Joe can tell that Susan and Steve are Christians. They go to church, wear crosses and other religious jewelery, give to charity and even serve on a commmittee at church. All the outward signs are there -- they are Christians, all right.
Saul thought that outward appearances made all the difference. In fact, in this account he's got the outward signs covered. He's religious -- you can tell just by looking (or so he thinks.) The difference between external religious signs and true internal spirituality is hard to see for most...
13:3-4
Jonathan attached and destroyed the Philistine outpost, but Saul took all the credit for it. Although this was normal in that culture, it didn't make his action right. Saul's growing pride started out small--taking credit for a battle that was won by his son. Left unchecked, his pride grew into an ugly obsession; thus, it destroyed him, tore his family apart, and threatened the well being of the nation. Taking credit for the accomplishments of others indicates that pride is controlling your life. When you notice pride taking a foothold, take immediate steps to put it in check by giving credit to those who deserve it.
13:6
When we forget who is on our side or see only our own resources, we tend to panic at the sight of opposition. The Israelites became terrified and hid when they say the might Philistine army. They forgot that God was on their side and that he couldn't be defeated. As you face problems and temptations, focus your attention on God and his resources, trusting him to help you (Romans 8:31-37).
13:11,12
It is difficult to trust God when you feel your resources slipping away. When Saul felt that time was running out, he became inpatient with God's timing. In thinking that the ritual was all he needed, he substituted the ritual for faith in God.
When faced with a difficult decision, don't allow impatience to drive you to disobey God. When you know what God wants, follow his plan regardless of the consequences. God often uses delays to test our obedience and patience.
13:12, 13
Saul had plenty of excuses for his disobedience. But Samuel zeroed in on the real issue: "You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you." Like Saul, we often gloss over our mistakes and sins, trying to justify our actions because of our "special" circumstances. Our excuses, however, are nothing more than disobedience. God knows our true motives. He forgives, restores, and blesses only when we are honest about our sins. By trying to hide his sins behind excuses, Saul lost his kingship (13:14).
14:1
In this chapter we read about the miserable job Saul did as leader, he had no communication with Jonathan (14:1,17); he made a foolish curse (14:24); and he ignored the well-being of his own soilders (14:31). Saul's poor leadership was not a result of personality traits but of decaying spiritual character. What we do is often a direct result of our spiritual character. We cannot ignore the importance of spiritual character in effective leadership.
14:6
Jonathan and his armor bearer weren't much of a force to attack the huge Philistine army. But while everyone else was afraid, they trusted God, knowing that the size of the the enemy army would not restrict God's ability to help them. God honored the faith and brave action of these two men with a tremendous victory.
Have you ever felt surrounded by the "enemy" or faced over-whelming odds? God is never intimidated by the side of the enemy or the complexity of a problem. With him, there are always enough resources to resist the pressures and win the battle. If God has called you to action, then bravely commit what resources you have to God, and rely upon him to lead you to victory.
14:47
Why was Saul so successful right after he had disobeyed God and been told that his reign would end (13:13,14)? Sometimes ungodly people win battles. Victory is neither guaranteed nor limited to the righteous. God provides according to his will. God might have given Saul success for the sake of the people, not for Saul. He may have left Saul on the the throne for a while to utilize his military talents so that David, Israel's next king, could spend more time focusing on the nation's spiritual battles. Regardless of God's reasons for delaying Saul's demise, his reign ended exactly the way God had foretold. The timing of God's plans and promises is known only to him. Our task is to commit our ways to God and then trust him for the outcome.
15:2, 3
Why did God command such utter destruction? The Amalekites were a band of guerrilla terrorists. They lived by attacking other nations and carrying off their wealthy and their families. They were the first to attack the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land, and they continued to raid Israelite camps at every opportunity. God knew that the Israelites could never live peacefully in the Promised Land as long as the Amalekites existed. He also knew that their corrupt, idolatrous religious practices threatened Israel's relationship with him. The only way to protect the Israelites bodies and souls was to utterly destroy the people of this warlike nation and all their possessions, including their idols.
15:11
When God said he was sorry that he had made Saul king, was he saying he had made a mistake? God's comment was an expression of sorrow, not an admission of error (Genesis 6:5-7). An omniscient God cannot make a mistake (15:29); therefore, God did not change his mind. He did, however change his attitude toward Saul when Saul changed. Saul's heart no longer belonged to God but to his own interests.
15:22,23
This is the first of numerous places in the Bible where the theme "obedience is better than sacrifice" is stated (Psalms 40:6-8, 51:16, 17; Proverbs 21:3; Isaiah 1:11-17; Jeremiah 7:21-23; Hosea 6:6; Micah 6:6-8; Matthew 12:7; Mark 12:33; Hebrews 10:8,9). Was Samuel saying that sacrifice is unimportant? No, he was urging Saul to look at his reasons for making the sacrifice rather than at the sacrifice itself. A sacrifice was a ritual transaction between a person and God that physically demonstrated a relationship between them. But if the person's heart was not truly repentant or if he did not truly love God, the sacrifice was a hollow ritual. Religious ceremonies or rituals are empty unless they are performed with an attitude of love and obedience. "Being religious" (going to church, serving on a committee, giving to charity) is not enough if we do not act out the devotion and obedience to God.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
04.28.10 - 1 Samuel 8:1 - 12:25
Many people take steps to fit in with the people around them--they say the right phrases, socialize at known establishments, walk a special way, show off important possessions, or are seen in the right places. Being accepted and fitting in matter a great deal.
Israel is finally getting a king--Saul. Remember, the nation has been in the process of conquering the land of Canaan, as God had commanded them. But they haven't felt comfortable with the unique identity they have in contrast to their neighbors. They want to fit in. By having a king, now they do -- at least they think so.
Israel wanted a king for several reasons: 1. Samuel's sons were not fit to lead Israel. 2. The 12 tribes of Israel continually had problems working together because each tribe has its own leader and territory. It was hoped that a king would unite the tribes into one nation and one army. 3. The people wanted to be like neighboring nations. This is exactly what God didn't want. Having a king would make it east to forget that God was their real leader. (Much like a President.) It was not wrong for Israel to want a king; God had mentioned the possibility in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. Yet, in reality, the people were rejecting God as their leader. The Israelites wanted laws, an army and a human monarch in the place of God. They wanted to run the nation through human strength, even though only God's strength could make them flourish in the hostile land of Canaan.
8:5,6
The people clamored for a king, thinking that a new system of government would bring about a change in the nation. But because their basic problem was disobedience to God, their other problems would only continue under the new administration. What they needed was a unified faith, not uniform rule.
Had the Israelites submitted to God's leadership, they would have thrived beyond their expectations (Deuteronomy 28:1). Our obedience is weak if we ask God to lead our family or personal life but continue to live by the world's standards and values. Faith in God must touch all the practical areas of life.
8:19,20
Samuel carefully explained all the negative consequences of having a king, but the Israelites refused to listen. When you have an important decision to make, weigh the positive and negatives carefully, considering everyone who might be affected by your choice. When you want something badly enough, it is difficult to see the potential problems. But don't discount the negatives. Unless you have a plan to handle each one, they will cause you great difficulty later.
Israel was called to be a holy nation, separate from and unique among all others (Leviticus 20:26). The Israelites' motive in asking for a king was to be like the nations around them. This was in total opposition to God's original plan. It was not their desire for a king that was wrong, but their reasons for wanting a king.
Often we let others' values and actions dictate our attitudes and behavior. Have you ever made a wrong choice because you wanted to be like everyone else? Be careful that the values of your friends or "heroes" don't pull you away from what God says is right. When God's people want to be like unbelievers, they are heading for spiritual disaster.
9:3
Often we think that events "just happen" to us, but as we learn from this story about Saul, God may use common occurrences to lead us where he wants. It is important to evaluate all situations as potential "divine appointments" designed to shape our lives. Think of all the good and bad circumstances that have affected you lately. Can you see Gods purpose in them? Perhaps he is building a certain quality in you or leading you to serve him in a new area.
9:21
"Why are you talking like this to me?" Saul's outburst reveals a problem he would face repeatedly--feeling inferior. Like a leaf tossed about by the wind, Saul vacillated between his feelings and his convictions. Everything he said and did was selfish because he was worried about himself. For example, Saul said his clan was "the least important" in the smallest tribe in Israel but 9:1 says his father was "a wealthy, influential man." Saul didn't want to face the responsibility God had given him. Later, Saul kept some war plunder that he shouldn't have and then tried to blame his soilders (15:21) while claiming that they had really take it to sacrifice God. (15:15)
Although Saul had been called by God and had a mission in life, he struggled constantly with jealousy, insecurity, arrogance, impulsiveness, and deceit. He did not decide to be wholeheartedly committed to God. Because Saul would not let God's love give rest to his heart, he never became God's man.
10:6
How could Saul be so filled with the Spirit and yet later commit such evil acts? Throughout the Old Testament, God's Spirit "came upon" a person temporarily so that God could use him or her for great acts. This happened frequently to Israel's judges when they were called by God to rescue the nation (Judges 3:8-10). This was not always a permanent, abiding influence, but sometimes a temporary manifestation of the Holy Spirit. Yet, at times in the Old Testament, the Spirit even came upon unbelievers to enable them to do unusual tasks (Numbers 24; 2 Chronicles 36:22,23). The Holy Spirit gave the person power to do what God asked, but it did not always produce the other fruits of the Spirit, such as self-control. Saul, in his early years as a king, was a different person (10:1-10) as a result of the Holy Spirit's work in him. But as Saul's power grew, so did his pride. After a while he refused to see God; the spirit left him (16:14), and his good attitude melted away.
10:19
Israel's true king was God, but the nation demanded another. Imagine wanted a human being instead of God as a guide and a leader! Throughout history, men and women have rejected God, and they continue to do it today. Are you rejecting God by pushing him aside and acknowledging someone or something else as your "king" or top priority? Learn from these stories if Israel's kings and don't push God aside.
10:22
When the Israelites assembled to choose a king, Saul already knew he was the one (10:1). Instead of coming forward, however, he hid among the baggage. Often we hide from important responsibilities because we are afraid of failure, afraid of what others will think, or perhaps unsure about how to proceed. Prepare now to step up to your future responsibilities. Count on God's provision rather than your feelings of adequacy.
10:26,27
Some men became Saul's constant companions, while other despised him. Criticism will always be directed toward those who lead because they are out in front. At this time, Saul took notice of those who seemed to be against him although later he would become consumed with jealousy (19:1-3;26:17-21). As you lead, listen to constructive criticism, but don't spend valuable time and energy worrying about those who may oppose you. Instead, focus your attention on those who are ready and willing to help.
11:6
Anger is a powerful emotion. Often it may drive people to hurt others with words or physical violence. But anger directed at sin and the mistreatment of others is not wrong. Saul was angered by the Ammorites' threat to humiliate and mistreat his fellow Israelites. The Holy Spirit used Saul's anger to bring justice and freedom. When injustice or sin makes you angry, ask God how you can channel that anger in constructive ways to help bring about a positive change.
12:23
Is failing to pray for others a sin? Samuel's words seem to indicate that it is. His actions illustrate two of God's people's responsibilities: 1. They should pray consistently for others (Ephesians 6:18) and 2. they should teach others the right way to God (2 Timothy 2:2) Samuel disagreed with the Israelites' demand for a kind, but he assured them that he would continue to pray for them and teach them. We may disagree with others, but we shouldn't stop praying for them.
12:24
This is the second time in his farewell speech that Samuel reminded the people to take time to consider what great things God has done for them (12:7). Taking time for reflection allows us to focus our attention upon God's goodness and strengthens our faith. Sometimes we are so progress-and future-orientated that we fail to take time to recall all that God has already done. Remember what God has done for you so that you may move ahead with gratitude.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
10.03.09: 1 Samuel 1 - 10
"RUNNERS, take your mark," the starter barks his signal, and the crowd turns quiet attention to the athletes walking toward the line. "Get set"... in position now, muscles tense, nervously anticipating the sound of the gun. It resounds! And the race begins. In any contest, the start is important, but the finish is even more crucial. Often a front-runner will lose strength and fade into the middle of the pack. And there is the tragedy of the brilliant beginner who sets the pace for a time, but does not even finish. He quits the race burned out, exhausted, or injured.
First Samuel is a book of great beginnings... and tragic endings.
Be careful what you promise in prayer because God may take you up on it. Hannah so desperately wanted a child that she was willing to strike a bargain with God. God took her up on her promise, and to Hannah's credit, she did her part, even though it was painful (v.v 1:27,28).
Although we are not in a position to barter with God, he may still choose to answer a prayer that has an attached promise. When you pray, ask yourself, Will I follow through on any promises I make to God if he grants my request? It is dishonest and dangerous to ignore a promise, especially to God. God keeps his promises, and he expects you to keep yours.
When Hannah returns her only son to God this verse illustrates the kinds of gifts we should give to God. Do your gifts cost you little (Sunday mornings, a comfortable tithe), or are they gifts of sacrifice? Are you presenting God with tokens, or are you presenting him with your entire life?
"No one is holy like the Lord!
There is no one besides you;
There is no Rock like our God." 1 Samuel 2:2
Hannah praised God for being a Rock - firm, strong and unchanging. In our fast pace world, friends come and go, and circumstances change. Its difficult to find a solid foundation that will not change. Those who devote their lives to achievements, causes or possessions have as their security that which is finite and changeable. The possessions that we work so hard to obtain will all pass away. But God is always present. Hope in him. He will never fail.
Because we live in a world where evil bounds and where war and terrorism always threaten, we may forget that God is in control. Hannah saw God as 1. solid as a Rock (2:2), 2. the one who knows what we do (2:3), 3. sovereign over all the affairs of people (2:4-8), and 4. the Supreme Judge who administer perfect justice (2:10). Remembering God's sovereign control helps us put both world and personal events in perspective.
3.1-5. Although God had spoken directly and audibly with Moses and Joshua, his word became rare during the three centuries of rule by judges. By Eli's time, no Prophets were speaking God's message to Israel. Why? Look at the attitudes of Eli's sons. They refused to listen to God, and they allowed greed to block their communication with him. Instead of listening to God, Israel had turned to other sources of wisdom. But when God spoke to Samuel, the young boy responded, "Speak your servant is listening." (3:10)
Listening and responding is vital in a relationship with God. Although God does not always use the sound of human voice, he always speaks clearly through his Word. To receive his messages, we must be ready to listen and to act upon what he tells us. Like Samuel, be ready to say "Here I am" when God calls you to action.
Tourists and travelers purchase memorable souvenirs from the places they visit. What are your favorites? Souvenirs connects us to a place and an experience; they become hooks for our memories. Souvenirs also prove that we've been to a specific place, and they can be excellent discussion starters. The Philistines grab a priceless Israelite treasure and the Israelites build a collection of choice Canaanite items. In neither case are the souvenirs harmless. The Israelites took their collectibles from the inhabitants that they were to have driven from Canaan, clearly violating God's command.
As the Israelites began to inhabit Canaan, they were supposed to destroy all the idols they found. Instead, many people collected the idols, brought them home, and included them in their worship. They were clearly disobeying God because he had warned them to avoid idols (Exodus 20:4). Samuel saw the Israelites' sin and urged them to get rid of their foreign gods (1 Samuel 7:3).
Today idols don't look like the ancient gods of wood and stone, but they endangered us just as much. Whatever holds first place in a person's life is, in fact, that person's god. Money, success, material goods, pride, or anything else can be an idol if it takes God's place.
The Lord alone is worthy of our service and worship and we must let nothing rival him. If we have "foreign gods," we need to dethrone them, giving the true God his rightful place. What idols vie for control of your life? What should you do to keep God in first place?
First Samuel is a book of great beginnings... and tragic endings.
Be careful what you promise in prayer because God may take you up on it. Hannah so desperately wanted a child that she was willing to strike a bargain with God. God took her up on her promise, and to Hannah's credit, she did her part, even though it was painful (v.v 1:27,28).
Although we are not in a position to barter with God, he may still choose to answer a prayer that has an attached promise. When you pray, ask yourself, Will I follow through on any promises I make to God if he grants my request? It is dishonest and dangerous to ignore a promise, especially to God. God keeps his promises, and he expects you to keep yours.
When Hannah returns her only son to God this verse illustrates the kinds of gifts we should give to God. Do your gifts cost you little (Sunday mornings, a comfortable tithe), or are they gifts of sacrifice? Are you presenting God with tokens, or are you presenting him with your entire life?
"No one is holy like the Lord!
There is no one besides you;
There is no Rock like our God." 1 Samuel 2:2
Hannah praised God for being a Rock - firm, strong and unchanging. In our fast pace world, friends come and go, and circumstances change. Its difficult to find a solid foundation that will not change. Those who devote their lives to achievements, causes or possessions have as their security that which is finite and changeable. The possessions that we work so hard to obtain will all pass away. But God is always present. Hope in him. He will never fail.
Because we live in a world where evil bounds and where war and terrorism always threaten, we may forget that God is in control. Hannah saw God as 1. solid as a Rock (2:2), 2. the one who knows what we do (2:3), 3. sovereign over all the affairs of people (2:4-8), and 4. the Supreme Judge who administer perfect justice (2:10). Remembering God's sovereign control helps us put both world and personal events in perspective.
3.1-5. Although God had spoken directly and audibly with Moses and Joshua, his word became rare during the three centuries of rule by judges. By Eli's time, no Prophets were speaking God's message to Israel. Why? Look at the attitudes of Eli's sons. They refused to listen to God, and they allowed greed to block their communication with him. Instead of listening to God, Israel had turned to other sources of wisdom. But when God spoke to Samuel, the young boy responded, "Speak your servant is listening." (3:10)
Listening and responding is vital in a relationship with God. Although God does not always use the sound of human voice, he always speaks clearly through his Word. To receive his messages, we must be ready to listen and to act upon what he tells us. Like Samuel, be ready to say "Here I am" when God calls you to action.
Tourists and travelers purchase memorable souvenirs from the places they visit. What are your favorites? Souvenirs connects us to a place and an experience; they become hooks for our memories. Souvenirs also prove that we've been to a specific place, and they can be excellent discussion starters. The Philistines grab a priceless Israelite treasure and the Israelites build a collection of choice Canaanite items. In neither case are the souvenirs harmless. The Israelites took their collectibles from the inhabitants that they were to have driven from Canaan, clearly violating God's command.
As the Israelites began to inhabit Canaan, they were supposed to destroy all the idols they found. Instead, many people collected the idols, brought them home, and included them in their worship. They were clearly disobeying God because he had warned them to avoid idols (Exodus 20:4). Samuel saw the Israelites' sin and urged them to get rid of their foreign gods (1 Samuel 7:3).
Today idols don't look like the ancient gods of wood and stone, but they endangered us just as much. Whatever holds first place in a person's life is, in fact, that person's god. Money, success, material goods, pride, or anything else can be an idol if it takes God's place.
The Lord alone is worthy of our service and worship and we must let nothing rival him. If we have "foreign gods," we need to dethrone them, giving the true God his rightful place. What idols vie for control of your life? What should you do to keep God in first place?
The BOOK of SAMUEL 1&2 - 10.03.09
1 & 2 SAMUEL: Israel's Greatest King
From Judges to Monarchy
God’s purpose for Israel was to have His people be different from all other nations. However, they wanted to be like their neighbors. The last of the judges was also a prophet and he warned them of the dangers of their desires. Deuteronomy 17:14-20 makes clear God’s command regarding a king over Israel when he settled in the Promised Land. As we discover in 1 Samuel they chose a king of their own making rather than God’s choice. Israel could reject God from being their King, but they could not dethrone Him. Saul was a king after the people’s own heart, but David was the king after God’s own heart.
TITLE: originally was called “Books of the Kingdoms, and the two books of Samuel were one in the Hebrew text. The translators of the Greek Old Testament, Septuagint, divided the book and gave the titles First and Second Kingdoms with our two books of Kings as Third and Fourth Kingdoms. Since 1516 First and Second Samuel and First and Second Kings have been used as their titles. 1 Samuel describes the transition to monarchy, while 2 Samuel focuses on the establishment of the Davidic covenant with God. The original readers of Samuel had one complete volume. Second Samuel is the continuation of the first volume in our English Bible.
AUTHOR: of both books is unknown although Jewish tradition suggests Samuel in chapters in which his history is recorded, with Nathan and Gad completing the book (1 Sam. 10:25; 1 Chron. 29:29). It is possible an unnamed prophet compiled the books of Samuel from the writings of Samuel, Gad, Nathan and other sources. It is likely these two books bear his name because of Samuel’s dominate role in transition from the judges to a monarchy. The same person who wrote 1 Samuel also wrote 2 Samuel as well.
TIME: covers about 120 years from 1090 to 970 B.C. The focus is on the last of the judges to the establishment of the kingdom. First Chronicles runs parallel in time. First Samuel opens with the birth of Samuel and 2 Samuel closes with the last days of David. The time covers three important characters in the transition to a monarchy: Saul (1050-1010 B.C.), David (1010-970 B.C.), Solomon (970-931 B.C.) and the division of the kingdom about 931 B.C. Second Samuel begins with David at the peak of his career and focuses on the events in David’s forty year reign as the king who united Judah and Israel.
Clyde Francisco describes the culture in Samuel as filled with “religious short comings. . . enemies were tortured, polygamy was common in the upper class.” The centralized government “exerted a strong unifying influence on religious thought and practices. The poor had a right to justice, adultery was recognized as a great crime, and more emphasis was placed on the rights of the individuals” (p. 56).
Israel’s biggest enemy was the Philistines whom David subdued. They lived along the Mediterranean coast and their strength lay in their possession of iron weapons. We get the name “Palestine” from these inhabitants of the land who migrated from Greece and Crete. The Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant which symbolized God’s presence with His people. The Israelites foolishly thought the ark would protect them if they took it with them into battle. The false gods Israel contended with ere Canaanite gods.
PURPOSE: is to record the establishment of the kingdom and the Davidic covenant by God. The people chose Saul, a Benjaminite, but God chose the dynasty of David from the tribe of Judah. It documents the transition from a group of tribes into a monarchy. God’s idea was for Israel to be a theocracy in which King David is the type of a Greater David, the Messiah.
First Samuel begins where the judges left off, “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit” (Jud. 21:25). Samuel gives us the transition from the last judge to the people’s choice of a king and later God’s choice (8:5; 15:23). Second Samuel gives us the highlights of the reign of king David and the relationship of Israel to her sovereign God. It stresses the spiritual relationship of “a man after God’s own heart” with its ensuing blessings and resulting failures and punishment when God is not his desire. 2 Samuel chapters 11 and 12 are the critical turning point in the life of David and his reign.
THEME: of the books is the covenant with David. God is faithful to His promises and will help His people to accomplish His eternal purposes. God is sovereign in the affairs of His nation. Everything moves toward and is centered on the Davidic covenant. Human sin and bad judgment jeopardized the Davidic covenant, but God overrules it to accomplish His purposes.
The theme is developed around three characters Samuel, Saul and David. Samuel is the last of the judges of Israel (7:6, 15-17). Saul was the first king and the people’s choice; David is God’s choice. His reign as king is described in Second Samuel. How ironic that His people wanted a king, but not the King!
The author gives us an interpretation of Israel’s history from the prophetic point of view. He interprets the relation of these three key men in the establishment of the kingdom. It is shown that Samuel prepared the foundations of the kingdom; Saul tried to establish it but failed; and David succeeded in establishing it. The God of Israel continues to be the true king of Israel. The earthly king is Gods representative on earth and responsible to Him. The success or failure of the earthly king depended upon his relationship with God.
J. W. Watts said, “The theme of 1 and 2 Samuel is the establishment of the kingdom and the theme of 1 and 2 Kings is the taking away of the kingdom.”
The principle of obedience to God beings blessings and disobedience brings judgment is illustrated in the life of David in 2 Samuel. However, God will pursue His eternal purpose and overrule man’s disobedience. Even though David commits adultery and murder for Bathsheba, she is the wife who gives birth to Solomon the successor to the kingdom. The intrigue and murder in David’s family is overruled so that God’s chosen reigns on the throne after David’s death.
From Judges to Monarchy
God’s purpose for Israel was to have His people be different from all other nations. However, they wanted to be like their neighbors. The last of the judges was also a prophet and he warned them of the dangers of their desires. Deuteronomy 17:14-20 makes clear God’s command regarding a king over Israel when he settled in the Promised Land. As we discover in 1 Samuel they chose a king of their own making rather than God’s choice. Israel could reject God from being their King, but they could not dethrone Him. Saul was a king after the people’s own heart, but David was the king after God’s own heart.
TITLE: originally was called “Books of the Kingdoms, and the two books of Samuel were one in the Hebrew text. The translators of the Greek Old Testament, Septuagint, divided the book and gave the titles First and Second Kingdoms with our two books of Kings as Third and Fourth Kingdoms. Since 1516 First and Second Samuel and First and Second Kings have been used as their titles. 1 Samuel describes the transition to monarchy, while 2 Samuel focuses on the establishment of the Davidic covenant with God. The original readers of Samuel had one complete volume. Second Samuel is the continuation of the first volume in our English Bible.
AUTHOR: of both books is unknown although Jewish tradition suggests Samuel in chapters in which his history is recorded, with Nathan and Gad completing the book (1 Sam. 10:25; 1 Chron. 29:29). It is possible an unnamed prophet compiled the books of Samuel from the writings of Samuel, Gad, Nathan and other sources. It is likely these two books bear his name because of Samuel’s dominate role in transition from the judges to a monarchy. The same person who wrote 1 Samuel also wrote 2 Samuel as well.
TIME: covers about 120 years from 1090 to 970 B.C. The focus is on the last of the judges to the establishment of the kingdom. First Chronicles runs parallel in time. First Samuel opens with the birth of Samuel and 2 Samuel closes with the last days of David. The time covers three important characters in the transition to a monarchy: Saul (1050-1010 B.C.), David (1010-970 B.C.), Solomon (970-931 B.C.) and the division of the kingdom about 931 B.C. Second Samuel begins with David at the peak of his career and focuses on the events in David’s forty year reign as the king who united Judah and Israel.
Clyde Francisco describes the culture in Samuel as filled with “religious short comings. . . enemies were tortured, polygamy was common in the upper class.” The centralized government “exerted a strong unifying influence on religious thought and practices. The poor had a right to justice, adultery was recognized as a great crime, and more emphasis was placed on the rights of the individuals” (p. 56).
Israel’s biggest enemy was the Philistines whom David subdued. They lived along the Mediterranean coast and their strength lay in their possession of iron weapons. We get the name “Palestine” from these inhabitants of the land who migrated from Greece and Crete. The Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant which symbolized God’s presence with His people. The Israelites foolishly thought the ark would protect them if they took it with them into battle. The false gods Israel contended with ere Canaanite gods.
PURPOSE: is to record the establishment of the kingdom and the Davidic covenant by God. The people chose Saul, a Benjaminite, but God chose the dynasty of David from the tribe of Judah. It documents the transition from a group of tribes into a monarchy. God’s idea was for Israel to be a theocracy in which King David is the type of a Greater David, the Messiah.
First Samuel begins where the judges left off, “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit” (Jud. 21:25). Samuel gives us the transition from the last judge to the people’s choice of a king and later God’s choice (8:5; 15:23). Second Samuel gives us the highlights of the reign of king David and the relationship of Israel to her sovereign God. It stresses the spiritual relationship of “a man after God’s own heart” with its ensuing blessings and resulting failures and punishment when God is not his desire. 2 Samuel chapters 11 and 12 are the critical turning point in the life of David and his reign.
THEME: of the books is the covenant with David. God is faithful to His promises and will help His people to accomplish His eternal purposes. God is sovereign in the affairs of His nation. Everything moves toward and is centered on the Davidic covenant. Human sin and bad judgment jeopardized the Davidic covenant, but God overrules it to accomplish His purposes.
The theme is developed around three characters Samuel, Saul and David. Samuel is the last of the judges of Israel (7:6, 15-17). Saul was the first king and the people’s choice; David is God’s choice. His reign as king is described in Second Samuel. How ironic that His people wanted a king, but not the King!
The author gives us an interpretation of Israel’s history from the prophetic point of view. He interprets the relation of these three key men in the establishment of the kingdom. It is shown that Samuel prepared the foundations of the kingdom; Saul tried to establish it but failed; and David succeeded in establishing it. The God of Israel continues to be the true king of Israel. The earthly king is Gods representative on earth and responsible to Him. The success or failure of the earthly king depended upon his relationship with God.
J. W. Watts said, “The theme of 1 and 2 Samuel is the establishment of the kingdom and the theme of 1 and 2 Kings is the taking away of the kingdom.”
The principle of obedience to God beings blessings and disobedience brings judgment is illustrated in the life of David in 2 Samuel. However, God will pursue His eternal purpose and overrule man’s disobedience. Even though David commits adultery and murder for Bathsheba, she is the wife who gives birth to Solomon the successor to the kingdom. The intrigue and murder in David’s family is overruled so that God’s chosen reigns on the throne after David’s death.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
10.02.09: Ruth 1 - 4
When we first met Ruth, she is a destitute widow. We follow her as she joins God's people, gleans in the grainfields, and risks her honor at the threshing floor of Boaz. In the end, we see Ruth becoming the wife of Boaz. What a picture of how we come to faith in Christ. We begin with no hope and are rebellious aliens with no part in the kingdom of God. Then as we risk everything by putting our faith in Christ, God saves us, rebuilds our live sand gives us blessings that will last through eternity. Boaz's redeeming of Ruth is a picture of Christ redeeming us.
1:16. Ruth was a Moabites, but that didn't stop her from worshipping the true God, nor did it stop God from accepting her worship and blessing her greatly. The Jews were not the only people God loved. God chose the Jews to be the people through whom the rest of the world would come to know him. This was fulfilled when Jesus Christ was born as a Jew. Through him, the entire world can come to know God. Acts 10:35 says that, "in every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what it right." God accepts all who worship him; he works through people regardless of their race, sex, or nationality. The book of Ruth is a perfect example of God's impartiality. Although Ruth belonged to a race often despised by Israel, she was blessed because of her faithfulness. She became a great-grandmother of King David and a direct ancestor of Jesus. No one should feel disqualified to serve God because of race, sex or national background. And God can use every circumstance to build his kingdom.
"Don't call me Naomi, she responded. Instead call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me." Ruth 1:20,21. Naomi had experienced severe hardships. She had left Israel married and secure; she returned widowed and poor. Naomi changed her name to express the bitterness and pain she felt. Naomi was not rejecting God by openly expressing her pain. However, it seems she lost sight of the tremendous resources she had in her relationship with Ruth and with God. When you face bitter times, God welcomes your honest prayers, but be careful not to overlook the love, strength, and resources that he provides in your present relationships. And don't allow bitterness and disappointment to blind you to your opportunities.
Ruth's life exhibited admirable qualities: She was hardworking, loving, kind, faithful and brave. These qualities gained for her a good reputation, but only because she displayed them consistently in all areas of her life. Wherever Ruth went or whatever she did, her character remained the same.
Your reputation is formed by the people who watch you at work, in town, at home, in church. A good reputation comes by consistently living out the qualities you believe in - no matter what group of people or surroundings you are in.
TODAY IS ALWAYS A NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPERIENCING GOD'S CARE.
When you're immersed in a problem, it can be difficult to see exactly what to do. But afterward, when you look back on the situation, you can see it all perfectly, and the solution seems obvious. You can see what you couldn't see before. As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20.
The book of Ruth has that rare quality of showing us how the past has affected today. How could Naomi have seen, while feeling her pain of bitter losses, that her future would hold more than ten times the good? She couldn't - she could only trust God - and that's a crucial lesson to learn.
To some, the book of Ruth may be just a nice story about a girl was fortunate. But in reality, the events recorded in Ruth were part of God's preparations for the births of David and of Jesus, the promised Messiah. Just as Ruth was unaware of this larger purpose in life, we will not know the full purpose and importance of our lives until we are able to look back from the perspective of eternity. We must make our choices with God's eternal values in mind. Taking moral shortcuts and living for short-range pleasures are not good ways to move ahead. Because of Ruth's faithful obedience, her life and legacy were significant even though she couldn't see all the results. Live in faithfulness to God, knowing that the significance of your life will extend beyond your lifetime. The rewards will outweigh any sacrifice you may have made.
1:16. Ruth was a Moabites, but that didn't stop her from worshipping the true God, nor did it stop God from accepting her worship and blessing her greatly. The Jews were not the only people God loved. God chose the Jews to be the people through whom the rest of the world would come to know him. This was fulfilled when Jesus Christ was born as a Jew. Through him, the entire world can come to know God. Acts 10:35 says that, "in every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what it right." God accepts all who worship him; he works through people regardless of their race, sex, or nationality. The book of Ruth is a perfect example of God's impartiality. Although Ruth belonged to a race often despised by Israel, she was blessed because of her faithfulness. She became a great-grandmother of King David and a direct ancestor of Jesus. No one should feel disqualified to serve God because of race, sex or national background. And God can use every circumstance to build his kingdom.
"Don't call me Naomi, she responded. Instead call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me." Ruth 1:20,21. Naomi had experienced severe hardships. She had left Israel married and secure; she returned widowed and poor. Naomi changed her name to express the bitterness and pain she felt. Naomi was not rejecting God by openly expressing her pain. However, it seems she lost sight of the tremendous resources she had in her relationship with Ruth and with God. When you face bitter times, God welcomes your honest prayers, but be careful not to overlook the love, strength, and resources that he provides in your present relationships. And don't allow bitterness and disappointment to blind you to your opportunities.
Ruth's life exhibited admirable qualities: She was hardworking, loving, kind, faithful and brave. These qualities gained for her a good reputation, but only because she displayed them consistently in all areas of her life. Wherever Ruth went or whatever she did, her character remained the same.
Your reputation is formed by the people who watch you at work, in town, at home, in church. A good reputation comes by consistently living out the qualities you believe in - no matter what group of people or surroundings you are in.
TODAY IS ALWAYS A NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPERIENCING GOD'S CARE.
When you're immersed in a problem, it can be difficult to see exactly what to do. But afterward, when you look back on the situation, you can see it all perfectly, and the solution seems obvious. You can see what you couldn't see before. As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20.
The book of Ruth has that rare quality of showing us how the past has affected today. How could Naomi have seen, while feeling her pain of bitter losses, that her future would hold more than ten times the good? She couldn't - she could only trust God - and that's a crucial lesson to learn.
To some, the book of Ruth may be just a nice story about a girl was fortunate. But in reality, the events recorded in Ruth were part of God's preparations for the births of David and of Jesus, the promised Messiah. Just as Ruth was unaware of this larger purpose in life, we will not know the full purpose and importance of our lives until we are able to look back from the perspective of eternity. We must make our choices with God's eternal values in mind. Taking moral shortcuts and living for short-range pleasures are not good ways to move ahead. Because of Ruth's faithful obedience, her life and legacy were significant even though she couldn't see all the results. Live in faithfulness to God, knowing that the significance of your life will extend beyond your lifetime. The rewards will outweigh any sacrifice you may have made.
THE BOOK of RUTH - 10.02.09
RUTH: Our Kinsman Redeemer
The Romance of Redemption
Ruth gets its title from the heroine of the book. She is a foreigner, from the land of Moab, who becomes the great grandmother of King David. It is not fiction, but is the real story of the lineage of the king and the future Messiah. She is the widow of Mahlon, the son of Naomi and Elimelech who were living in Moab because of famine. Ruth was a Moabitess, a descendent of Lot (Gen. 19:37), who lived in the area east of the Dead Sea. The god of the Moabites was Chemosh, to which children were sacrificed. Never measure a book by its size. This little booklet of a few pages “is one of the rarest and most beautiful idylls in literature.” It is a delightful picture of the domestic life in time of anarchy and poverty from famine. It is as Clyde T. Francisco says, “one of the master short stories of all time.” This is the story of how God has a witness during the darkest days of Jewish history. God is all-sufficient for those who trust in Him.
AUTHOR: of Ruth is unknown.
DATE: The setting for the events in the book of Ruth is stated in 1:1. “Now it came about in the days when the judges governed, that there was a famine in the land.” Therefore it is placed in the dark ages of Hebrew history, a time of deterioration, apostasy and disorganization. The land was in social chaos. The time covered is about twelve years. Ruth serves as a bridge in the history of Israel between the Judges and the monarchy. It was probably written during the reign of David, but before Solomon began his reign since it gives only a partial genealogy of David.
PURPOSE: One of the purposes of the book is found in the genealogy in 4:17-22 demonstrating the lineage of the Messiah through Obed, Jesse and David. The majestic sovereignty of God is seen in the unfolding of the plan of redemption through the lineage of David and the Messiah. God did not allow the lineage to be broken even during the dark ages of Hebrew history. A thousand years have passed since God called Abraham to be the father of a nation and another thousand will pass before the coming of the greater Son of David, the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Matt. 1:1-16; Luke 3:31-38). Ruth is important to us because of its teaching on the lineage of the messiah. This foreigner was included in God’s grace. This is a picture of the wonder of God’s love in the midst of human depravity at its worst. God’s eternal purposes were not thwarted by the sinfulness of mankind. He had His person to continue the lineage of the Messiah. The world’s most unimportant people are God’s most important. This Moabitess was excluded by the law, but received by God’s grace. The main purpose of this book is to make practical application of the law of the kinsman. Ruth demonstrates the providence of a loving God in the lives of ordinary, unimportant people during turbulent times.
THEME: The most important theme is redemption with its main teaching centering on the Kinsman redeemer as a type of the Messiah. The Goel is the one who redeems. He must be a blood relative, have the ability to purchase, be willing to buy the inheritance and be willing to marry the widow of the deceased kinsman. God has provided a kinsman redeemer (Goel) for His people (Lev. 25:23-25, 47-49). “Blessed is the LORD who has not left you without a redeemer today, and may His name become famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14). Boaz is Naomi’s kinsman redeemer who marries Ruth and keeps the family line alive and illustrates God’s redeeming work to come through Jesus Christ (Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 1:18-19). In the book of Ruth the kinsman who is able and willing is Boaz.
KEY VERSE: 4:14
The Romance of Redemption
Ruth gets its title from the heroine of the book. She is a foreigner, from the land of Moab, who becomes the great grandmother of King David. It is not fiction, but is the real story of the lineage of the king and the future Messiah. She is the widow of Mahlon, the son of Naomi and Elimelech who were living in Moab because of famine. Ruth was a Moabitess, a descendent of Lot (Gen. 19:37), who lived in the area east of the Dead Sea. The god of the Moabites was Chemosh, to which children were sacrificed. Never measure a book by its size. This little booklet of a few pages “is one of the rarest and most beautiful idylls in literature.” It is a delightful picture of the domestic life in time of anarchy and poverty from famine. It is as Clyde T. Francisco says, “one of the master short stories of all time.” This is the story of how God has a witness during the darkest days of Jewish history. God is all-sufficient for those who trust in Him.
AUTHOR: of Ruth is unknown.
DATE: The setting for the events in the book of Ruth is stated in 1:1. “Now it came about in the days when the judges governed, that there was a famine in the land.” Therefore it is placed in the dark ages of Hebrew history, a time of deterioration, apostasy and disorganization. The land was in social chaos. The time covered is about twelve years. Ruth serves as a bridge in the history of Israel between the Judges and the monarchy. It was probably written during the reign of David, but before Solomon began his reign since it gives only a partial genealogy of David.
PURPOSE: One of the purposes of the book is found in the genealogy in 4:17-22 demonstrating the lineage of the Messiah through Obed, Jesse and David. The majestic sovereignty of God is seen in the unfolding of the plan of redemption through the lineage of David and the Messiah. God did not allow the lineage to be broken even during the dark ages of Hebrew history. A thousand years have passed since God called Abraham to be the father of a nation and another thousand will pass before the coming of the greater Son of David, the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Matt. 1:1-16; Luke 3:31-38). Ruth is important to us because of its teaching on the lineage of the messiah. This foreigner was included in God’s grace. This is a picture of the wonder of God’s love in the midst of human depravity at its worst. God’s eternal purposes were not thwarted by the sinfulness of mankind. He had His person to continue the lineage of the Messiah. The world’s most unimportant people are God’s most important. This Moabitess was excluded by the law, but received by God’s grace. The main purpose of this book is to make practical application of the law of the kinsman. Ruth demonstrates the providence of a loving God in the lives of ordinary, unimportant people during turbulent times.
THEME: The most important theme is redemption with its main teaching centering on the Kinsman redeemer as a type of the Messiah. The Goel is the one who redeems. He must be a blood relative, have the ability to purchase, be willing to buy the inheritance and be willing to marry the widow of the deceased kinsman. God has provided a kinsman redeemer (Goel) for His people (Lev. 25:23-25, 47-49). “Blessed is the LORD who has not left you without a redeemer today, and may His name become famous in Israel” (Ruth 4:14). Boaz is Naomi’s kinsman redeemer who marries Ruth and keeps the family line alive and illustrates God’s redeeming work to come through Jesus Christ (Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 1:18-19). In the book of Ruth the kinsman who is able and willing is Boaz.
KEY VERSE: 4:14
Thursday, October 1, 2009
10.01.09: Judges 11 - 21
We do an awful lot of waiting, don't we? There's waiting at the doctor's office, at traffic lights, DMV and at home. And then we wait for rides, for vacations and for the work day to end. Waiting can be frustrating. Judges contains a particularly poignant story about waiting. Jotham has to do it. Ask yourself whether you think he enjoys it, because his experience is much like everybody else's in some ways.
Abimelech was the opposite of what God wanted in a judge, but it was three years before God moved against him, fulfilling Jotham's parable (v.v Judges 9:22-24). Those three years must have seemed like forever to Jotham. And he must have wondered why Abimelech wasn't punished sooner for his evil ways.
We are not alone when we wonder why evil seems to prevail - many other have also wondered (Job 10:3; Job 21:1 - 18; Jeremiah 12:1; Habakkuk 1:2-4, 12-17.) God promises to deal with sin, but in his own time, not ours. Actually, it is good that God doesn't punish us immediately, because, we too, deserve God's punishment for our sins. When we demand that God punish evil now, we are demanding that he punish us, too, and he's more merciful that that. In his mercy, God often spares us from immediate punishment and allows us time to turn from our sins and turn to him in repentance.
Understand that trusting God for justice means waiting for His timing. First, you must recognize your own sins, turn from them, and ask God's forgiveness. you may face a difficult time of waiting for the wicked to be punished, but know that in God's time, all evil will be destroyed.
Perhaps there are things that stir in your heart. These may indicate areas where God wants to use you. God uses a variety of means to develop and prepare us; hereditary traits, environmental influences, and personal experiences. As with Samson, this preparation often begins long before adulthood. Work at being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading and the tasks God has prepared you for. Your past may be more useful to you than you imagine. 13:25
14:19. Samson impulsively used the special Gift God gave him for selfish purposes. Today, God distributes abilities and skills throughout the church (1 Corinthians 12:1). The apostle Paul states that these gifts are to be used "to do His work and build up the church, the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). To use these abilities for selfish purposes is to rob the church and fellow believers of strength. As you use these gifts God has given you, be sure you are helping others, not just yourself.
Samson's reply in 15:11 tells the story of this chapter: "I only did to them what they did to me." Revenge is an uncontrollable monster. Each act of retaliation brings another. It is a boomerang that cannot be thrown without cost to the the thrower. The revenge cycle can be halted only by forgiveness.
Do you remember your first crush? At the time, you thought there was no one else quite like that special person. You daydreamed, you wished and you hoped.
Samson is experienced with crushes. Despite his many opportunities, he never quite learns. Or does he?
Samson was deceived because Delilah flatter him and indulged his sexual appetite (Judges 16:15-19) Although he could strangle a lion, he could not smother his burning lust and see Delilah for who she really was. How can you keep your desire for love and sexual pleasure from deceiving you? 1. You must decide what kind of person you will love before passion takes over. Determine whether a person's character and faith in God are as desirable as his or her physical appearance. 2. Because most of the time you spend with your spouse will not involve sex, your companion's personality, temperament, and commitment to solve problems must be as gratifying as his or her kisses. 3. Be patient. Time and observation often reveal what is beneath the pleasant appearance and attentive touch.
In spite of Samson's past, God still answered his prayer and destroyed the pagan temple and worshipers. God still loved him. He was willing to hear Samson's prayer of confession and repentance and use him this final time. One of the effects of sin in our lives is to keep us from feeling like praying. But perfect moral behavior is not a condition for prayer. Don't let guilt feelings of sin keep you from your only means of restoration. No matter how long you have been away from God, he is ready to hear from you and restore your to a right relationship. Every situation can be salvaged if you are willing to turn again to Him. If God could still work in Samson's situation, he can certainly make something worthwhile out of ours.
Through the entire incident 18:11-26 no one desired to worship God; instead they wanted to use God for selfish gain. Today some people go to church to feel better, be accepted, relieve guilt, and gain business contacts or friends. Beware of following God for selfish gain rather than selfless service.
19:1-25. What is the significance of this tragic story?
When the Israelites' faith in God disintegrated, their unity as a nation also disintegrated. They could have taken complete possession of the land if they had obeyed God and trusted Him to keep his promises. But when they forget Him, they lost their purpose and soon, "the people did whatever seemed right in their eyes" (21:25) When they stopped letting God lead them, they became no better that the evil people around them. When they made laws for their own benefit, they set standards far below God's. When you leave God out of your life, you may be shocked at what you are capable of doing (19:30)
19:24! The rape and abuse of a daughter and companion were preferable to the possibility of a conflict between a guest and a neighbor. The two men were selfish (they didn't want to get hurt themselves); they lacked courage (they didn't want to face a conflict even when lives were at stake); and they disobeyed God's law (they allowed deliberate abuse and murder). WHAT DRASTIC CONSEQUENCES CAN RESULT WHEN SOCIAL PROTOCOL CARRIES MORE AUTHORITY THAN MORAL CONVICTIONS!
If you have ridden in an airplane, you know how much depends on workers actions. Suppose the flight attendants decided to watch the movie instead of serve the meals? Or the copilot counteracted every move the captain made? Or the captain ignored the air traffic controllers?
Life in Israel at this time of the judges looks a lot like a trip on just such an airplane. They make idols, make war, and make points with cruel and violent visual aids (all against the rules). And WHY?
During the time of the judges, the people of Israel experienced trouble because everyone became his own authority and acted on his own opinions of right and wrong. This produced horrendous results. Our world is similar. Individuals, groups, and societies have made themselves the final authorities without reference to God. When people selfishly satisfy their personal desires at all costs, everyone pays the price.
It is the ultimate heroic act to submit all our plans, desires, and motives to God. Men like Gideon, Jephthan, and Samson are known for their heroism in battle. But their personal lives were far from heroic.
To be truly heroic, we must go into battle each day in our home, church, and society to make God's Kingdom a reality. Our weapons are the standards, morals, truths and convictions we receive from God's word. We will lose the battle if we gather the spoils of earthly treasures rather than seeking the treasures of heaven.
Abimelech was the opposite of what God wanted in a judge, but it was three years before God moved against him, fulfilling Jotham's parable (v.v Judges 9:22-24). Those three years must have seemed like forever to Jotham. And he must have wondered why Abimelech wasn't punished sooner for his evil ways.
We are not alone when we wonder why evil seems to prevail - many other have also wondered (Job 10:3; Job 21:1 - 18; Jeremiah 12:1; Habakkuk 1:2-4, 12-17.) God promises to deal with sin, but in his own time, not ours. Actually, it is good that God doesn't punish us immediately, because, we too, deserve God's punishment for our sins. When we demand that God punish evil now, we are demanding that he punish us, too, and he's more merciful that that. In his mercy, God often spares us from immediate punishment and allows us time to turn from our sins and turn to him in repentance.
Understand that trusting God for justice means waiting for His timing. First, you must recognize your own sins, turn from them, and ask God's forgiveness. you may face a difficult time of waiting for the wicked to be punished, but know that in God's time, all evil will be destroyed.
Perhaps there are things that stir in your heart. These may indicate areas where God wants to use you. God uses a variety of means to develop and prepare us; hereditary traits, environmental influences, and personal experiences. As with Samson, this preparation often begins long before adulthood. Work at being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading and the tasks God has prepared you for. Your past may be more useful to you than you imagine. 13:25
14:19. Samson impulsively used the special Gift God gave him for selfish purposes. Today, God distributes abilities and skills throughout the church (1 Corinthians 12:1). The apostle Paul states that these gifts are to be used "to do His work and build up the church, the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). To use these abilities for selfish purposes is to rob the church and fellow believers of strength. As you use these gifts God has given you, be sure you are helping others, not just yourself.
Samson's reply in 15:11 tells the story of this chapter: "I only did to them what they did to me." Revenge is an uncontrollable monster. Each act of retaliation brings another. It is a boomerang that cannot be thrown without cost to the the thrower. The revenge cycle can be halted only by forgiveness.
Do you remember your first crush? At the time, you thought there was no one else quite like that special person. You daydreamed, you wished and you hoped.
Samson is experienced with crushes. Despite his many opportunities, he never quite learns. Or does he?
Samson was deceived because Delilah flatter him and indulged his sexual appetite (Judges 16:15-19) Although he could strangle a lion, he could not smother his burning lust and see Delilah for who she really was. How can you keep your desire for love and sexual pleasure from deceiving you? 1. You must decide what kind of person you will love before passion takes over. Determine whether a person's character and faith in God are as desirable as his or her physical appearance. 2. Because most of the time you spend with your spouse will not involve sex, your companion's personality, temperament, and commitment to solve problems must be as gratifying as his or her kisses. 3. Be patient. Time and observation often reveal what is beneath the pleasant appearance and attentive touch.
In spite of Samson's past, God still answered his prayer and destroyed the pagan temple and worshipers. God still loved him. He was willing to hear Samson's prayer of confession and repentance and use him this final time. One of the effects of sin in our lives is to keep us from feeling like praying. But perfect moral behavior is not a condition for prayer. Don't let guilt feelings of sin keep you from your only means of restoration. No matter how long you have been away from God, he is ready to hear from you and restore your to a right relationship. Every situation can be salvaged if you are willing to turn again to Him. If God could still work in Samson's situation, he can certainly make something worthwhile out of ours.
Through the entire incident 18:11-26 no one desired to worship God; instead they wanted to use God for selfish gain. Today some people go to church to feel better, be accepted, relieve guilt, and gain business contacts or friends. Beware of following God for selfish gain rather than selfless service.
19:1-25. What is the significance of this tragic story?
When the Israelites' faith in God disintegrated, their unity as a nation also disintegrated. They could have taken complete possession of the land if they had obeyed God and trusted Him to keep his promises. But when they forget Him, they lost their purpose and soon, "the people did whatever seemed right in their eyes" (21:25) When they stopped letting God lead them, they became no better that the evil people around them. When they made laws for their own benefit, they set standards far below God's. When you leave God out of your life, you may be shocked at what you are capable of doing (19:30)
19:24! The rape and abuse of a daughter and companion were preferable to the possibility of a conflict between a guest and a neighbor. The two men were selfish (they didn't want to get hurt themselves); they lacked courage (they didn't want to face a conflict even when lives were at stake); and they disobeyed God's law (they allowed deliberate abuse and murder). WHAT DRASTIC CONSEQUENCES CAN RESULT WHEN SOCIAL PROTOCOL CARRIES MORE AUTHORITY THAN MORAL CONVICTIONS!
If you have ridden in an airplane, you know how much depends on workers actions. Suppose the flight attendants decided to watch the movie instead of serve the meals? Or the copilot counteracted every move the captain made? Or the captain ignored the air traffic controllers?
Life in Israel at this time of the judges looks a lot like a trip on just such an airplane. They make idols, make war, and make points with cruel and violent visual aids (all against the rules). And WHY?
During the time of the judges, the people of Israel experienced trouble because everyone became his own authority and acted on his own opinions of right and wrong. This produced horrendous results. Our world is similar. Individuals, groups, and societies have made themselves the final authorities without reference to God. When people selfishly satisfy their personal desires at all costs, everyone pays the price.
It is the ultimate heroic act to submit all our plans, desires, and motives to God. Men like Gideon, Jephthan, and Samson are known for their heroism in battle. But their personal lives were far from heroic.
To be truly heroic, we must go into battle each day in our home, church, and society to make God's Kingdom a reality. Our weapons are the standards, morals, truths and convictions we receive from God's word. We will lose the battle if we gather the spoils of earthly treasures rather than seeking the treasures of heaven.
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