think—because of all the political manipulating and even bloodshed that goes on in the process of securing the kingdom for David. Indeed, I’ve scrambled for a “scripture focus” and only quote the verse above because it’s indicative of the whole passage and of the kinds of political maneuverings and manipulations that go on throughout.

To be sure, David’s kingship is God’s will. And—at least by the cultural standards of the day—the foundations for David’s succession to full kingship over all of Israel are made secure today through no direct bloodshed on David’s part. But it’s still not pretty…there’s nothing neat and tidy about it…and I’m thinking again today about how ugly things can get when people battle over power instead of accepting and releasing authority under God’s direction.

Bottom line, power works differently in God’s Kingdom than it does in the kingdoms of this world. Jesus said to his disciples, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you” (Matthew 20:25-26 NIV). That’s a great phrase—“Not so with you!” Philippians 2:6-11 describes how, because Jesus completely humbled himself and emptied himself of power, God “exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:9 NIV).

Those verses—indeed, all of Scripture and the example of Jesus Christ himself—tells me that power ought to be acquired and released differently in God’s kingdom than it is anywhere else—that only those living under God’s authority ever have any real authority anyway—and that He, then, can be trusted to supply what power might be needed for any leadership challenge…and that I don’t need to fight my way to it.

Besides, when I battle for what’s really not mine, anyway, it just gets too bloody for my tastes.

"Time Will Tell"

Scripture Passage

2 Samuel 2-3:5; 1 Chronicles 3:1-4; 2 Samuel 23:8-17; 1 Chronicles 11:10-19;

2 Samuel 23:18-39; 1 Chronicles 11:20-47

Scripture Focus

That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul’s dynasty became weaker and weaker. (2 Samuel 3:1 NLT)

Observation

I confess—I think today’s reading is good history, but a bit spotty from a devotional perspective. Still, I take encouragement—maybe in a strange way—from the simple statement of 2 Samuel 3:1—

That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul’s dynasty became weaker and weaker. (2 Samuel 3:1 NLT)

I don’t like it that Israel struggled so long in civil war over who would lead Israel as king. I don’t like it that men laid down their lives to preserve a kingdom God had rejected, or that other men had to lay down their lives in order to assure the reign of the king God had chosen. But I’m encouraged—when I read that it took righteous men significant time to see David’s kingdom established—that everything God is working towards doesn’t necessarily get accomplished in an instant…that sometimes even God’s expressed will takes time to see accomplished.

The fact that the accomplishment of God’s will required wearisome, time-consuming battles encourages me when my battles consume more time and resources than I think they ought to. Though I regularly wish it were quicker and easier, the absence of immediate accomplishment does not mean I’ve missed God’s will. Indeed, it may mean I’m right in the center of God’s will, as evidenced by the intensified efforts of the enemy of my soul.

Help me, Lord, to know your will—and to persist in it, regardless of whatever time and energy it might demand.

"Unhappy With Your Assignment?"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 30:1-31; 1 Chronicles 12:20-22; 1 Samuel 31:1-13;

1 Chronicles 10:1-14; 1 Chronicles 9:40-44; 2 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 1:1-27

Scripture Focus

“We share and share alike—those who go to battle and those who guard the equipment.” (1 Samuel 30:24 NLT)

Observation

Sharing is a pretty fundamental life-lesson, don’t you think? If you’ve ever raised children of your own--or even volunteered in the church nursery--it didn’t take long before you had to remind a couple of youngsters to “share and share alike.”

David has the same challenge with grown men, when some of his fighting men stay behind to guard the equipment while others head into battle. When all was said and done, some of the fighting men were unwilling to share the spoils of war with those who hadn’t actually swung a sword.

But David operates from a broader principle and establishes a practice that remained at least through the time of the writing of 1 Samuel—

“We share and share alike—those who go to battle and those who guard the equipment.” (1 Samuel 30:24 NLT)

Actually, the practice stretches far beyond that date--it’s a timeless Kingdom principle. Paul identifies the division of labor in 1 Corinthians 3...

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. (1 Corinthians 3:6-7 NIV)

And Jesus promised shared reward in John, chapter 4...

Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. (John 4:36 NIV)

There may be days I get to swing the sword, and other days I feel like I’m only guarding the equipment, but God’s Word affirms that each task is essential—and that the reward is equal not so much to the task as it is to the faithfulness I exhibit to the task. The completion of any assigned task—no matter how significant or insignificant I might deem it—carries the promise of hearing Christ’s affirmation:

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!” (Matthew 25:21 NIV)

"How Much? What's It Worth?"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 26-27:7; 1 Chronicles 12:1-7;

1 Samuel 27:8-29:11; 1 Chronicles 12:19; Psalm 56

Scripture Focus

Now may the LORD value my life, even as I have valued yours today. (1 Samuel 26:24 NLT)

Observation

Let’s face it—stuff basically has whatever value we assign to it.

I have a personal appreciation for a certain vintage automobile—rear-engined, air-cooled, American made—and when I say “personal appreciation” I mean it, because my love of the Chevrolet Corvair is not shared by all that many others! Because of that, instead of the hundreds of thousands of dollars required to own some collectable automobiles, a Corvair can be enjoyed for a minimal investment. It’s all about “assigned values”…and it’s my pleasure to benefit from the lack of value assigned by others to one of my favorite cars!

But there’s one place everybody loses when values are erroneously assigned—it’s in the arena of human life. That’s true in a general sense when people debate the abortion issue or “quality of life” issues for the elderly, infirmed, or disabled—and it’s true in a personal sense whenever I’m inclined to “write someone off” as less important than me, or unimportant altogether.

Somehow David understood that. Though Saul sought his life, and though David had opportunities that even seemed to be divinely given to take Saul’s life and protect his own…somehow David understood that this “giving life, taking life” business was the Lord’s arena and not his own. Somehow David understood that it was not his place to devalue another and exalt himself, and that the Lord could take care of that in his own way.

I suppose, today, that’s simply something I want to be aware of. There’s not a whole lot about my own life I need to orchestrate if my life really is not my own. That doesn’t mean I don’t need to plan, to work, to engage, to serve—but it does liberate me from trying to “scramble to the top of every battle” somehow. When I can place God’s value on not just those I’m inclined to devalue, but even those who might be inclined to devalue me—then I can more easily trust God as One who values my life, and the One who can direct my steps in His plan as a result.

"A New Name for an Old Mountain"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 23:13-29; Psalm 54; 1 Samuel 24-25:44

Scripture Focus

So Saul quit chasing David and returned to fight the Philistines. Ever since that time, the place where David was camped has been called the Rock of Escape (1 Samuel 23:28 NLT)

Observation

What great reading today—what *real* people! And how is it that surly men get with beautiful wives? (Yeah, I know what you’re thinkin’—but I’m not talking about me!) And that’s all I’m saying about Nabal and Abigail. Because what I really enjoyed reading today was a new name for an old mountain.

Saul is in pursuit of David…each on opposite sides of the same mountain…a great game of cat and mouse (well, easier said when you’re not the mouse). And when it looks like the game’s about over—all of a sudden, out of the blue, the Philistines attack again. “So Saul quit chasing David and returned to fight the Philistines” (1 Sam 23:28).

What a “coincidence”, huh?

It’s not just God’s protection of David that’s encouraging, but also the fact that a previously generic stronghold—“the great rock”—now has a new name. “Ever since that time, the place where David was camped has been called the Rock of Escape” (1 Samuel 23:28 NLT).

An old mountain got a new name. What had been, perhaps, an obstacle in the past—just a big block of granite that got in the way—now becomes a testimony to God’s grace and deliverance.

Makes me wonder what victory God wants to bring in my life so that what was simply a “great rock” can become “the Rock of Escape”—a testimony to Him!

"From Isolation to Restoration"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 22:1-2; Psalm 57; Psalm 142; 1 Chronicles 12:8-18;

1 Samuel 22:3-23; Psalm 52; 1 Samuel 23:1-12

Scripture Focus

I look for someone to come and help me,

but no one gives me a passing thought!

No one will help me;

no one cares a bit what happens to me.

Then I pray to you, O LORD.

I say, “You are my place of refuge.

You are all I really want in life.

(Psalm 142:4-5 NLT)

Observation

I smile to myself when I read David’s words in Psalm 142—“…no one gives me a passing thought! …no one cares a bit what happens to me.” I’ve offered that lament more than once in my life (and so have you)!

And it’s so not true! It wasn’t true for David—he’s been joined by some 400 men who had tied their futures to his success—and it’s never been true for me (or you).

But every one of us knows what it’s like to feel that way—to feel like no one’s even thought of us…that no one cares (not even a bit) what happens to us.

David comes to the right solution—the right resolution—to those feelings of isolation. “Then I pray to you, O Lord.”

One of the beautiful things about the Psalms, especially, is the permission they give—by example—for me to be honest with God about every emotion I experience. When David brings his weary self to God he discovers a place of refuge and a point of reconnection. Where there had been vulnerability and isolation, David finds refuge and relationship.

Of course, out of that place (the place of refuge and relationship) David finds the strength to connect again with others—to want what God wants for him…to serve a bigger, greater purpose than himself. In David’s case—and mine—to want to lead others well in the purposes of God.

“Lord, when I feel like ‘…no one will help me; no one cares a bit what happens to me,’ move me once more back into that place of refuge and relationship. Restore my soul.”

"Choose Wisely, My Friend. Choose Wisely."

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 20:1-21:15; Psalm 34

Scripture Focus

Then Saul hurled his spear at Jonathan, intending to kill him. So at last Jonathan realized that his father was really determined to kill David. Jonathan left the table in fierce anger and refused to eat on that second day of the festival, for he was crushed by his father’s shameful behavior toward David.
                                               (1 Samuel 20:33-34 NLT)

Observation

Until today, I don’t ever recall thinking so deeply about what it must have been like for Jonathan to choose loyalty to David over loyalty to his own father, Saul.

The whole story is thick with emotion. There seems to have been an immediate kinship between Jonathan and David—probably because they both shared the kind of adventurous, God-honoring faith we’ve been reading about over the past few days. Clearly that kinship grew into a deep and abiding brotherly love. And today’s reading identifies Saul’s behavior as “shameful” and Jonathan’s anger towards his father as “fierce”. Still, what kind of heart for God must it take to choose to honor God’s next anointed king over your father’s reign as king, and ultimately, over your own!

I don’t care if your dad has even tried to kill you because of your identification with his successor (1 Sam 20:33)—he’s still your dad. My experience is that children often defend even the most despicable of fathers! Yet Jonathan’s heart is steadfast—he will honor the one God has chosen as king.

None of that says he had to despise his own father in any way (though that would have been a challenge, too). It only says that Jonathan embraced David’s coming kingdom over Saul’s now-rejected kingdom. Please note, however, that he did at risk of his life!

Truth be known, “choosing sides” is no small matter. Rather, it is often powerfully and significantly intense. Indeed, one of the “hard sayings” of Jesus is this one:

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters--yes, even his own life--he cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:26 NIV)

Like many, I’m inclined to thin down the intensity of Jesus’ words here, and suggest that He’s “only” saying we must love Him more than anything. But even if that’s “all” He’s saying—take it for “only” that—it remains as all-encompassing a command as you’ll ever encounter. Every day we choose a coming kingdom over a kingdom destined to fail. And in that sense, our choice is no less intense or demanding than was Jonathan’s. Choose wisely, my friend. Choose wisely.

"Faith in the Field"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 17:32-19:17

Scripture Focus

“Don’t worry about this Philistine,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight him!” (1 Samuel 17:32 NLT)

Observation

Two days out of three now, I’ve had the pleasure to read about men of faith seizing opportunities by faith. A couple of days ago, it was Jonathan scrambling up the side of the ravine with his armor bearer to attack the Philistine outpost. Today, it’s David, taking on Goliath.

There are a couple of things that strike me as significant. First, is David’s simple faith in the greatness of His God…the same kind of faith Jonathan exhibited. Jonathan’s declaration? “…nothing can hinder the LORD. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!” (1 Sam 14:5). Now David says to Goliath, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies” (1 Sam 17:45).

Oh, that such confidence would characterize my walk with Jesus!

There’s something else I see about David that’s significant—David knows how to apply lessons learned in previous experiences to current circumstances. When challenged on his abilities to take on Goliath, David stands on what he’s learned in previous, similar experiences—and yet attributes the anticipated victory not to his experience, but to God’s greatness! "The LORD who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!” (1 Sam 17:37).

I quote “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb 13:8) along with the best of ‘em. David puts that reality into practice. What God’s done before, He’s quite able to do again.

Oh, that such wisdom would characterize my walk with Jesus!

"Not-So-Mini Me"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 15:1-17:31

Scripture Focus

“Although you may think little of yourself…” (1 Samuel 15:17 NLT)

Observation

I’m a bit surprised by Samuel’s statement regarding Saul’s self-image. Though impetuous and impatient (as described yesterday)—and given that he was found “hiding among the baggage” on the day he was anointed king—still, Saul doesn’t seem exactly faint of heart when it comes to decision-making. Besides, just before this declaration by Samuel, Saul was busy setting up a monument to himself!

Given that he’s a prophet of God, however, I accept Samuel’s declaration about Saul as truth, and recognize that sometimes the most insecure people act in the most assured (and self-aggrandizing) ways—perhaps in an attempt to compensate for those very insecurities. That’s probably worth considering when you deal with someone who seems quite self-assured.

More important for me is that Samuel’s words indicate that, no matter what Saul really thought of himself deep down, his influence was substantial—and not, I think, simply because he held the title “king”. I suspect, rather, that it’s true for every one of us—we are more than we seem (even to ourselves) and our influence is broader…further-reaching…than we think.

In this case, Saul minimizes his disobedience as inconsequential—but Samuel’s rebuke says otherwise. A whole nation was affected because Saul had failed to carry out the Lord’s command.

And so it is with us. No man is an island. Each act…each action…ripples throughout time, carrying weight and consequence we seldom see or understand. No wonder Samuel says…

           Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft,
                and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols.
                                                   (1 Samuel 15:23 NLT)

Perhaps today I’ll ask the Lord to help me see—at least in part—the impact of my obedience to Him…the weight my actions carry. Perhaps you might, as well.

"It's Not Just How You Act, But Why"

Scripture Passage

1 Chronicles 9:35-39; 1 Samuel 13:1-5; 1 Samuel 13:19-23;

1 Samuel 13:6-18; 1 Samuel 14:1-52

Scripture Focus

“Let’s go across to the outpost of those pagans,” Jonathan said to his armor bearer. “Perhaps the LORD will help us, for nothing can hinder the LORD. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!”
“Do what you think is best,” the armor bearer replied. “I’m with you completely, whatever you decide.” (1 Samuel 14:6-7 NLT)

Observation

It’s one of my favorite passages (have I written that before?)—Jonathan clambering up the side of a ravine, leading his armor bearer against the Philistine stronghold at the top of the hill! What an expression of faith and an example of leadership on the part of Jonathan—and faith and willing followership on the part of his armor bearer.

Today, though, I’m thinking especially of this event in contrast to the impetuous, impatient actions of Saul, Jonathan’s father. You know…Saul—who failed to wait on Samuel’s arrival to offer the sacrifice; Saul—who swore an oath that his men were not to eat until he’d exacted his revenge against the Philistines; Saul—who was ready to execute his son, Jonathan, for violating a prohibition that Jonathan hadn’t even known existed.

I reflect, however, that it wasn’t just the impetuous nature of Saul’s actions that left him wanting. One could argue that Jonathan’s actions were a bit impetuous, too! It seems, rather, that Jonathan was impetuous for the right causes…in the right ways…chasing that which mattered most, while Saul was impetuous about the trivial—and impatient with regard to the significant. Saul impetuously made a rash vow about no one eating until he had exacted his revenge (and impetuously declared that Jonathan should die for violating that vow). He impatiently offered the sacrifice in Samuel’s absence (and later couldn’t wait around to hear from God even after calling for the priest)!

There’s a bigger problem than just impetuosity here—there’s a problem with the values and priorities that drove Saul’s impetuous, impatient actions. While Saul’s actions reflect self-centeredness and self-reliance, Jonathan’s actions reflect a heart for victory over the Philistines—and faith that God would provide that victory. Saul valued his own reputation and relied on his own resources. Jonathan valued God’s reputation and relied on God’s strength. And—impetuous action or not—Jonathan’s was an attitude God was able to honor with victory.

"Can Anyone Become A Prophet?"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 9:1-12:25

Scripture Focus

“How did the son of Kish become a prophet?” (1 Samuel 10:11 NLT)

Observation

Today’s reading feels like harvest time—where all sorts of fruit is ripe for the pickin’! Consider these random thoughts…

What must it have felt like for Saul when Samuel announced, “You and your family are the focus of all Israel’s hopes!” (9:20)? Wow! It’s no wonder that, when it was time for the “reveal,” Saul was found “hiding among the baggage” (10:22). You’d be hiding, too. Of course—metaphorically speaking—isn’t that where we spend much of our time—“hiding among the baggage” instead of engaging the task to which we’ve been called?

How about what transpires following Saul’s public acclamation as king? “…a group of men whose hearts God had touched went with him” (10:26). What a blessing to Saul those men must have been! How much lighter the leadership load when others share the challenges with united hearts!

How about the fact that, when the Spirit of God comes upon Saul, he becomes “very angry” (11:6)? We don’t like our leaders angry, but here, at least, anger was a valid response that resulted from the moving of the Spirit of God!

All that’s secondary to what I really am enjoying today—the response of some of the people to the Saul’s prophetic outbursts. 1 Samuel 10:11-12 says…

When those who knew Saul heard about it, they exclaimed, “What? Is even Saul a prophet? How did the son of Kish become a prophet?”

And one of those standing there said, “Can anyone become a prophet, no matter who his father is?” So that is the origin of the saying “Is even Saul a prophet?” (1 Samuel 10:11-12 NLT)

I love it—“Can anyone become a prophet?” Obviously, this was intended as an insult…a dig…a shot—sort of like Nathanael’s response to Philip regarding Jesus and His hometown:

"Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" (John 1:46 NIV)

The thing I love is how God’s choice of Saul as one through whom the Spirit of God can move (or even of Nazareth as the hometown of the Messiah-King) speaks to His incredible grace. What we often see as impossible—because of status, background, the lack of natural giftings, a broken personal history or current struggles—God sees as absolutely possible…because of who He is!

God’s call may leave you (or others who know you) staggering in disbelief. But about unbelievable things, Jesus said…

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26 NIV)

"Propping Up Idols"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 4:12-8:22

Scripture Focus

“Dagon had fallen with his face to the ground in front of the Ark of the LORD! So they took Dagon and put him in his place again.” (1 Samuel 5:3 NLT)

Observation

It’s an odd little story from 1 Samuel 5—and one of my Biblical favorites!

The Israelites have brought the Ark of the Covenant to the site of their battle with the Philistines assuming that, by controlling the Ark, they control the God of the Ark and can manipulate Him into assuring their victory. They learn differently when the Philistines not only win the battle but also capture the Ark itself!

Funny thing, though—when the Philistines proudly relocate the Ark into the temple of their false god Dagon, they come back the next morning to discover that Dagon has ”…fallen with his face to the ground in front of the Ark of the LORD” (1 Sam 5:3). So they set their god Dagon back up again.

By the next morning, the same thing had happened again—but this time, “…his head and hands had broken off and were lying in the doorway” (1 Sam 5:4). Given that in the ancient world, severed heads and severed hands were battlefield trophies, the implications of this little scene are just plain delightful—Yahweh’s authority over Dagon has been confirmed beyond question!

Still—it makes me wonder about myself. Specifically, it forces me to ask how many times…how many times…I’ve set the “idols” in my life back up again.

In the power of His presence, those false gods have fallen again and again. They have been shown for what they are—powerless and defeated foes. And still, I give them place. What’s up with that, exactly?

“Forgive me, Lord, for propping up what is false and powerless to save. Give me much grace by which to leave each fallen idol in the dust, and place my hope in you alone.”

"Eli--The Passive Priest"

Scripture Passage

1 Samuel 3:9-4:11

Scripture Focus

“It is the LORD’s will,” Eli replied. “Let him do what he thinks best.” (1 Samuel 3:17 NLT)

Observation

Again today, I’m perhaps out on a bit of a limb. Remember—this is my devotional record and nothing more…only what captures my attention as I read. It can be shaped as much by what I had for breakfast as by the Spirit of God!

Still, today, I’m struck by what I perceive to be Eli’s passive acceptance (first) of his sons’ abuse of their priestly privileges and their blatant immoral behavior, and (second) of God’s declaration of impending judgment that results.

With regard to the first, the Scriptures make it clear that Eli “…was aware of what his sons were doing” (1 Sam 2:22), but—basically—he did nothing more than say to his sons, “You’re gonna be in big trouble if you don’t stop” (1 Sam 2:23-25).

With regard to the second—well, it’s not lost on me that the Lord was “already planning” on putting Hophni and Phinehas to death (1 Sam 2:25), but still, Eli’s “matter of fact” acceptance of God’s pronounced judgment is a bit difficult to comprehend.

I’m only speculating, I know, about Eli’s passiveness, but I also know that I don’t ever want to be that way—especially about matters of such grave significance! If my children need correction, I want to offer it (and I’m sure they’d tell you I do!). And if God has pronounced judgment (*especially* on someone I love so dearly as my children), I want to act—to intercede on their behalf—much like Abraham did on behalf the people of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 18)…or Hezekiah did on behalf of himself (2 Kings 20)!

What I’m really expressing here is broader than that, and perhaps captured best by George Barna’s words in his leadership classic, The Power of Vision.

“The objective,” he says, “is not to acquiesce to a preordained future but to create the future. …the future is not something that just happens; it is a reality that is created by those strong enough to exert control over their environment. The future is not a done deal waiting for response. The future belongs to God and through Him to those who are driven to shape it.”

I don’t want to acquiesce. I want to make a future-shaping difference.

"Fruitful Reproduction"

Scripture Passage

Ruth 4:13-22; 1 Chronicles 2:9-55; 1 Chronicles 4:1-23; 1 Samuel 1:1-8

Scripture Focus

“…the LORD enabled her to become pregnant, and she gave birth to a son.” (Ruth 4:13 NLT)

Observation

No preacher with any sense stretches any analogy past the breaking point (he writes, thinking he might be doing just that…), but I can’t read about the birth of Obed to Boaz and Ruth without thinking that…

God’s intention for the kinsman-redeemer relationship is fruitful reproduction!

(If you didn’t read the whole of Ruth, yet, or perhaps yesterday’s blog post, now would be a good time to go back and have a look-see.)

The point is that a primary function of the role of kinsman-redeemer was not just provision for the one in need, but that the union of the kinsman-redeemer and the one redeemed might produce offspring who could both continue the family name and receive the inheritance.

So it is with us, redeemed by Christ (our Kinsman-Redeemer). His intention is not only to cover us with His love and provide for all our needs, but also that fruitful reproduction might result from our union with Him—“…that he might be the firstborn among many brothers” (Romans 8:29 NIV).

It’s probably worth thinking about—whether or not the union we enjoy with our Kinsman-Redeemer is bearing fruit at all (both the fruit of the Spirit manifested in us, and fruitful progress in making disciples of others)…and if so, how much fruit, exactly. Jesus made it clear—

This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. (John 15:8 NIV)

May my relationship with Christ focus at least as much on the fruit of my union with Him as it does on what needs He might meet for me.

"Cover Me!"

Scripture Passage

Ruth 1:1-4:12

Scripture Focus

“Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.” (Ruth 3:9 NLT)

Observation

The book of Ruth has been aptly described as the most beautiful short story ever written. What a marvelous retelling of the gracious care of a loving and sovereign God through the actions of a kinsman-redeemer!

The story centers on Ruth—a Moabitess—who, as a result of loyalty towards her Jewish mother-in-law, Naomi (and loyalty towards Naomi’s God—Yahweh), finds herself in the loving care of Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. Ultimately, Ruth—the childless widow—becomes the mother of Obed (who ultimately becomes the grandfather of Israel’s great king David). It’s remarkable!

Just as remarkable is how Ruth’s story parallels ours. The story of Ruth—barren and alone, and in desperate need of a kinsman-redeemer’s care—is our story, too. And like Ruth, we have a kinsman-redeemer—one “made like his brothers in every way” (Hebrews 2:17)—who will provide for us what so desperately we need. Like Ruth, we pray…

“Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer.” (Ruth 3:9 NLT)

…and Jesus of Nazareth—our Kinsman-Redeemer—graciously does.

“Spread the corner of your covering over me today, Lord!”

"Pepto-Bismol, Anyone?"

Scripture Passage

Judges 19:1-21:25

Scripture Focus

In those days Israel had no king; all the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. (Judges 21:25 NLT)

Observation

If you’ve completed today’s readings, surely you share my frustration (and nausea). Heinous offenses are being committed left and right, and the whole scenario goes from bad to worse to worse even still.

It starts with the Levite from Ephraim who has a concubine from Judah. You have to wonder what it’s all about when she won’t stay with him, and he waits four months to go inquire about her at her father’s house. The behavior of the mob at Gibeah is unspeakable, but so are the actions of the Levite when he gets up the next morning to leave.

The response of all the other tribes is understandable—and seems sensible—until you read of their experiences battling Benjamin (losses on both sides were expressions of God’s judgment, I believe) and their rash vow made at Mizpah (21:5). So the rest of the Israelites not only wipe out most of the tribe of Benjamin, but also the people of Jabesh-gilead, and then are required to arrange for the theft of virgin women from the fathers and brothers of Shiloh.

And perhaps most remarkable of all, when all is said and done, it’s like they simply brush the dust off their hands and head home, as if this were all in a day’s work!

It is a stomach-turning look at what happens when a nation disregards their God, Jehovah, and the holy covenant they’d made with Him. And sickening is exactly what it’s supposed to be, I expect.

The author of Judges has a point to make—that all of this has deteriorated to the point where a king is necessary. That’s a shame, friend, because that was never God’s plan. God Himself was to be Israel’s King, in a relationship of holy intimacy.

But it was not to be—not because of God or any fatal flaw in His plan, but because of the persistent rebellion of God’s people.

It does beg the question of what we might be missing out on today…of what “second best” plan God has needed to implement (or may yet need to implement) because we’ve not pursued with whole and holy hearts His first and best option.

And so I think of the Apostle Paul, and what he writes in Romans, chapter 12, and pray that I might embrace this challenge:

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will (Romans 12:1-2 NIV).