II Chronicles 29-32 Hezekiah became king at the age of 25. His father Ahaz had provoked the Lord and ruined the temple, but Hezekiah was not anything like his father. In the very first month of his rule Hezekiah reopened the house of the Lord. He brought in the priests and Levites, ordering them to consecrate themselves and then to consecrate the temple. It took 16 days to complete the work of cleaning out the unclean things that Ahaz had brought into the temple area... and then they began offering sacrifices.
Hezekiah led his people into worship. What a day of rejoicing that was! The next thing that he did was to invite all of Israel and Judah to come to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. Many refused, but some came and God blessed mightily. After the Passover celebration, Hezekiah continued to bring reforms in Judah, destroying every idol and commanding the people to start tithing as they should.
Again, God blessed them. The priest and Levites had not been able to live off of the tithes as they were supposed to before this. But, now they were able to serve full-time and have enough to feed their families too.
The king of Assyria, Sennacherib, decided to invade Judah. But, Hezekiah was prepared. When the Assyrians boasted that they had taken many nations and that the gods of those nations couldn't stop them, declaring that the Lord God of Hezekiah couldn't either, Hezekiah turned to prayer. God heard his prayers and destroyed the army of Assyria. But, when Hezekiah became sick, he wavered in his faith. Yet, he humbled himself once again and the Lord helped him.
All in all, Hezekiah walked with the Lord until he died. How sad that his son Manasseh did not follow in his footsteps.
One man made a difference for the nation of Judah for 29 years. From day 1 of his reign, Hezekiah chose to serve the Lord God of Israel. It was in his heart to live for the Lord and he led his people by example. He prayed for his people and exhorted them to return to the Lord. "For the Lord your God is gracious and compassionate, and will not turn His face away from you if you return to Him." (30:9) This statement summarizes his life:
31:20 " and thus Hezekiah did .... what was good, right, and true before the Lord his God."
Hezekiah was not perfect. His life was not easy. But, he was a man who honored the Lord as best as he could. God blessed him and blessed Judah because of him.
Father, how we need men like Hezekiah to lead in our country now, men who do what is good, right and true before You. Men who will lead by example as well as by words. Raise up men of God, men who will humble themselves; men who will pray; and men who will do what is right no matter what the culture demands. Father, hear our cries. see our hearts, come to us once again and open the eyes of the people of our country we ask in the Name of Jesus our Lord and King. Amen.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
II Chronicles 28 Ahaz is the next king to sit on Judah's throne. Ahaz was rebellious and turned to every idol and false religion he came across. The more God brought against him, the more he rebelled. Aram, Israel, Edom, the Philistines... all scored victories against Judah because of Ahaz and his idolatry. Verse 19 says , " For the Lord humbled Judah because of Ahaz king of Israel, for he had brought about a lack of restraint in Judah and was very unfaithful to the Lord." Ahaz tried to make a pact with the king of Assyria, who double-crossed him in the end. But, even that didn't stop Ahaz and make him turn back to the Lord. He became even more unfaithful. He closed up the temple, he set up more idols, and he offered his own children up in fire. When he died, they buried him, but not in the tomb with the kings of Israel.
There is an interesting thing that happens during all of this. The people of Israel go against Judah and take captive 200,000 women and children and much spoil. But, a prophet, Obed, meets the army as they are returning to Samaria. He tells them that the Lord has given Judah into their hand because of her unfaithfulness, but they must not add to their own sins by making their relatives into their slaves. This would bring about more judgement on them than they already had. Israel's leaders listened! They left the captives and the spoils in the hands of some select men, who clothed and fed and cared for the poor captives. They took them back to Jericho and left them there and returned to Samaria. (verses7-15)
Why would Ahaz harden his heart to the Lord so much? His father "ordered his ways before the Lord his God". His son, Hezekiah, would bring great reforms and turn the nation back to the Lord. But Ahaz absolutely refused to bow his knee to the only True God, choosing instead to sacrifice and burn incense under every green tree! We look around our world and see the same thing happening here. People look to anything else for wisdom, success, hope... but refuse to seek the Only One God who can rescue them from their sin and despair.
Oh Father in heaven, let Your Truth be proclaimed in the nations! Let Your Word be the Light of the peoples of the earth. Come and fill us Holy Spirit, give us boldness to speak up. And let the hearts of all people be contrite and broken before You. We need You Lord! Thank You for loving and caring. Thank You for patiently waiting and calling us to Yourself. Be glorified! Amen!
There is an interesting thing that happens during all of this. The people of Israel go against Judah and take captive 200,000 women and children and much spoil. But, a prophet, Obed, meets the army as they are returning to Samaria. He tells them that the Lord has given Judah into their hand because of her unfaithfulness, but they must not add to their own sins by making their relatives into their slaves. This would bring about more judgement on them than they already had. Israel's leaders listened! They left the captives and the spoils in the hands of some select men, who clothed and fed and cared for the poor captives. They took them back to Jericho and left them there and returned to Samaria. (verses7-15)
Why would Ahaz harden his heart to the Lord so much? His father "ordered his ways before the Lord his God". His son, Hezekiah, would bring great reforms and turn the nation back to the Lord. But Ahaz absolutely refused to bow his knee to the only True God, choosing instead to sacrifice and burn incense under every green tree! We look around our world and see the same thing happening here. People look to anything else for wisdom, success, hope... but refuse to seek the Only One God who can rescue them from their sin and despair.
Oh Father in heaven, let Your Truth be proclaimed in the nations! Let Your Word be the Light of the peoples of the earth. Come and fill us Holy Spirit, give us boldness to speak up. And let the hearts of all people be contrite and broken before You. We need You Lord! Thank You for loving and caring. Thank You for patiently waiting and calling us to Yourself. Be glorified! Amen!
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
II Chronicles 25 The next king to rule in Judah was Amaziah. Amaziah decided to hire 100,000 soldiers from Israel to go with his 300,000 soldiers against Seir. But when a prophet came to him and told him that this was not right and would not be successful because the Lord was not with Israel, Amaziah sent them home. This made them angry and they raided and looted some cities of Judah as they returned to their homes. Then, Amaziah went to battle Seir and won.. but, he took the idols of the Edomites and brought them back home! He set them up and bowed before them... "Then the anger of the Lord burned against Amaziah, and He sent him a prophet who said to him, 'Why have you sought the gods of the people who have not delivered their own people from your hand?'"
Amaziah wouldn't listen to the prophets and he wouldn't listen to anyone else either. He decided to go up against Israel next. The king of Israel at the time was Joash. This is his reply to Amaziah's challenge, " Behold, you have defeated Edom, and your heart has become proud in boasting. Now stay at home; for why should you provoke trouble that you, even you, should fall and Judah with you?" But, Amaziah went up anyway and was defeated and captured. Jerusalem was attacked, part of the wall torn down, gold and silver from the temple and from the palace taken, and hostages taken too. The foolish decisions made by Amaziah brought God's hand against him and his people.
Chapter 26 After Amaziah was taken, his son Uzziah was made king of Judah. He was only 16 at the time. He started out well under the guidance of Zechariah, a man of God, who "had understanding through the vision of God; and as long as he sought the Lord, God prospered him." ( v5)
Uzziah was successful in warfare. He defeated the Philistines and the Arabians. The Ammonites gave him tribute too.
He was successful in strengthening Judah. He built towers and fortified them.
He was successful in business - he had livestock and vineyards that thrived.
He was successful in building up the military. He produced and elite army, he equipped them well, and even invented machinery for" shooting arrows and great stones."
But, all this success, which made Uzziah strong, also made him proud. And, in his arrogance and pride, Uzziah "acted corruptly". He went into the temple and burned incense, something that only the consecrated priests were allowed to do. When the priests confronted Uzziah he became angry. ".. and while he was enraged with the priests, the leprosy broke out on his forehead before the priests in the house of the Lord, beside the altar of incense." (v19)
King Uzziah spent to the rest of his life living alone, being a leper. His son Jotham ruled in his stead.
( Chapter 27) Jotham learned from his father's experiences. He "did right in the sight of the Lord".
He built cities and fortresses to protect Judah. "So Jotham became mighty because he ordered his ways before the Lord his God."
We make the choice to live according to our own wills or according to the Father's will. When we walk according to the Lord's commands, He helps us. When we choose to do anything outside of that, we will fail. Again, these examples teach us that it is in staying the course and standing firm in our obedience to God that counts. Both Amaziah and Uzziah started out well, but allowed pride to come in between them and the Lord.
Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your Name. There is no man or woman, no king or president, whose name should be exalted. Let Your Name alone be glorified and praised. Father, may Your Kingdom come. May Your will be done, here on earth as it is in heaven. Father, we ask You for daily bread, for You alone know our needs and provide for us. We ask You to forgive our sins, Lord, for You alone can grant us pardon and remove the guilt of our transgressions. We forgive those who have sinned against us, in obedience to Your commandments. We ask that You lead us in Your ways, in righteousness and truth . We ask that You deliver us from the evil one. Father, the glory and honor and power is Yours. You are our Wonderful God and Savior and it is in the Name of Jesus, Your Son that we pray. amen.
Amaziah wouldn't listen to the prophets and he wouldn't listen to anyone else either. He decided to go up against Israel next. The king of Israel at the time was Joash. This is his reply to Amaziah's challenge, " Behold, you have defeated Edom, and your heart has become proud in boasting. Now stay at home; for why should you provoke trouble that you, even you, should fall and Judah with you?" But, Amaziah went up anyway and was defeated and captured. Jerusalem was attacked, part of the wall torn down, gold and silver from the temple and from the palace taken, and hostages taken too. The foolish decisions made by Amaziah brought God's hand against him and his people.
Chapter 26 After Amaziah was taken, his son Uzziah was made king of Judah. He was only 16 at the time. He started out well under the guidance of Zechariah, a man of God, who "had understanding through the vision of God; and as long as he sought the Lord, God prospered him." ( v5)
Uzziah was successful in warfare. He defeated the Philistines and the Arabians. The Ammonites gave him tribute too.
He was successful in strengthening Judah. He built towers and fortified them.
He was successful in business - he had livestock and vineyards that thrived.
He was successful in building up the military. He produced and elite army, he equipped them well, and even invented machinery for" shooting arrows and great stones."
But, all this success, which made Uzziah strong, also made him proud. And, in his arrogance and pride, Uzziah "acted corruptly". He went into the temple and burned incense, something that only the consecrated priests were allowed to do. When the priests confronted Uzziah he became angry. ".. and while he was enraged with the priests, the leprosy broke out on his forehead before the priests in the house of the Lord, beside the altar of incense." (v19)
King Uzziah spent to the rest of his life living alone, being a leper. His son Jotham ruled in his stead.
( Chapter 27) Jotham learned from his father's experiences. He "did right in the sight of the Lord".
He built cities and fortresses to protect Judah. "So Jotham became mighty because he ordered his ways before the Lord his God."
We make the choice to live according to our own wills or according to the Father's will. When we walk according to the Lord's commands, He helps us. When we choose to do anything outside of that, we will fail. Again, these examples teach us that it is in staying the course and standing firm in our obedience to God that counts. Both Amaziah and Uzziah started out well, but allowed pride to come in between them and the Lord.
Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your Name. There is no man or woman, no king or president, whose name should be exalted. Let Your Name alone be glorified and praised. Father, may Your Kingdom come. May Your will be done, here on earth as it is in heaven. Father, we ask You for daily bread, for You alone know our needs and provide for us. We ask You to forgive our sins, Lord, for You alone can grant us pardon and remove the guilt of our transgressions. We forgive those who have sinned against us, in obedience to Your commandments. We ask that You lead us in Your ways, in righteousness and truth . We ask that You deliver us from the evil one. Father, the glory and honor and power is Yours. You are our Wonderful God and Savior and it is in the Name of Jesus, Your Son that we pray. amen.
Monday, January 25, 2016
II Chronicles 23-24 Joash, the infant son of Ahaziah, was rescued from the murderous hands of Athaliah. Hidden for 6 years in the Temple, Joash was raised by Jehoiada the priest. At the age of 7, Joash was proclaimed king of Judah. Jehoiada brought together all the priests, levites, and heads of households together, made a covenant between them and this your kings and the Lord. Athaliah was killed and Joash sat on the throne.
Joash was a good king, at first. He supported and even insisted on the restoration of the Lord's house. He did what was "right in the sight of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest." But, after Jehoiada died at the age of 130 years old... things changed. The officials of Judah convinced Joash to abandon God and to serve the idols. They would not listen to the prophets and even struck down Jehoiada's son Zechariah. "Thus Joash the king did not remember the kindness which his father Jehoiada had shown him, but he murdered his son. "
The Lord takes up the side of the righteous and brings justice upon the wicked. The army of the Arameans came against Judah and Jerusalem. They were only a small number, " Indeed the army of the Arabians came with a small number of men; yet the Lord delivered a very great army into their hands, because they had forsaken the Lord, the God of their fathers. Thus they executed judgement on Joash." Joash was left behind, sick and weak. His own servants conspired against him and killed him because of what he had done to Zechariah. His son, Amaziah, became king in his place.
How does this happen? How does someone who seemingly loved the Lord at one point of his life, turn around and become so evil? How heart-breaking! Joash had every opportunity to be a great king. Yet, he must have had a divided heart. Influenced by Jehoiada, he did well. Influenced by the officials of Judah, he turned to idols.
There is a truth taught in this passage that we, here in America, need to hear... when a nation abandons God, refuses to listen to the warnings of His people, and continually transgress His commandments... they will not prosper. "Because you have forsaken the Lord, He has also forsaken you." ( 24:20) It doesn't take a huge army to destroy a nation who has forsaken God.. Judgement will come, just like it did in the days of Joash.
O God of Wonders, Lord of all, our nation is being influenced by evil men, tempted to forsake You, even as Israel did in the days long ago. Forgive us Lord! Bring revival and repentance into the hearts of this nation. Raise up men and women of God who will not worship the culture of this evil world, but will turn back to You, the only True God. Do not deliver us into the hands of the enemies, Lord, but bring us back into relationship with Yourself we pray. In the mighty name of Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords. Amen.
Joash was a good king, at first. He supported and even insisted on the restoration of the Lord's house. He did what was "right in the sight of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada the priest." But, after Jehoiada died at the age of 130 years old... things changed. The officials of Judah convinced Joash to abandon God and to serve the idols. They would not listen to the prophets and even struck down Jehoiada's son Zechariah. "Thus Joash the king did not remember the kindness which his father Jehoiada had shown him, but he murdered his son. "
The Lord takes up the side of the righteous and brings justice upon the wicked. The army of the Arameans came against Judah and Jerusalem. They were only a small number, " Indeed the army of the Arabians came with a small number of men; yet the Lord delivered a very great army into their hands, because they had forsaken the Lord, the God of their fathers. Thus they executed judgement on Joash." Joash was left behind, sick and weak. His own servants conspired against him and killed him because of what he had done to Zechariah. His son, Amaziah, became king in his place.
How does this happen? How does someone who seemingly loved the Lord at one point of his life, turn around and become so evil? How heart-breaking! Joash had every opportunity to be a great king. Yet, he must have had a divided heart. Influenced by Jehoiada, he did well. Influenced by the officials of Judah, he turned to idols.
There is a truth taught in this passage that we, here in America, need to hear... when a nation abandons God, refuses to listen to the warnings of His people, and continually transgress His commandments... they will not prosper. "Because you have forsaken the Lord, He has also forsaken you." ( 24:20) It doesn't take a huge army to destroy a nation who has forsaken God.. Judgement will come, just like it did in the days of Joash.
O God of Wonders, Lord of all, our nation is being influenced by evil men, tempted to forsake You, even as Israel did in the days long ago. Forgive us Lord! Bring revival and repentance into the hearts of this nation. Raise up men and women of God who will not worship the culture of this evil world, but will turn back to You, the only True God. Do not deliver us into the hands of the enemies, Lord, but bring us back into relationship with Yourself we pray. In the mighty name of Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords. Amen.
Friday, January 22, 2016
II Chronicles 21 After Jehoshaphat died, Jehoram, his son, became king. This was the oldest son who was married to Ahab's daughter, Athaliah. She was as evil as her mother Jezebel. Jehoram chose to walk in the ways of Ahab instead of his own father. The first thing he did after establishing himself as king, was to kill all of his brothers.
One problem after another came upon Judah because of Jehoram's rebellion against the Lord.
Edom revolted.
Libnah revolted.
The Philistines and the Arabs came against them.
All of his sons and wives were kidnapped, except for 1, Jehoahaz, also called Ahaziah.
Then, Jehoram was struck by a painful disease that caused his bowels to come out. When he finally died it is written, " he departed with no one's regret,"
What a sad life and legacy. Jehoram reigned 8 years. He was a descendant of David, but he did not seek God.
Chapter 22 Ahaziah took his father's place as king of Judah, but only reigned 1 year. He listened to his mother, Athaliah, and did evil like his grandfather Ahab. He joined up with Jehoram the king of Israel, his uncle to fight against the king of Aram. But, God had anointed Jehu to cut off all the house of Ahab, and Ahaziah also was killed.
Athaliah, upon hearing of her son's death, killed all the royal offspring and declared herself queen.
But, Jehoshabeath, Ahaziah's sister hid Joash and took him to the Lord's house for 6 years while Athaliah reigned.
Jehoshabeath was married to Jehoiada the priest. She was the sister of Ahaziah, the daughter of Jehoram and Athaliah ( ?)... yet, she married a priest of the Lord and did a courageous thing, rescuing her nephew, Joash.
The influence of one woman is tremendous. Athaliah influenced her husband and her son to do evil, but Jehoshabeath, acted righteously and saved Joash.
Father, I ask that I might be a woman who influences those around her to do what is good and right in your eyes. Keep my heart pure and my mind fixed on You. Lead me in the ways of righteousness and love. Thank You for preserving a people for Yourself. Thank You for salvation through Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen
One problem after another came upon Judah because of Jehoram's rebellion against the Lord.
Edom revolted.
Libnah revolted.
The Philistines and the Arabs came against them.
All of his sons and wives were kidnapped, except for 1, Jehoahaz, also called Ahaziah.
Then, Jehoram was struck by a painful disease that caused his bowels to come out. When he finally died it is written, " he departed with no one's regret,"
What a sad life and legacy. Jehoram reigned 8 years. He was a descendant of David, but he did not seek God.
Chapter 22 Ahaziah took his father's place as king of Judah, but only reigned 1 year. He listened to his mother, Athaliah, and did evil like his grandfather Ahab. He joined up with Jehoram the king of Israel, his uncle to fight against the king of Aram. But, God had anointed Jehu to cut off all the house of Ahab, and Ahaziah also was killed.
Athaliah, upon hearing of her son's death, killed all the royal offspring and declared herself queen.
But, Jehoshabeath, Ahaziah's sister hid Joash and took him to the Lord's house for 6 years while Athaliah reigned.
Jehoshabeath was married to Jehoiada the priest. She was the sister of Ahaziah, the daughter of Jehoram and Athaliah ( ?)... yet, she married a priest of the Lord and did a courageous thing, rescuing her nephew, Joash.
The influence of one woman is tremendous. Athaliah influenced her husband and her son to do evil, but Jehoshabeath, acted righteously and saved Joash.
Father, I ask that I might be a woman who influences those around her to do what is good and right in your eyes. Keep my heart pure and my mind fixed on You. Lead me in the ways of righteousness and love. Thank You for preserving a people for Yourself. Thank You for salvation through Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
II Chronicles 17-21 Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa became king at the age of 35. Jehoshaphat sought the Lord and followed David's example. Not only did he take down idols, but he sent out priests and levites all over Judah to teach the Word of the Lord. He fortified the nation and strengthened the army. He was well respected and even feared by the surrounding nations. But, Jehoshaphat made one terrible mistake, he allied himself with Ahab, king of Israel, by having his son marry Ahab's daughter.
Chapter 18 gives the account of Jehoshaphat going up to war with Ahab. To his credit, Jehoshaphat was not swayed by 400 false prophets, knowing they were not speaking for the Lord. Yet when Micaiah came to speak the truth, Jehoshaphat didn't heed his warning. He escaped with this life and Ahab was killed anyway, but it was not a wise move.
When Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem he was met by Jehu, another prophet and reminded that he needed to "set your heart to seek God" and not to "help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord..." Jehoshaphat, then returned to leading the nation "back to the Lord, the God of their fathers."
One of his priorities was to set up righteous judges. He instructed them wisely.
First, they were instructed to know their position - " Consider what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for the Lord who is with you when you render judgement." A righteous judge must recognize that he serves a Master who has authority over all. He needs to have the fear of the Lord upon him. He must be careful to please Him. He must not allow unrighteousness , partiality, or bribery in his judgements.
Also, they needed to know their priorities - to be faithful, wholehearted, and resolute.
Faithful - firm, steady, stable, and truthful
Wholehearted - complete and perfect, peaceable, just
Resolute - strong, courageous, valiant, holding fast
In chapter 20 we learn about another war, this time Moab and Ammon come together against Judah. This time Jehoshaphat "turned his attention to seek the Lord." All of Judah gathered together to fast and pray and to seek the Lord. Jehoshaphat leads the nation in prayer:
Chapter 18 gives the account of Jehoshaphat going up to war with Ahab. To his credit, Jehoshaphat was not swayed by 400 false prophets, knowing they were not speaking for the Lord. Yet when Micaiah came to speak the truth, Jehoshaphat didn't heed his warning. He escaped with this life and Ahab was killed anyway, but it was not a wise move.
When Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem he was met by Jehu, another prophet and reminded that he needed to "set your heart to seek God" and not to "help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord..." Jehoshaphat, then returned to leading the nation "back to the Lord, the God of their fathers."
One of his priorities was to set up righteous judges. He instructed them wisely.
First, they were instructed to know their position - " Consider what you are doing, for you do not judge for man but for the Lord who is with you when you render judgement." A righteous judge must recognize that he serves a Master who has authority over all. He needs to have the fear of the Lord upon him. He must be careful to please Him. He must not allow unrighteousness , partiality, or bribery in his judgements.
Also, they needed to know their priorities - to be faithful, wholehearted, and resolute.
Faithful - firm, steady, stable, and truthful
Wholehearted - complete and perfect, peaceable, just
Resolute - strong, courageous, valiant, holding fast
In chapter 20 we learn about another war, this time Moab and Ammon come together against Judah. This time Jehoshaphat "turned his attention to seek the Lord." All of Judah gathered together to fast and pray and to seek the Lord. Jehoshaphat leads the nation in prayer:
"O Lord, the God of our fathers,
art Thou not God in the heavens?
And art Thou not ruler over all the
kingdoms of the nations?
Power and might are in Thy hand
so that no one can stand against Thee.
Didst Thou not, O our God,
drive out the inhabitants of this land before Thy people
Israel, and give it to the descendants
of Abraham Thy friend forever?
And they lived in it, and have built
Thee a sanctuary there for Thy name, saying,
Should evil come upon us, the sword, judgement, or pestilence,
or famine, we will stand before this house and
before Thee ( for Thy name is in this house)
and cry to Thee in our distress, and
Thou wilt hear and deliver us. " ( v6-9)
"O our God, wilt Thou not judge them?
For we are powerless before this great
multitude who are coming against us;
nor do we know what to do,
but our eyes are on Thee." ( v12)
God answered this prayer in an amazing way. Judah put their trust in the Lord, praised Him, and gave Him thanks. As they sang and praised the Lord, He set up ambushes against the Ammonites, Moabites, and those from Seir. They destroyed each other, so that by the time Judah got to the battle ground, all they found were dead bodies and loads of spoil, goods, garments, and valuables... just sitting there waiting for them to take.
The army of Judah returned from the Valley of Beracah, the place of blessing, rejoicing in the Lord.
One more thing happened, another alliance that Jehoshaphat tried to make with Israel. This time they joined together to make ships to go to Tarshish ( like Solomon had done). But, the Lord was not pleased with this and the ships were broken.
Father in heaven, You are the God of nations, the ruler of all kingdoms, The King of all the people.
We are powerless in the face of our enemies, Lord. We don't know what to do in this age of immorality, violence, terrorism, and greed. But our eyes are on You! We turn our attention to seek You, Lord. To be Your people, Your servants, living faithfully and resolutely, careful to please You and taking no part in unrighteousness. Keep us holy and blameless in Christ Jesus we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
II Chronicles 14-16 Asa becomes the king of Judah after his father Abijah. This account gives more information about Asa than the account in I Kings 15. We find that Asa did many things that were "good and right in the sight of the Lord his God". He removed a lot of the idols, he commanded his people to "seek the Lord God of their fathers and to observe the law and the commandment". He fortified the cities and he called on the Lord when they were facing an army of a million men from Ethiopia.
But after doing well and having a heart that was considered "blameless all his days", something happened to Asa in his later years. When confronted by Baasha the king of Israel, who tried to build a barrier so that no one could come in or out of Judah, Asa turned to the king of Aram instead of to the King of Glory as he had before. When the prophet Hanani came to Asa to point out this error, Asa threw him in prison and did not listen. We are told that Asa was angry. In his anger he began to oppress his own people. And, when Asa was stricken with disease in his feet, he refused to seek the Lord for healing. When he died, he was buried in his own tomb, elaborately prepared with spices and perfume.
Still, the final summary of Asa's life was that he was devoted to the Lord his God all the days of his life. Asa started so well. He sought the Lord and he led others to seek Him too. His prayer recorded in 14:11 is worth noting,
But after doing well and having a heart that was considered "blameless all his days", something happened to Asa in his later years. When confronted by Baasha the king of Israel, who tried to build a barrier so that no one could come in or out of Judah, Asa turned to the king of Aram instead of to the King of Glory as he had before. When the prophet Hanani came to Asa to point out this error, Asa threw him in prison and did not listen. We are told that Asa was angry. In his anger he began to oppress his own people. And, when Asa was stricken with disease in his feet, he refused to seek the Lord for healing. When he died, he was buried in his own tomb, elaborately prepared with spices and perfume.
Still, the final summary of Asa's life was that he was devoted to the Lord his God all the days of his life. Asa started so well. He sought the Lord and he led others to seek Him too. His prayer recorded in 14:11 is worth noting,
"Lord, there is no one besides Thee
to help in the battle
between the powerful and those who
have no strength ;
so help us, O Lord our God,
for we trust in Thee,
and in Thy name have come against
this multitude,
O Lord, Thou are our God;
let not man prevail against Thee. "
The army of Judah had 300,000 and Benjamin added 280,000. The army of Ethiopia was 1,000,000.
Yet the Lord heard Asa's prayer and "shattered" the enemy.
Azariah the prophet came to Asa and encouraged him to keep walking with the Lord. ".. the Lord is with you when you are with Him. And if you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. " ( 15:2) Asa believed and acted on this. Jews from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon defected from Israel and came to Judah because they saw that the Lord was with Asa. The nation renewed their covenant with the Lord "to seek the Lord God of their fathers with all their heart and soul;" They sought Him"earnestly and He let them find Him". ( v15)
Hanani reminded Asa of this, " For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." Asa's heart had changed. He stopped seeking the Lord for some reason. How sad.
We are called to be overcomers. We are commanded to remain steadfast, to stand firm in the Lord. In Ephesians Paul writes, " Therefore, take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm." We stand firm when we stay girded with truth, clothed with righteousness, shod with peace, shielded by faith, covered with salvation, holding the Word, and praying at all times. God is able to keep us and He is faithful to do so. But, we must keep seeking Him with all our hearts and all our souls, for it when we keep seeking Him that He lets us find Him.
Father, Holy God and Mighty Lord, help us, for there is none like You. When we are tempted and troubled, when we are foolish and arrogant... when we are stubborn and angry, please forgive us and draw us back to the Truth. O may we stand firm, holding on to Jesus, our Savior and King. We desire to seek You always and to never turn our faces from You. Hold us in Your strong arms and mighty hands we ask, in Jesus we pray, amen.
Monday, January 18, 2016
II Chronicles 13 Rehoboam dies and his son Abijah becomes king. In I Kings 15 we are told that his name is Abijam and that he walked in the sins of his father Rehoboam, but that for David's sake, the Lord " gave him a lamp in Jerusalem". Here in II Chronicles we see a different side of Abijah. There was a war between Abijah and Jeroboam. Jeroboam came with 800,000 valiant warriors. He set up some in front of Judah and an ambush behind them. Judah had half as many soldiers, 400,000.
Abijah addressed Jeroboam and his army. He reminded them of the covenant that David had with the Lord God of Israel. He proclaimed that Judah was being faithful to the Lord, while Israel had turned to the idols that Jeroboam had made. He made these professions:
"But as for us, the Lord is our God, and we have not forsaken Him." ( v. 10)
".. for we keep the charge of the Lord our God, but you have forsaken Him." (v11)
"Now behold, God is with us at our head and His priests with the signal trumpets to sound the alarm against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers, for you will not succeed." ( v12)
When Israel came against Judah, Judah "cried to the Lord and the priests blew the trumpets.... then it was that God routed Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah." ( v14-15) Judah slaughtered 500,000 of Israel's men and captured Jeroboam.
Abijah only ruled in Jerusalem for 3 years. This account in II Chronicles tells us that Jeroboam "did not again recover strength in the days of Abijah; and the Lord struck him and he died." But in I Kings 15:25 we are told that "Nadab the son of Jeroboam became king over Israel in the second year of Asa.." So, there must have been several years where Jeroboam lived in captivity before his death or perhaps Nadab was not ready to take the position yet.
So whether or not Abijah continued to seek the Lord after this victory or turned away... we don't know. But this we do know... after him Asa, his son, became king and " he did good and right in the sight of the Lord his God." ( 14:2)
We may not know what happened in Abijah's final days before his death or his final destination. But, we do know that at some point in his life, Abijah trusted in the Lord. Abijah's speech to Israel was a warning for them to turn back to the One True God. This one statement in verse 8 stands out, " So now you intend to resist the kingdom of the Lord...."
This is the heart of rebellion, isn't it? To resist the kingdom of the Lord... to forsake Him, to ignore His Word and His promises, to break the covenant that has been sealed for eternity. The Lord God of Israel, the King of Heaven and earth and eternity... reigns. His kingdom has come to us through Jesus Christ and His covenant is eternal. The writer of Hebrews quoting the prophet Jeremiah tells us of the new covenant, the "better covenant" that we have through Christ, " ... I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them upon their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. and they shall not teach everyone his fellow citizen, and everyone his brother, saying Know the Lord, for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more." (Hebrews 8: 10b-12)
This new covenant was not sealed with salt, but with the blood of Christ, once for all. It is a promise of a "new and living way". It is a promise of complete cleansing " having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." (Heb. 10: 22) It is a promise that we enter into by faith, holding "fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." ( v23)
Father in heaven, how precious are Your promises to us who hold on to them in Christ Jesus the Lord.
You are faithful and true. Deepen our understanding of this wonderful Word. Draw us nearer to Your heart. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done I pray. Blessed Jesus, thank You for being our Savior and Lord, our Intercessor and Friend. amen
Abijah addressed Jeroboam and his army. He reminded them of the covenant that David had with the Lord God of Israel. He proclaimed that Judah was being faithful to the Lord, while Israel had turned to the idols that Jeroboam had made. He made these professions:
"But as for us, the Lord is our God, and we have not forsaken Him." ( v. 10)
".. for we keep the charge of the Lord our God, but you have forsaken Him." (v11)
"Now behold, God is with us at our head and His priests with the signal trumpets to sound the alarm against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers, for you will not succeed." ( v12)
When Israel came against Judah, Judah "cried to the Lord and the priests blew the trumpets.... then it was that God routed Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah." ( v14-15) Judah slaughtered 500,000 of Israel's men and captured Jeroboam.
Abijah only ruled in Jerusalem for 3 years. This account in II Chronicles tells us that Jeroboam "did not again recover strength in the days of Abijah; and the Lord struck him and he died." But in I Kings 15:25 we are told that "Nadab the son of Jeroboam became king over Israel in the second year of Asa.." So, there must have been several years where Jeroboam lived in captivity before his death or perhaps Nadab was not ready to take the position yet.
So whether or not Abijah continued to seek the Lord after this victory or turned away... we don't know. But this we do know... after him Asa, his son, became king and " he did good and right in the sight of the Lord his God." ( 14:2)
We may not know what happened in Abijah's final days before his death or his final destination. But, we do know that at some point in his life, Abijah trusted in the Lord. Abijah's speech to Israel was a warning for them to turn back to the One True God. This one statement in verse 8 stands out, " So now you intend to resist the kingdom of the Lord...."
This is the heart of rebellion, isn't it? To resist the kingdom of the Lord... to forsake Him, to ignore His Word and His promises, to break the covenant that has been sealed for eternity. The Lord God of Israel, the King of Heaven and earth and eternity... reigns. His kingdom has come to us through Jesus Christ and His covenant is eternal. The writer of Hebrews quoting the prophet Jeremiah tells us of the new covenant, the "better covenant" that we have through Christ, " ... I will put My laws into their minds, and I will write them upon their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. and they shall not teach everyone his fellow citizen, and everyone his brother, saying Know the Lord, for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more." (Hebrews 8: 10b-12)
This new covenant was not sealed with salt, but with the blood of Christ, once for all. It is a promise of a "new and living way". It is a promise of complete cleansing " having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." (Heb. 10: 22) It is a promise that we enter into by faith, holding "fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful." ( v23)
Father in heaven, how precious are Your promises to us who hold on to them in Christ Jesus the Lord.
You are faithful and true. Deepen our understanding of this wonderful Word. Draw us nearer to Your heart. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done I pray. Blessed Jesus, thank You for being our Savior and Lord, our Intercessor and Friend. amen
Friday, January 15, 2016
II Chronicles 8-10 Solomon finished his building, established a great army, built of cities, and grew richer and richer. But, Solomon died and his son Rehoboam was crowned king of Israel. Rehoboam did not have the wisdom of his father. He failed to listen to the counsel of the elders. Instead, he chose to follow the poor advice of his peers and ended up losing the majority of the kingdom. Only Judah and Benjamin continued to be subject to Rehoboam.
Chapter 11 All the Levites that lived in Israel, left their lands and came to Judah and Jerusalem so that they could serve the Lord. Jeroboam, who was made king of the 10 tribes of Israel that rebelled against Rehoboam, set up satyrs and calves to worship instead. "And those from all the tribes of Israel who had set their hearts on seeking the the Lord God of Israel followed them to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the Lord God of their fathers. ". For three years the faithful continued to walk "in the way of David and Solomon".
Rehoboam married two of his cousins, Mahalah, the daughter of Jerimoth and Abihail; and Maacah, the daughter of Absolom. He had 18 wives and 60 concubines. Then he fathered 28 sons and 60 daughters. He appointed Abijah, the son of Maacah, as the leader of all his brothers. Then he took all his other sons and moved them to fortified cities, giving them "food in abundance" and "many wives".
Chapter 12 Slowly but surely Rehoboam turned away from following the Lord. In the 5th year of his reign the Lord responded to his unfaithfulness by sending the Egyptians against Judah. But, Rehoboam "humbled" himself and the Lord did not destroy him. Instead, Egypt took all the treasures of the palace and of the Lord's house, and let Rehoboam stay where he was. After 17 years of reigning over Judah, Rehoboam died. His legacy was, "And he did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord. "
Some lessons must be learned by every generation and by every individual. The most important lesson is the one Rehoboam failed at.. to seek the Lord with all of his heart. Everything was handed to him. He had every opportunity to be successful and to continue the rule of his father and grandfather. But, pride and greed led to his downfall. Only in humility did Rehoboam find deliverance. Verse 8 "But they will become his slaves so that they may learn the difference between My service and the service of the kingdoms of the countries."
Jesus spoke of the impossibility of serving 2 masters in Matthew 6:24. We will love one and hate the other, we will hold on to one and despise the other. We will serve God or we will serve "mammon" - riches - an idol of wealth or security. In Deuteronomy 28: 47-48 the Lord spoke these words to Israel, " Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and a glad heart, for the abundance of things; therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord shall send against you, in hunger, in thirst, in nakedness, and in the lack of all things; and He will put an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you. "
The choice is still ours today. We serve God with joy and gladness.. or we serve "things". From Rehoboam's life we see the consequences of serving things. We must learn from his failures. We are called to set our hearts on seeking the Lord. We must continually humble ourselves before Him and be His bondservants, joyfully and whole-heartedly.
Father in Heaven, You alone are God. You are the Creator and Ruler of every man, woman, and child. You are Lord. We desire to have humble hearts that seek You continually.Teach us Your ways O Lord. Help us to set our hearts on You always. You are good and Your lovingkindness is everlasting! Amen.
Chapter 11 All the Levites that lived in Israel, left their lands and came to Judah and Jerusalem so that they could serve the Lord. Jeroboam, who was made king of the 10 tribes of Israel that rebelled against Rehoboam, set up satyrs and calves to worship instead. "And those from all the tribes of Israel who had set their hearts on seeking the the Lord God of Israel followed them to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the Lord God of their fathers. ". For three years the faithful continued to walk "in the way of David and Solomon".
Rehoboam married two of his cousins, Mahalah, the daughter of Jerimoth and Abihail; and Maacah, the daughter of Absolom. He had 18 wives and 60 concubines. Then he fathered 28 sons and 60 daughters. He appointed Abijah, the son of Maacah, as the leader of all his brothers. Then he took all his other sons and moved them to fortified cities, giving them "food in abundance" and "many wives".
Chapter 12 Slowly but surely Rehoboam turned away from following the Lord. In the 5th year of his reign the Lord responded to his unfaithfulness by sending the Egyptians against Judah. But, Rehoboam "humbled" himself and the Lord did not destroy him. Instead, Egypt took all the treasures of the palace and of the Lord's house, and let Rehoboam stay where he was. After 17 years of reigning over Judah, Rehoboam died. His legacy was, "And he did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord. "
Some lessons must be learned by every generation and by every individual. The most important lesson is the one Rehoboam failed at.. to seek the Lord with all of his heart. Everything was handed to him. He had every opportunity to be successful and to continue the rule of his father and grandfather. But, pride and greed led to his downfall. Only in humility did Rehoboam find deliverance. Verse 8 "But they will become his slaves so that they may learn the difference between My service and the service of the kingdoms of the countries."
Jesus spoke of the impossibility of serving 2 masters in Matthew 6:24. We will love one and hate the other, we will hold on to one and despise the other. We will serve God or we will serve "mammon" - riches - an idol of wealth or security. In Deuteronomy 28: 47-48 the Lord spoke these words to Israel, " Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and a glad heart, for the abundance of things; therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord shall send against you, in hunger, in thirst, in nakedness, and in the lack of all things; and He will put an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you. "
The choice is still ours today. We serve God with joy and gladness.. or we serve "things". From Rehoboam's life we see the consequences of serving things. We must learn from his failures. We are called to set our hearts on seeking the Lord. We must continually humble ourselves before Him and be His bondservants, joyfully and whole-heartedly.
Father in Heaven, You alone are God. You are the Creator and Ruler of every man, woman, and child. You are Lord. We desire to have humble hearts that seek You continually.Teach us Your ways O Lord. Help us to set our hearts on You always. You are good and Your lovingkindness is everlasting! Amen.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
II Chronicles 6-7 As I meditate still upon this prayer of Solomon's I find myself stirred towards a new outlook and perspective in my prayer life. I have a burning in my heart to pray.. more.. and more effectively.. and more acceptably.
God approved of Solomon's prayer, for as soon as he finished, "fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house." The people of Israel reacted appropriately to the Lord's presence, bowing down "with their faces to the ground" and worshipping and praising God . Again their words are, " Truly He is good, truly His lovingkindness is everlasting."
When all the sacrifices were offered and all the celebrating was done, Solomon sent the people back to their homes. But then, the Lord came to Solomon once again. ( v12) " I have heard your prayer.."
He says. He will do as Solomon has asked, "Now My eyes shall be open and My ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place.... My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually." ( v15-16)
But.. there is a condition -
".. if you walk before Me as your father David walked... then I will establish Your royal throne."
"But if you turn away and forsake My statutes and My commandments... then I will uproot you from My land which I have given you, and this house which I have consecrated for My name I will cast out of My sight, .."
Father in Heaven, Holy is Your Name. You are truly good and Your lovingkindness is everlasting. May Your reign and rule over all of heaven and earth be made known once again. May Your perfect will, all of Your commands and statutes be done. May we love You with all of our hearts and souls and minds and strength. We entreat You to provide our every need, for You know whatever it is that we really need. We beg You to forgive our every sin and we choose to forgive those who have sinned against us. We ask for Your mercy and grace, that we might walk in Your ways, in righteousness and peace, loving one another and encouraging one another . We seek deliverance from the evil one, our enemy. Thank You for being our Savior and King, our Redeemer and Healer. Thank You for Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us even now. It is in His Name that we offer our prayers. Amen.
God approved of Solomon's prayer, for as soon as he finished, "fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house." The people of Israel reacted appropriately to the Lord's presence, bowing down "with their faces to the ground" and worshipping and praising God . Again their words are, " Truly He is good, truly His lovingkindness is everlasting."
When all the sacrifices were offered and all the celebrating was done, Solomon sent the people back to their homes. But then, the Lord came to Solomon once again. ( v12) " I have heard your prayer.."
He says. He will do as Solomon has asked, "Now My eyes shall be open and My ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place.... My eyes and My heart will be there perpetually." ( v15-16)
But.. there is a condition -
".. if you walk before Me as your father David walked... then I will establish Your royal throne."
"But if you turn away and forsake My statutes and My commandments... then I will uproot you from My land which I have given you, and this house which I have consecrated for My name I will cast out of My sight, .."
Father in Heaven, Holy is Your Name. You are truly good and Your lovingkindness is everlasting. May Your reign and rule over all of heaven and earth be made known once again. May Your perfect will, all of Your commands and statutes be done. May we love You with all of our hearts and souls and minds and strength. We entreat You to provide our every need, for You know whatever it is that we really need. We beg You to forgive our every sin and we choose to forgive those who have sinned against us. We ask for Your mercy and grace, that we might walk in Your ways, in righteousness and peace, loving one another and encouraging one another . We seek deliverance from the evil one, our enemy. Thank You for being our Savior and King, our Redeemer and Healer. Thank You for Jesus Christ, who intercedes for us even now. It is in His Name that we offer our prayers. Amen.
Monday, January 11, 2016
II Chronicles 6 Solomon's prayer
Solomon celebrates the fact that God has fulfilled His word to David, his father. The House of the Lord will not contain the infinite One, Solomon confesses, but he asks that God will " have regard to the prayer of Thy servant and to his supplication, O Lord my God, to listen to the cry and prayer which Thy servant prays before Thee." ( v19)
He goes on, " that Thine eyes may be open toward this house day and night, toward the place of which Thou hast said that Thou wouldst put Thy name there, to listen to the prayer which Thy servant shall pray toward this place. " ( v20)
Solomon asks the Lord, the Savior, to hear the supplications of His people and forgive their sins.
He asks the Lord, the Righteous Judge, to hear the case of feuding neighbors, and to punish the wicked and justify the righteous.
He asks the Lord, the Sovereign King, to rescue the defeated nation from their enemies, when they confess His name and return to Him.
He asks the Lord, the Provider, to hear their cries when drought has come because of their sinfulness, when they turn back and pray, confessing His Name. He asks that the Lord would forgive and "teach them the good way in which they should walk." And then, to send the rains.
He asks the Almighty ruler of Heaven and earth to hear their prayers when they are in trouble from famine, pestilence, blight, mildew, locust, grasshopper, enemies, plagues, and sickness... whether from one man or the whole nation... "then hear Thou from heaven Thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render to each according to all his ways, whose heart Thou knowest, for Thou alone dost know the hearts of the sons of men. "
Solomon prays for the foreigner who comes to pray "for Thy great name's sake".. that all the nations will know His name.
He prays that the Lord will hear the prayers of warriors in battle, and those of the rebellious in captivity when they repent and make supplication to Him.
"Now, O my God, I pray Thee, let Thine eyes be open, and Thine ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place." v40.
Solomon's temple is no more. The city of Jerusalem has been divided and the temple cite now contains a mosque. Israel was unfaithful to their Lord. Some still pray towards the "wailing wall", but is this the place where God's Name dwells?
No, for Jesus has come to tell us a better way. In Matthew 12 Jesus makes this statement, " But I say to you, that something greater than the temple is here." He is the better way!
John 16: 23-26 Jesus teaches us to pray in His name. "Truly, truly, I say to you, if you shall ask the Father for anything, He will give it to you in My name. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, that your joy may be made full."
We no longer prayer towards the earthly place where God's name once dwelled.. but we pray in the name of Jesus, " For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fulness to dwell in Him. " (Colossians 1:19) "Therefore also God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. " ( Philippians 2:9-11)
Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Father we thank You that we can come in the name of Jesus, Whom You have highly exalted. We set our eyes towards Him, who is greater than Solomon or Jonah, or the great Temple that was once in Jerusalem. There is no comparison, for He is the Righteous One and our perfect Redeemer. We do ask that You hear our prayers in His Name, that You forgive our sins and restore our hearts to love and serve You fully. We need healing in our land and we desire for all the people on earth to know Your name. Hear our prayers and supplications O Lord, for we come in His Name. Amen.
Solomon celebrates the fact that God has fulfilled His word to David, his father. The House of the Lord will not contain the infinite One, Solomon confesses, but he asks that God will " have regard to the prayer of Thy servant and to his supplication, O Lord my God, to listen to the cry and prayer which Thy servant prays before Thee." ( v19)
He goes on, " that Thine eyes may be open toward this house day and night, toward the place of which Thou hast said that Thou wouldst put Thy name there, to listen to the prayer which Thy servant shall pray toward this place. " ( v20)
Solomon asks the Lord, the Savior, to hear the supplications of His people and forgive their sins.
He asks the Lord, the Righteous Judge, to hear the case of feuding neighbors, and to punish the wicked and justify the righteous.
He asks the Lord, the Sovereign King, to rescue the defeated nation from their enemies, when they confess His name and return to Him.
He asks the Lord, the Provider, to hear their cries when drought has come because of their sinfulness, when they turn back and pray, confessing His Name. He asks that the Lord would forgive and "teach them the good way in which they should walk." And then, to send the rains.
He asks the Almighty ruler of Heaven and earth to hear their prayers when they are in trouble from famine, pestilence, blight, mildew, locust, grasshopper, enemies, plagues, and sickness... whether from one man or the whole nation... "then hear Thou from heaven Thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render to each according to all his ways, whose heart Thou knowest, for Thou alone dost know the hearts of the sons of men. "
Solomon prays for the foreigner who comes to pray "for Thy great name's sake".. that all the nations will know His name.
He prays that the Lord will hear the prayers of warriors in battle, and those of the rebellious in captivity when they repent and make supplication to Him.
"Now, O my God, I pray Thee, let Thine eyes be open, and Thine ears attentive to the prayer offered in this place." v40.
Solomon's temple is no more. The city of Jerusalem has been divided and the temple cite now contains a mosque. Israel was unfaithful to their Lord. Some still pray towards the "wailing wall", but is this the place where God's Name dwells?
No, for Jesus has come to tell us a better way. In Matthew 12 Jesus makes this statement, " But I say to you, that something greater than the temple is here." He is the better way!
John 16: 23-26 Jesus teaches us to pray in His name. "Truly, truly, I say to you, if you shall ask the Father for anything, He will give it to you in My name. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, that your joy may be made full."
We no longer prayer towards the earthly place where God's name once dwelled.. but we pray in the name of Jesus, " For it was the Father's good pleasure for all the fulness to dwell in Him. " (Colossians 1:19) "Therefore also God highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father. " ( Philippians 2:9-11)
Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name! Father we thank You that we can come in the name of Jesus, Whom You have highly exalted. We set our eyes towards Him, who is greater than Solomon or Jonah, or the great Temple that was once in Jerusalem. There is no comparison, for He is the Righteous One and our perfect Redeemer. We do ask that You hear our prayers in His Name, that You forgive our sins and restore our hearts to love and serve You fully. We need healing in our land and we desire for all the people on earth to know Your name. Hear our prayers and supplications O Lord, for we come in His Name. Amen.
Friday, January 8, 2016
II Chronicles 1-5 Solomon established himself as king over Israel. He sought the Lord by going up to Gibeon where the tent of meeting that Moses had made was situated. The ark was in Jerusalem, in the the tent which David had made, but the altar and tabernacle were in Gibeon. Solomon offered 1000 burnt offerings that day. He was seeking the Lord and the Lord met him there.
God tells Solomon to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon wisely asks for wisdom and knowledge, so that he can rule Israel, God's people. God is pleased with Solomon's request and grants it, along with riches, wealth, and honor.
Solomon builds the temple that David had planned and prepared for. It must have been amazing! When it was finished they brought the ark up from David's tent and put it in the holy of holies. With much music the priests and Levites worshiped before the Lord and the "glory of the Lord filled the house of God." (5:14)
There is one theme to the praise songs that were offered before the Lord, " He indeed is good, for His loving kindness is everlasting."
Reading Tozer's book, "The Knowledge of the Holy" which focuses on the attributes of God, inspires me to praise Him and to worship Him in Truth. Goodness is one of those attributes. Just a few of the thoughts on God's goodness from this book:
"The goodness of God is that which disposes Him to be kind, cordial, benevolent, and full of good will toward men. He is tenderhearted and of quick sympathy, and His unfailing attitude toward all moral beings is open, frank, and friendly. By His nature He is inclined to bestow blessedness and He takes holy pleasure in the happiness of His people."
"The goodness of God is the drive behind all the blessings He daily bestows upon us. God created us because He felt good in His heart and He redeemed us for the same reason."
"Divine goodness, as one of God's attributes, is self-caused, infinite, perfect, and eternal. Since God is immutable He never varies in the intensity of His loving-kindness."
"Always God's goodness is the ground of our expectation. Repentance, though necessary, in not meritorious but a condition for receiving the gracious gift of pardon which God gives of His goodness. Prayer is not in itself meritorious. It lays God under no obligation nor puts Him in debt to any. He hears prayer because He is good and for no other reason. Nor is faith meritorious; it is simply confidence in the goodness of God, and the lack of it is a reflection upon God's holy character."
Father in heaven, You are good! You are worthy of all our praise. Your everlasting love and kindness to us is higher and wider and deeper and stronger than we can grasp, yet You have blessed us with a measure of faith to understand it, through Christ Jesus. O how precious is Your Word and Your Spirit, to teach our hearts to sing of Your goodness. Almighty God, we praise You with all our hearts and souls and strength. Amen.
God tells Solomon to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon wisely asks for wisdom and knowledge, so that he can rule Israel, God's people. God is pleased with Solomon's request and grants it, along with riches, wealth, and honor.
Solomon builds the temple that David had planned and prepared for. It must have been amazing! When it was finished they brought the ark up from David's tent and put it in the holy of holies. With much music the priests and Levites worshiped before the Lord and the "glory of the Lord filled the house of God." (5:14)
There is one theme to the praise songs that were offered before the Lord, " He indeed is good, for His loving kindness is everlasting."
Reading Tozer's book, "The Knowledge of the Holy" which focuses on the attributes of God, inspires me to praise Him and to worship Him in Truth. Goodness is one of those attributes. Just a few of the thoughts on God's goodness from this book:
"The goodness of God is that which disposes Him to be kind, cordial, benevolent, and full of good will toward men. He is tenderhearted and of quick sympathy, and His unfailing attitude toward all moral beings is open, frank, and friendly. By His nature He is inclined to bestow blessedness and He takes holy pleasure in the happiness of His people."
"The goodness of God is the drive behind all the blessings He daily bestows upon us. God created us because He felt good in His heart and He redeemed us for the same reason."
"Divine goodness, as one of God's attributes, is self-caused, infinite, perfect, and eternal. Since God is immutable He never varies in the intensity of His loving-kindness."
"Always God's goodness is the ground of our expectation. Repentance, though necessary, in not meritorious but a condition for receiving the gracious gift of pardon which God gives of His goodness. Prayer is not in itself meritorious. It lays God under no obligation nor puts Him in debt to any. He hears prayer because He is good and for no other reason. Nor is faith meritorious; it is simply confidence in the goodness of God, and the lack of it is a reflection upon God's holy character."
Father in heaven, You are good! You are worthy of all our praise. Your everlasting love and kindness to us is higher and wider and deeper and stronger than we can grasp, yet You have blessed us with a measure of faith to understand it, through Christ Jesus. O how precious is Your Word and Your Spirit, to teach our hearts to sing of Your goodness. Almighty God, we praise You with all our hearts and souls and strength. Amen.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Colossians 3-4
3:18-4:1 Relationships are transformed by the "true knowledge" that we receive in Christ. Paul emphasizes this in his letters, indicating just how important these are in our lives as we seek to be made "perfect" or complete in Him.
Husbands and wives who are living for and in Christ will have a relationship of mutual respect and love. The wife will be willing to be subject to her husband's leadership. The husband will love his wife with perfect, sincere and benevolent love. This kind of love takes action and desires the best for her.
They will raise their children in a way that will not "exasperate" them; but will teach them obedience. Children will obey their parents and will please the Lord.
Slaves will work for their masters with sincere hearts. They will work for the Lord, serving Him in all that they do. They will do what is right and good. Masters will be just and fair to their slaves, treating them as their Father in heaven has treated them.
We are all to "devote" ourselves to prayer. Persevering, earnest toward, and constantly diligent and alert in praying; with an "attitude of thanksgiving."
We are to "conduct (ourselves) with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity"
We are to season our speech with grace.
This is a lifestyle that reflects the glory of the Lord. We are being admonished and taught and coached with wisdom so that we may be made complete and perfect in Christ.
Father, You are Lord of all, King of glory, and Creator of all things. You have made Jesus Christ the Head of of the body, the church. All the fulness dwells in Him. Jesus, You have reconciled us, redeemed us, and made us Your own. We cling to You and are knit together with You. May our lives be continually transformed from glory unto glory. We serve You. May our marriages and family reflect Your Truth. May our relationships with those outside our families, reflect Your Love. May our words and actions reflect Your Grace. May we be diligent in prayer and thankful in every moment. Come and fill me Lord, with Your Spirit that I might live in a way that is well -pleasing to You , I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
3:18-4:1 Relationships are transformed by the "true knowledge" that we receive in Christ. Paul emphasizes this in his letters, indicating just how important these are in our lives as we seek to be made "perfect" or complete in Him.
Husbands and wives who are living for and in Christ will have a relationship of mutual respect and love. The wife will be willing to be subject to her husband's leadership. The husband will love his wife with perfect, sincere and benevolent love. This kind of love takes action and desires the best for her.
They will raise their children in a way that will not "exasperate" them; but will teach them obedience. Children will obey their parents and will please the Lord.
Slaves will work for their masters with sincere hearts. They will work for the Lord, serving Him in all that they do. They will do what is right and good. Masters will be just and fair to their slaves, treating them as their Father in heaven has treated them.
We are all to "devote" ourselves to prayer. Persevering, earnest toward, and constantly diligent and alert in praying; with an "attitude of thanksgiving."
We are to "conduct (ourselves) with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity"
We are to season our speech with grace.
This is a lifestyle that reflects the glory of the Lord. We are being admonished and taught and coached with wisdom so that we may be made complete and perfect in Christ.
Father, You are Lord of all, King of glory, and Creator of all things. You have made Jesus Christ the Head of of the body, the church. All the fulness dwells in Him. Jesus, You have reconciled us, redeemed us, and made us Your own. We cling to You and are knit together with You. May our lives be continually transformed from glory unto glory. We serve You. May our marriages and family reflect Your Truth. May our relationships with those outside our families, reflect Your Love. May our words and actions reflect Your Grace. May we be diligent in prayer and thankful in every moment. Come and fill me Lord, with Your Spirit that I might live in a way that is well -pleasing to You , I ask this in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Colossians 3 A person who has been "raised up with Christ" is one who has "died" first. That person will be made new. Paul gives us a glimpse os what new life in Christ looks like;
First, that person will keep his eyes on Christ, seeking Him continually.
He will set his mind on "things above" instead of the "things that are on the earth".
He will "consider the members of" his earthly body dead to: "immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed."
He will put aside his "anger, wrath, malice, slander and abusive speech".
He won't lie.
He will lay aside any evil practice. There must be a complete separation, a casting off of sinful behavior, divesting oneself of this kind of living, purposely laying it aside forever.
The believer will "put on the new self"; the renovated self. The "true knowledge" that we have gained - Christ Himself - is our model, the One each of us desire to attain to, for "Christ is all and in all".
We, who are chosen, holy, and beloved by God, will put on:
a heart of compassion
kindness
humility
gentleness
patience.
We will bear with one another.
We will forgive one another.
We will love one another "which is the perfect bond of unity".
And as we take off the old and put on the new, our lives will be conformed into the image of Christ.
Paul gives us some directions as we go:
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts"
".. be thankful"
" Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."
First, that person will keep his eyes on Christ, seeking Him continually.
He will set his mind on "things above" instead of the "things that are on the earth".
He will "consider the members of" his earthly body dead to: "immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed."
He will put aside his "anger, wrath, malice, slander and abusive speech".
He won't lie.
He will lay aside any evil practice. There must be a complete separation, a casting off of sinful behavior, divesting oneself of this kind of living, purposely laying it aside forever.
The believer will "put on the new self"; the renovated self. The "true knowledge" that we have gained - Christ Himself - is our model, the One each of us desire to attain to, for "Christ is all and in all".
We, who are chosen, holy, and beloved by God, will put on:
a heart of compassion
kindness
humility
gentleness
patience.
We will bear with one another.
We will forgive one another.
We will love one another "which is the perfect bond of unity".
And as we take off the old and put on the new, our lives will be conformed into the image of Christ.
Paul gives us some directions as we go:
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts"
".. be thankful"
" Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father."
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Colossians 2
All wisdom and knowledge are in Christ. This is "true knowledge" which we can have full assurance and confidence in. We need to put that together in our thinking, intellectually/mentally steadfast, SO THAT - we won't be deluded by:
"persuasive arguments"
or "taken captive through philosophy and empty deception"
or "elementary principles of the world"
or man's traditions.
Paul encourages his readers to "walk in Him" whom they have received.
They have shown "good discipline" and "stability of faith in Christ".
They have been "firmly rooted and now built up in Him ."
They are "established in (their ) faith".
They are filled with gratitude.
But, they are under the attack of the enemy, who is trying to delude and deceive them. So, Paul wants them to focus back on the "true knowledge" of Christ:
"For in Him all the fulness of Deity dwells in bodily form." ( 2:9)
".. and in Him you have been made complete.."
"and He is the head over all rule and authority"
In Christ, believers are circumcised "without hands" - what is removed is the "body of flesh "
In Christ, believers are "buried with Him in baptism" and" raised up with Him through faith "
In Christ, believers, who were dead in their sins, are made "alive together with Him"
In Christ, believers are "forgiven.. all our transgressions"
In Christ, believers have every certificate of debt "cancelled out"- taken out of the way; nailed to the cross.
Christ has "disarmed the rulers and authorites." He has triumphed over them. He has made a public display of them. Christ Jesus is King!
Therefore:
Don't let anyone else act as your judge. (v16)
Don't be defrauded by false religious activists. ( v18)
Do hold fast to the Head - to Christ. (v19)
Do know that you have died to the "elementary principles of the world". (v20)
Don't submit to man's commandments and teachings that have the appearance of wisdom but are "self-made" religious ideals with no value. ( v23)
We are complete in Christ!
We have our "flesh" removed.
We have died with Him.
We have been raised, made alive, with Him.
We have been forgiven in Him.
We have every debt cancelled by Him.
This is true knowledge by which we are encouraged, knit together, made rich, and given full assurance of!
Father, thank You. What wonderful grace that You have given to me. To reveal true knowledge and wisdom to me in Christ. He is the Head, the ruler, the authority over all things. By Him and through Him and for Him all things were created. He is before all things and He holds all things together . He is my hope of glory. Praise to the Father and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.
All wisdom and knowledge are in Christ. This is "true knowledge" which we can have full assurance and confidence in. We need to put that together in our thinking, intellectually/mentally steadfast, SO THAT - we won't be deluded by:
"persuasive arguments"
or "taken captive through philosophy and empty deception"
or "elementary principles of the world"
or man's traditions.
Paul encourages his readers to "walk in Him" whom they have received.
They have shown "good discipline" and "stability of faith in Christ".
They have been "firmly rooted and now built up in Him ."
They are "established in (their ) faith".
They are filled with gratitude.
But, they are under the attack of the enemy, who is trying to delude and deceive them. So, Paul wants them to focus back on the "true knowledge" of Christ:
"For in Him all the fulness of Deity dwells in bodily form." ( 2:9)
".. and in Him you have been made complete.."
"and He is the head over all rule and authority"
In Christ, believers are circumcised "without hands" - what is removed is the "body of flesh "
In Christ, believers are "buried with Him in baptism" and" raised up with Him through faith "
In Christ, believers, who were dead in their sins, are made "alive together with Him"
In Christ, believers are "forgiven.. all our transgressions"
In Christ, believers have every certificate of debt "cancelled out"- taken out of the way; nailed to the cross.
Christ has "disarmed the rulers and authorites." He has triumphed over them. He has made a public display of them. Christ Jesus is King!
Therefore:
Don't let anyone else act as your judge. (v16)
Don't be defrauded by false religious activists. ( v18)
Do hold fast to the Head - to Christ. (v19)
Do know that you have died to the "elementary principles of the world". (v20)
Don't submit to man's commandments and teachings that have the appearance of wisdom but are "self-made" religious ideals with no value. ( v23)
We are complete in Christ!
We have our "flesh" removed.
We have died with Him.
We have been raised, made alive, with Him.
We have been forgiven in Him.
We have every debt cancelled by Him.
This is true knowledge by which we are encouraged, knit together, made rich, and given full assurance of!
Father, thank You. What wonderful grace that You have given to me. To reveal true knowledge and wisdom to me in Christ. He is the Head, the ruler, the authority over all things. By Him and through Him and for Him all things were created. He is before all things and He holds all things together . He is my hope of glory. Praise to the Father and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Monday, January 4, 2016
Colossians 2
Verses 2-3 ".. that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge ."
Paul says that this is his "struggle", his efforts are focused on this goal for all those in the church. I need to unpack this, to grasp all that he is saying. Holy Spirit, help me to comprehend the truth written here.
In the previous verse ( 1:29) Paul talked about the "Purpose" for which he labors, "striving according to His power which mightily works within me". His purpose is to "present every man complete in Christ".
His efforts begin with encouragement of the heart. This work "encouragement" includes the idea of comfort, exhortation, intercession, to come along side another, to console, to pray for, and to implore. Philippians 2:1 tells us that there is encouragement in Christ. If we are to be "complete" or perfect in Christ, we must receive His encouragement. We also encourage one another, " having been knit together in love". Verse 19 gives another picture of this, " ... holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God." It is unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ.. all holding onto the Head - Christ, in His love, that we will be encouraged and move towards being made complete.
"attaining all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding." Ok, so being knit together in love, we are encouraged, AND we receive something more, "wealth". Riches, abundance, fulness are ours, the:
Riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience ( Romans 2:4)
Riches of His glory ( Romans 9:23)
Riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ( Romans 11:33)
Riches of His grace ( Eph. 1:7)
Riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints ( Eph. 1:18)
Riches of His grace in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. ( Eph. 2:7)
".. The unfathomable riches of Christ" ( Eph. 3:8)
All these riches, we are told, come from "the full assurance of understanding" - completely convinced and entirely confident in what we have intellectually "put together" or mentally comprehended. What have we come to know? " a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is Christ Himself."
So, the more I come to know Christ, to recognize and acknowledge Him, being completely convinced of the Truth and entirely confident in Him, intellectually or mentally comprehending Who He is, the more I will grasp the riches He has bestowed - His kindness, His grace, His glory, His wisdom, His everything...and I will be encouraged. As we do this in unity with our fellow Christians, we are knit together in Love, holding on to Jesus, Who is our Head. For He holds "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge".
whew... need to think on this a while.
Lord, I want to be complete in Christ. I want to understand and know and receive all that You have revealed here. Fill me with Yourself I pray. Amen.
Verses 2-3 ".. that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge ."
Paul says that this is his "struggle", his efforts are focused on this goal for all those in the church. I need to unpack this, to grasp all that he is saying. Holy Spirit, help me to comprehend the truth written here.
In the previous verse ( 1:29) Paul talked about the "Purpose" for which he labors, "striving according to His power which mightily works within me". His purpose is to "present every man complete in Christ".
His efforts begin with encouragement of the heart. This work "encouragement" includes the idea of comfort, exhortation, intercession, to come along side another, to console, to pray for, and to implore. Philippians 2:1 tells us that there is encouragement in Christ. If we are to be "complete" or perfect in Christ, we must receive His encouragement. We also encourage one another, " having been knit together in love". Verse 19 gives another picture of this, " ... holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God." It is unity with our brothers and sisters in Christ.. all holding onto the Head - Christ, in His love, that we will be encouraged and move towards being made complete.
"attaining all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding." Ok, so being knit together in love, we are encouraged, AND we receive something more, "wealth". Riches, abundance, fulness are ours, the:
Riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience ( Romans 2:4)
Riches of His glory ( Romans 9:23)
Riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ( Romans 11:33)
Riches of His grace ( Eph. 1:7)
Riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints ( Eph. 1:18)
Riches of His grace in kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. ( Eph. 2:7)
".. The unfathomable riches of Christ" ( Eph. 3:8)
All these riches, we are told, come from "the full assurance of understanding" - completely convinced and entirely confident in what we have intellectually "put together" or mentally comprehended. What have we come to know? " a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is Christ Himself."
So, the more I come to know Christ, to recognize and acknowledge Him, being completely convinced of the Truth and entirely confident in Him, intellectually or mentally comprehending Who He is, the more I will grasp the riches He has bestowed - His kindness, His grace, His glory, His wisdom, His everything...and I will be encouraged. As we do this in unity with our fellow Christians, we are knit together in Love, holding on to Jesus, Who is our Head. For He holds "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge".
whew... need to think on this a while.
Lord, I want to be complete in Christ. I want to understand and know and receive all that You have revealed here. Fill me with Yourself I pray. Amen.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Happy New Year! 2016 has arrived. A new year, a new start. Perhaps a new beginning to this devotional blog? We'll see...
Colossians 1
Verses 9-12 contain a prayer that I pray on a regular basis, " .. For this reason, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask;
Colossians 1
Verses 9-12 contain a prayer that I pray on a regular basis, " .. For this reason, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask;
that you may be filled to the full with the knowledge of His will
in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord,
to please Him in all respects,
bearing fruit in every good work,
and increasing in the knowledge of God,
strengthened with all power according to His glorious might,
for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience;
joyously giving thanks to the Father,
who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light."
The next verses are a beautiful exaltation of the Father and of "the incomparable Christ"
The Father:
Has delivered us from the domain of darkness.
Has transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sin.
Jesus Christ is:
The image of the invisible God.
The first-born of all creation.
By Him all things were created both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible.
All thrones, dominions, rulers, authorities... all things have been created by Him and for Him.
He is before all things.
In Him all things hold together .
He is the head of the body, the church.
He is the beginning, the first-born from the dead;
He has first place in everything.
The Father was pleased to have all the "fulness to dwell in Him"
Through Him all things are reconciled to Himself.
He has made peace through the blood of His cross.... on earth and in heaven.
He has reconciled us, in His fleshly body, through death.. in order to present us before Him, "holy and blameless and beyond reproach" as long as we "continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven..."
Paul calls this a great "mystery", once hidden, but now revealed. God has made known "the riches of the glory" of this truth "Christ in you, the hope of glory ". It is in proclaiming Christ, sometimes with admonishing, sometimes with teaching, sometimes with much labor and striving... for the purpose of presenting "every man complete in Christ".
Father in heaven, all power, all might, all glory, all majesty.. all holiness is in You. You have created all things and all things belong to You. We thank You for revealing Yourself to us and making Your will known to us. Increase our understanding of "the grace of God in truth". Open our eyes Lord, to see Your glory and the hope that is in Christ Jesus, Your Son. Fill us. Change us. Perfect us. Make us holy and blameless and preserve us in our Redeemer until the day of His return. Amen.
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