I Samuel 30:1 – 31:13

July 12, 2010

Saul is dead. But first, the story of David's war with the Amalekites.

David left his town to join the Philistines when they set out to battle against Saul, but the Philistines sent him away. When he returned to his town everything was gone, the Amalekites had raided it. The men were angry and upset and were threatening to harm David, BUT David found strength and encouragement in the LORD his God. David inquired of God, "Should I chase them"? The LORD responded, "Chase them. You will catch them, and you will succeed in saving your families."

David and his men left. Some were too weak to make it the whole way. When they got there they found the Amalekites lying around, eating and drinking and celebrating with the things they had taken. David fought them and was victorious. Everything was saved and nothing was missing. Some of the men with David didn't want to share with the men who were too weak to continue. David answered, "Don't do that after what the LORD has given us. He has protected us and given us the enemy... ALL will share alike."

Saul is dead. He was wounded in battle. His sons were killed. He didn't want the Philistines to "make fun of me and kill me," so he asked one of his men to put him out of his misery. He refused, so Saul tried to kill himself. Was he successful? I'm not sure. (II Samuel 1:10) All I know is that Saul is now dead. He never "got it." He never repented. How incredibly sad.

It's interesting to compare the two Saul's mentioned in the Bible. Saul of the Old Testament never "got it." He was given many opportunities for change, but he was paranoid and delusional. He eventually was surrounded and wounded by enemies and he died as a disgruntled, unhappy, and miserable man who never learned to let go of his pride and to surrender all. David tried to convince Saul that he was chasing a dead dog or a flea, but Saul in his sin and paranoia wouldn't accept or believe that. There was nothing more that David could do.

Saul of the New Testament was radical about harming Christians. He had a "stopped dead in your tracks" moment and then became radical for Christ, which changed his life completely. The old way of life was gone. His new life as Paul was used by God in incredible ways. It didn't "appear" as if Saul of the New Testament was going to change. He was on a mission to destroy Christians when he encountered God, obeyed, and was radically changed.

Many years ago, as we were struggling in trying to find the words to pray for my sister and brother-in-law (this was after "the storm" began), we felt God directed us towards a very simple prayer to pray. The prayer covers it all.

LORD, We pray _______ (insert name) will understand that without You he/she is nothing, and LORD, we pray _________ (insert name) would desire nothing but You. Amen.

Next Entry: Paused....for 6 weeks! 

I Samuel 29:1–11

July 9, 2010

David and his men gather with the Philistine soldiers preparing for the battle against Saul and the Israelites. When the Philistines commanders saw them they said, "What are the Hebrews doing here?" Achish told them it was David and he could be trusted. The commanders were angry. They were afraid to have David with them, it would be like having an enemy in their camp. So, they sent David and his men back to their homes. 

God used the Philistines to spare David from having to go into battle against Saul. I've really been thinking about that lately. David was not the one to remove Saul. He had plenty of opportunities... but either he didn't do it or God removed him from the possibility of doing it.

David was again spared from having the burden of "needless bloodshed" I wrote about several days ago. Oh, how much better it is to leave accountability in God's hands. David was not responsible for the choices Saul made, and it wasn't his position to determine what or if there were to be consequences.

It isn't our either.


Next Entry: I Samuel 30:1 – 31:13

I Samuel 28:1–25

July 8, 2010

The Philistines decide to attack Israel. Because David was living with the Philistines (he thought it wise to do), he was expected to join the army against Saul and his own people. David had chosen not to harm Saul when he was in the cave and when he went into his camp. But now he has to join the army or they will find out he was lying. His decision to do what "seemed" best was not what God would have chosen for him.

Saul is scared. He prays to the LORD and God didn't answer. Instead of repenting, Saul seeks out a medium because he wants to talk to Samuel. Samuel asks Saul why is he disturbing him. Saul replies, "I am greatly troubled... God has left me... he won't answer me... tell me what to do." Samuel responds, "The LORD has left you and has become your enemy. Why are you calling me? He (the LORD) has done what he said he would do!" You did not obey; you will be handed over to the Philistines; tomorrow you and your sons will die. Saul fell to the ground in fear and exhaustion.

Saul was not seeking God or Samuel while there was no danger. He was only seeking them because he was afraid of the Philistines. It was too late. His fate was sealed. You cannot continually choose to disobey God and then expect to get a different result from what God has clearly said He will do. 

Last night some "what if" fears began to settle in. What if we don't survive "the storm." But then I have to STOP! Remember who controls the wind. Remember WHOSE battle it is. Remember GOD's promises. Remember Jane. (Her Name Was Jane) Remember Psalm 140. Remember! Remember! Remember! God IS in control and we DO trust Him. HE is our Deliverer. HE is our Savior. In HIM we WILL trust. 

"I look up to the hills, but where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.  He will not let you be defeated. He who guards you never sleeps. He who guards Israel never rests or sleeps. The LORD guards you. The Lord is the shade that protects you from the sun. The sun cannot hurt you by day or the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all dangers; he will guard your life. The LORD will guard you as you come and go, both now and forever." Psalm 121

Praise the LORD!


Next Entry: I Samuel 29:1–11

I Samuel 27:1–12

July 7, 2010

David decides to go and live with the Philistines as a way to avoid Saul chasing him.But, there-in lies the problem. David decided. NOT David obeying God's direction, but David on his own deciding what to do. David's decision appeared to work. Saul quit chasing him. BUT, it put David into compromising positions. He began to lie and steal. Compromise does that. It's the proverbial slippery slope. 

David did not seek out God's plan. Instead, he "thought to himself." His fear was that Saul would eventually catch him. Why the lapse in faith? Fatigue? Weariness? Length of time? We all need to understand that we are all vulnerable to reverting back to "I." David sought God's advice on other decisions, but not this one. We need to be careful to seek God's direction in ALL decisions. David thought, "the best thing "I" can do..." Only God knows what is the best thing we should do. David's "best thing" was not the best thing. We don't know what David missed out on during that year and four months he was with the Philistines, but he certainly missed out on God's "best." His deciding to do "what he thought best" also laid the ground work for him later deciding to do "what he wanted" with Bathsheba.

I don't want to miss out on God's best. What I thought "best" to do and what God directed us to do, were sometimes miles apart during these last years. Now that this much time has passed, we can reflect and look back and see how our obedience saved us from many disastrous circumstances which in turn saved us from compromise, which then saved us from ourselves and "our" ways. No regrets.

God's way is ALWAYS the best way. ALWAYS.


Next Entry: I Samuel 28:1–25

I Samuel 25:1 – 26:25

July 6, 2010

I Samuel 25:31 - "My master will not have on his conscience the staggering burden of needless bloodshed or of having avenged himself." (NIV)

I just keep coming back to the phrase "a staggering burden... for avenging himself." Staggering burden.

David was wronged. His men had watched over Nabal's property while they were in the desert. Nabal was a cruel and mean man. He was very wealthy. And now that it became time for Nabal to reap the benefits of what David's men had done for him, he repaid David's good with evil. When David asked Nabal to share with him what he could spare, Nabal refused and instead insulted him. David was angry and ready for revenge.

When Abigail (Nabal's wife) was told what her husband had done, she knew immediately what disaster was about to happen and she knew how to stop it. She went to meet David, took him gifts and basically said—David, let God handle this. Someone might chase you, BUT God will keep you alive. God will throw away your enemies lives as He would throw a stone from a sling. The LORD WILL keep His promises and you will not have the staggering burden of needless bloodshed from avenging yourself. You don't have to do this David—God will.

David responded by praising the LORD for keeping him from revenge. He accepted Abigail's gifts, blessed her and sent her home. When she got home Nabal was throwing a feast fit for a king with his abundant wealth. He was drunk so Abigail waited until morning to tell him what she had done. When she told him, his heart stopped and ten days later the LORD struck Nabal and he died. When David heard Nabal died he said, "Praise the LORD! Nabal insulted me, but the LORD has supported me! He has kept me from doing wrong. The LORD has punished Nabal for his wrong."

Staggering burden. Oh how grateful I am that our consciences are clear. My sister and brother-in-law are seeking our financial ruin. We are not seeking anything from them; we only want to be free of them. We carry no burden of "needless bloodshed" or of vengeance. This is not our battle, it is the LORD's. We will wait on Him. I am so grateful that no matter how "the storm" ends, it is ultimately not something we are responsible for. There is no "staggering burden." There is no revenge. "Vengeance is mine saith the LORD."

I Samuel 26 - Saul is chasing David again. This time with 3000 men even though in Chapter 24 Saul supposedly recognized what he was doing was wrong. He saw with his own eyes how David could have harmed him but chose to show him mercy instead. All appeared to be well, but Saul did not have a heart change. Without a true heart change, our choices will always revert back to our sinful natures. 

David and Abishai sneak into Saul's camp while everyone was asleep. David once again could have easily killed Saul (and was encouraged to do so), but instead David took Saul's spear and water jug and showed Saul mercy again. Ironically showing mercy actually shamed Saul.

Abishai encouraged David to kill Saul but David refused. It wasn't his place to pass judgment, it was God's. You can't be innocent and free of the "staggering burden" if you try to assume the position which only God can hold. David said, "As surely as the LORD lives, the LORD himself will punish Saul. Maybe Saul will die naturally, or maybe he will go into battle and be killed."

I am so grateful that the battles we face "belong to the Lord." The judgment and punishment is up to God, not us. God tells us the end results. Psalm 1 - "The wicked will not escape God's punishment," but it is not up to us to implement revenge. God will decide the what, when, where, and how. The choices we make in our lives determine the why.

David left Saul's camp, stood on top of a mountain and called out to Saul. Why are you chasing me? What have I done? What evil am I guilty of? You are looking for a flea! You are hunting a bird in the mountains. What you are doing is crazy! It's hopeless! It's totally unfounded! Why haven't you given this up? Saul once again recognizes (temporarily) that what he was doing was wrong, stupid, and foolish. But once again, there was no heart change.

In looking back at the first time this happened in Chapter 24, I am struck by the fact that after David showed Saul mercy and after Saul recognized his wrong behavior, they each went their separate ways. Saul to his home and David back to his hideout. There wasn't reconciliation or restoration. They didn't leave and go off together. They went their separate ways. David knew there wasn't a heart change. The same thing happened this time. Saul went back home, and David went on his way.

I Samuel 26:23–24 - "The LORD rewards us for the things we do right and for your loyalty to him. The LORD handed you over to me today, but I wouldn't harm the LORD's appointed king. As I respected your life today, may the LORD also respect my life and save me from all trouble."

Amen. And to think, all this was happening to David after God had Samuel anoint him as king.

Addendum: 1/8/14 ~ I love how Abigail/God used the illustration of a sling, reminding David of how things began. When he trusted God, a sling from a small shepherd boy brought down a giant. God was reminding him that the same holds true now. Trust me. I will take care of the giants in your life. I will take care of Nabal. 


Next Entry: I Samuel 27:1–12

I Samuel 23:1 – 24:22 (Continued)

July 03, 2010

Saul continues to pursue David. He takes 3000 men with him. Saul goes into the cave where David and his men are hiding. Saul has no clue they are there. David's men think this is a perfect opportunity for him to get rid of his enemy Saul. But instead, David sneaks up and cuts off a corner of Saul's robe, and he even felt guilty over doing that. Saul leaves. David comes out of the cave and shows Saul the corner of his robe. Saul realizes David could have easily killed him but showed him grace instead. 

David asks, "Why do you listen when people say, 'David wants to harm you'?"

You've seen it with your own eyes. I could have harmed you. Other people said I should harm you. But I didn't. Now you know! Here is a piece of your robe. I didn't harm you. "I did nothing wrong to you, but you are hunting to kill me. May the LORD judge between us, and may he punish you for the wrong you have done to me. But I am not against you." I Samuel 24:11-15 - David goes on to say, "There is an old saying: 'Evil things come from evil people.' But I am not against you." Who are you chasing? It's as if you are chasing a dead dog or flea. May the LORD be our judge and decide between you and me. May he support me and show that I am right. May he save me from you."

Saul replied, "The Lord handed me over to you, but you didn't kill me. May the LORD reward you because you were good to me today." David showed Saul mercy and for a time it appeared Saul finally understood. Unfortunately, the next chapters will show it was only for a short time.

It has been good for me to read and understand this. I am a mercy giver, and sometimes mercy givers think that if they give mercy and show grace to others that somehow that will enable the other person to "get it" and change their ways. There is an element of wanting to have God's reins in our hands because IF I showed mercy THEN surely they would want to return to God. But now I understand this truth more fully; showing grace does not equal change. David tried to rationalize with Saul. He tried to intellectually explain things to Saul. He extended grace to Saul. And in the end, none of those things worked because there was no heart change. There has to be a heart change. Extending grace won't miraculously work and change someone's thinking. As mercy givers we need to quit trying to pick up God's reins and realize the responsibility for the other person's life choices (and the results of their life choices) is just that—their responsibility ... their consequences. It is ultimately that simple. It has to be the heart that changes. 

David said in I Samuel 24:12 - "May he (God) punish you for the wrong you have done to me! But I am not against you."


Next Entry: I Samuel 25:1 – 26:25

I Samuel 23:1 – 24:22

July 2, 2010

David inquired of the LORD, "Should I go and fight the Philistines?" God answered, "Go!" When the men with David became fearful, David inquired of God again, and once again God said, "Go...I will help you." So David went and the Philistines were defeated.

Saul learns David went and defeated the Philistines at Keilah. He is excited because Keilah is a walled and gated city so Saul thinks he has David trapped and he makes an incredible statement. "God has handed David over to me! He has trapped himself..." You can just hear the exhilaration and excitement in his voice. Aha! God has handed him over! David has trapped himself, NOW I got him. (Never mind that David "trapped himself" by doing a good thing—protecting Keilah.)

What I find so incredible about Saul's statement of "God" handed him over is the delusion he was living under. In Chapter 15, God made it very clear to Saul that because of his disobedience there was going to be consequences. The consequences were severe. The LORD was no longer going to be with him, the LORD rejected him as king, and the LORD had taken his kingdom from him. Even after being told all of that, Saul still misguidedly believed that he could do whatever he wanted and that God was handing over to him (who was disobedient to God) the man who was obedient to God. It is incredible the way sin can blind you and the mind deceive you. Saul just would not give up.

David finds out Saul knows where he is and he inquires of God, "Is Saul going to come?" God replies, "Yes." David inquires of God again, "Will the men of the city (the city he just saved) turn me over?" God replies, "They will." So, David escapes the city. It says that every day Saul looked for David BUT the LORD did not surrender David to him. Every day. Think about that! Pure obsession. Saul could not have possibly fulfilled his role of king very well when every day he was searching for David. What part of what God told Saul in Chapter 15 didn't he understand? How could he possibly believe that he could be successful in fighting against God?

The answer lies in the very thing that took him away from God. "I." The problem of "I." He believed in himself more than he believed or trusted in God. "I" is what got him into trouble and "I" is what kept him there. It was the "armies of the LORD"—verses—"I," and Saul chose not to see it and refused to accept it. In I Samuel 23:17 - Jonathon tells David that he (David) will be king and that "even my father Saul knows this..." But even though Saul knew it, he wouldn't accept it. He was just so sure that if he kept trying and if he strategized enough God would hand David over.

The people of Ziph tell Saul where David is hiding. Saul's response is, "The LORD bless you for helping me." Really? He really thinks he has the ability to give the LORD's blessing when he is living in disobedience? Saul pursues David and his army is close to catching him when God intervenes and distracts Saul. A messenger comes to inform Saul that the Philistines are attacking his land... and Saul leaves.


Next Entry: I Samuel 23:1 – 24:22 (Continued) 

I Samuel 21:1 – 22:23

July 1, 2010

David flees and goes to the priest Ahimelech for some bread. He leaves there and goes to Gath. To protect himself he acts as if he is crazy. David is on the run. He had to flee to save his life. He had done nothing wrong. He left Gath and fled to a cave. His relatives heard he was there and went to see him. I Samuel 22:2 - "Everyone who was in trouble, or who owed money, or who was unsatisfied gathered around David, and he became their leader... about 400." Interesting. It doesn't say trouble-makers, it says "in trouble." It doesn't say who took money, it says "who owed money." It doesn't say people who were content with the status quo, it says "people who were unsatisfied," who knew there was something missing. These weren't misfits.

It's been really interesting to watch as God has brought all sorts of people into our lives. People who have been betrayed by those they trusted. People whose life circumstances have caused them pain. People who are no longer willing to just talk the talk. God has given us so many opportunities to share HIS story. He has surrounded us with people to help, and with people who have been a help to us.

David was on the run, but he was not alone. He knew God was with him and sought to "learn what God is going to do for me." (I Samuel 22:3) Saul on the other hand would stop at nothing, even ordering, "Go and kill the priests of the LORD because they are on David's side." So blinded. He accused priest Ahimelech of things he didn't do then ordered the destruction of all the priests and their families. Saul knew they were "the priests of the LORD," yet he ordered them killed. Sin absolutely blinds you and gives you tunnel vision.

Addendum: 1/16/14 ~ I like what our friends told us their son said after finally returning to the Lord after years of rebellion. "Sin makes you stupid." I concur. 

It is interesting to see who Saul used (and who was willing) to destroy the priests of the LORD. He originally ordered his officers to do it but they refused. But then Doeg, the chief of Saul's shepherds, agreed to follow Saul's orders and he went and killed 85 priests and the people of Nob (the city of the priests). By the time he was done he had killed men, women, children, babies, cattle, donkeys, and sheep. Who was this Doeg guy? Why was he willing to do what others refused to do? He was at Nob when David went to see Ahimelech the priest. Why was he there? I Samuel 21:7 - says he "had been held there before the LORD." Not that he went there to worship the LORD, but that he was held there before the LORD. The KJV says he was "detained" before the LORD. He was evidently being disciplined for his behavior. Now, he is back with Saul. When Saul wanted someone to do his dirty work he was right there, ready and willing. And he didn't stop at killing just the priests. He also killed men, women, children, babies, and animals. Obviously there was no change of heart and no fear of the LORD.

God provided Saul with a way out (the officer's refused to kill the priests), but when Saul refused to change his heart and insisted on following his own ways and not God's ways, then he finds someone who also refused to change his heart to help him continue on with his evil plan.


Next Entry: I Samuel 23:1 – 24:22

I Samuel 18:1 – 20:42

June 30, 2010

David was successful in all he did because the LORD was with him. The LORD was with David because his heart was right. The more successful he became the more jealous Saul became. People began to give David more honor than Saul and he became even more upset and angry. But, more that being angry or upset, Saul was afraid of David. His fear was irrational because David was doing nothing to warrant the fear.

Saul comes up with various plans to destroy David. Saul tried to pin him to the wall with his javelin twice while David was doing what Saul wanted him to do; play the harp. David escaped those attempts. Saul schemed to have his daughter be a trap for David. He sent him into battles hoping that would kill him. He tried to get Jonathon and his servants to kill David. Saul was obsessed. Jonathon tried to talk with Saul about his obsession saying, "Why are you doing this?" David has done nothing wrong to you! He risked his life against Goliath. You saw it and were happy. Why would you do wrong against David? He's innocent! There is no reason to kill him!

Saul acquiesced. But the jealousy wasn't gone, it was just buried. As soon as David was successful again the jealousy came back. Once again Saul tried to kill David by pinning him to the wall with his spear. Then he tries to kill him in his home, but Michal (Saul's daughter) saved him. Saul was relentless. He came up with strategy after strategy in his attempt to destroy David, but "man's" strategies ultimately NEVER work.

David runs away to Samuel. David tells Samuel what is going on and stays with him for awhile. It's been years since Samuel appointed David king and here David is running for his life. Saul sends his men to find and capture David. He knew David was with Samuel. Each time Saul sent a group they would start prophesying. Saul did this three times. The 4th time Saul went and he started prophesying as well. But, he didn't change.

David went to Jonathon and asked, "What have I done? What is my crime? How did I sin? Why is he trying to kill me?" Saul was just absolutely obsessed. He was determined to destroy David. He even turned on his own son when he tried to question him on his obsession. Jonathon's love for David and his actions saved David's life.

Samuel was sad about what happened to Saul. God asked Samuel, "How long are you going to be sad? Get up."

So much of this rings true with "the storm" we are facing. I've asked the same questions that David asked. What I know is this: The battle belongs to the LORD. The weight of the battle is not mine to carry.


Next Entry: I Samuel 21:1 – 22:23

I Samuel 17:1–58

June 29, 2010

The Philistines were challenging the Israelites in the land that belonged to Israel, the land of Judah.  They were in your face arrogant and defiant. They were trying to take from the Israelites what God had given them. For forty days, there was a standoff. For forty days, Goliath would come out and shout insults against them. 

Jesse sends David (who Samuel had already appointed as king, but was still a shepherd in the fields and a servant to Saul whenever he wanted him to play the harp), to check on his brothers. David hears the insults of Goliath and asks what will be done for the man who stops this man from shaming Israel. David says, "Who does he (Goliath) think he is? Does he think he can speak against the armies of the living God?" David's brothers overhear David's questions and they criticize and make fun of him. "Why did you come here? Who's taking care of those few sheep of yours? I know you are proud and wicked at heart. You came down here just to watch the battle."

Really? Prideful and wicked at heart? I love David's response. I remember feeling these exact same thoughts when "the storm" hit. "Now what have I done wrong? Can't I even talk?" This was obviously not the first time his brother had belittled him or falsely accused him. David's brother had been jealous and angry at David for some time. I'm sure he was angry at David for being appointed King instead of himself. He was the very thing he accused David of—prideful and wicked at heart.

Funny how that works. What people accuse you of is often what they are.

David tells Saul he will fight Goliath. Talk about lop-sided! Giant—verses—Boy. Skilled warrior—verses—Shepherd. From outward appearances David didn't stand a chance. But David knew what the others didn't understand. This was God's battle.The Philistines had spoken against the "armies of the living God."

Saul tried to outfit David in his armor, but David says no. He took his sling and five smooth stones and headed out. There was no plan "B." Either God shows up and gives David the victory or he fails.  Goliath "looked down on David with disgust" and makes fun of him. I love David's answer. "You came to me using a sword and two spears. But I come to you in the name of the LORD, All-Powerful. You have spoken against him! Today the LORD will hand you over. Today you will be defeated. THEN all will know there is a God. It is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves. The battle is the LORD's and He will hand you over to us!"

David ran to meet Goliath, slung the stone, and killed Goliath with one stone. No swords. No shields.

God doesn't call us to a spirit of timidity. It takes faith and courage! Not in ourselves but in God. We may feel all alone in the battle, BUT we are part of "the armies" of God. "The storm" is not our battle to win. It is the LORD's.

Proverbs 21:30–31 - "There is no wisdom, understanding, or advice that can succeed against the LORD. You can get the horses ready for battle, but it is the LORD who gives the victory."

No plan "B." We are facing "the storm" secure in the LORD and His army. It is HIS battle.


Next Entry: I Samuel 18:1 – 20:42

I Samuel 16:1–23

June 28, 2010

There are a lot of important points in this chapter:

• Samuel is told to quit feeling sorry for Saul.
• Samuel was told to go and anoint a new king.
• Samuel did what the LORD told him to do.
• The LORD chose someone Samuel did not expect.
• God tells Samuel that He doesn't see the same way people see. "People look at the outside of a person, but the LORD looks at the heart."
• Samuel is told to appoint David.
• The LORD's spirit was in David.
• The LORD's spirit left Saul and instead an evil spirit from the LORD entered him.
• David is summoned to play the harp for Saul.

But, what I want to focus on is this:

• Samuel appoints David as king.
• God has chosen David to be king.
• But Saul is still king!  

Not only is Saul still king, but now David is summoned to play the harp for King Saul even though Samuel/God had just appointed David as king. I'm trying to figure out how Saul, David, Jesse, Samuel, and David's brother viewed this time and situation.

Saul
He had no idea someone else had been appointed king. He did know though that he was miserable, that God's presence had left him, and that God sent an evil spirit to him. 

Samuel
He did what God told him to do. He didn't worry about the details of making it happen. He left and went on his way. He didn't know the "how" or "when" but he knew the "what" and that was enough.

Jesse
He had just watched his youngest son be appointed as king, yet nothing changed. He was still at home, the least of all his sons. And now Saul the king, is asking for David to come to the palace and play for him? Did Saul find out about the appointment? Is this a trap? Will David be killed? David, the newly appointed king was going to be the servant of the reigning king. How did any of this make sense?

David's Brothers
All very capable. From man's eyes it appears one of them should be the choice for king. They would have clout and power from the get-go. But David? The least of all of them? Then the appointment, but nothing happens and now David is being sent to be a servant. I wonder what their reactions were. Initially I'm sure they were jealous. I'm sure they questioned Samuel's authority and decision making. Were they glad when David was being sent as a servant? Did they think it served him right? Did they hope harm would come to him? 

David
Appointed as king, then returns to normal life, doing the same things he did before Samuel showed up. Samuel/God says he is to be king but nothing changes. How? When? Waiting. Saul calls for him to be his servant and to soothe him. During the time God was making Saul miserable, David was summoned to make him feel better.

How did any of this make sense to those who were living it in real time? Sometimes things don't make sense. You have to wait and trust.


Next Entry: I Samuel 17:1–58

I Samuel 13:1 – 15:35 (Continued)

June 26, 2010

Why is it that when someone tries to explain their way out of disobedience they think others will believe their ridiculous statements? They never seem to realize that they are only digging themselves a deeper hole.

Samuel says to Saul, "What pleases God more: burnt offerings or obedience?  It is better to obey than to give offerings.  Disobedience is as bad as the sin of sorcery (witchcraft). Pride is as bad as the sin of worshiping idols. You have rejected the LORD's commands—now HE rejects you as king."

Saul's problem was the problem of "I." I have sinned. I didn't obey. I was afraid. I did what they said. I..  I... I.  Even in his confession it was all about "I." "I beg you, forgive my sin. Come back with me so I may worship the LORD." Samuel says he won't go back with him and repeats what he said before. "You rejected the LORD's command and now he rejects you as king." Saul tries to prevent Samuel from leaving. Samuel says, "The LORD is the eternal one... He does not lie or change his mind." The core of who Saul was came out again. "I have sinned, but please honor me in front of the older leaders." (Still all about him. PRIDE). "Come back with me so I can worship the LORD your God." The exact problem. The LORD was Samuel's God but he was not Saul's God. Saul was his own god.

You can't fake it forever. He is either God of your life—or He isn't. Someone or something is on the throne. If anything or anyone else is on the throne you cannot be in a bless-able position.

Samuel went back with Saul. Samuel said, "Bring me King Agag." That sin had not been dealt with, God had said to destroy ALL.

Agag is brought to Samuel in chains, yet he is pretty confident because a lot of time had passed and he hadn't been held accountable for all the wrong he had done to God's people. Yes, he was captive, but he thought that would be it and his life would be spared. But, that isn't what happened. Samuel/God held him accountable and Agag was cut in pieces—destroyed.

Samuel never saw Saul again. Samuel was sad for Saul.

You cannot out maneuver, out play, outwit, or out last God. No alliances, no lying, no cheating, no luck (sounds like Survivor doesn't it) nothing we can do will ever prevent God from being God. You can strategize all you want. But, the truth behind the motives will come out. Hearts will be exposed. God's will—WILL prevail. 

Samuel was sad for Saul. It is sad to watch people you love self-destruct because of their refusal to accept responsibility and confess their sins, and turn from their evil ways. It is even sadder when the King of kings and the LORD of lords, who gave His very life for their salvation, watches as the children He loves, rejects Him and follows their own desires.

I Samuel 14:35 - "And the LORD was very sorry...."


Next Entry: I Samuel 16:1–23

I Samuel 13:1 – 15:35

June 25, 2010

Saul had the daunting task of facing and fighting the Philistines who far out powered and out numbered the Israelites. Their soldiers were "as many as the grains of sand on the sea shore." The Israelites didn't have any swords. They were facing an impossible "do it on your own battle."

Samuel was to meet the army. As priest/judge, he would have sought God's protection and guidance in the battle. Samuel was delayed and the people became fearful and Saul became impatient. He would take matters into his own hands, and he offered the burnt offering. Samuel arrives a short time later and asks, "What have you done?" Saul's answer shows the problem. I saw... I thought... I... I... I. Samuel tells him he has acted foolishly. IF he had obeyed the LORD and waited and trusted in God, THEN the LORD would have blessed him and his kingdom would have continued, but now it was too late. His decision to act on his own and take matters into his own hands now guaranteed his end.

Jonathon (by himself and only taking his armor bearer with him) decides to go to the camp of the Philistines. The path to get to the Philistines involved going through a pass between large rocks. Jonathon did not think he could win on his own power. He was not thinking "I" can do this, he was thinking God can do this. I Samuel 14:6 - "...the LORD can give us victory if we have many people, or just a few."

Jonathon and his armor bearer head out, alone (but with God) to the enemy camp. If the Philistines called them up the pass, then, "The LORD will help us defeat them." That would be the sign. Jonathon and his officer let the enemy camp see them, out in the open, totally unprotected. The enemy makes fun of them and calls them up. Jonathon says to his officer, "Climb up behind me, because the LORD has given the Philistines to Israel!" So, Jonathon "climbed up using his hands and feet" and he struck down the Philistines as he went with his officer killing them. The Philistines panicked. I Samuel 14:15 - "God caused the panic." The enemy turned on each other, "so the LORD saved the Israelites that day." (I Samuel 14:23)

Jonathon chose to obey, but that did not mean the battle was easy. He didn't just sit back and wait! It took getting into the trenches, climbing, fighting, using his hands and feet, being totally exposed in front of the enemy to accomplish God's will. Not for the faint of heart. There was no way he could have done it in his own strength. Only God! Only God can give the strength required to go into a battle that He has ordained.

Saul just refused to "get it." He gave directives about not eating, but it was his directive not God's. The LORD tells Saul to destroy everything the Amalekites own. Everything! They were not to let anything live. The act of destroying everything was to be an offering to God. The people, following Saul's leadership, decide to destroy what was weak and useless but keep the best for themselves. They made the decision NOT to follow God's clear directive, but to do what they wanted to do when they wanted to do it. They defeated the Amalekites, they kept the best of everything, they took the king alive, and Saul built a monument to himself. 

Samuel goes to Saul and Saul has the audacity to say, "May the LORD bless you! I have obeyed the LORD's commands." And Samuel says, "Then why do I hear cattle mooing and sheep bleating?"  Saul tries to blame it on the people and tried to excuse it by saying that they were going to offer "the best" they kept as an offering to God. I love how Samuel responds. STOP! Saul was trying to rationalize what he had done. He was trying to pass the blame onto others and Samuel says—STOP! Let me do the talking now. Let me tell you what the LORD said to me last night. Once you didn't even think you should be king, but God appointed you as a leader and sent you on a mission. You were to go and destroy those evil people. Why didn't you obey the LORD? Why did you take the best things? Why did you do what the LORD said was wrong?

Saul says, "But I did obey the LORD. I did what the LORD told me to. I destroyed all the Amalekites. (Really?) I brought back Agog their king. (How is that destroying all?) The soldiers took the best sheep to offer to your God. (Really? Because your soldiers were obeying your orders it was them and not you?)  

Addendum:  1/12/14 ~ From my margins: It's not "I." It is the Lord who leads and guides! Look to Him! 

For years I would hear people talk about their life verses. I had a favorite verse (I John 1:9 which was the very first verse I remember memorizing) but I did not have a life verse. Well that has all changed. Somewhere in this process I found my life verse, actually two verses. The first one is Psalm 32:8 which was also Jane's (Her Name Was Jane) life verse. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (NIV) The second is Hosea 14:8 - "I, the LORD, am the one who answers your prayers and watches over you. I am like a green pine tree; your blessings come from me." (NCV) Those two verses sum everything up. It is ALL about HIM. HE instructs. HE teaches. HE guides. HE counsels. HE watches over us. HE answers our prayers. HE fulfills His promises. HE is everlasting. HE blesses. The LORD—HE is the One.

What promises. He is in control. Our job is to surrender ALL to Him. 


Next Entry: I Samuel 13:1 – 15:35 (Continued)

I Samuel 11:1 – 12:25

June 23, 2010

The people of Jabesh are attacked by the Ammonites. They offer to surrender to them. But the Ammonites wouldn't accept the offer to surrender until they could also inflict pain and humiliation upon them by gouging out their right eyes. It wasn't enough to control them, they had to humiliate them as well. Saul heard about it, gathered all the people as one, and the LORD gave them the victory over the Ammonites.

Samuel gives his farewell speech to the people of Israel. He asked them specific questions. Have I done anything wrong? Have I stolen? Have I cheated? Did I hurt anyone? If I have done any of those things I will make it right. They replied he had not done any of those things. Samuel then said, "The LORD is a witness and his appointed king is a witness today that you did not find anything wrong in me."

Samuel recounts their history. When they (the Israelites) cried out to the LORD, God listened and sent help. Then Samuel admonished them. I Samuel 12:14–15 - "You must honor the LORD and serve him. You must obey his word and not turn against his commandments... IF you do this, it will be well with you. But, IF you turn against his commands, HE WILL BE AGAINST you. He will do to you what he did to your ancestors." Then, I LOVE what Samuel says next: I Samuel 12:16 - "Now stand still and see the great thing the LORD will do before your eyes."  

We're standing! We've been standing for three years. "The storm" rages on ... but we are standing and we believe with all our hearts that we will see the LORD do great things.

Then Samuel prayed to God and the thunder and rain came. The people were afraid. Samuel said, "Don't be afraid... serve the LORD with all your heart. Idols are of no use, so don't worship them... you must honor the LORD and truly serve him with all your heart. But if you are stubborn and do evil, he will sweep you and your king away."

The choice is ours. Blessing—or—Curses.

"Observe a solemn principle: There are times when hearts grow so hard and ears so dull that God turns us over to endure the consequences of our choices."  ~  From The Great House of God by Max Lucado.

Next Entry: I Samuel 13:1 – 15:35 

I Samuel 9:1 – 10:27

June 22, 2010

The Israelites insisted on having an earthly king. God chose Saul to be their king.

When you read scripture it is just so amazing to see all the "divine appointments" of God. God has a purpose and plan for everything and nothing is left to chance. He does the same things in our lives today if we submit ourselves to God's plan and open our eyes to see what HE has done. 

Saul's father loses his donkeys and sends Saul to go and look for them. While looking for the donkeys, Saul runs into Samuel. God tells Samuel—this is the man I told you about. Samuel tells Saul he will meet two men—and he does. Samuel also tells him he will see three men—and he does. Samuel tells Saul that he will be changed into a new man—and he is. Saul didn't have any aspirations to be king and he really doesn't want the job. He tries to hide (hiding behind the baggage), but you can't hide from God. God tells them where he is hiding. 

You cannot thwart God's ultimate plan. Sometimes God gives us what we want even though it is not "best" for us. God will not force us to serve Him, but He will bring circumstances into our lives to give us the opportunity to return to Him. It would have been best if the Israelites had been willing to follow the LORD as king but they insisted on a earthly king even when God warned them of the consequences. And they had consequences. 


Next Entry: I Samuel 11:1 – 12:25

I Samuel 8:1–22

June 21, 2010

Samuel grew old. He named his sons as judges, but they were not like Samuel. "They tried to get money dishonestly."

The people ask Samuel for a king. God tells Samuel to warn them what that would mean. They would become the king's servants. They would have to give the king 10%, etc. But none of that mattered to them—they wanted a king. God let them know that He was giving them what they wanted, but there would come a day when they would change their mind and regret their decision. Even though they changed their mind, it would be too late. "The LORD will not answer you then." The LORD would not answer them because they had rejected him as their king.

What is astounding to me is that they were willing to submit to a man's authority and give him 10%, but they weren't willing to submit to God's authority and give Him (the Levites) the 10%. They witnessed the Hand of God work in their ancestor's lives and in their lives, but they were more willing to trust in the "here and now" and what they could see with their own eyes, than to trust in what they could not see—God.

The same problem continues today. People trust in self, money, government, etc. instead of trusting in the God of heaven and earth. Yesterday, our daughter was telling us about their Pastor in Flagstaff describing the "bless-able" position. I love his description. God on the throne and us at the altar. If we mess up the order then we are not in a bless-able position.


Next Entry: I Samuel 9:1 – 10:27 

I Samuel 6:1 – 7:17

June 21, 2010

The Philistines start to wonder if all the trouble they are having is because they've stolen the Ark of God. They decided to return the Ark to the Israelites with a penalty offering. They were hoping the consequences (tumors and rats) would stop, but they were also trying to figure out whether the trouble they were having was sent by God, or if the trouble just happened by chance. So, they came up with an idea. They took two cows who had just had calves. They removed the calves from their mothers and then they attached yokes to the necks of the cows. The test was to see if the cows would pull the cart (carrying the Ark) to an Israeli town. If the cows did it, it was proof that the trouble came from God's Hand. If the cows didn't pull the cart to the town, then the trouble they were experiencing was just coincidental.

The Philistine's skewed the test for the answer they wanted. A cow will never willingly turn and walk away from her newborn calf. And, a cow who had never been yoked before would never accept a yoke on her neck without a fight. The Philistine's were confident they were going to prove that their troubles were coincidental and not the Hand of God. Yet the two cows left their calves and did not fight the yoke. They walked straight toward the Israeli city, doing everything exactly opposite of what they would naturally do. God clearly showed the Philistines that it was definitely the hand of God that was against them.

The people of Israel were glad to have the Ark back and they began to follow the LORD again. Samuel tells them if you are going to turn back to God, then you must get rid of your idols and you must give yourselves fully to God. Then he will save you. It can't be part way, you have to be fully committed.

The Philistines (even though God had proven to them that His Hand was against them), decide to attack the Israelites again. The Israelites are afraid and they go to Samuel. Samuel prays to God and this time the Philistines are defeated because God won the battle. I Samuel 7:13 - "The LORD was against the Philistines all Samuel's life." You will note that when the Philistines sent the Ark back they didn't have a change of heart. They didn't regret what they had done, they only wanted the consequences to stop. Once their consequences stopped they decided to again attack the Israelites. 

The Israelites got rid of their idols and turned once again to God and the Hand of God protected them again. The Hand of God. We have prayed the prayer of Jabez, asking for the Hand of God to work in our lives, many times. And many, many times we have witnessed His Hand working. The list of "it just so happened" is only the beginning. The Hand of God blesses, protects, and provides, but there is also a flip side. The Hand of God was against the Philistines, and they bore the consequences. They were punished and ultimately defeated. In I Samuel 7:13 it says the "LORD was against" them.

Can you imagine living your life with the LORD against you? I don't remember where it is found, but there is a verse in scripture that says, "If God be for us, who can be against us"? (Update: It's found in Romans 8:31) That is where and how I want to live. The choice is ours.

God is for us—only if we are for Him.


Next Entry: I Samuel 8:1–22