April 30

 
2 Samuel 5, 1 Chronicles 11-12
Great leaders attract great warriors, men and women who perform heroic deeds. David was a great leader, and the list of heroic warriors in his service is long. These were men with vision, men who followed God and recognized a man of God in David. Thus, they are given status alongside the army of God. America has been blessed with a good number of Godly men who have been great leaders. Just as with David, these men have not been perfect, but they have held up the Lord as their banner, and, in so doing, have spawned many courageous heroes who have bravely defended our nation and the Godly principles upon which she was founded. Take a walk through the pages of history, considering heroic people of great renown, and then look at their leaders. A very high percentage were people who follow the one, true, living God. The reason for this is quite logical. People with real hope are better motivated to step out and fully offer themselves because of that hope. There is no greater hope than that which is offered the Lord!

April 29

   
Psalm 102-104
Praise to God for all He has created. Not only has He created everything, he also sustains all things. In retribution for the wanton rebellion of mankind, He once covered the earth with water. In His love for mankind, He removed the flooding and restored His creation with a vow to never flood the earth again. Along with the Psalmist, I marvel at God's creation. When I consider all the functions taking place with just the use of my eyes, comparing that to the best state of the art technology we have created, I begin to get just a small glimmer of just how powerful He is, and how far His intellegence surpasses that of mankind. Then I witness the misguided arrogance of those who deny His existence, when all creation testifies to His creative ability, His intellegent design; both of which can't be duplicated. Even when using His created elements in an attempt to duplicate what He's done, we get it wrong, while boldly proclaiming that we have created life. It would be amusing if it weren't so tragic.

April 28

   
1 Chronicles 7-10
In the listing of the Levites and their descendants we find that certain branches were given specific duties that transferred from one generation to the next, much like the transfer of power in a monarch based society. Thus, if your father was a gate keeper, you would be a gate keeper as well. There were no other options. Your station in life was not determined by desire, interest, talent, or training. Rather, it was decreed by birth. This was the accepted way. To question, or seek, something outside of this preordained position would bring dishonor to you and your family. There are still cultures who practice this ancient form. For those who live in our western culture, built around democracy and free-market principles, this way of doing things seems barbaric. We view these folks as people lacking enlightenment. However, this was a way of life prescribed by God! When fully implemented, as He lined it out, it was quite efficient. When the people followed His plan they prospered, lived in peace, and knew happiness. It worked quite well. I'm not saying we should abandon our cultural design in favor of this one. What I am saying, is that we might not be so quick to judge the merits of a culture that operates differently than ours. It's quite possible that theirs might be superior.

April 27

   
Psalm 81, 88, 92, 93
This set of psalms has one in the middle of praises that is filled with despair, unanswerable questions, asking God why He allows bad things to happen, actually blaming God for the harm that David is suffering. Is it right and fair to blame God for misfortune? Again, one of those unanswerable questions. However, whether it is right or wrong, it would seem that our Lord is ever present to hear our grievances. He listens, allowing us to vent, to get it off our chest. Often, this is all we need. Once we've released the burden, we are better able to deal with the actual problem and find a workable solution. This is the very core of successful psychological counseling. Allow the patient to discover the path to recovery by offering them a caring, trusting, listening ear. David knew how to escape the evil dominating his life. He just needed to clear his mind so he could see. So, God becomes his sounding board. Are you taking advantage of His services? They're free, you know!

April 26

   
1 Chronicles 6
Once again, we get another genealogical account. There is an aspect in this one that stands out from the former lists; it is the inclusion, or distinction, of the musicians David had appointed to do service in the tabernacle before the building of the temple. What we have here is the first praise team! Music has always been an important aspect of our worship to God. He enjoys hearing us sing and making melody in our hearts, with our mouths, and with our hands. The Lord has given us talents and gifts to use in His service. What better way to worship Him than in using that which He has given?! We have been blessed to have had the opportunity to worship God in many different settings, with various forms of worship and praise, everything from a man humbly standing before the congregation singing a solo, to orchestral performances, choirs, quartets, praise teams, praise bands, acapella congregational singing, every form of instrumentation from a single guitar, to a stringed quartet, to a gospel rock band, and everything in between. My wife and I have even attended a worship service led by a jazz band dressed in Zoot Suits! In each and every setting the one constant has been praise and adoration to our Lord. David, a man after God's own heart, set the stage and enlisted our talents to praise a loving Father who delights in hearing His children worship for time without end!

April 25

 
Psalm 73, 77, 78
David struggled with the same questions we ask today, why do the wicked prosper? And then he answers his question with a look at the historical record, along with a supplied vision of our eternal destinies. History demonstrates that the wicked do eventually come to ruin, while those who follow the Lord receive blessings that transcend the trappings of mortality. David demonstrates how God worked through the faithlessness of Israel and their evil neighbors to bring David to the throne and peace and prosperity to Israel during his reign. Romans 8:28 hadn't been written at that time, but David understood the principle Paul was reminding the followers of Christ. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

April 24

   
1 Chronicles 3-5
Much could be said about the genealogies and histories offered in these three chapters. Comments would have to come from more study than a mere reading of this account in Chronicles. However, there is one section found in the fourth chapter that really jumps off the page, revealing much about the power of communication between mortal men and a sovereign Lord. The prayer of Jabez, along with the answer from God, offers an insight into the heart of our Father. When Jabez approaches God, he does so in humility, presenting his requests with unquestioning faith in a God who is able to do more than we can possibly imagine or hope for. The Lord honors his faith, granting Jabez's wishes, blessing him beyond his desires, demonstrating that the faith Jabez shared was not in vain, proving that the prayer of a righteous soul is powerful. The good news is that He is the same God today, and that He continues to honor the prayers of His righteous followers. Even better news is that our righteousness isn't found in ourselves, rather, our righteousness is found in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior!

April 23

   
Psalm 43-45, 49, 84, 85, 87
David gets it. He speaks to God about His kingdom and the glories therein, using terminology that helps the reader grasp the splendor, while understanding that this is a kingdom not of this world, a spiritual kingdom that far surpasses any physical kingdom we can imagine! David relishes his being able to dwell in this kingdom, seeing God upon His throne. He isn't speaking of some future event. Rather, he is in the here and now. He understands that God immediately places those He has chosen into His kingdom. We don't need to wait for some future spectacular event where God will establish a kingdom that is inferior to the one He has already established. When we are accepted by God, becoming His chosen child, we are then translated into His eternal kingdom. We stand in His presence, and He is on the throne. The only difference is that while we are alive in this corruptible body, we are shackled. One day the chains will be removed, and we will receive an incorruptible body. It's difficult for me to understand how David could get it, while the seeming majority don't. They are still waiting for a physical kingdom on this earth, that can only be inferior to the one we already have in spiritual realms.

April 22

 
1 Chronicles 1-2
Genealogy is offered in various places throughout scripture. These are given to help us understand the distribution of the nations, along with the lineage of Jesus. It can be beneficial to gain knowledge of our roots, to understand where we came from. We are often concerned about our legacy. What we do has an impact on future generations. Unfortunately, some place blame on their ancestors because of their aberrant behavior. However, God does not give us this out. We are given the freedom and responsibility to make our own personal choices. Thus, if our parents were abusive, it doesn't justify our abusive behavior. We can, and should, choose to be different. On a larger scale, a nation cannot be excused because of its history. It isn't enough to say, "That's just our culture." When the culture, born of heritage, is opposed to God, we must change our culture, establish a new heritage, a new legacy, one that is rooted in God and His principles.

April 19

Psalm 121, 123-125, 128-130
David proclaims that without God on his side, he would have been swallowed by his enemies. In so doing, he is acknowledging his total dependence upon God. This is what sets David apart from other leaders; it is what makes him a great leader. Abraham Lincoln is arguably, one of the greatest leaders of our time. He was not a regular church attender, and didn't really consider himself to be a member of any particular denomination. Yet, his Bible was well-worn from use, and he was often known to be in prayer and meditation, seeking God's guidance for the important decisions he knew was before him. Indeed, his Emancipation Proclamation came about as it did, when it did, because of what President Lincoln felt was the Lord's direction and intention. Neither of these men were perfect, and they found themselves to be surrounded by enemies. However, God used them to change the course of history, while they each gave the glory to Whom glory is due, humbly bowing before the throne of God!

April 21

 
Psalm 6, 8-10, 14, 16, 19, 21
David pours out his heart before the Lord, sharing his concerns about his enemies, while professing his faith in a God who is able to uphold his cause, keep him safe, and provide life. He speaks of a God who is revealed in nature, and how foolish people refuse to believe this testimony, and of how they turn their backs on God to their own peril. David reminds us of the purity and goodness found in God's commands, of how sweet they are in delivering instruction that only results in good. "May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be pleasing unto you, oh Lord." This short prayer reveals the heart of David, and it should be our daily prayer as we spend time with our Lord through daily devotional activities.

April 20

2 Samuel 1-4
 Turbulent times for Israel followed the death of Saul. While David was the heir apparent, his place of rule and power came through a great deal of turmoil and confusion. This was in large part due to Israel patterning kingly succession after that practiced in other nations; that is, the next king being a son of the former king. This was not the plan of God. Instead, He had chosen a shepherd boy to secede Saul. David continues to show honor to Saul's family, and he expects the same from others. This speaks to his character, and helps in understanding the success of his reign. His legacy gives him such high honor that the chosen Messiah is referred to as the son of David! I often think of David, and his attitude toward such a poor leader as Saul, when I consider the leaders of my time. Some are good, honorable, people, while others are not. However, my attitude toward them is not dependent on their honor, or lack thereof. Whatever my attitude, it is a reflection of my character. This principle holds water for all our relationships. We cannot control another. Our only control is with ourselves.

April 18

1 Samuel 28-31; Psalm 18
Saul calls upon a medium to bring up Samuel from the dead in order to receive counsel. It's interesting that any of this was possible. We typically consider spiritists to be fake charlatans. However, in this instance, she was real and seems to have feared God. I'm not quite sure what to make of it, rather than to make the observation. It would seem that, regardless of motive or ability, God has made our seeking such a person a taboo. Thus, we are better off steering clear of such.

It is also an interesting observation that Samuel could be called back from the dead. This helps to demonstrate that death is not the cessation of our existence. Yet, Samuel does indicate that he was resting. Can we draw from this experience that we enter into a period of rest when we die? I'm not really sure. But, I am sure that there is life beyond the grave. I am further assured that life in Christ is eternal. Whatever life beyond the grave holds, I trust that God has wonderful things in store!

April 17

   
Psalm 17, 35, 54, 63
The musical group, "Acapella," sings Psalm 63. It is a wonderful song of praise to our God. However, it is even richer if we live out its words, earnestly seeking, longing for God. As David is being pursued, his life being in constant peril, he can find no greater comfort than that which comes from a God who invites us to have a deep, intimate, loving relationship. As the Psalm says, we should be thirsting for Him, because His love is better than life! David speaks of God as a friend who he is so in love with that he can't get his mind off of Him, even thinking of Him through the night! How often do we consciously think of God? Are we as consumed with God as David? Is this what it means to have God as our God? I don't really have the answer. Yet, I do know that the closer we draw to Him, the close4r He draws to us. So, it would seem that our being consumed with God would only bring good, and not harm.

April 16

   
1 Samuel 25-27
It's difficult for me to understand how David could continue to demonstrate mercy to Saul when Saul is constantly trying to kill David. It just seems to me that he would not only be justified in taking Saul's life, but that it would be the right thing to do, given the wickedness that Saul has demonstrated. Not to mention, that David would be acting in self-defense.

On the other hand, the taking of another's life is serious business. When I was in the Navy, the thought of my possibly taking another person's life terrified me. I knew/know that I would find it difficult to pull the trigger, regardless of whether or not I was being shot at. It's not a matter of fear. Rather, it is a deep respect for life, and a repulsion of taking that life from another. I know David had other reasons for sparing Saul's life, but I can't help but wonder if the sanctity of life played a part.

April 15

Psalm 56, 120, 140-142
Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg worked together to create a realistic rendering of the Normandy invasion that took place near the end of World War Two, in the movie, "Saving Private Ryan." The film opens with the U.S. troops storming the beach, while the entrenched German army is killing them in record numbers. It is a horrific scene, displaying all the horrors of war. After my wife and I had seen in at the theater, I told my good friend, Harmon, about it while visiting at church the following Sunday. Harmon is an actual veteran of that invasion. I explained that he might find some of the language in the film to be objectionable, especially in those opening scenes displaying all the carnage. He smiled and told me that the language he remembers, from actually having been there, is quite different from this Hollywood fiction. Because, the language he remembers was far from removed from the vulgarity in this film. Harmon will tell you that he heard a lot of prayers. This is supported by David. As he is being pursued by his enemies, and suffering all the indignities of warfare, David reaches out to the only real source of comfort available. God is always there in our times of need and distress! David, along with every other veteran of war, knows this, and so should we.

April 14

   
Psalm 7, 27, 31, 34, 52
Is it any wonder that God calls David a man after His own heart? When reading the Psalms of David, one is caught up in the glory of God. He seeks God for everything, realizing that He is the source for all our needs and desires. David praises God for everything, understanding that God is worthy and that He alone deserves the credit. David also joins God in His love for humanity, and His hatred of sin. There are a number of Messianic quotes found in David's psalms. I believe that one reason Jesus quotes David so frequently is to give honor to the man who loved Him so intently. Oh, I know that there is the aspect of prophetic fulfilment, but there is also honor to whom honor is due. David was far from perfect, which should bring us great comfort. God is not looking for perfection. God loves David because of his humble submission, love, and obedient heart.

April 13

1 Samuel 21-24
In Saul's hatred for David he orders the execution of the Lord's priests, and he pursues David as if he were Israels number one enemy. Yet, when given the chance to strike Saul a fatal blow, David chooses to use it as an opportunity to make peace. He does so because he views Saul as being the Lord's anointed, the King of Israel. Did David agree with Saul's politics? Did he agree with the way Saul conducted business when ordering the priests executions? Certainly not! But, David respected the office. Which meant that, in spite of their differences, David would honor the King.

Is there a lesson to be learned here? I would think it to be obvious. Whether our rulers are godly, good, or righteous; or they are ungodly, wicked, or evil, we still have a mandate to respect them and treat them with honor, for God has anointed them, and He will use them to accomplish His purposes. We may not understand what those purposes are, but we can rest assured that God does! I often get caught up in the politics of the day, despairing corrupt leaders, people who act in opposition to God's will and ways. In those times, it is good for me to be reminded of David's example.

April 12

   
1 Samuel 18-20; Psalm 11, 59
This reading speaks of a man so consumed with hatred that he would threaten the life of his son because his son loves the object of his hatred. It also brings into view a wonderful love story between two young men who become closer than brothers. David and Jonathan loved each other intensely, to the point that they were as one. The only human love that could possibly be as strong would be that shared by man and wife. Understand, this was a pure love, without any sexual connotation. It is my conviction that if this kind of love were better understood, there would be fewer homosexuals. Our modern world has confused love, causing many to believe that true love must be consummated with a sexual act. Nothing could be further from the truth! God has created us with a heart that is large enough to love many, but He has reserved sexual acts for marriage, between a man and his wife. All other sexual acts go against God's will, and are acts of sin. The world would be a better place if we could openly love each other with a pure love, regardless of the sex of the other person, without it being viewed as something immoral.

April 11

1 Samuel 15-17
The fall of Saul and the rise of David. When Saul was given a command, rather than obeying it to the letter, he decided his way was better than the Lord's. Then, when confronted with his sin, he compounds the evil by making excuses. In taking down the Amalekites, Saul took the glory for the victory, setting up a memorial to himself. Contrast his actions with those of David, who, from beginning to end, gives all the glory to God. Is it any wonder that God would refer to David as a man after His own heart? When we find success in life, be it marriage, family, or career, who should receive the glory? Instead of tooting our own horn, we should be praising God. Our friends and neighbors should know that we credit God for all our blessings. This is how they will come to know the reality of a God who is not only served, but serves!

April 10

1 Samuel 13-14 Saul makes a foolish vow, preventing his men from eating at a time when they needed the nourishment to strengthen themselves for battle. He also takes matters into his own hands without waiting upon the Lord. With this kind of leadership Israel suffers. Much of what Saul does is rooted in pride. He is a big man and, from what we read, probably quite good looking. Couple his physical attributes with the position he's been given and you have a recipe for disaster. Because of his stature, he was likely used to having people look up to him. In other words, Saul had "rock-star" status. It goes to his head and he forgets his humble beginnings. He begins to act impetuously, believing he can do no wrong, failing to listen to the advise of godly men, and leaning on his own fallible understanding. Leaders, whether they be political or spiritual, should learn from Saul's mistakes. In order to lead effectively, one must seek out godly counsel from trusted advisers, and not act alone. This leader will humbly submit to God's direction and timing, understanding that failure to do so guarantees failure. Lord, please raise up godly leaders for our churches and nations!

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April 9

 
1 Samuel 9-12
Samuel demonstrates how we might test one who claims to be a prophet. When Saul came to him, seeking a prophet, Samuel identifies himself as such, followed by a series of specific short-termed prophecies. When Saul was able to witness their fulfilment, he could be sure that Samuel was a true prophet of God. There have always been more self- proclaimed prophets than real. Unfortunately, the false prophets can always find a following. These are usually driven by greed. In modern times we can find bookstores with row after row being lined with books devoted to prophecy and its supposed fulfilment. However, the predictions are vague and the fulfilment could apply to many different, disconnected, events. One would be hard-pressed to find specific, consistent, oracles that can only apply to a single circumstance. This is what Samuel provided for Saul. It is what any true prophet of God offers. Lord, keep us from the deceptions of those who profess your name, while actually serving the enemy. Amen

April 8

1 Samuel 4-8
Even though Israel flourished with a small government, and God being their only king, they wanted to be like the other nations, with a king and the expansion of government that the king would bring. They wanted this government to take care of them. Samuel warned them of the costs and dangers that would come with this decision, but they wouldn't listen. I can't help but see the parallel to what we are seeing in America today. We have been a nation blessed by God, a people who stood on their own, with little dependence upon the government. However, we are now seeing many who want to increase the size of our government, a culture that more closely resembles European nations, a society that rejects God as the supreme authority for our nation, and a people who rely more heavily on the government, thus relinguishing our independence. Oh that we would learn from the mistakes of Israel, and repent before it is too late!

April 7

1 Samuel 1-3 God revealed Himself to Samuel through His word! At first, Samuel didn't recognize God. In fact, it took the teaching from Eli to help Samuel understand. With Eli's instruction, Samuel was able to hear God's word and become a mighty man of God through that word. It really isn't that much different for us today. We're told that faith comes by hearing the word of God, and that hearing comes through one sent by God to teach, and that same word makes us into mighty men and women of God. The only real difference is that He doesn't audibilize as He did with Samuel. But, the Word is still the same, and it is still just as powerful, if not more so! We need to open ourselves up to His word, as Samuel did. In so doing, we will be blessed beyond measure!

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April 6

Ruth 1-4
Ruth came from a people known for their immorality. The Moabites were idolaters, a very sinful people. We see no evidence that Ruth engaged in any of the immoral practices of her culture, although we can't rule it out either. What we can say, with a degree of certainty, is that she took on the God of Israel as her God, forsaking the gods of her people. In so doing, she earned a place in history of honor and stature, becoming the grandmother of King David. Thus, placing her in the lineage of the coming Messiah. She is a beautiful example of humility and honor. Her devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, is simply remarkable. And then to carry it even further, Ruth honors her dead husband, Mahlon, as well, by seeking out his kinsman, so that his name will be remembered. This truly is love in action! When Ruth married Mahlon she understood that to be one, their families were merged. His family became hers, and her family became his. This was such a reality to her that even death could not change it. Is it any wonder that Boaz recognized her as a virtuous woman? Oh that we could find more who believe and act with the familial honor we witness in Ruth and Boaz!

April 5

Judges 19-21
It's difficult for me to understand how people who profess to be followers of God can read the Bible, and then proclaim that homosexuality is alright. Here we see a war where tens of thousands of men lose their lives, and it all began because Benjamite men wanted to have sex with a Levite man who was passing through town. God clearly saw their acts of sexual immorality as an abomination, and masterminds a war to bring retribution against the Benjamites. Then, the only thing that keeps the Benjamites from becoming an extinct tribe is a plan that delivers women to be the surviving men's wives. Much of what takes place in this episode is barbaric and tragic, from the homosexuality, to the abuse and murder of the Levite's concubine, to the war, and the deception to provide wives. It's hard to wrap my mind around it all. However, it is obvious what sin seeded the barbarity. God has always found homosexuality to be an abomination! We Christians need to remain firm in our resolve to not give in to our current societal dysfunctionality that is embracing this corruption and proclaiming it to a normal and acceptable lifestyle. We must remember that this too is the fulfillment of prophecy, where we are told that in the last days right will be called wrong, and wrong will be called right.

April 4

   
Judges 16-18
There's a really dumb movie called "Dumb and Dumber." It was a comedy that glorified stupidity. However, no one could have written a script more befitting of the title than Judges 16. Except, this was no comedy. Rather, it was high drama! There's an old saying that says, "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me." Well, Delilah fooled Samson three times! And then, the Philistines, having already discovered the source of his strength, allowed his hair to grow back out! I have a close friend who is often heard proclaiming, with a shake of the head, "There's a lot of dumb in this world." I suppose he's right. How many times do we act without thinking it through? Probably much more than we would care to admit. The Bible is riddled with stories of those who failed to consider the consequences of their actions, and in so doing, fail themselves, others, and, most importantly, God. Let's not let our lives be so rushed that we won't take the time to explore the outcome, seeking God's guidance to keep us from stumbling. And, may we allow ourselves the opportunity to learn from the mistakes of others, so that we might not repeat them.

April 3

Judges 13-15
Samson is chosen by God to accomplish His will against the Philistines. I dare say, however, that many of us would find him to be a revolting man. He displays a lack of respect toward everyone, including his parents. Women are treated as objects, and are also his downfall. He is vengeful, even using the innocent to exact his revenge. His arrogance and pride cause much of his sorrow. Yet, he acknowledges the Lord and is used mightily in His service. God can, and does, use all sorts of people to meet His needs. Thus, we should never be too harsh on our leaders. They may well have been brought up for this very purpose, regardless of their character.

April 2

Judges 10-12
Jephthah's daughter demonstrates fearlessness in God. I'm reasonably sure that she didn't want her life to be cut short, for she mourned not being able to enjoy the blessings of a normal lifespan. However, it would seem that she had enough confidence in God to place her life in His hands because she was doing the honorable thing in helping her father fulfill his vow to the Lord. Thus, this young girl displays courage as none other in sacrificing her life for the rashness of another, making her a Christ-like figure. She carries the command to honor father and mother to its greatest extreme, without ever reprimanding her father for his foolishness! With so little written or revealed about her, she becomes one of the great heroes of old. How willing are we to sacrifice anything dear to us for the good of another? She was willing to sacrifice that which is most dear...her life!

April 1

Judges 8-9
Violence and bloodshed mark today's reading. However, as a foundation for all this mayhem, we read that the Israelites had turned away from the Lord. They were now worshipping the gods of the nations God had given over to them. Thus, He had removed His blessings, standing only with Jotham, the one true Israelite descendent of Gideon. I find it interesting that the people in this region of the world are still plagued with violence and bloodshed. Even with thousands of years of experience, they have stubbornly refused to follow the only true God who could bring peace to their land. Having said that, I fear for my own nation, as we find our leaders moving further away from the Lord and the Christian principles upon which America was founded, and upon which she has enjoyed the riches of His blessings. Our current President has rightly said that America is not a Christian nation. We have mixed our Christian values with those of the nations, and many have embraced their gods. How long will God put up with our rebellion?