Bible Pathways - May 15, 2009
May 15
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Love for their master is the foundation of the people's relationship with David, a type of Christ, and for David's relationship with God. Through their examples we find lessons on loyalty, worship, and sacrifice. Note the oneness of the people (12:38). Bringing back the Ark of God (13:1-4). The wrong way (13:5-13)! So it remains with Obed-edom. Look at what God does for him (13:14).
David's anointing as king of Israel took place when he was but a teenager. After perhaps 10-12 years in exile, he appears to have lost faith in the fulfillment of that anointing (I Sam. 27:1). Consider a few of David's problems. How could God fulfill the prophet's promise that David would be king of Israel when it appeared that Saul would kill him? Saul also was far from being an old man and had rightfully been anointed king. Furthermore, Jonathan, David's best friend, appeared to be rightful heir to his father's throne.
Even after the untimely death of Saul, loyalists in Israel chose his son Ish-bosheth to be their king (II Sam. 2 — 4). But Ish-bosheth (Esh-baal in I Chron. 8:33; 9:39) reigned only two years (II Sam. 2:10) and was murdered. Following this, the leaders of all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. And moreover in time past . . . the Lord thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed My people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over My people Israel. . . . and David made a covenant with them . . . before the Lord; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the Word of the Lord by Samuel (I Chr. 11:1-3).
In many respects David's problems parallel situations that each of us faces today. Just as surely as the Lord gives us a desire to accomplish something for His honor, obstacles will appear. It may be family problems that need to be resolved or financial situations that seem hopeless. Last but not least, Satan reminds us of our past failures and inabilities. We may think that someone else is more qualified. Whatever the case, overcoming these difficulties may seem as impossible to us as becoming king of Israel appeared to David. And, sorry to say, for some, not many arguments are needed to become discouraged and feel there is no use in trying. Once we recognize the authority of Christ over our lives, we will patiently look to Him for direction (Prov. 3:5-6).
The old saying is true, winners never quit and quitters never win. Winners fight the good fight of faith (I Tim. 6:12), put on the whole armour of God. . . . take . . . the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always . . . with all perseverance (keep on praying earnestly) (Eph. 6:11,17-18).
Thought for Today:
God can take a person with a doubtful past and use them to accomplish great things for His glory. What a Miracle Worker He is!
Christ Portrayed:
By David, the anointed king (I Chr. 11:3). Christ is the Anointed One who will soon reign forever as KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:
11:16 hold =b> stronghold; 12:1 close =b> restricted in his movements; in hiding; 12:17 knit =b> joined, united; 12:19 fell . . . to David =b> shifted allegience to David.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East sponsored by Rick Lokites • International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Berry • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Linda Plett • Staff: Bernice Rathbone • Government Official: Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (KS) • Country: Maldives (300,000) 400 miles southwest of Sri Lanka • Major languages: Divehi and English • Christian witnessing is banned • 99.9% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for more faithful Christian workers (I Thess. 1:2-3).
Optional Reading:1 Corinthians 2
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:20
