Elihu continued speaking by telling them that he had silently and patiently listened to all they said. He told them he needed to speak his peace or he would burst! He told them his words came from a good heart and that they were sincere. He was a man just like them and God had no favorites.
He told Job he had heard him say that he was innocent. He told him that God is greater than any human and that he was wrong to challenge God. He went on saying that God speaks in many different ways we don't always recognize. We get sick and repent and get better and we tell everyone that we sinned and repented and God forgave us. He told Job to listen in silence to his wisdom.
Elihu began his argument by telling them that Job believed he was innocent and God was guilty of mistreating him, that God was causing Job to suffer for lying. Elihu told them that Job had said that it didn't help to try and please God. He told them God is in control of everything and everyone, and God does His will in His time and in His way. He advised Job to ask God to tell him what he did wrong so he could avoid doing it again. Who makes the rules? God or man? He told Job he had talked against God, rebelled and sinned.
Elihu continued by asking Job if he really believed he was innocent. He asked what difference a man's actions, right or wrong make to God - actions hurt only people. Elihu told Job that people pray in times of trouble then forget all about God when things are good. He told Job that God doesn't listen to the prayers of proud and evil people. He told Job that he was wrong to say that God doesn't punish sin - and in fact, everything Job had said was utter nonsense.
Tomorrow read Job 36-39:12
20100531
20100530
Job 29:14 - 32:10
Today I am in yosemite and so is everyone else! Still it was beautiful.
So basically Job continued speaking about his good life and kind ways. Job told them that people treated him badly. He told them his life is a misery, and there was nothing good about it. Job had always been a moral and decent God-fearing man. He always remembered that God was there and would judge him for his deeds. Job told them he knew God had created him before he was born. Job told them he had always cared for widows and orphans, he never worshiped idols, or felt compelled to hide sin. He told them he had been a good honest man and tried to do the right thing. And then he stopped speaking.
Elihu had remained silent the whole time the older men were talking. He was angry that Job's 3 friends couldn't prove him wrong. He understood that wisdom comes from God and not necessarily old age. And he asked the men to listen to him.
Tomorrow's reading Job 32:11 - 35:16
20100529
May 29, 2010 Job 24:13-29:13
Speaking of the riches buried in the earth, here is a photo of a gold nugget displayed at Ironstone Winery in Murphy's California.
Job continued by saying that those who love doing evil wait for the darkness so they can hide in it to do their evil deeds. The wicked and powerful have no real or lasting power. It is an illusion.
Bildad tells Job that God is in control. How can anyone ever be innocent in His sight? To Him not even the light coming from the moon and stars is pure, so how can we humans be?
Job replied by speaking of the wonders of God. Nothing is hidden from Him. He suspends the earth over nothing. He wraps up the waters in clouds and marks the horizon on the face of the waters. These things are a whisper of the things God has done. How little we understand of this whisper...what would we hear if He spoke with thunder?
Job continued saying that his conscience was clear. Wicked men wouldn't know God if they saw Him. Death and destruction are all that await the wicked.
Job spoke about there being mines for silver, gold and copper. Man put an end to darkness with lamps, he finds gems hidden in rocks , he finds treasures all over the earth. But where does wisdom come from? Where does understanding dwell? God knows everything and understands everything. He established the force of wind, and measured the water, directed the rain, and chose the paths for thunderstorm, appraised wisdom and confirmed it, tested it. Then God said, "Wisdom means that you respect me, the Lord, and turn from sin."
Job began to long for the days that had been so good. The good old days when God watched over him, and His light lit Job's path. Job had enjoyed luxury and respect of his peers. People spoke well of him and listened to what he had to say. He helped those less fortunate than him.
Tomorrow read Job 29:14-32:10
20100528
May 28, 2010 Job 20:12-24:12
Zophar continued his speech detailing the results of leading a wicked life. He spoke about the destruction and sadness of such a life. There would be no rest for the wicked (or Job.)
Then Job told them to listen carefully to his words as the only consolation they could offer him, but after he was finished, they could continue their mocking. Job listed the ways the wicked succeed in all the earthly definitions of success: healthy and successful children, safe homes without fear, livestock that breeds well, their children dance and sing and make merry, they live in prosperity and die in peace. Yet they tell God to leave them alone! They don't want to know Him or His ways. Job pointed out that they had erred in saying that God punishes the children of sinners. Let God force them to suffer for their own sins. Who can tell God what to do? Job reminded them that nobody gets out of life alive. The earth is full of people who are wicked and do not know God, yet they are buried with honors. Job asked them how they could console him with their nonsense and lies.
Then Eliphaz spoke and listed all the ways Job had sinned against people and God. He told Job that humans were of no use to God. God could do whatever he wished, that he is not blind and he knows everything. He urged Job to surrender to God and he would find peace and prosperity. If Job would just straighten up and fly right and everything would be better for him.
Then Job wished he could go to God's house and speak with him. He would state his case and find out what God would tell him. He wouldn't press charges against Job, He would deliver Job. Though God is always at work, Job could never find Him. Job stated that he had always treasured God's teachings, and followed his commandments. God would do whatever he wished with Job, because He does as He pleases. Job would not remain silent even though he was covered by darkness.
Job continued by asking why God doesn't set a time for judgement. All kinds of people do all kinds of terrible things to each other, but God seems not to notice.
Tomorrow read Job 24:13-29:13
Then Job told them to listen carefully to his words as the only consolation they could offer him, but after he was finished, they could continue their mocking. Job listed the ways the wicked succeed in all the earthly definitions of success: healthy and successful children, safe homes without fear, livestock that breeds well, their children dance and sing and make merry, they live in prosperity and die in peace. Yet they tell God to leave them alone! They don't want to know Him or His ways. Job pointed out that they had erred in saying that God punishes the children of sinners. Let God force them to suffer for their own sins. Who can tell God what to do? Job reminded them that nobody gets out of life alive. The earth is full of people who are wicked and do not know God, yet they are buried with honors. Job asked them how they could console him with their nonsense and lies.
Then Eliphaz spoke and listed all the ways Job had sinned against people and God. He told Job that humans were of no use to God. God could do whatever he wished, that he is not blind and he knows everything. He urged Job to surrender to God and he would find peace and prosperity. If Job would just straighten up and fly right and everything would be better for him.
Then Job wished he could go to God's house and speak with him. He would state his case and find out what God would tell him. He wouldn't press charges against Job, He would deliver Job. Though God is always at work, Job could never find Him. Job stated that he had always treasured God's teachings, and followed his commandments. God would do whatever he wished with Job, because He does as He pleases. Job would not remain silent even though he was covered by darkness.
Job continued by asking why God doesn't set a time for judgement. All kinds of people do all kinds of terrible things to each other, but God seems not to notice.
Tomorrow read Job 24:13-29:13
20100527
May 27, 2010 Job 16:11-20:11
Job realized that he was at the mercy of Satan. Everything used to be good, but now he was broken. He was gravely wounded time and time again, yet continued on in his tortured existence. He yearned for an intercessor to plead his case with him to God as a friend pleads for his neighbor. He had only a few years left to his life anyway.
Job's spirit was broken and he was convinced he had one foot in the grave. Job begged for God to acknowledge his innocence before he died. Job believed that Godly people would see his innocence and would not assume him guilty. His friends made no sense. Hoping for the grave left him feeling dark and empty.
Then Bildad replied by scolding Job saying that if he didn't make sense they couldn't talk with him. He wondered why Job thought of them as dumb animals, while he cut himself in anger. Sort of like the pot calling the kettle black. He asked if Job expected everything to stop because he suffered? Bildad told him that he was getting what was coming to him for his wickedness. That the end for sinners is gruesome, they have nothing to show for their lives, and the person certainly does not know God.
Then Job replied that if he had gone astray it was his business and not theirs to judge him. He asked them for help and he got an earful of judgement. He told them that God had put him in the situation for reasons no one could know. Even as he begged for help, none came. Everyone had abandoned him in his time of need. Job said, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth." He told them that the same thing could happen to them, then they would understand.
Zophar just had to say something! He was troubled at the accusations and insults which Job spoke. He told him that since Adam sinful people are happy only for a short time. Their worldly success may reach to heaven, but everything will crumble and after their death no one will remember them.
Tomorrow read Job 20:12-24:12
Job's spirit was broken and he was convinced he had one foot in the grave. Job begged for God to acknowledge his innocence before he died. Job believed that Godly people would see his innocence and would not assume him guilty. His friends made no sense. Hoping for the grave left him feeling dark and empty.
Then Bildad replied by scolding Job saying that if he didn't make sense they couldn't talk with him. He wondered why Job thought of them as dumb animals, while he cut himself in anger. Sort of like the pot calling the kettle black. He asked if Job expected everything to stop because he suffered? Bildad told him that he was getting what was coming to him for his wickedness. That the end for sinners is gruesome, they have nothing to show for their lives, and the person certainly does not know God.
Then Job replied that if he had gone astray it was his business and not theirs to judge him. He asked them for help and he got an earful of judgement. He told them that God had put him in the situation for reasons no one could know. Even as he begged for help, none came. Everyone had abandoned him in his time of need. Job said, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth." He told them that the same thing could happen to them, then they would understand.
Zophar just had to say something! He was troubled at the accusations and insults which Job spoke. He told him that since Adam sinful people are happy only for a short time. Their worldly success may reach to heaven, but everything will crumble and after their death no one will remember them.
Tomorrow read Job 20:12-24:12
20100526
May 26, 2010 Job 12:13-16:10
Job continued speaking and told Zophar that God is the real source of wisdom and strength. He can hold back the rain or send a flood. He can bring the mighty low and confuse the wise. Job told them he understood what they understood. He told them they were useless doctors who treated him with lies. He told them the wisest thing they could do is listen and keep quiet; that if God were there He would correct them. Job told them he was responsible for what happened to him and that he would continue to trust God. He told them if they could prove him guilty, he would give up and die. Then he prayed, and asked two things of God. First he asked God to stop torturing him, second, he asked him to show him what he had done wrong. Job continued praying and in his prayer, he described the shortness of life. Job understood how fragile life is.
Then Eliphaz took another stab at an argument. Still trying to get Job to see that his real problem was that he sinned somehow, Eliphaz continued by describing the ways people fool themselves. He even asked him why he was angry at God. Then he continued with descriptions of dire consequences for shaking one's fist at God.
Then Job replied that he had heard many things such as those. He complained to his friends about their long-winded speeches. He told them he would be a better friend to them than they were being to him. He lamented that speaking didn't relieve his discomfort and remaining silent didn't help either. Job began to see his true opponent, Satan. Men jeered, slapped his face and gathered against him.
Tomorrow read Job 16:11-20:11
Then Eliphaz took another stab at an argument. Still trying to get Job to see that his real problem was that he sinned somehow, Eliphaz continued by describing the ways people fool themselves. He even asked him why he was angry at God. Then he continued with descriptions of dire consequences for shaking one's fist at God.
Then Job replied that he had heard many things such as those. He complained to his friends about their long-winded speeches. He told them he would be a better friend to them than they were being to him. He lamented that speaking didn't relieve his discomfort and remaining silent didn't help either. Job began to see his true opponent, Satan. Men jeered, slapped his face and gathered against him.
Tomorrow read Job 16:11-20:11
20100525
May 25, 2010 Job 9-12:12
This lovely girl is my first grandbaby. Today is her 3rd birthday! Happy Birthday Missy Boo!!
Job reminded them that no one could win an argument with God. No one can be righteous before God. He can do things we cannot begin to fathom. He passes us and we can't see him. He has made the constellations of the Bear, Orion, and the Pleiades among others. Job told them he couldn't plead his case but only beg for mercy. Job told them that no matter what he did they would still condemn him. He lamented that there was no joy in his life. Job loathed his life and wondered if it pleased God to oppress him. Job felt utterly defeated.
Job complained to God that he didn't understand what he had done to deserve the challenges he faced. He told God that he knew He had created him and that He showered him with kindness. But now, no matter how hard he tried the suffering did not stop.
Then Zophar spoke and called Job's speech foolish. He wished for God to speak and explain things to Job, and that he had punished him less than he deserved. What hope could he have when he knew so little about the mysteries of God? Zophar told him it was easier to tame a wild donkey than to make a fool wise. He told him if he surrendered his heart to God, prayed, and put away his sin and allowed no evil to dwell in his tent then the evil would go away and life would be good again.
Job spoke again and reminded them that he knew as much as they did. He told them that he had always lived right, that God had answered his prayers, only to find that his friends made fun of him. He told them that it was easy to condemn those who are suffering when you have no troubles. Job told them that the best teachers about God were the wild animals and birds, flowers and fish, that any one of them could tell them what God had done, that they were in the hands of God.
Tomorrow read Job 12:13-16:10
20100524
May 24, 2010 Job 5:17-8:22
Eliphaz continued speaking and admonished Job to remember how great God is. He spoke as if he had no understanding of what Job experienced even though he had spent a week sitting with him. His comments seem to assume Job's plight was simply the result of not believing in God's great power to save him.
Then Job spoke. He described his agony as being heavier than the sand on the beach. His life was lifeless and he wished he were dead. He had no strength for hope. Even his friends disappointed him. They judged him without understanding him, even though Job had only spoken truth. Then he wondered why life was so hard. His days were filled with endless suffering, yet he did not die. He begged God not to forget him, as he felt that he would simply disappear. All he wanted was to be free of the agony of his body, he was tortured like an evil creature.
Job asked God what made Him so concerned about humans? Why does He test us from sunrise to sunset? Why does He watch us so closely? Why does He refuse to forgive?
Then Bildad spoke to Job. Bildad scolded Job for talking and saying nothing. He told Job that God made his children pay for their own sins. He asked Job why he didn't turn to God and start living right, since God would rescue him. Bildad told Job that people who turn from God have a hopeless future. If you turn from God you trust something as flimsy as a spider's web. Bildad assumed Job had sinned and refused to repent, that he had turned away from God, that he was getting what he had coming to him.
Tomorrow read Job 9-12:12
20100523
May 23, 2010 Job 1-5:16
Job lived in the land of Uz. He was a good person. He respected God and shunned evil. Job was the richest person in the east with livestock, 10 children and a wife. The kids took turns having feasts and afterward, Job always made an offering for their sins, just in case there were some.
In heaven one day the angels gathered around God. Satan was there too. The Lord asked him where he'd been. He told God he had been roaming the earth, going back and forth in it. The Lord told them what He thought about Job, and asked them what they thought about Job. Satan piped up and said that nothing bad had ever happened to Job, so why wouldn't he be righteous? The Lord told him to do whatever he wanted to test Job, but not to harm him.
One day a servant reported to Job that his oxen and donkeys had been stolen and servants killed. While that servant was still speaking a servant rushed in to say that God had sent down fire and killed his sheep and more servants. Before he finished speaking a third servant came in to report that his camels and the rest of his servants had been stolen. While he was still speaking a fourth servant came in to say that his children had been crushed to death during a windstorm while feasting at the house of his oldest son. When Job heard all this he tore his clothes, shaved his head and knelt in prayer acknowledging that the Lord gives and the Lord takes, Praise God!
The angels gathered around God again and Satan came and God asked him what he thought about the way Job reacted, of course Satan replied that he wouldn't be that badly affected since he wasn't suffering in his own body. So God gave him permission to cause him physical pain, but not to kill him. Satan caused sores to erupt all over Job's body from head to toe. Job sat on the ash heap and used a piece of broken pottery to scrape his sores. Job's wife asked him why he still trusted God, and why he didn't just curse Him and die? Job told her not to talk like a fool, that if we accept his blessings, we also have to accept trouble as well. Job never said anything bad against God.
Three of Job's friends came to visit him. When they saw him they didn't recognize him. They tore their robes, put ashes on their heads and sat with him for a week. Finally, Job cursed the day he was born. Then he wondered why he hadn't died at birth, because death would be so much better than this life he was living. Then he wondered aloud why God let him continue to live, that his fondest wish was to be dead.
His friend Eliphaz spoke to Job and pointed out all the good he had done in word and deed. He reminded Job that God does away with those who don't respect Him. And that humans are fragile and there are no guarantees. Then he suggested that Job ask God for help, because God helps people who suffer.
Tomorrow read Job 5:17-8:22
In heaven one day the angels gathered around God. Satan was there too. The Lord asked him where he'd been. He told God he had been roaming the earth, going back and forth in it. The Lord told them what He thought about Job, and asked them what they thought about Job. Satan piped up and said that nothing bad had ever happened to Job, so why wouldn't he be righteous? The Lord told him to do whatever he wanted to test Job, but not to harm him.
One day a servant reported to Job that his oxen and donkeys had been stolen and servants killed. While that servant was still speaking a servant rushed in to say that God had sent down fire and killed his sheep and more servants. Before he finished speaking a third servant came in to report that his camels and the rest of his servants had been stolen. While he was still speaking a fourth servant came in to say that his children had been crushed to death during a windstorm while feasting at the house of his oldest son. When Job heard all this he tore his clothes, shaved his head and knelt in prayer acknowledging that the Lord gives and the Lord takes, Praise God!
The angels gathered around God again and Satan came and God asked him what he thought about the way Job reacted, of course Satan replied that he wouldn't be that badly affected since he wasn't suffering in his own body. So God gave him permission to cause him physical pain, but not to kill him. Satan caused sores to erupt all over Job's body from head to toe. Job sat on the ash heap and used a piece of broken pottery to scrape his sores. Job's wife asked him why he still trusted God, and why he didn't just curse Him and die? Job told her not to talk like a fool, that if we accept his blessings, we also have to accept trouble as well. Job never said anything bad against God.
Three of Job's friends came to visit him. When they saw him they didn't recognize him. They tore their robes, put ashes on their heads and sat with him for a week. Finally, Job cursed the day he was born. Then he wondered why he hadn't died at birth, because death would be so much better than this life he was living. Then he wondered aloud why God let him continue to live, that his fondest wish was to be dead.
His friend Eliphaz spoke to Job and pointed out all the good he had done in word and deed. He reminded Job that God does away with those who don't respect Him. And that humans are fragile and there are no guarantees. Then he suggested that Job ask God for help, because God helps people who suffer.
Tomorrow read Job 5:17-8:22
20100522
May 22, 2010 Esther 5-10
Three days later, God answered their prayers, because when the king saw Esther, he was happy to see her and invited her to speak with him. He told her she could have whatever she asked for. She invited him to a dinner and she asked him to bring Haman. So they went to the dinner and as they were sitting there the king told Esther to ask him for whatever she wanted. She asked him to come again to dinner the next day and she would tell him. When Haman left he saw Mordecai at the gate. Haman got angry when Mordecai ignored him, so he went home and planned to kill him. Haman got together with his wife and some friends and bragged about how fabulous he was. His friends suggested he build a 75 foot high platform and hang Mordecai from it. Haman liked the idea and had the tower built.
That night the king couldn't sleep and had some reading material brought to him. It just so happened to be the record of how Mordecai had saved his life. The king realized that Mordecai had never been rewarded for his dedication to him and decided to change that. Meanwhile, Haman came in to ask the king if he could hang Mordecai. Before he could make his request, the king asked him how he would honor a hero? So Haman told him he would present him with a robe worn by the king, and a horse the king had ridden with a royal headdress. Then, arrayed in all this finery, he would parade the person through the town and proclaim his worthiness to everyone. It just so happened Haman thought that the king was thinking about him. Imagine his chagrin when he realized that the king intended Haman to do this for Mordecai! After Haman finished honoring Mordecai he hung his head in shame and went home and told his wife and friends what had happened. Then the king's servants came and took him to Esther's second dinner.
Esther told the king that she wanted him to save her and her people from destruction. When the king asked who wanted to destroy them, Esther told him it was Haman. The king had to get some air and while he was standing in the garden, Haman fell on Esther and begged her to save his life. Just then the king came in and saw Haman on his wife and shouted about her being raped right in front of him. They took Haman out and hanged him on the gallows he had made to hang Mordecai. Then the king settled down.
The king gave Esther everything that had belonged to Haman. Then Esther put Mordecai in charge of Haman's property. Esther again went to the king and begged that Haman's evil plot to destroy the Jews be reversed. The king gave her permission to change the laws to make this happen. So the Jews were preserved and protected. All the Jews everywhere celebrated.
Everyone was afraid of Mordecai, so they sided with him. The Jews killed many people, including Haman's 10 sons and family. The king went to Esther and asked her if there was anything else she wanted him to do. She asked him to allow the Jews to defend themselves and to hang the bodies of Haman's 10 sons in public. So he did. After they killed more people, they were able to stop and celebrate by feasting and sending gifts of food to each other. This happened in the 12th month on the 14th and 15th days. Mordecai wrote it all down and called the celebration Purim. Esther followed up with a letter to lay out the new decree to celebrate Purim each year. Mordecai became the second most powerful leader next to the king in the kingdom. He advocated for the Jews to the king.
Tomorrow read Job 1-5:16
That night the king couldn't sleep and had some reading material brought to him. It just so happened to be the record of how Mordecai had saved his life. The king realized that Mordecai had never been rewarded for his dedication to him and decided to change that. Meanwhile, Haman came in to ask the king if he could hang Mordecai. Before he could make his request, the king asked him how he would honor a hero? So Haman told him he would present him with a robe worn by the king, and a horse the king had ridden with a royal headdress. Then, arrayed in all this finery, he would parade the person through the town and proclaim his worthiness to everyone. It just so happened Haman thought that the king was thinking about him. Imagine his chagrin when he realized that the king intended Haman to do this for Mordecai! After Haman finished honoring Mordecai he hung his head in shame and went home and told his wife and friends what had happened. Then the king's servants came and took him to Esther's second dinner.
Esther told the king that she wanted him to save her and her people from destruction. When the king asked who wanted to destroy them, Esther told him it was Haman. The king had to get some air and while he was standing in the garden, Haman fell on Esther and begged her to save his life. Just then the king came in and saw Haman on his wife and shouted about her being raped right in front of him. They took Haman out and hanged him on the gallows he had made to hang Mordecai. Then the king settled down.
The king gave Esther everything that had belonged to Haman. Then Esther put Mordecai in charge of Haman's property. Esther again went to the king and begged that Haman's evil plot to destroy the Jews be reversed. The king gave her permission to change the laws to make this happen. So the Jews were preserved and protected. All the Jews everywhere celebrated.
Everyone was afraid of Mordecai, so they sided with him. The Jews killed many people, including Haman's 10 sons and family. The king went to Esther and asked her if there was anything else she wanted him to do. She asked him to allow the Jews to defend themselves and to hang the bodies of Haman's 10 sons in public. So he did. After they killed more people, they were able to stop and celebrate by feasting and sending gifts of food to each other. This happened in the 12th month on the 14th and 15th days. Mordecai wrote it all down and called the celebration Purim. Esther followed up with a letter to lay out the new decree to celebrate Purim each year. Mordecai became the second most powerful leader next to the king in the kingdom. He advocated for the Jews to the king.
Tomorrow read Job 1-5:16
20100521
May 21, 2010 Nehemiah 13:23-31, Esther 1-4
There were a couple more things Nehemiah did. He rebuked those men who had disobeyed the law of God and married foreign women and had children who had no knowledge of Judah. He even beat some of the man and pulled out their hair. Then he made them take an oath that they would not let their daughters or sons marry Moabites or Ammonites. He pointed out that even Solomon was led astray by foreign women. Also Nehemiah purified the priests and asked God to remember him with favor.
The book of Esther begins with details about king Xerxes or Ahasuerus, who was ruler over the vast empire of Persia which stretched from India to Ethiopia. He was very rich and very proud of his riches and liked to show them off. One time, he gave a lavish dinner for the men in the sumptuous palace gardens and made sure to keep their cups full of wine. Meanwhile, Queen Vashti was giving a dinner for the women inside the palace. After 7 days of partying the king was feeling pretty happy and told his servants to bring his wife to him so he could show her off to the men. She refused. The king asked his officials what he should do. He was told that she had embarassed him and encouraged other women to disobey their husbands too. They suggested he change the law so that he could replace her with a wife who would never disobey him. So that's what he did.
So then the king needed a new wife, and they had a nationwide search for the most beautiful women. Esther was a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin and she was very beautiful. Her cousin, Mordecai had taken care of her after her parents died. Esther was one of the many beautiful women taken to the king. Mordecai advised her to keep her Jewish heritage private, so she did. She began her beauty treatments and ate special food and had special maids to take care of her. Everyone liked Esther, including the king. So he crowned her queen in place of Vashti. Mordecai found out that there was mischeif afoot to kill the king and told him. The king verified that it was true and had the men hanged while he watched.
Soon circumstances collided to reveal Mordecai's secret - that he was a Jew. Special interest groups formed to have the Jews exterminated. The leader was a man named Haman who hated the Jews. The king told him to do what he wanted and that he could keep the Jew's money after he killed them. Letters explaining the new action were posted throughout the kingdom. Then Haman and the king started drinking and no one could figure out what was going on.
Mordecai heard about the letter and tore his clothes and began mourning. Esther became very upset when she heard about Mordecai and sent him some new clothes. He refused them. Then she had a servant go to Mordecai to ask him what had upset him so much. Mordecai gave the servant a copy of the letter and asked him to explain it to Esther, and to ask her to beg the king to change his mind. Esther knew about the law that if anyone went to see the king without an invitation they would be put to death. But she also knew that it had been 30 days since the king had asked to see her. She sent Mordecai a message that she and her ladies would fast and pray and asked him to gather all the Jews and do the same. She promised to go to the king and plead their case even if it meant she would die.
Tomorrow read Esther 5-10
The book of Esther begins with details about king Xerxes or Ahasuerus, who was ruler over the vast empire of Persia which stretched from India to Ethiopia. He was very rich and very proud of his riches and liked to show them off. One time, he gave a lavish dinner for the men in the sumptuous palace gardens and made sure to keep their cups full of wine. Meanwhile, Queen Vashti was giving a dinner for the women inside the palace. After 7 days of partying the king was feeling pretty happy and told his servants to bring his wife to him so he could show her off to the men. She refused. The king asked his officials what he should do. He was told that she had embarassed him and encouraged other women to disobey their husbands too. They suggested he change the law so that he could replace her with a wife who would never disobey him. So that's what he did.
So then the king needed a new wife, and they had a nationwide search for the most beautiful women. Esther was a Jew from the tribe of Benjamin and she was very beautiful. Her cousin, Mordecai had taken care of her after her parents died. Esther was one of the many beautiful women taken to the king. Mordecai advised her to keep her Jewish heritage private, so she did. She began her beauty treatments and ate special food and had special maids to take care of her. Everyone liked Esther, including the king. So he crowned her queen in place of Vashti. Mordecai found out that there was mischeif afoot to kill the king and told him. The king verified that it was true and had the men hanged while he watched.
Soon circumstances collided to reveal Mordecai's secret - that he was a Jew. Special interest groups formed to have the Jews exterminated. The leader was a man named Haman who hated the Jews. The king told him to do what he wanted and that he could keep the Jew's money after he killed them. Letters explaining the new action were posted throughout the kingdom. Then Haman and the king started drinking and no one could figure out what was going on.
Mordecai heard about the letter and tore his clothes and began mourning. Esther became very upset when she heard about Mordecai and sent him some new clothes. He refused them. Then she had a servant go to Mordecai to ask him what had upset him so much. Mordecai gave the servant a copy of the letter and asked him to explain it to Esther, and to ask her to beg the king to change his mind. Esther knew about the law that if anyone went to see the king without an invitation they would be put to death. But she also knew that it had been 30 days since the king had asked to see her. She sent Mordecai a message that she and her ladies would fast and pray and asked him to gather all the Jews and do the same. She promised to go to the king and plead their case even if it meant she would die.
Tomorrow read Esther 5-10
20100520
May 20, 2010 Nehemiah 11:22-13:22
More names of the people who served in Jerusalem were listed. The names of the priests, Levites, family heads, and gatekeepers were also listed.
The wall was dedicated with great celebration. Nehemiah had the leaders get on top of the wall along with two choirs. They went along the wall all the way to the temple. Great sacrifices were offered to God giving Him thanks for all He had given them. Everyone participating performed the ceremonies in the way of David and Solomon.
Nehemiah made some final changes that day. They read aloud from the Book of Moses and found out that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever be admitted into the assembly of God because they refused to help when the Israelites roamed in the wilderness. (Numbers 22:3-11, Deut 23:5-6) So they did as they had been commanded.
Also, Tobiah (that bad guy) had been given accomodations inside the temple in the store rooms above. When Nehemiah discovered that Eliashib had allowed the house of God to be dishonored in this way, he evicted Tobiah immediately, and had the rooms purified.
He discovered that the Levites had not been given their portions from those they served, Nehemiah rebuked the officials and the people brought their tithes into the storehouses. He put priests in charge of making sure these things were distributed to their brothers.
Nehemiah observed the practices of some of the people who were not keeping the Sabbath day holy by continuing to work their fields or in the marketplace. He told them if they did it again he would use force to stop them. So they stopped.
Nehemiah repeatedly asked God to remember him and show mercy to him according to His great love.
Tomorrow finish Nehemiah, read Esther 1-4
The wall was dedicated with great celebration. Nehemiah had the leaders get on top of the wall along with two choirs. They went along the wall all the way to the temple. Great sacrifices were offered to God giving Him thanks for all He had given them. Everyone participating performed the ceremonies in the way of David and Solomon.
Nehemiah made some final changes that day. They read aloud from the Book of Moses and found out that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever be admitted into the assembly of God because they refused to help when the Israelites roamed in the wilderness. (Numbers 22:3-11, Deut 23:5-6) So they did as they had been commanded.
Also, Tobiah (that bad guy) had been given accomodations inside the temple in the store rooms above. When Nehemiah discovered that Eliashib had allowed the house of God to be dishonored in this way, he evicted Tobiah immediately, and had the rooms purified.
He discovered that the Levites had not been given their portions from those they served, Nehemiah rebuked the officials and the people brought their tithes into the storehouses. He put priests in charge of making sure these things were distributed to their brothers.
Nehemiah observed the practices of some of the people who were not keeping the Sabbath day holy by continuing to work their fields or in the marketplace. He told them if they did it again he would use force to stop them. So they stopped.
Nehemiah repeatedly asked God to remember him and show mercy to him according to His great love.
Tomorrow finish Nehemiah, read Esther 1-4
20100519
May 19, 2010 Nehemiah 8:9-11:21
Nehemiah, Ezra and the Levites who were instructing the people told them not to be sad, because the day was sacred to the Lord. They encouraged them to enjoy the foods and drinks, and to share them with others. The people left and rejoiced because they understood what they had been taught. On the next day, when the heads of all the families, priests and Levites gathered they learned about the Feast of the Tabernacles Moses had described in Leviticus 23:37-40. So the people found the branches to build the booths to stay in for 7 days as Moses had taught. During the feast, they read from the Book of the Law of God and rejoiced. They gathered for the assembly wearing sackcloth and the Israelites confessed their sins. Ezra said a prayer aloud in which he reviewed all the things God had done for them, even though they had not honored and obeyed Him. They renewed their covenant with God.
The men who sealed the covenant were listed. They promised to follow the commandments they had been given in order to keep the promised land. They accepted responsibility for the work of the Lord as he had given through Moses.
Chapter 11 lists the names of those who were descended from Judah, Benjamin, the priests, the Levites, and the gatekeepers.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 11:22-13:22
The men who sealed the covenant were listed. They promised to follow the commandments they had been given in order to keep the promised land. They accepted responsibility for the work of the Lord as he had given through Moses.
Chapter 11 lists the names of those who were descended from Judah, Benjamin, the priests, the Levites, and the gatekeepers.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 11:22-13:22
20100518
May 18, 2010 Nehemiah 6-8:8
Opposition continued to the rebuilding project Nehemiah managed - especially when they heard it had been finished. The bad guys (Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem - a new one) sent an opened letter to Nehemiah which reported that he and the Judites were planning a revolt, which was why they needed to rebuild the wall, that Nehemiah was to be appointed king, and prophets were to be appointed, and that all this would get back to the king unless Nehemiah took a meeting with the bad guys. Nehemiah replied that it was all a figment of their imagination.
Later, Nehemiah went to visit Shemaiah, who tried to convince him to go with him into the temple and shut the doors because someone was coming to kill him. Then Nehemiah realized that this man had been put up to trying to get him to sin by going into the temple (only priests were allowed) to protect himself. Nehemiah prayed and asked God to remember the trickery of these people.
The wall was finished in 52 days. All their enemies around them became afraid because they realized that the work had been done so fast because they had God with them. There were nobles in Judah who were under oath to Tobiah (one of the bad guys.) Tobiah kept sending threatening letters to Nehemiah.
Once the wall and gate made the city secure, the work could begin to rebuild homes inside it. Nehemiah shared that there weren't many people, but he appointed gatekeepers, singers and Levites for the temple. He put his brother in charge of Jerusalem and Hananiah the commander of the citadel "because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most men do." Nehemiah ordered them not to open the gates until the sun was hot. God had put it into Nehemiah's heart to assemble the nobles, officials and common people for registration by families. He found the record of those who had returned earlier. Mostly it is the same information as Ezra 2, but some names and numbers are different. The seventh month came after the Israelites had settled in their towns.
All the people gathered in the square and Ezra read the Book of the Law of Moses aloud to them from dawn until noon. The people listened attentively. They had built a high wooden platform for the occasion for Ezra to stand on along with six men on his right and six men on his left. When he opened the book everyone stood up. Ezra praised God and all the people lifted their hands and said "Amen! Amen!" then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. The Levites instructed the people. They read from the Book of the Law of God and translated the meaning of it so everyone could understand.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 8:9-11:21
Later, Nehemiah went to visit Shemaiah, who tried to convince him to go with him into the temple and shut the doors because someone was coming to kill him. Then Nehemiah realized that this man had been put up to trying to get him to sin by going into the temple (only priests were allowed) to protect himself. Nehemiah prayed and asked God to remember the trickery of these people.
The wall was finished in 52 days. All their enemies around them became afraid because they realized that the work had been done so fast because they had God with them. There were nobles in Judah who were under oath to Tobiah (one of the bad guys.) Tobiah kept sending threatening letters to Nehemiah.
Once the wall and gate made the city secure, the work could begin to rebuild homes inside it. Nehemiah shared that there weren't many people, but he appointed gatekeepers, singers and Levites for the temple. He put his brother in charge of Jerusalem and Hananiah the commander of the citadel "because he was a man of integrity and feared God more than most men do." Nehemiah ordered them not to open the gates until the sun was hot. God had put it into Nehemiah's heart to assemble the nobles, officials and common people for registration by families. He found the record of those who had returned earlier. Mostly it is the same information as Ezra 2, but some names and numbers are different. The seventh month came after the Israelites had settled in their towns.
All the people gathered in the square and Ezra read the Book of the Law of Moses aloud to them from dawn until noon. The people listened attentively. They had built a high wooden platform for the occasion for Ezra to stand on along with six men on his right and six men on his left. When he opened the book everyone stood up. Ezra praised God and all the people lifted their hands and said "Amen! Amen!" then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. The Levites instructed the people. They read from the Book of the Law of God and translated the meaning of it so everyone could understand.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 8:9-11:21
20100517
May 17, 2010 Nehemiah 2-5
I really appreciate how personal the Book of Nehemiah is. Chapter 2 begins as Nehemiah brought the king wine. Nehemiah admitted that he had never been sad in the
king's presence and the king noticed that Nehemiah was sad. The king inquired of Nehemiah and then answered his own question by saying that since he was not ill, it can only be sadness of heart. Nehemiah then admitted his fear to us, but answered the king truthfully anyway. He told the king that his father's home town lay in ruin and the gates had been destroyed by fire. The king asked him what he wanted. So he answered him truthfully that he wanted to go to Jerusalem and rebuild the gates, the walls and a house for himself to stay in. He also asked for protection and materials. He told the king he would return by a certain time which he doesn't share. A couple of bad guys, you probably know the type, who don't like it when things happen which they don't approve of, grumbled.
Nehemiah went to Jerusalem and inspected the wall at night in secret. He had not told anyone what God had put in his heart to do in Jerusalem. After he got some idea of the job to be done, he made himself known and told the officials and leaders of his plan. They all supported him enthusiastically - except the bad guys - Sanballat and Tobiah.
Nehemiah described the work done in each area and who did it. I like how it was a real community project. Each person contributed by doing the work themselves, usually in front of their house. Some nobles wouldn't help because they didn't want to take orders from their subordinates, but there were many leaders who set the example and got busy. People from many walks of life helped - goldsmiths, merchants, and even a perfumer, another guy had help from his daughters!
When Nehemiah heard the bad guys taunting them and being jerks, he prayed that their insults would be turned back on their own heads. But they kept working and soon the walls were about half done. This got the attention of those who despised them. The two bad guys had friends and they were very angry. They plotted trouble and Nehemiah and the people in Judah prayed. Soon the negative attitude began to spread to the workers and they began to lose strength. They were afraid of attack from the bad guys. So Nehemiah posted guards at the lowest places and gave them a pep talk to remember that God was in charge and the work continued.
It came to Nehemiah's attention that the poor people had been borrowing money from some wealthy Jews. They had to resort to harsh measures to make the payments, such as, selling their children into slavery, and mortgaging their property to pay their bills. So Nehemiah had a talk with the wealthy Jews to remind them that what they were doing wasn't right. Nehemiah got them to agree to change their ways. He set a good example and had 150 Jews, officials, and visiting dignitaries dine with him.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 6-8:8
king's presence and the king noticed that Nehemiah was sad. The king inquired of Nehemiah and then answered his own question by saying that since he was not ill, it can only be sadness of heart. Nehemiah then admitted his fear to us, but answered the king truthfully anyway. He told the king that his father's home town lay in ruin and the gates had been destroyed by fire. The king asked him what he wanted. So he answered him truthfully that he wanted to go to Jerusalem and rebuild the gates, the walls and a house for himself to stay in. He also asked for protection and materials. He told the king he would return by a certain time which he doesn't share. A couple of bad guys, you probably know the type, who don't like it when things happen which they don't approve of, grumbled.
Nehemiah went to Jerusalem and inspected the wall at night in secret. He had not told anyone what God had put in his heart to do in Jerusalem. After he got some idea of the job to be done, he made himself known and told the officials and leaders of his plan. They all supported him enthusiastically - except the bad guys - Sanballat and Tobiah.
Nehemiah described the work done in each area and who did it. I like how it was a real community project. Each person contributed by doing the work themselves, usually in front of their house. Some nobles wouldn't help because they didn't want to take orders from their subordinates, but there were many leaders who set the example and got busy. People from many walks of life helped - goldsmiths, merchants, and even a perfumer, another guy had help from his daughters!
When Nehemiah heard the bad guys taunting them and being jerks, he prayed that their insults would be turned back on their own heads. But they kept working and soon the walls were about half done. This got the attention of those who despised them. The two bad guys had friends and they were very angry. They plotted trouble and Nehemiah and the people in Judah prayed. Soon the negative attitude began to spread to the workers and they began to lose strength. They were afraid of attack from the bad guys. So Nehemiah posted guards at the lowest places and gave them a pep talk to remember that God was in charge and the work continued.
It came to Nehemiah's attention that the poor people had been borrowing money from some wealthy Jews. They had to resort to harsh measures to make the payments, such as, selling their children into slavery, and mortgaging their property to pay their bills. So Nehemiah had a talk with the wealthy Jews to remind them that what they were doing wasn't right. Nehemiah got them to agree to change their ways. He set a good example and had 150 Jews, officials, and visiting dignitaries dine with him.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 6-8:8
20100516
May 16, 2010 Finish Ezra read Nehemiah 1
The book of Ezra is like a personal journal. It isn't very long, but it is direct. In chapter 8 a listing of the family heads returning with Ezra is given. What follows is a personal account of the experience, including the confession of shame that they asked for help from men after proclaiming that God would protect them. They fasted and prayed and God answered their prayer. They brought with them the gold and silver articles and when they got to the temple they were weighed and an accounting was made. Then they made burnt offerings to God.
In Deuteronomy 4:7 (Feb 25) we read that God had warned the children of Israel not to intermarry because the ungodly customs of those who weren't Israelites would cause them to move away from God. It was left to Ezra to uphold the law which Moses had taught them. The leaders came to him and told him that the mingling of outsiders with the "holy race" had occurred and he tore his clothes, pulled hair out of his head and sat down appalled. He sat that way for a while. When he was ready, he got up and knelt down and lifted his hands and prayed. He thanked God that there was still a remnant of them left, but he was sorry that they were so compelled to do what God had strictly forbidden them from doing. Soon everyone was crying, because they knew what they had done and that it would hurt to undo it. Ezra gave them 3 days to come forward so that their cases could be heard and a decision made about their futures. In all 113 men were married to foreign women (according to a footnote in my bible.)
Nehemiah begins with a prayer which is his response to news from back home about the remnant of Judah and the trouble they were in. He prayed to confess that they had sinned and to ask God to forgive them. He asked God to remember his promise that if they turned their hearts to Him, that He would gather them back together (Deut. 30:1-5.) Then he writes, "I was cupbearer to the king." He was cupbearer to Artaxerxes, king of Persia, which was a big deal - he was highly trusted, and well paid.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 2-5
In Deuteronomy 4:7 (Feb 25) we read that God had warned the children of Israel not to intermarry because the ungodly customs of those who weren't Israelites would cause them to move away from God. It was left to Ezra to uphold the law which Moses had taught them. The leaders came to him and told him that the mingling of outsiders with the "holy race" had occurred and he tore his clothes, pulled hair out of his head and sat down appalled. He sat that way for a while. When he was ready, he got up and knelt down and lifted his hands and prayed. He thanked God that there was still a remnant of them left, but he was sorry that they were so compelled to do what God had strictly forbidden them from doing. Soon everyone was crying, because they knew what they had done and that it would hurt to undo it. Ezra gave them 3 days to come forward so that their cases could be heard and a decision made about their futures. In all 113 men were married to foreign women (according to a footnote in my bible.)
Nehemiah begins with a prayer which is his response to news from back home about the remnant of Judah and the trouble they were in. He prayed to confess that they had sinned and to ask God to forgive them. He asked God to remember his promise that if they turned their hearts to Him, that He would gather them back together (Deut. 30:1-5.) Then he writes, "I was cupbearer to the king." He was cupbearer to Artaxerxes, king of Persia, which was a big deal - he was highly trusted, and well paid.
Tomorrow read Nehemiah 2-5
20100515
May 15, 2010 Ezra 4-7
As they were rebuilding the temple, opposition arose from their enemies. Their opponents complained to king Xerxes and followed up with a letter to Artaxerxes. The letter began with a statement about what the king should know about the "Jews" (this is the first time I've seen this name of the children of Israel in the Bible. I've wondered if this was a slang name of the Babylonians for the Judites, or maybe it's a name they gave themselves?) In the letter they told the king that the rebellious and wicked city of Jerusalem was being rebuilt. They also told him that the royal revenues would suffer since no more taxes would be collected. Well the king didn't want that, so he wrote a letter to the people in Jerusalem, telling them that because they are so rebellious and wicked, they must stop rebuilding the city until he said so. So they did.
Two prophets came to the Jews and told them to continue building the temple, so they did. The governor sent a letter to king Darius explaining the situation, about how they questioned the Jews and what their reply was. They retold the story of their deportment into Babylon as well as the gold and silver things from the temple that Nebuchadnezzar had taken. They told of the decree of king Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple and return the gold and silver things. So they searched the records for the decree by king Cyrus and sure enough, they found it. The memo from king Cyrus told of the temple's dimensions as well as the gold and silver things to be restored. It's a good thing he wrote it down! So Darius not only upheld the memo, he added that they were to be given money to pay for the construction, and whatever was needed for sacrifices to please God. He threatened death by house (read it) if they didn't carry out his orders.
So the temple was completed, dedicated, and the Passover celebrated.
In a footnote in my Bible, I read that there is a 60 year silence between chapters 6&7 and that this was when the events of Esther took place.
The first 6 verses of chapter 7 tell us that Ezra was a direct descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses. Also that these events take place during the reign of Artaxerxes. Ezra had devoted himself to learning and understanding God's law, and was a teacher. Ezra carried a letter of recommendation from Artaxerxes. The king had been impressed to the point of total trust in Ezra. Ezra knew it was God who had put it all into the king's heart.
Tomorrow finish Ezra and read Nehemiah 1
Two prophets came to the Jews and told them to continue building the temple, so they did. The governor sent a letter to king Darius explaining the situation, about how they questioned the Jews and what their reply was. They retold the story of their deportment into Babylon as well as the gold and silver things from the temple that Nebuchadnezzar had taken. They told of the decree of king Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple and return the gold and silver things. So they searched the records for the decree by king Cyrus and sure enough, they found it. The memo from king Cyrus told of the temple's dimensions as well as the gold and silver things to be restored. It's a good thing he wrote it down! So Darius not only upheld the memo, he added that they were to be given money to pay for the construction, and whatever was needed for sacrifices to please God. He threatened death by house (read it) if they didn't carry out his orders.
So the temple was completed, dedicated, and the Passover celebrated.
In a footnote in my Bible, I read that there is a 60 year silence between chapters 6&7 and that this was when the events of Esther took place.
The first 6 verses of chapter 7 tell us that Ezra was a direct descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses. Also that these events take place during the reign of Artaxerxes. Ezra had devoted himself to learning and understanding God's law, and was a teacher. Ezra carried a letter of recommendation from Artaxerxes. The king had been impressed to the point of total trust in Ezra. Ezra knew it was God who had put it all into the king's heart.
Tomorrow finish Ezra and read Nehemiah 1
20100514
May 15, 2010 finish 2Chronicles & read Ezra 1-3
Josiah died in battle as we learned in 2Kings 23:29-30. In today's passage, there is more detail about those events. Neco the king of Egypt told Josiah that his fight wasn't with him. Even so, Josiah went into battle and went so far as to disguise himself. An arrow found Josiah and he died. His body was taken back to Jerusalem and he was buried in the tomb of the kings. The people made Jehoahaz king of Judah in his place.
Jehoahaz ruled for 3 months and was dethroned by the king of Egypt. The Egyptian king made Jehoahaz's brother king and changed his name to Jehoiakim. (We learned all this last month reading 2Kings.) Both brothers did evil things.
Jehoiachin succeeded his father as king of Judah. After 3 months, Nebuchadnezzar came to Jerusalem and personally carted off the temple treasury and Jehoiachin. He appointed Zedekiah, Jehoiachin's uncle king of Judah. Zedekiah ruled 11 years and did evil things. God sent prophets to warn the people, but they would not listen. So God let Nebuchadnezzar have them. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink! Many of the people were killed and the temple was destroyed. All who were left were dragged off to Babylon, where they served 70 years.
Fast forward 70 years later... Cyrus king of Persia heard a message from God and sent the people back to Jerusalem to build a temple to God. So they prepared to leave Babylon and return to Jerusalem. They loaded up their possessions and livestock and journeyed to the land of their fathers. Their number was 42,360 people, not including the servants and singers. When they got there they started by taking a collection to see what they had to work with. Then they settled in their towns. After 7 months the people gathered in Jerusalem and built an altar and made offerings to the Lord. Then they began rebuilding the temple. They made arrangements to get the necessary materials and paid the workers. The Levite priests supervised the building and finally the foundation was done. The people shouted and sang praises. Some of the older priests who had seen the original cried aloud. There was so much noise that no one could tell who was laughing and who was crying.
Tomorrow read Ezra 4-7
Jehoahaz ruled for 3 months and was dethroned by the king of Egypt. The Egyptian king made Jehoahaz's brother king and changed his name to Jehoiakim. (We learned all this last month reading 2Kings.) Both brothers did evil things.
Jehoiachin succeeded his father as king of Judah. After 3 months, Nebuchadnezzar came to Jerusalem and personally carted off the temple treasury and Jehoiachin. He appointed Zedekiah, Jehoiachin's uncle king of Judah. Zedekiah ruled 11 years and did evil things. God sent prophets to warn the people, but they would not listen. So God let Nebuchadnezzar have them. You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink! Many of the people were killed and the temple was destroyed. All who were left were dragged off to Babylon, where they served 70 years.
Fast forward 70 years later... Cyrus king of Persia heard a message from God and sent the people back to Jerusalem to build a temple to God. So they prepared to leave Babylon and return to Jerusalem. They loaded up their possessions and livestock and journeyed to the land of their fathers. Their number was 42,360 people, not including the servants and singers. When they got there they started by taking a collection to see what they had to work with. Then they settled in their towns. After 7 months the people gathered in Jerusalem and built an altar and made offerings to the Lord. Then they began rebuilding the temple. They made arrangements to get the necessary materials and paid the workers. The Levite priests supervised the building and finally the foundation was done. The people shouted and sang praises. Some of the older priests who had seen the original cried aloud. There was so much noise that no one could tell who was laughing and who was crying.
Tomorrow read Ezra 4-7
20100513
May 13, 2010 2Chronicles 32-35:19
Happy Birthday to my oldest son, Mick!
Hezekiah had made Judah so nice that the king of Assyria decided he wanted it for himself. They prepared for war by fortifying the walls and making weapons. He assembled all the people and told them to be strong and courageous, not afraid or discouraged because they had God with them. Later, the Assyrian king sent officers with a message telling them not to believe what Hezekiah had told them since none of the other gods of any of the other places they had conquered had saved them. He warned them not to believe Hezekiah. They even went so far as to compare God to the other gods. Hezekiah and Isaiah prayed to God. He answered with an angel who came and annihilated all the fighting men and officers. The Assyrian king went home in disgrace, and when he went to pray in his temple, his sons killed him.
Hezekiah was on his deathbed and he prayed and God gave him a miracle. In 2Kings 20verse 11 Isaiah prays and a shadow moves backward 10 steps. Hezekiah had been too proud and so he repented. Hezekiah did many great things in Judah, when he died, his son Manasseh became king.
Manasseh was 12 when he became king, he ruled for 55 years and worshiped other gods. He put a statue of his god in the temple breaking the covenant God made with David. They were so bad that they did more evil than the nations they had replaced in the land. God spoke, but they wouldn't listen, so he had conquerers come in. They took Manasseh prisoner - even putting a hook in his nose - THAT woke him up and he realized his sin, repented and believed in God. He changed his ways after that and did what was right. When he died, his son Amon became king of Judah.
Amon ruled for 2 years and continued doing evil. Amon's officials killed him, then the people of Judah killed the officials and made his son, Josiah king.
Josiah was only 8 when he became king. He reigned 31 years and walked in the Lord's way. He removed the idol worship things and restored the temple. While they were working, some men found the Book of the Law of the Lord tucked away in the temple. Josiah mourned when he heard what the book said and asked his advisors to find out what God had to say. They asked the prophetess Huldah and she told them that the Lord would bring ruin on them because the covenant had been broken. God also said that because Josiah had done all he had done, that God would spare him the atrocities which would befall Judah and he would be buried in peace. As long as he lived the people followed the Lord with him. In the 18th year of his reign he celebrated the Passover in such a way as hadn't been done since the prophet Samuel was alive.
Tomorrow finish 2Crhonicles & Ezra 1-3
20100512
May 12, 2010 2Chronicles 29-31
Hezekiah was now king of Judah. He got busy right away during his first month as king. He began repairs on the temple in order to reopen it. Convinced that the reason for their failures was due to not following the commandments of the Lord, he put things right and recruited help. The workers purified the temple, the things used for offerings, and themselves as well. They worshiped God and renewed their covenant with Him. They made burnt offerings and sang praises.
Hezekiah planned to celebrate the Passover all through Judah. He sent out letters and messengers who were not well received at first. Slowly the people began to come to their senses and realized the wisdom of Hezekiah's suggestion. Some people who had not consecrated themselves ate of the Passover which was against the rules. So Hezekiah prayed for them so that God would pardon them because their hearts were in the right place even if they hadn't kept the letter of the law.
Afterward the people smashed the objects for worship of other gods. Hezekiah made sure the priests were given contributions for worship. He wanted them supported by Judah for their work for the Lord, just as it was written in the Law of the Lord. All the offerings were restored, so that Judah was following God's Law. Soon there was such a large heap of offerings that they needed to put them in the storerooms of the temple. Hezekiah did everything to serve God. He prospered for it.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 32-35:19
Hezekiah planned to celebrate the Passover all through Judah. He sent out letters and messengers who were not well received at first. Slowly the people began to come to their senses and realized the wisdom of Hezekiah's suggestion. Some people who had not consecrated themselves ate of the Passover which was against the rules. So Hezekiah prayed for them so that God would pardon them because their hearts were in the right place even if they hadn't kept the letter of the law.
Afterward the people smashed the objects for worship of other gods. Hezekiah made sure the priests were given contributions for worship. He wanted them supported by Judah for their work for the Lord, just as it was written in the Law of the Lord. All the offerings were restored, so that Judah was following God's Law. Soon there was such a large heap of offerings that they needed to put them in the storerooms of the temple. Hezekiah did everything to serve God. He prospered for it.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 32-35:19
20100511
May 11, 2010 2Chronicles 24:15-ch 28
Jehoiada the priest, died at the ripe old age of 130. Because of all the good things he did for Judah, he was buried with the kings.
After Jehoiada died, there was no one to keep Joash on the straight and narrow and he went the way of the wicked. None of the prophets God sent could get through to them that they needed to change. Even Zechariah the son of Jehoiada tried, but they stoned him. Joash killed the son of the man who saved his life when he was little. Joash was severely wounded when the Aramites invaded Jerusalem. Then the remaining leaders conspired and killed him in his bed because they were angry that he killed Zechariah. He was not buried with honors. His son, Amaziah succeeded him as king.
Amaziah was sort of half baked in his walk with God. He killed the people who had killed his father. He got the army together and hired mercenaries from Israel. After a man of God told him that the Israelite soldiers were a bad idea he let them go. This story is pretty much the same as in 2Kings chapter 14 when Judah was defeated by Israel. Amaziah was captured and killed years later. His body was brought home on a horse and was buried.
Uzziah or Azariah became king next. He restored Jerusalem, fought and won battles and sought the Lord. Pride became his undoing. He decided to burn incense in the temple and when the priests warned him against it he had a temper tantrum right there in the temple. Suddenly he became aware that everyone was looking at him differently. The Lord had inflicted him with leprosy. He had to hide himself and was excluded from the temple and company. His son Jotham ruled in his stead.
When Uzziah died Jotham became king. He walked with God and was rewarded for it. He became a powerful ruler. He was succeeded by Ahaz.
Ahaz did not follow the commandments of God and worshiped idols. God handed him over to whomever attacked Judah. Even though Israel defeated Judah and took plunder, some clearer headed leaders advised them not to and they listened. Ahaz was so desperate that he even tried to bargain with the king of Assyria and give him some things from the temple, but it didn't work. He closed the temple and set up little altars everywhere. He provoked God to anger. Later he died and was buried without honors and his son, Hezekiah became king.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 29-31
After Jehoiada died, there was no one to keep Joash on the straight and narrow and he went the way of the wicked. None of the prophets God sent could get through to them that they needed to change. Even Zechariah the son of Jehoiada tried, but they stoned him. Joash killed the son of the man who saved his life when he was little. Joash was severely wounded when the Aramites invaded Jerusalem. Then the remaining leaders conspired and killed him in his bed because they were angry that he killed Zechariah. He was not buried with honors. His son, Amaziah succeeded him as king.
Amaziah was sort of half baked in his walk with God. He killed the people who had killed his father. He got the army together and hired mercenaries from Israel. After a man of God told him that the Israelite soldiers were a bad idea he let them go. This story is pretty much the same as in 2Kings chapter 14 when Judah was defeated by Israel. Amaziah was captured and killed years later. His body was brought home on a horse and was buried.
Uzziah or Azariah became king next. He restored Jerusalem, fought and won battles and sought the Lord. Pride became his undoing. He decided to burn incense in the temple and when the priests warned him against it he had a temper tantrum right there in the temple. Suddenly he became aware that everyone was looking at him differently. The Lord had inflicted him with leprosy. He had to hide himself and was excluded from the temple and company. His son Jotham ruled in his stead.
When Uzziah died Jotham became king. He walked with God and was rewarded for it. He became a powerful ruler. He was succeeded by Ahaz.
Ahaz did not follow the commandments of God and worshiped idols. God handed him over to whomever attacked Judah. Even though Israel defeated Judah and took plunder, some clearer headed leaders advised them not to and they listened. Ahaz was so desperate that he even tried to bargain with the king of Assyria and give him some things from the temple, but it didn't work. He closed the temple and set up little altars everywhere. He provoked God to anger. Later he died and was buried without honors and his son, Hezekiah became king.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 29-31
20100510
May 10, 2010 2Chronicles 20:14-24:14
As the whole assembly prayed and fasted, suddenly Jahaziel, a Levite stood and started speaking. He told everyone not to be afraid because God would do the fighting for them. They began to sing and praise God. Meanwhile, God had the armies which had gathered against them destroy each other. When the army of Judah arrived at the place where the other armies had gathered against them, all that they could see were dead bodies everywhere. So Jehoshaphat and the army plundered the dead for equipment and clothing and whatever they deemed of value. It took them 3 days to glean all the plunder. Later Jehoshaphat died and was buried with the kings in Judah.
Jehoram succeeded Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. As we read previously, Jehoram did evil things, including killing anyone who could threaten his throne. Something we didn't know was that he received a letter from Elijah the prophet with a message from God. Because he had done evil, killed his brothers, and led the people astray, God would hit him where he lived - hard. His family was going to be taken away and his own death would be very painful, from a disease of the bowels which would cause them to eventually fall out. So, after he watched his family carried away by his enemies, except for Ahaziah, he got sick and his bowels fell out. He passed away to no one's regret.
Then Ahaziah was king of Judah. His mother's name was Athaliah, a granddaughter of Omri king of Israel. He was bad, egged on by his mother. He decided to visit Joram in Israel which made it easier for God to kill them both at the hand of Jehu the new king of Israel. When Athaliah discovered her son was dead she proceeded to kill everyone royal. Unbeknownst to her, Joash was hidden from her in the temple for 6 years. The priest, Jehoiada had been busy behind the scenes to get Joash (a direct descendant of David) on the throne of Judah asap. They made him king and killed Athaliah.
Joash collected taxes as Moses had said and began to repair the temple. This was when they made the collection box and paid the workers with the money. Jehoiada was a good influence on Joash.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 24:15-end of ch 28
Jehoram succeeded Jehoshaphat as king of Judah. As we read previously, Jehoram did evil things, including killing anyone who could threaten his throne. Something we didn't know was that he received a letter from Elijah the prophet with a message from God. Because he had done evil, killed his brothers, and led the people astray, God would hit him where he lived - hard. His family was going to be taken away and his own death would be very painful, from a disease of the bowels which would cause them to eventually fall out. So, after he watched his family carried away by his enemies, except for Ahaziah, he got sick and his bowels fell out. He passed away to no one's regret.
Then Ahaziah was king of Judah. His mother's name was Athaliah, a granddaughter of Omri king of Israel. He was bad, egged on by his mother. He decided to visit Joram in Israel which made it easier for God to kill them both at the hand of Jehu the new king of Israel. When Athaliah discovered her son was dead she proceeded to kill everyone royal. Unbeknownst to her, Joash was hidden from her in the temple for 6 years. The priest, Jehoiada had been busy behind the scenes to get Joash (a direct descendant of David) on the throne of Judah asap. They made him king and killed Athaliah.
Joash collected taxes as Moses had said and began to repair the temple. This was when they made the collection box and paid the workers with the money. Jehoiada was a good influence on Joash.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 24:15-end of ch 28
20100509
May 9, 2010 2Chronicles 16-20:13
Asa had been king of Judah for 35 years when Baasha tried to take away his trade route through Ramah by fortifying it so that no one could get through. Asa paid the ruler of Aram, Ben-Hadad to go in and drive Baasha out. (1Kings 15:16-22) When Baasha heard about it he left and Asa used the stones and timber to build up Geba and Mizpah. God sent a seer to visit Asa with a message. God was not happy that Asa had relied on the king of Aram to help him and not God. This made Asa really mad and he took it out on some of the people and he imprisoned the seer who gave him the message from God. Later he died.
Jehoshaphat, Asa's son succeeded him as king of Judah. The Lord was with him because Jehoshaphat was with God. He sent teachers throughout Judah to teach the people the way of the Lord. They even used the Book of the Law of the Lord and they went around to all the towns of Judah.
Other nations brought gifts to Judah and Jehoshaphat became powerful. Eventually he allied himself with Ahab by marriage and went to visit him. Ahab wanted Jehoshaphat to help him in a battle. Jehoshaphat told Ahab he'd ask God. In those days they seemed to have many prophets to inquire of God on their behalf. This time 400 of them all answered that they should go to war. (If this seems familiar it is because we read this story in 1Kings 22:1-35 see April 17.) The prophet named Micaiah was hated by Ahab because he always had bad news. Micaiah told them his vision of God in heaven and they threw him in jail. They went to war and Ahab was killed.
Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem to find out from another seer that he was in trouble with God for helping a wicked man like Ahab. But since he had done good in taking down the Asherah poles and setting his heart on God, he wasn't all bad. Jehoshaphat went on a preaching tour again. This time he appointed judges to admisister the law of the Lord and settle disputes.
Jehoshaphat heard that the Moabites, Ammonites and Meunites were coming to make war on Judah. He had learned his lesson because he assembled the people and ordered them to fast and he prayed and asked God for help. Everyone - all the men of Judah, their wives and children and babies stood before the Lord and asked for His help.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 20:14-24:14
Jehoshaphat, Asa's son succeeded him as king of Judah. The Lord was with him because Jehoshaphat was with God. He sent teachers throughout Judah to teach the people the way of the Lord. They even used the Book of the Law of the Lord and they went around to all the towns of Judah.
Other nations brought gifts to Judah and Jehoshaphat became powerful. Eventually he allied himself with Ahab by marriage and went to visit him. Ahab wanted Jehoshaphat to help him in a battle. Jehoshaphat told Ahab he'd ask God. In those days they seemed to have many prophets to inquire of God on their behalf. This time 400 of them all answered that they should go to war. (If this seems familiar it is because we read this story in 1Kings 22:1-35 see April 17.) The prophet named Micaiah was hated by Ahab because he always had bad news. Micaiah told them his vision of God in heaven and they threw him in jail. They went to war and Ahab was killed.
Jehoshaphat returned to Jerusalem to find out from another seer that he was in trouble with God for helping a wicked man like Ahab. But since he had done good in taking down the Asherah poles and setting his heart on God, he wasn't all bad. Jehoshaphat went on a preaching tour again. This time he appointed judges to admisister the law of the Lord and settle disputes.
Jehoshaphat heard that the Moabites, Ammonites and Meunites were coming to make war on Judah. He had learned his lesson because he assembled the people and ordered them to fast and he prayed and asked God for help. Everyone - all the men of Judah, their wives and children and babies stood before the Lord and asked for His help.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 20:14-24:14
20100508
May 8, 2010 2Chronicles 11:13-15:19
There are many paths we can take in life. I chose this one in Big Trees State Park in Calaveras County California. Beautiful!
In Judah Rehoboam was king, while in Israel Jeroboam was king. The Levites all over Israel sided with Rehoboam in Judah and moved there. The people all over Israel who followed God went with them to Judah. Rehoboam had 18 wives and 60 concubines, 28 sons and 60 daughters. Rehoboam set apart his son, Abijah as chief prince to become king when he died.
Shishak the king of Egypt attacked Jerusalam in Rehoboam's 5th year as king. Shishak carried off the treasures of the temple. God wanted to teach the people a lesson, that just as they had abandoned Him, He abandoned them. Then Rehoboam turned to God and replaced items in the temple and God stopped being angry with Judah, so they weren't totally destroyed.
Abijah became king of Judah when Rehoboam died. He went to war with Jeroboam of Israel. Abijah addressed the Israelites and reminded them of the covenant made with God that a descendant of David would rule the Israelites. He told them that the Levite priests whom they had rejected made offerings morning and night and remembered God, but the Israelites had rejected Him. In time, the Judites realized they were being attacked from the front and the rear and they prayed to God to deliver them. They raised the battle cry and the priests blew the trumpets and God routed Jeroboam and his army. In all, 500,000 Israelites died by the sword, because the Judites had trusted God. Jeroboam died without regaining power. Abijah grew in strength. He married 14 wives and had 22 sons and 16 daughters. Abijah died and his son, Asa became king of Judah.
Chapters 14 & 15 give a lot of detail about Asa. He worshiped God and cleaned out all the altars and Asherah poles from Judah. He commanded Judah to worship God and there was peace. He fortified cities and built up the army. Eventually they were attacked by the Cushites and they prayed to God for help and got it. They plundered the towns and herds of animals, and went home to Jerusalem.
The spirit of the Lord came upon Azariah and he spoke to Asa. He told him to seek the Lord and he would find Him. Asa took these words to heart and was committed to God all his life. He assembled all Judah and sacrificed 700 head of cattle and 7,000sheep and goats from the plunder they had brought back.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 16-20:13
20100507
May 7, 2010 2Chronicles 8-11:12
My grandmother gave me a bible for Christmas in 1964. (My bible was published by Harper & Row and though I have searched, I cannot find the name of the artist of any of the illustrations in this bible.) That would have made me 5 and a half. I couldn't read, but I loved looking at the pictures inside. This is one of them. At the time I wondered why the pretty woman had such a weird expression on her face. Now I know - she was overwhelmed!
Back in chapter 8... the passage is almost identical to 1Kings 9:10-28.
In chapter 9 when the Queen of Sheba visits Solomon, I notice in verse 9 the bible tells us that there had never been such spices as those the Queen of Sheba gave King Solomon.
I'd still like to see Solomon's throne. The man was nearly dipped in gold!
After Solomon's death, Israel rebelled against Rehoboam. Again this passage is almost identical to 1Kings 12. The final verse of chapter 10 says that Israel has been in rebellion ever since, which makes me wonder about the author.
In chapter 11 more details regarding Rehoboam fortifying Judean cities is clarified in verses 5-12.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 11:13-15:19
20100506
May 6, 2010 2Chronicles 4:11-7:22
If today's passage seems familiar, that's because we read nearly an identical passage last month in 1Kings chapters 7,8 and the first part of chapter 9.
There are some additional bits of information in today's reading, such as meat forks, in ch 4:16.
Also, in chapter 5 it mentions the priests consecrating themselves and the musicians who were present with 120 priests sounding trumpets in verses 11-13. It sounds like quite a jubilant celebration!
In chapter 6:12-13 a description is given of a bronze platform which Solomon stood on and then knelt down and spread his hands toward heaven to address the assembly. In Solomon's prayer there are tiny differences, suggesting a different person recording the details. Some scholars read the statement in verse 42 of Solomon's prayer and interpret it as a request that God not turn Solomon away from Him, assigning responsibility for Solomon's following the Lord's Commandments to God. It would explain how Solomon could make such a complete turn away from God during his life.
In chapter 7, when David finished praying fire came down from heaven and consumed the offering. God made a promise to Solomon that IF he followed His commandments, then he would be blessed. If he turned away from God, then it would mean nothing. Solomon would get whatever he would give.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 8-11:12
There are some additional bits of information in today's reading, such as meat forks, in ch 4:16.
Also, in chapter 5 it mentions the priests consecrating themselves and the musicians who were present with 120 priests sounding trumpets in verses 11-13. It sounds like quite a jubilant celebration!
In chapter 6:12-13 a description is given of a bronze platform which Solomon stood on and then knelt down and spread his hands toward heaven to address the assembly. In Solomon's prayer there are tiny differences, suggesting a different person recording the details. Some scholars read the statement in verse 42 of Solomon's prayer and interpret it as a request that God not turn Solomon away from Him, assigning responsibility for Solomon's following the Lord's Commandments to God. It would explain how Solomon could make such a complete turn away from God during his life.
In chapter 7, when David finished praying fire came down from heaven and consumed the offering. God made a promise to Solomon that IF he followed His commandments, then he would be blessed. If he turned away from God, then it would mean nothing. Solomon would get whatever he would give.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 8-11:12
20100505
May 5, 2010 1Chronicles 29:20-end 2Chron 1-4:10
Solomon was acknowledged as king of Israel. By the way, this passage embellishes 1Kings chapter 2. Then David died.
Second Chronicles begins with Solomon's request for wisdom and God's generous gifts to him. The preparations are made for building the temple with Hiram king of Tyre supplying building materials and craftsmen in exchange for food to feed them all. Solomon took a census of the aliens residing in Israel, and he put them to work helping to build the temple.
Solomon built the temple right where David had said, over the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. (2Samuel 24:24) In 1Kings chapter 6 the temple is described in great detail just as it is here. I really wish the original texts had contained drawings, because I would really like to see what the cherubim looked like.
In chapter 4 more detail is given that the basins were used for rinsing the things used for the burnt offerings. The sea was used by the priests for washing.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 4:11-ch7
Second Chronicles begins with Solomon's request for wisdom and God's generous gifts to him. The preparations are made for building the temple with Hiram king of Tyre supplying building materials and craftsmen in exchange for food to feed them all. Solomon took a census of the aliens residing in Israel, and he put them to work helping to build the temple.
Solomon built the temple right where David had said, over the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. (2Samuel 24:24) In 1Kings chapter 6 the temple is described in great detail just as it is here. I really wish the original texts had contained drawings, because I would really like to see what the cherubim looked like.
In chapter 4 more detail is given that the basins were used for rinsing the things used for the burnt offerings. The sea was used by the priests for washing.
Tomorrow read 2Chronicles 4:11-ch7
20100504
May 4, 2010 1Chronicles 26:20--29:20
Someone told me "May the fourth be with you." Now, I know it's just a joke and all, but it got me to thinking about how the world wants to replace God with a more manageable definition of him. Thanks loads, but I'm good with God and all His beautiful mystery.
The men in charge of the treasuries were led by a direct descendant of Moses.
The Israelite army had 24,000 active men each month. Next the officers of each tribe were listed. In Chapter 27:23-24, I found a reason why it was a sin for David to count the men. I had been wondering about that. This was the numbering which got them in trouble. God had told them He would make Israel as numerous as the stars in the sky. Counting them insulted God. I have to say, "Just keep reading!!" The king's Overseers names and what they were responsible for are listed.
Something else I had wondered about were the instructions David had left for Solomon regarding the temple. In 2Samuel chapter 7, David laments to the prophet Nathan that he lives in a fine palace, while the Lord is living in a tent. This is when Nathan tells him what the Lord had said about him not being the one to build the Lord's house, but rather Solomon. Then in 1Kings chapter 7:51 we learn that there are things David had dedicated for the treasuries of the Lord's temple. I wasn't sure what was meant by that. I've said it before and I'll say it again, "Just keep reading!!" because once again more is revealed in 1Chronicles 28 with much more specific information about what David did. He made the plans which God had impressed into his mind and set aside the materials Solomon would need for the temple. I really like David's prayer in chapter 29. I need to be reminded regularly the true source of everything. Without God we're doomed.
Tomorrow finish 1Chronicles & read 2Chronicles 1-4:10
20100503
May 3, 2010 1Chronicles 23:12-26:19
Before he died, David appointed the Levites their duties in the new temple. To begin this process, he first divided the men according to their clan, then they cast lots to see who would do what. After the Gershonites, he numbered the Kohathites, and the Merarites, then they were given their duties. The sons of Aaron were numbered and cast lots for their temple assignments. Next the rest of the Levites did the same.
The men who played instruments were listed. The way the Bible describes this, it sounds like these skills were passed from father to son. All of them regardless of experience cast lots to find out which job they would fill.
There were many gatekeepers necessary (22 per day) for the temple. The lots were cast for the gates on the East Gate (6 men per day), North Gate (4 men per day), South Gate (4 men per day), West Gate (4 men at the road and 2 at the court itself), and the storehouse (2 men.) These gatekeepers were descendants of Korah and Merari.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 26:20-29:20
The men who played instruments were listed. The way the Bible describes this, it sounds like these skills were passed from father to son. All of them regardless of experience cast lots to find out which job they would fill.
There were many gatekeepers necessary (22 per day) for the temple. The lots were cast for the gates on the East Gate (6 men per day), North Gate (4 men per day), South Gate (4 men per day), West Gate (4 men at the road and 2 at the court itself), and the storehouse (2 men.) These gatekeepers were descendants of Korah and Merari.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 26:20-29:20
20100502
May 2, 2010 1Chronicles 19:10-23:11
First Chronicles chapter 19 is similar to 2Samuel chapter 10. This chapter tells of another military victory of David and his warriors against the Ammonites.
Chapter 20:1 is similar to 2Samuel 11:1, in which Joab led David's army against the Ammonites in a town called Rabbah, while David remained in Jerusalem. The Bible doesn't tell us, but at some point, David must have gone to Rabbah, because he took the crown from their king's head and placed it upon his own. It weighed one talent, which is 75 pounds, and had jewels on it. Then David and his army returned to Jerusalem. In 2Samuel 11:2 (April 4) the history of Bathsheba, Solomon's mother is next, however, in today's reading there is no mention of her. Starting with verse 4 of chapter 20 which describes the war with the Philistines, the text is similar to 2Samuel 21:18-22. This is the part where the brother of Goliath is killed. Also, Daivd and his fighting men kill the descendants of the Rephaim.
Chapter 21 chronicles David's sin of taking a census which is also told in 2Samuel chapter 24 (April 8&9). I'm not really sure why this angered God so much, but it did and David was given a choice of 3 punishments to choose from. He chose to be punished by God rather than by men. An angel came and killed 70,000 men, which made God sad, so he commanded the angel to stop! He stopped right at the threshing floor of a man named Araunah the Jebusite. When they saw the angel with his sword they fell on their faces. David paid Araunah for his threshing floor and built an altar and made sacrifices and burnt offerings there. He didn't go to the tabernacle because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the Lord.
In chapter 22, David said the house of the Lord was to be built at the threshing place. Since he knew that he wasn't going to be the one to build the temple, but Solomon was, he collected materials for it from many places. 1Kings 7:51 (April 12)mentioned things which David had dedicated for the temple which Solomon moved into it, but didn't really say much about that, so this passage fills in some of those detalis.
When David was old, he made his son Solomon king over Israel. He appointed craftsmen to build the temple, gatekeepers, and musicians for the temple. He gathered all the men together by tribe and family and gave them duties to perform.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 23:12-26:19
Chapter 20:1 is similar to 2Samuel 11:1, in which Joab led David's army against the Ammonites in a town called Rabbah, while David remained in Jerusalem. The Bible doesn't tell us, but at some point, David must have gone to Rabbah, because he took the crown from their king's head and placed it upon his own. It weighed one talent, which is 75 pounds, and had jewels on it. Then David and his army returned to Jerusalem. In 2Samuel 11:2 (April 4) the history of Bathsheba, Solomon's mother is next, however, in today's reading there is no mention of her. Starting with verse 4 of chapter 20 which describes the war with the Philistines, the text is similar to 2Samuel 21:18-22. This is the part where the brother of Goliath is killed. Also, Daivd and his fighting men kill the descendants of the Rephaim.
Chapter 21 chronicles David's sin of taking a census which is also told in 2Samuel chapter 24 (April 8&9). I'm not really sure why this angered God so much, but it did and David was given a choice of 3 punishments to choose from. He chose to be punished by God rather than by men. An angel came and killed 70,000 men, which made God sad, so he commanded the angel to stop! He stopped right at the threshing floor of a man named Araunah the Jebusite. When they saw the angel with his sword they fell on their faces. David paid Araunah for his threshing floor and built an altar and made sacrifices and burnt offerings there. He didn't go to the tabernacle because he was afraid of the sword of the angel of the Lord.
In chapter 22, David said the house of the Lord was to be built at the threshing place. Since he knew that he wasn't going to be the one to build the temple, but Solomon was, he collected materials for it from many places. 1Kings 7:51 (April 12)mentioned things which David had dedicated for the temple which Solomon moved into it, but didn't really say much about that, so this passage fills in some of those detalis.
When David was old, he made his son Solomon king over Israel. He appointed craftsmen to build the temple, gatekeepers, and musicians for the temple. He gathered all the men together by tribe and family and gave them duties to perform.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 23:12-26:19
20100501
May 1, 2010 1Chronicles 16-19:9
The ark is brought to Jerusalem in great celebration. David's Psalm of thanks comes next. "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." David set up ministers to perform the duties pursuant to the ark and the daily offerings. David laments that he is sitting in his fancy palace and the Lord is in a tent. Then God speaks to David through the prophet Nathan to tell him that he is not the one to build God's house, rather, his son will do so. God promises David that one of his own sons would succeed him and build a house for Him. This foretells the Savior, Jesus Christ. David prayed and thanked God.
As time passed, David defeated his enemies by the thousands. David was a just leader of the Israelites.
Later, David sent a delegation to king Hanun, the son of the friend of David who had died, to show him kindness. Unfortunately, Hanun was given bad information by his counselors and they humiliated the delegates. This started another war.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 19:10-23:11
As time passed, David defeated his enemies by the thousands. David was a just leader of the Israelites.
Later, David sent a delegation to king Hanun, the son of the friend of David who had died, to show him kindness. Unfortunately, Hanun was given bad information by his counselors and they humiliated the delegates. This started another war.
Tomorrow read 1Chronicles 19:10-23:11