The difference between what you need and want

Today: 1 Kings 12-14

There's sometimes a difference between what you need and what you want.

Tomorrow is Monday and I'd personally LOVE to sleep in. I'd love to have an extra day to clean house, watch a movie or go out with my friends. But I need a paycheck. And there are people counting on me to show up at work tomorrow--so I should follow through, despite what I want (at the most basic level, anyway).

When it comes to advice, there can definitely be a difference between what you need to hear and what you want to hear. I thought a story in today's passage really illustrated this. Take a look at this part of the passage when the people of Israel approached their new king, Solomon's son Rehoboam:

They said to Rehoboam,

"Your father made life hard for us—worked our fingers to the bone.

Give us a break; lighten up on us and we'll willingly serve you."
"Give me three days to think it over, then come back," Rehoboam said.
King Rehoboam talked it over with the elders

who had advised his father when he was alive:

"What's your counsel? How do you suggest that I answer the people?"
They said, "If you will be a servant to this people,

be considerate of their needs and respond with compassion,

work things out with them, they'll end up doing anything for you."
But he rejected the counsel of the elders

and asked the young men he'd grown up with

who were now currying his favor,

"What do you think?

What should I say to these people who are saying,

'Give us a break from your father's harsh ways—lighten up on us'?"
The young turks he'd grown up with said,

"These people who complain, 'Your father was too hard on us; lighten up'—

well, tell them this: 'My little finger is thicker than my father's waist.

If you think life under my father was hard, you haven't seen the half of it.

My father thrashed you with whips; I'll beat you bloody with chains!'"
Three days later Jeroboam and the people showed up...

The king's answer was harsh and rude.

He spurned the counsel of the elders

and went with the advice of the younger set...

A few interesting things about this passage:

• Rehoboam was the son of Solomon--one of the wisest people to ever live. As such, I think that Rehoboam probably knew what wisdom sounded like.
  
• Rehoboam first sought out the counsel of trusted advisers who helped his father rule the kingdom. These guys had experience and credibility. They spoke the truth--but Rehoboam rejected it.
  
• When he didn't get the advice he wanted, he turned to his posse of pleasers--people who cared more about getting an "in" with the king than they cared about doing the right thing.

This passage interested me because in our world, I think it's easy for people to find the advice and instruction they want to hear. There are so many schools, churches, politicians, "news" programs and Web sites to choose from--you can find those that fit exactly what you want, exactly what you're looking for. But ask yourself: Is that really what you need?

In some cases, maybe it is. But be careful if you find yourself reading, watching, and listening only to those who are exactly like you--particularly if there's something in your heart that doesn't feel right about it and the advice you're getting is contrary to what's in the Bible (the whole Bible).

Speaking of, if you're really interested in making wise decisions or going after God's purpose for your life, it helps to know what wise people--or better yet, God (as wisdom itself!) has to say. Surround yourself with such people and better yet, read the Bible yourself.

But even if you have wise people in your life and read the Bible for yourself, you will have moments when you don't want to follow what they have to say. You're human. In those moments, I hope that you (and I) will learn a lesson from Rehoboam. I hope that instead of seeking out advice that tells you what you want to hear and what's easy to do, that you'll realize exactly what you need. I hope you'll make a conscious choice to do the right thing (even if it's not easy) and listen to that inner voice in your heart. It might just be God talking to you.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 15-17

Famous people

Today: 1 Kings 10-11

Today I had an actual brush with fame. Seriously. I stood in line with a few friends to try and meet a star from one of my FAVORITE shows as a preteen. That's right, ladies and gentlemen--it was Mario Lopez from "Saved by the Bell."

The line snaked around a store entrance. When Mario arrived, grown women (not me or my friends--in case you were wondering) started shrieking and screaming like little girls at the mall waiting to see Hannah Montana.

The line was SO LONG that my friends and I gave up after an hour and a half of waiting (he did walk right by us, shook my friend's hand and patted her baby's head). We like Mario and everything, but we were mostly there to meet an icon from our childhood memories...and get a picture to make our Facebook friends jealous. :)

I thought about my brush with a famous person as I read today's passage about Solomon and his fame. Mario (as cool as he is) is best known for a TV show (or two...or three), a mullet and a great smile. Mario's fans have heard about him through TV and the Internet. But Solomon? He was famous well before modern technology. Solomon was famous through word of mouth. But don't take my word for it--let's re-read portions of this passage:

The queen of Sheba heard about Solomon

and his connection with the Name of God.

She came to put his reputation to the test by asking tough questions...

She came to Solomon and talked about all the things that she cared about,

emptying her heart to him.

Solomon answered everything she put to him—

nothing stumped him.

When the queen of Sheba experienced for herself

Solomon's wisdom...

it took her breath away.
She said to the king, "It's all true!

Your reputation for accomplishment and wisdom

that reached all the way to my country is confirmed.

I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it for myself;

they didn't exaggerate!

Such wisdom and elegance—

far more than I could ever have imagined.

Lucky the men and women who work for you,

getting to be around you every day

and hear your wise words firsthand!

And blessed be God, your God,

who took such a liking to you and made you king.

Clearly, God's love for Israel is behind this,

making you king to keep a just order and nurture a God-pleasing people."

Pretty cool, right? Solomon was definitely famous. It wasn't just the Queen of Sheba that heard about him or came to visit--the passage says, "People came from all over the world to be with Solomon and drink in the wisdom God had given him." Wow.

I think it's interesting because Solomon never aspired to be famous. He wanted to love God and to serve people well as a young leader--so he asked God for wisdom. His wisdom made him famous, but more importantly, it made God famous. In several portions of the passage, people identified the greatness in Solomon with the greatness of God.

Food for thought: Even if you're never famous, what will people you actually know say about the greatness in you?

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 12-14

Solomon's prayer

Today: 1 Kings 8-9

A few days ago, I posted portions from one of David's prayers. In today's passage, Solomon's prayer of dedication at the temple stood out to me most. I thought it would be could to highlight portions of it here. [Note that the ellipses (...) indicate my omissions of the text. This is just a snapshot of some great verses--please read the chapters along with me for the full picture.]

O God, God of Israel,

there is no God like you

in the skies above or on the earth below

who unswervingly keeps covenant with his servants

and relentlessly loves them

as they sincerely live in obedience to your way.

You kept your word to David my father,

your personal word.

You did exactly what you promised—

every detail.

The proof is before us today!
Keep it up, God...

Can it be that God will actually move into our neighborhood?

Why, the cosmos itself isn't large enough to give you breathing room,

let alone this Temple I've built.

Even so, I'm bold to ask:

Pay attention to these my prayers,

both intercessory and personal,

O God, my God.

Listen to my prayers...

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 10-11

Wouldn't that be grand?

Today: 1 Kings 6-7

I'm amused by the words people use in old movies and TV shows. When was the last time you heard anyone say "groovy" or "swell"? (For me, "The Brady Bunch" comes to mind...)

One old-fashioned word I don't hear often? "Grand." Why is that?!? I can't imagine a college student saying, "Check out my iPhone. Isn't it grand?" Grand is such an awe-inspiring word. I wonder if it's rarely used because it's reserved for describing truly rare, jawdropping and overwhelmingly beautiful people, places and things.

When I read today's passage and descriptions of the temple Solomon built for God, "grand" came to my mind. Cedar! Bronze! And gold? The passage describes SO MUCH gold and glitter that it puts Donald Trump's homes and a TBN set to shame! :) Solomon and the people of Israel spared no expense. God's house wasn't built by the lowest bidder using the most cost-effective materials. It was built to honor and worship God. The sacrifices made to build the Temple visually demonstrated the great devotion of people who wanted t0 serve God.

I know, I know. Some readers may think, "That sounds nice, but I don't actually have gold to give to God." or "My church can't afford to look like that--and it might be kind of cheesy in today's modern times." Maybe. But these objections aren't really tied to the main point of this post. I'm not talking about building a grand Temple--I'm talking about the grandness in hearts that would want to do so.

It's not as if God needs your gold, your sacrificial gifts of time or talent or even your love. But doesn't He deserve them? Wouldn't it be grand to honor Him with those things? Wouldn't it be amazing if people who visited your church or met Christians thought, "Wow! Those people really love God. They're so loving and generous toward each other and toward me. I can't put my finger on how to describe it...but I know I like it." I do: grand.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 8-9

What to do when you're overwhelmed

Today: 1 Kings 3-5

"How do you feel?

If we did a poll on the street and asked people to honestly answer this question, I bet the word "overwhelmed" (or some equivalent) would come up often.

People around us could be overwhelmed if they're unemployed or if their jobs are extra demanding. Perhaps they've just had a new baby. Maybe they're facing a health crisis, significant debt or divorce. This list could get REALLY long and depressing. But that's not what this post is about.

In today's passage, a young king named Solomon was feeling...well, overwhelmed. His father David died after successfully ruling a nation for over 40 years. After some serious family drama, Solomon took the throne. But he was young and inexperienced. How could he lead palace staff, an army...and the rest of the country?

Solomon generously gave God an offering. And then God talked with Solomon in a dream:

God said, "What can I give you? Ask."

Solomon said, "You were extravagantly generous in love

with David my father, and he lived faithfully in your presence,

his relationships were just and his heart right.

And you have persisted in this great and generous love by giving him—

and this very day!—

a son to sit on his throne.

"And now here I am:

God, my God, you have made me, your servant,

ruler of the kingdom in place of David my father.

I'm too young for this, a mere child!

I don't know the ropes, hardly know the 'ins' and 'outs' of this job.

And here I am,

set down in the middle of the people you've chosen,

a great people—far too many to ever count.

"Here's what I want: Give me a God-listening heart

so I can lead your people well,

discerning the difference between good and evil.

For who

on their own

is capable

of leading

your glorious people?"

A few things that stood out to me today:

• I love how the message describes Solomon's request as a plea for a "God-listening heart." In most translations, it's wisdom. But aren't they synonymous with each other? Wise people listen to God, who is wisdom itself.
  
• Listening is a common action for wise people--they listen to others and have the ability to learn from what they say (even if it's what not to do).
  
• Perhaps most of all, I love God's initial request to Solomon--ask! God loved Solomon and didn't want to leave him feeling lost or overwhelmed. He cared. He offered help. And He delivered.
  
• God's question and offer to Solomon wasn't a one time event exclusively for one person. Repeatedly, He offered a similar solution to other people in the Bible...and I think the request extends to us, too. (See Jesus' words in Matthew 7, for example.)

Don't be overwhelmed--it's okay to ask for help. We could all use a little more wisdom in our lives--and our world could also use some more people with God-listening hearts.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 6-7

Faulty assumptions

Today: 1 Kings 1-2

How much of our lives are driven by assumptions?

I assume that when I finish typing this post, it will show up on this site without a hitch. I assume that I'll sleep tonight, wake up in the morning and go to work. I assume that my house, city and workplace are safe. I assume that a message from a friend and a trip to Starbucks will brighten my day tomorrow...and hopefully I'll brighten up the day for at least one other person. I assume that I'm healthy and that I'll keep trekking along as is for a long time (I'm a little in denial about wrinkles at this point!). I assume that I'm funny (at least sometimes?) and well loved by two dogs, four family members, some Starbucks employees who give me free extra shots, co-workers and a crew of amazing friends.

Some of these assumptions may be true and others are false, but they're all just ideas in my head unless they're confirmed by reality. It's important to correctly label some of our critical assumptions as assumptions...otherwise, we are in danger of making some serious errors.

In today's passage, David's son Adonijah made some pretty big (and inaccurate) assumptions. Worse, he acted on his assumptions without confirming the facts. And even when it was obvious that he wouldn't be king, Adonijah assumed King Solomon (the brother he betrayed earlier) would cater to his request. Not so much.

As I close this post, I thought it would be good for us to think about our assumptions by asking ourselves some questions. It might even help to write down some answers.

• What kinds of assumptions do you have...
  
  - about yourself?
  - about other people in your life?
  - about the world around you?
  - about money?
  - about church/religion?
  - about God?
  
• Why is it important to identify assumptions?
  
• If you have a false assumption, how do you change it?

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 3-5

David's prayer

Today: 2 Samuel 22-24

As a "man after God's own heart," I think David knew a few things about how to talk to God through prayer. I really loved the prayer in today's passage--besides speaking the truth, I thought it included some beautiful timeless words about God that could apply to you and me, too. Take a look at this section where David is talking about God's steady presence when he faced opposition:

...They hit me when I was down,

but God stuck by me.

He stood me up on a wide-open field;

I stood there saved—surprised to be loved!

God made my life complete

when I placed all the pieces before him.

When I cleaned up my act,

he gave me a fresh start.

Indeed, I've kept alert to God's ways;

I haven't taken God for granted.

Every day I review the ways he works,

I try not to miss a trick.

I feel put back together,

and I'm watching my step.

God rewrote the text of my life

when I opened the book of my heart to his eyes...

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 1-2

The domino effect

Today: 2 Samuel 19-21

Have you ever thought about the different parts of your life--work, family, finances, health--as dominoes? When one "domino" topples over, it often impacts something else. You lose your job and start to eat more chocolate. You have a difficult child and suddenly your marriage starts to struggle. Your credit card debt is so overwhelming that it makes you hate your (modest paying) job.

The tragic thing about "the domino effect?" It could be stopped in an instant. Our lives aren't comprised of dominoes. I believe that they're a combination of decisions and destiny. Often, if you choose to recognize the value of something, it can be restored.

David learned that lesson in today's passage. After David's army conquered his enemy--led by David's son Absalom who died in battle--David was distraught. Let's review:

Joab was told that David was weeping and lamenting over Absalom.
The day's victory turned into a day of mourning
as word passed through the army,
"David is grieving over his son."
The army straggled back to the city that day demoralized, dragging their tails.
And the king held his face in his hands and lamented loudly,
O my son Absalom, Absalom my dear, dear son!
But in private Joab rebuked the king:
"Now you've done it—knocked the wind out of your loyal servants
who have just saved your life,
to say nothing of the lives of your sons and daughters, wives and concubines.
What is this—loving those who hate you and hating those who love you?
Your actions give a clear message: officers and soldiers mean nothing to you.
You know that if Absalom were alive right now, we'd all be dead—
would that make you happy?
Get hold of yourself; get out there and put some heart into your servants!
I swear to God that if you don't go to them they'll desert;
not a soldier will be left here by nightfall.
And that will be the worst thing that has happened yet."

Luckily for David, Joab brought him back to reality. It was appropriate for David to mourn his son. But to neglect honor for the soldiers who saved the rest of his family? Not a good idea.

Sometimes, like David, we forget to see the good things in our lives while we're in the trenches of a crisis--the dominoes that hold us up, if you will. Thankfully, one of those pillars of strength is God Himself--always there, even though we don't see Him or remember to honor Him.

If you've experienced the domino effect in your life lately, choose to clean up the mess through recognition, gratitude and honor.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 22-24

Good news?

Today: 2 Samuel 16-18

How you say something is sometimes more important than what you say. But what you say matters...and it's always important to consider the context.

For example, I'm continually amazed by the really lame things people say to singles--like "Why are you still single?" or "How old are you? You better get married soon before all the good ones are snatched up...and don't you want to have kids?" (If you'd like to view more of these and my commentary along the way, check out this old post.)

On a more serious note, at a funeral for a close friend or family member, have you ever had a well-intentioned guest ask, "Was he/she saved? Did he/she know Jesus?"

I'm sorry if you've done that before...but a funeral (likely for someone you don't know well) is really not the right time or place for those questions.

In today's passage, Joab showed some wisdom with words. Take a look at this part of the passage:

Ahimaaz, Zadok's son, said,

"Let me run to the king and bring him the good news

that God has delivered him from his enemies."

But Joab said,

"You're not the one to deliver the good news today;

some other day, maybe, but it's not 'good news' today."

(This was because the king's son was dead.)

Joab showed wisdom and respect for the king's feelings. He knew that words, intention and context are important.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 19-21

Family drama, failure and forgiveness

Today: 2 Samuel 13-15

God uses imperfect people. This is a fact that I find very refreshing.

Today's passage had a few sad and interesting stories that illustrate this concept. There are a lot of people who bemoan their family backgrounds. They use family dysfunction as an excuse to live mediocre or dysfunctional lives. But most people don't have families plagued both by incestuous rape and several murders--David and his family did. Talk about family drama! I can't imagine experiencing all of the issues David dealt with--but he was remembered for his close relationship with God.

Another interesting thing I noticed in this passage was David's (repeated) failure to recognize his own folly. In yesterday's passage, the prophet Nathan used a story to help David admit his affair with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah (her husband). In today's chapters, a woman told a story that ultimately convinced David to forgive his son.

David is typically characterized as a "man after God's own heart," yet he experienced some epic failures and family drama. Each time, he was restored through forgiveness--either by seeking forgiveness from God or making a difficult decision to forgive someone else. David wasn't perfect by any means...but forgiveness healed his heart and his relationships.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 16-18

An open table

Today: 2 Samuel 8-12

In big cities like L.A. or New York, some restaurants are solidly booked months in advance, but always manage to have room for you...if you're famous. There's always room for a celebrity, professional athlete or political star. But your average Joe or Jane? Not so much.

It's quite a contrast to a story in this passage about David and Mephibosheth. First of all, David wasn't running a fancy restaurant--he was running a country! David was king of the land with vast wealth and power known throughout the region. And Mephibosheth? Not exactly a high-powered celebrity. Not an average Joe or Jane. Mephibosheth was a disabled orphan, shunned by many. He fled his home to escape death after his grandfather (Saul) and father (Jonathan) died. However, David graciously gave Mephibosheth an open invitation to his table and restored Mephibosheth's property ownership. Wow!

As I read this story today, I had a few thoughts.

First, you and I may be like Mephibosheth. In many ways, we are broken and undeserving, but God has chosen to give us an open invitation to his kingdom--all we have to do is accept it.

Second, I wonder who might be like Mephibosheth in our workplaces, cities and churches? Are there people you and I can show love, grace and kindness toward--even though they may be rejected by others?

An open table and an open heart are beautiful things. Who can we share them with?

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 13-15

Because of who You are

Today: 2 Samuel 4-7

Here's one incredible thing about God: He always gives us more than we deserve. That's the amazing thing called grace.

Toward the end of today's passage, David prayed something that struck me (see bold text below). Sometimes our views of God are limited--He isn't just loving, He is love--and that love is evident in everything that pours out of His heart. Take a look:

King David went in, took his place before God, and prayed:

"Who am I, my Master God, and what is my family,

that you have brought me to this place in life?

But that's nothing compared to what's coming,

for you've also spoken of my family far into the future,

given me a glimpse into tomorrow, my Master God!

What can I possibly say in the face of all this?

You know me, Master God,

just as I am.

You've done all this not because of who I am

but because of who you are—

out of your very heart!—

but you've let me in on it.
"This is what makes you so great, Master God!

There is none like you,

no God but you,

nothing to compare with what we've heard with our own ears..."

Another part of the text that struck me? David's words "but you've let me in on it." How is it that people like David, you or me get to be part of God's plan? How is it that we get to know about Him or the things He's doing?

Once again, it's that amazing thing called grace. To quote Will Ferrell? Mindbottling. :) (Or if you're a word nerd like me, "mindboggling.") Wow!

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 8-12

Mourning the enemy

Today: 2 Samuel 1-3

Do you have an "us versus them" mentality?

Lately I've noticed that it's common practice for people to dehumanize those who have opposing views. Republicans do it to Democrats, women do it to men and Christians do it to non-Christians (and vice versa on all of these comparisons, too!). When a battle of ideas becomes a battle to demonize people, it's wrong.

If anyone had an excuse to hate his enemies, it was David. After all, God (via the prophet Samuel) chose David as king while Saul was still on the throne. Saul repeatedly tried to kill David even though David continually treated him with respect and kindness. David did absolutely nothing to justify Saul's rage.

But when Saul died (at the hands of a "mercy" killer), David mourned. He recognized that Saul was anointed by God.

You and I may face opposition from people in our lives. More than likely, they're not trying to kill us. And more than likely, they're not kings or spiritual leaders anointed by God. But if they are human beings, they were created by God. He made something good in them and called them to pursue a purpose. Don't strip your "enemies" of their God-given humanity. Dare to see their potential, celebrate their successes and mourn the loss of any of that God-designed greatness.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 4-7

The strength of trust

Today: 1 Samuel 28-31

Trust is an interesting concept that conjures up different ideas depending on your perspective. Some people view trust as complete surrender--it's like the game where you completely fall backwards, believing that someone will catch you. Trust can be scary because it does always require some vulnerability. At the same time, trust can also bring strength to your life and your relationships...as long as you're putting your trust in the right places.

In a story from today's chapters, David returned home to find that his city was burned to the ground, his wives and possessions captured by an enemy. How devastating! To top it off, David's loyal army of friends was angry at him--they felt that their losses occurred because they sided with David. I can't imagine how the double blow--loss of family and anger of friends--hit David. But I love his response:

David strengthened himself with trust in his God.

In his moment of weakness, David found strength by trusting in God. He didn't find strength in himself or look for it in external stuff--his friends or his armor. In a moment like that, some people would have turned to God in anger, saying, "Why did you let this happen? I trusted you and followed you and now what?!?" But David continued to trust God. He believed that trust would bring strength...and it did.

Tomorrow: 2 Samuel 1-3

A brave heart

Today: 1 Samuel 25-27

Everybody loves a story. And since it's Valentine's Day, I thought it might be interesting to talk about a love story found in today's passage--the unconventional love story of David and Abigail.

When they met, Abigail was actually married to another guy--a foolish idiot named Nabal. Nabal stupidly determined not to treat David (a stranger) well, even though David and his men had protected Nabal's possessions. Abigail recognized her husband's folly. She was savvy. Without completely disrespecting her husband, Abigail approached David with food, an apology and wise words. Her bravery saved the life of her husband and her family and simultaneously saved David from committing a murder that he would have regretted. Let's review his words to her:

David said, "Blessed be God, the God of Israel. He sent you to meet me!
And blessed be your good sense!
Bless you for keeping me from murder and
taking charge of looking out for me.
A close call!
As God lives, the God of Israel who kept me from hurting you,
if you had not come as quickly as you did, stopping me in my tracks,
by morning there would have been nothing left of Nabal but dead meat."
Then David accepted the gift she brought him and said,
"Return home in peace.
I've heard what you've said and I'll do what you've asked."
When Abigail got home she found Nabal presiding over a huge banquet.
He was in high spirits—and very, very drunk.
So she didn't tell him anything of what she'd done until morning.
But in the morning, after Nabal had sobered up, she told him the whole story.
Right then and there he had a heart attack and fell into a coma.
About ten days later God finished him off and he died.
When David heard that Nabal was dead he said,
"Blessed be God who has stood up for me against Nabal's insults,
kept me from an evil act, and let Nabal's evil boomerang back on him."
Then David sent for Abigail to tell her that he wanted her for his wife.
David's servants went to Abigail at Carmel with the message,
"David sent us to bring you to marry him."

This story is interesting because it illustrates how, by walking in wisdom, Abigail was rewarded for her brave heart. By the end of this story, she moved from being the wife of a fool to the wife of a soon-to-be king.

But what would have happened if Abigail stayed silent?

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 28-31

God and revenge

Today: 1 Samuel 21-24

Reading today's passage reminded me of watching a suspense-filled thriller. David was on the run from king Saul, hiding in cities, pretending to be crazy to get away and actually catching up with Saul in a cave. While Saul was in a vulnerable state (going to the bathroom, actually), David had an opportunity to blindside him and kill him. But he didn't. Undetected, he just cut a tiny piece of Saul's robe. Then, he grabbed the king's attention and told him this:

"My master! My king!"

Saul looked back.

David fell to his knees and bowed in reverence.

He called out, "Why do you listen to those who say 'David is out to get you'?

This very day with your very own eyes

you have seen that just now in the cave God put you in my hands.

My men wanted me to kill you, but I wouldn't do it.

I told them that I won't lift a finger against my master—

he's God's anointed.

Oh, my father, look at this, look at this piece that I cut from your robe.

I could have cut you—killed you!—but I didn't.

Look at the evidence! I'm not against you.

I'm no rebel.

I haven't sinned against you, and yet you're hunting me down to kill me.

Let's decide which of us is in the right.

God may avenge me, but it is in his hands, not mine.

An old proverb says, 'Evil deeds come from evil people.'

So be assured that my hand won't touch you.
"What does the king of Israel think he's doing?

Who do you think you're chasing?

A dead dog? A flea?

God is our judge. He'll decide who is right.

Oh, that he would look down right now, decide right now—and set me free of you!"

This is an interesting story because if anyone had a right to seek revenge, it was David. Saul was chasing David unjustly (really because of Saul's own insecurity). God had anointed David to be the country's next king. A lot of people in David's shoes would have reasoned, "Well--that's it. God's called me to be king. Saul's gone crazy. I'm innocent--and completely justified in killing him." David didn't take that approach. He surrendered his life (literally) to God, trusting that God would decide the right outcome.

I think David's approach is wise, but it's also freeing--he did not harbor hate in his heart. Though he was unjustly accused, hurt and on the run to protect his life, he trusted in God's sovereignty. When you trust God to get revenge, you can live with a clear conscience.

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 25-27

Friend love

Today: 1 Samuel 18-20

This weekend many people will celebrate a holiday. Some refer to it as Singles' Awareness Day...which is just SAD. :) For others, it's simply Valentine's Day, a time to be celebrate love. They may buy cheesy gifts like the Hug-E-Gram or a giant stuffed gorilla that's the size of a three-year old. Or they may simply treasure a perfect moment with someone else and think, "How did I ever get so lucky? So blessed? To experience this kind of love?"

But do you remember when Valentine's Day was a little more simple--and yet, still amazing--for virtually everyone?

I remember elementary school Valentine's Day parties where my classmates and I decorated special envelopes with our names. I brought cards (and usually candy) for every kid in my class. I thought carefully and wrote something completely deep and poetic on every card...like "You're cool." or just "Your friend, Jonita." But didn't it feel amazing to get cards from 24 other kids?!? To celebrate the simple love of friends?

The love we have with and for our friends can be very simple...or deep...in its beauty. Friendship is a special kind of love. It's something that we can choose, but yet some friendships have the fingerprints of being God-ordained.

I loved reading about the friendship of David and Jonathan in today's passage. Though his father tried to murder David, Jonathan's friendship with David was so strong that it outweighed family ties. Take a look at his words here:

"...May God do his worst to me if I let you down!

If my father still intends to kill you,

I'll tell you and get you out of here in one piece.

And God be with you as he's been with my father!

If I make it through this alive, continue to be my covenant friend.

And if I die, keep the covenant friendship with my family—forever.

And when God finally rids the earth of David's enemies, stay loyal to Jonathan!"

Jonathan repeated his pledge of love and friendship for David.

He loved David more than his own soul!

Wow. The friend love of David and Jonathan was defined by commitment and sacrifice. Those are gifts that definitely beat Hug-E-Grams. :) Be that kind of friend. And if you have experienced friend love like that, consider yourself amazingly blessed. Take a moment to say "thank you" or send an actual card (not an e-mail). I promise--even if it says, "You're cool", a true friend will appreciate it.

P.S. BONUS! Last year, I wrote a little bit more about the friendship of David & Jonathan--check out this post called "Super Sidekicks."

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 21-24

Plain listening

Today: 1 Samuel 15-17

It's entirely possible to do the right thing the wrong way or with the wrong heart--especially when you fail to listen.

Today's passage included a story about Saul that depicted this concept. God instructed Saul to completely wipe out an enemy. He specifically instructed Saul to leave no living thing. However, Saul kept the best livestock and let the king live. He said that he was planning to sacrifice the best livestock and wealth to God. Really?!? Here's how the prophet Samuel responded:

Then Samuel said,

Do you think all God wants are sacrifices—

empty rituals just for show?

He wants you to listen to him!

Plain listening is the thing,

not staging a lavish religious production.

Not doing what God tells you

is far worse than fooling around in the occult.

Getting self-important around God

is far worse than making deals with your dead ancestors.

Because you said No to God's command,

he says No to your kingship.

Saul tried to outplay God--which never works. It's not like God asked him for anything he wasn't capable of doing. God just wanted him to listen and obey. God's focus was on Saul's motives and his heart.

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 18-20

Let's find out what God thinks

Today: 1 Samuel 13-14

I remember hearing a daunting thought awhile ago: Most of us make the most significant decisions in our lives between the ages of 18 and 30.

But think about it--during that time period, we decide whether or not to attend college. We develop habits for saving and spending. We choose a career...or two...or three. Many people will build key relationships during this time period. Some will have kids. It's also a key lifestage for determining beliefs about God.

Can you tell why I was overwhelmed by that original idea? These are decisions that will significantly shape or define our lives.

Yet often, we take an approach to decision making that is similar to Saul's statements in this passage:

Saul said, "Let's go after the Philistines tonight!

We can spend the night looting and plundering.

We won't leave a single live Philistine!"

"Sounds good to us," said the troops. "Let's do it!"
But the priest slowed them down:

"Let's find out what God thinks about this."

When faced with a major decision (that actually included putting lives on the line), Saul's approach had a "Just do it!" style. He also sought the approval and input of his peers. But he neglected to first consider what God thought about his situation. Uh oh.

At different points in this blog series, I may have talked about the need for a "Just do it!" approach at times. I may have also written about the importance of seeking counsel from people you consider leaders, mentors and wise advisers. However, I hope that those previous posts don't supersede the most important thing: when faced with decisions--small or big--first consider what God thinks.

I think it's actually amazing that God:

1. Usually has definitive thoughts about key topics in our lives (thank goodness for the Bible and it's guidelines!).

2. Wants to be included in our daily decisions. (He's not too busy or too "big" to be part of our everyday lives)

3. Loves and cares so much that He wants to help us make choices. (It's comforting to know that when I pray for God's direction and guidance, He cares enough to actually help.)

If you're like me and facing some important decisions in the next few years, weeks or even days--stop to find out what God thinks. It sounds really simple...but it might just change our lives.

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 15-17

You're not alone

Today: 1 Samuel 9-12

Instead of my commentary, I thought it would be good to think about just a few thoughts from today's passage:

"...God, simply because of who he is,

is not going to walk off and leave his people.

God took delight in making you into his very own people..."

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 13-14

Rejection and the A-list God

Today: 1 Samuel 4-8

Rejection is not fun. If you've ever "put yourself out there" to attend your dream college or land a dream job, girl/guy, role or home--only to be rejected--you know what I'm talking about.

I've had a few interesting conversations with friends over the years that touched on this topic. One time, I was with a small group of Christian guys and girls where some of the girls were lamenting, "What is it with Christian guys?!? They're surrounded by these incredible Christian women, but they just don't ask them out..."

"Guys hate rejection," one of the married guys spoke up.

His statement was simple, but in some ways took me by surprise...not because I hadn't heard or thought it before, but because the guy speaking was an A-list guy. You know who I'm talking about--a guy who is simultaneously committed to God, good looking, friendly, well-mannered, etc. This guy is probably one of those people who was always surrounded by packs of girls at school and church his entire life. When he said it, my first thought was, "You were once afraid of being hurt or rejected?!? Who in her right mind would turn you down?"

It sounded crazy. But today's passage describes a rejection even more tragic--God's people rejecting His leadership in their lives. Take a look:

They presented their case:

"Look, you're an old man,

and your sons aren't following in your footsteps.

Here's what we want you to do:

Appoint a king to rule us, just like everybody else."
When Samuel heard their demand—"Give us a king to rule us!"—

he was crushed.

How awful!

Samuel prayed to God.
God answered Samuel, "Go ahead and do what they're asking.

They are not rejecting you.

They've rejected me as their King.

From the day I brought them out of Egypt

until this very day they've been behaving like this,

leaving me for other gods.

And now they're doing it to you.

So let them have their own way..."

Who could be any more A-list than our God?

In fact, A-list doesn't even come close to describing Him--He's perfection itself. I don't think God fears our rejection, but I know that it hurts Him. God gave His everything to love us, to be with us for eternity. Yet sometimes we reject His leadership in pursuit of Z-list things--money, our selfish desires, bad habits, etc.

The rationale of the people in this passage was also really lame. They said, "Appoint a king to rule us just like everybody else." It's goofy logic, because ultimately, who really wants to be just like everybody else? Most of us want to live a life of significance. People who live significant lives don't follow the crowds. I believe that the best way to live a significant life is to embrace and surrender to God's leadership in your life.

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 9-12

The poured-out heart

Today: 1 Samuel 1-3

Today's passage describes a few great stories from the life of Samuel. His "Here I am" moment with God is probably one of the most famous. But as I read today, the story that stood out to me was the story of Hannah, Samuel's mother. Hannah was unable to have a child and wanted one so badly. She prayed to God with such desperation that the priest, Eli, thought she was drunk. She replied, "The only thing I've been pouring out is my heart, pouring it out to God." Wow!

Her prayer is answered and Hannah gives birth to a son whom she dedicates to God. I loved her prayer at that moment and thought her words proclaiming God's strength and care might bring hope to anyone reading them:

I'm bursting with God-news!

I'm walking on air.

I'm laughing at my rivals.

I'm dancing my salvation.

Nothing and no one is holy like God,

no rock mountain like our God.

Don't dare talk pretentiously—

not a word of boasting, ever!

For God knows what's going on.

He takes the measure of everything that happens.

The weapons of the strong are smashed to pieces,

while the weak are infused with fresh strength.

The well-fed are out begging in the streets for crusts,

while the hungry are getting second helpings.

The barren woman has a houseful of children,

while the mother of many is bereft.

God brings death and God brings life,

brings down to the grave and raises up.

God brings poverty and God brings wealth;

he lowers, he also lifts up.

He puts poor people on their feet again;

he rekindles burned-out lives with fresh hope,

Restoring dignity and respect to their lives—

a place in the sun!

For the very structures of earth are God's;

he has laid out his operations on a firm foundation.

He protectively cares for his faithful friends, step by step,

but leaves the wicked to stumble in the dark.

No one makes it in this life by sheer muscle!

God's enemies will be blasted out of the sky,

crashed in a heap and burned.

God will set things right all over the earth,

he'll give strength to his king,

he'll set his anointed on top of the world!

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 4-8

Positioned for blessing

Today: Ruth 1-4

Have you ever known somebody who seems continually blessed? Someone who seems to have good things continually come into their lives--and pour out of them, too?

I've known some of these people and at moments, others have labeled me as one of them, too. If you've ever been close to someone who lives a really blessed life, you'll know that it isn't always that way. Most people on this planet--even if they look like they have it all together--have been through some ugly stuff or have had to make some tough choices.

As I read today's passage about Ruth, I thought about her life, my life and the lives of people I know who appear to be continually blessed. Ruth was an absolutely incredible woman who faced tragedy. Her husband, father-in-law and brother-in-law all died while Ruth was young. But Ruth is remembered and recognized throughout the Bible as a blessed woman. She later married a successful man, had a child who became the grandfather of King David and eventually, Ruth's name is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Himself!

Why was she so blessed? I think the answer has to do with the way she positioned herself (which may sound strange). When I write that Ruth was positioned for blessing, I'm not talking about a position of power or some method of maneuvering herself closer to blessing. I think Ruth was blessed because of the positioning of her heart and her life to honor and serve others. Let me explain...

First, Ruth definitely wasn't powerful--she was a woman and a widow. By following her mother-in-law Naomi, Ruth left her country and became a foreigner in a strange land. It couldn't have been easy to leave behind the familiarity of her home to follow her mother-in-law, but Ruth was loyal. Unlike her sister-in-law, Orpah, Ruth didn't abandon Naomi in a desert and push Naomi (a grieving widow and mother herself) to travel alone. She loved Naomi and wanted to support her by working hard in a field to provide for them. She found favor with the owner. Take a look at this passage:

She dropped to her knees, then bowed her face to the ground.
"How does this happen that you should pick me out

and treat me so kindly—
me, a foreigner?"

Boaz answered her, "I've heard all about you—
heard about the way you treated your mother-in-law
after the death of her husband,
and how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth
and have come to live among a bunch of total strangers.
God reward you well for what you've done—
and with a generous bonus besides from God,
to whom you've come seeking protection under his wings."

She said, "Oh sir, such grace, such kindness—
I don't deserve it.
You've touched my heart, treated me like one of your own.
And I don't even belong here!"

Boaz noticed Ruth because of her hardworking spirit, but he had heard about her amazing heart.

There are a few other interesting examples of Ruth being positioned for blessing, sometimes literally. For example, by sticking close to the female workers at Boaz's field, she stayed safe and gleaned a lot of grain. By staying connected to Naomi and following her instructions, Ruth positioned herself to become Boaz's wife--literally sleeping at his feet (all dressed up and smelling pretty), which caused him to notice her--not just as a great worker, but as his potential bride. I love what Boaz said when he finally woke up (probably in more ways than one!):

He said, "God bless you, my dear daughter!
What a splendid expression of love!
And when you could have had your pick of any of the young men around.
And now, my dear daughter, don't you worry about a thing;
I'll do all you could want or ask.
Everybody in town knows what a courageous woman you are—
a real prize!

Interesting stuff, huh? Sometimes being blessed is about literal positioning--it's being at the right place in God's timing. If Ruth wouldn't have left Moab and followed Naomi, for example, she would have never met and married Boaz.

However (and I think it's more often this factor), being positioned for blessing often has a lot to do with how your heart is positioned. There are some Christians today who try to maneuver God's blessing--they think, "If I do X, then God will automatically bless me with Y." Maybe. But I think God's promises of blessing are SO MUCH BIGGER than an equation. God is smart enough to look not just at our actions, but at our motivation. Ruth's love, courage, loyalty, determination and wisdom didn't go unnoticed by Naomi, Boaz or God Himself. Perhaps she was positioned for blessing precisely because she wasn't trying to be--she was just being loving, courageous, loyal, determined and wise.

Tomorrow: 1 Samuel 1-3

Whatever

Today: Judges 19-21

Whatever.

It's probably one of the favorite words of junior highers dealing with teen angst. As a writer, I dislike the word "whatever." It's so vague. It could be so much...or absolutely nothing at all. Ugh!

But how many people are just doing "whatever"? I think it might be a natural instinct. Today's passage describes some pretty horrible and disturbing things (I'm not sure most people know that things like gang rape and a dead body chopped into tiny pieces are described in the Bible). The description at the end of the passage stuck with me:

At that time there was no king in Israel.

People did whatever they felt like doing.

Israel didn't have a government or a king, but in reality, the people did have someone leading them--God. But they rejected Him repeatedly and decided to do "whatever." They chose "whatever they felt like doing" instead of obedience. And it got really ugly.

As much as I dislike the word "whatever," I dislike the attitude. "Whatever" lacks passion, direction or purpose. It's empty and senseless. It's vile and aimless. Let's strive to end the "whatever" life and move our hearts with passion for God and purpose.

Tomorrow: Ruth

What's the secret of your strength?

Today: Judges 16-18

"What's the source of your strength?"

It was the main question Delilah posed to Samson in today's passage. Delilah was definitely deceptive and her quest to know the answer led to the his downfall. He hid the truth from Delilah three times. Here was her response:

She said, "How can you say 'I love you'

when you won't even trust me?

Three times now you've toyed with me,

like a cat with a mouse,

refusing to tell me the secret of your great strength."

She kept at it day after day,

nagging and tormenting him.

Finally, he was fed up—he couldn't take another minute of it.

He spilled it.

He told her, "A razor has never touched my head.

I've been God's Nazirite from conception.

If I were shaved, my strength would leave me;

I would be as helpless as any other mortal."

This section of the story caught my attention today. I may be overanalyzing, but when I read this, I realized that Samson's last answer--that his strength came from his hair--wasn't true, either. Ultimately, Samson's strength came from God. It came because of a commitment he made to God and that God made to him. The long, Fabio-like hair was just a symbol of that promise--the hair didn't make Samson strong.

I wonder if Samson's final answer caused God to have some of the same emotions as Delilah. I wonder if God thought, "How can you say 'I love you' when you won't even trust me?" By giving away part of the secret and wrongly saying that the hair was his source of strength, Samson showed God that He wasn't first in his life. Samson valued his relationship with a manipulative woman more than he valued his promise to God.

The good news for Samson is that he later realized his mistake and asked God for forgiveness. In his final moments, God used him to destroy his enemies and a city filled with evil. To me, this signifies that there's always hope when you know where your strength truly comes from.

Tomorrow: Judges 19-21

Samson and the other woman...not Delilah

Today: Judges 13-15

If you've ever heard about Samson from the Bible, you've probably heard his name linked to a woman named Delilah. They have a pretty famous juicy romance story (we'll read about it later). But before Delilah, Samson was actually married to another woman.

I've read Samson's story before, but I had forgotten this part. As I read today's passage, it was interesting to think about Samson's life and some of the lessons he perhaps could have learned that perhaps could have spared him some heartaches and headaches.

In some ways, it's kind of refreshing to read about a guy who had God's favor and blessing on his life...but who was also a real man with real struggles. From what I can tell, Samson was a sucker for pretty girls with manipulative charm/claws. Samson's God-fearing parents actually questioned his choice for a bride. They said:

"Isn't there a woman among the girls

in the neighborhood of our people?

Do you have to go get a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?"

I like their wording--there's a difference (beyond age) between a woman and the girls (or a man and the guys). Their main concern, though, was the fact that the Philistines were not God-honoring people. They worshipped idols.

Samson's response to his parents?

"Get her for me. She's the one I want— she's the right one."

His rationale is interesting given the context of this passage and the context of his culture. At the beginning of the passage, you'll see that Samson's parents actually were visited by the angel of the LORD (who some theologians actually believe was God Himself) who instructed them to raise Samson in a special, set apart way to dedicate his life to God. They obeyed. They were good parents in a culture where children were instructed to obey their parents (hello, ten commandments!). That's why I think Samson's response is odd. He completely dismisses his parents' advice and doesn't even cite God's direction for his decision.

Samson's unnamed Philistine wife turns out to be more loyal to her people than to him. She deceives him into losing a big bet and then turns around and marries his best man (while Samson believes she's still married to him). It sounds totally crazy. You'd think that if that happened to someone, they'd work really hard to avoid a repeat occurrence. And who knows? Maybe Samson did try to avoid a repeat...but famously, he ended up being deceived by another godless and manipulative woman.

As I read this, I thought about a few different take-aways for us. The first one is similar to something I wrote earlier this week--despite Samson's mistakes, God forgave him and stuck with him. Secondly, I wonder if Samson's life could have been different if he had learned from his early experience with the unnamed Philistine girl. Would he have been seduced by Delilah later? Would he have jeopardized his commitment to God?

I don't know the answers to those last two questions. Nobody's perfect. But living by faith sometimes means getting up when you fall and trusting God to guide you in a different direction.

Tomorrow: Judges 16-18

When God takes trouble to heart

Today: Judges 10-12

Have you ever been around drama people? I'm not talking about people who have a love for Shakespeare or Andrew Lloyd Webber--but people who have rollercoaster emotions and relationships?

Thankfully, I haven't been closely tied to many of them. But if you've ever watched a few minutes of a daytime talkshow or "The Bachelor," you probably know what I'm talking about. As I've read the book of Judges, I feel like I'm watching some drama people--God's people. Throughout Judges and even today's passage, they go through a continuous cycle--disobeying and denying God, crying out in desperation and asking for forgiveness, and then returning to God...for awhile anyway. Take a look at this part of the passage:

Then the Ammonites crossed the Jordan to go to war

also against Judah, Benjamin, and Ephraim.

Israel was in a bad way!
The People of Israel cried out to God for help:

"We've sinned against you! We left our God and worshiped the Baal gods!"
God answered the People of Israel:

"When the Egyptians, Amorites, Ammonites, Philistines, Sidonians—

even Amalek and Midian!—oppressed you

and you cried out to me for help,

I saved you from them.

And now you've gone off and betrayed me,

worshiping other gods.

I'm not saving you anymore.

Go ahead! Cry out for help to the gods you've chosen—

let them get you out of the mess you're in!"
The People of Israel said to God: "We've sinned.

Do to us whatever you think best, but please, get us out of this!"
Then they cleaned house of the foreign gods and

worshiped only God.

And God took Israel's troubles to heart...

I love the last line of this, "And God took Israel's troubles to heart..." Wow. I think God's response to the people is so amazing. Time and time again, He forgave them and took them back after multiple betrayals.

It's exactly like He forgives me every single day when I mess up, when I put other things or other people first, when my motives and attitudes are bad, when I'm a jerk to the people around me....and so many other things. When I simply ask Him for forgiveness and try to turn in a better direction, He takes me back and loves me unconditionally--as if I never messed up in the first place. And when things in my life are messed up--even due to my own missteps--He takes my troubles to heart, just as He did with the Israelites. That kind of love is so amazing that I can't fully comprehend it. I wish that more people had a glimpse of that kind of love--the real kind.

Tomorrow: Judges 13-15

God sees

Today: Judges 8-9

I think I've probably talked about it on this blog before, but my parents used to tell us, "The truth always comes out." I used to think that it was a tactic to "scare" us into telling the truth. Maybe. But as I've gotten older, I think the statement is actually freeing...because when I believe, "The truth will always come out," I don't feel like the injustice or evil things I see in society go unnoticed. I know that God sees it, too--and that someday, the good will be rewarded and the evil will face justice.

In today's passage, we read about a pretty evil guy named Abimelech who massacred his own family in a quest for power. But at the end of the passage, God (once again) used a woman to fatally injure an evil militant--and God "avenged the evil Abimelech had done to his father."

We don't always see God's justice. But it's refreshing to me to know that He always sees us. God sees all the good and bad things that happen on this planet--and ultimately, brings evil to justice. However, we all sin at times--and because of the love, grace and sacrifice of Jesus, we can be forgiven for our sin--and experience a different kind of justice, the justice of being justified by Christ. This means that when we believe in Him and ask for forgiveness, He sees us just as if we never sinned. Wow. It's incredible to think that a just God would do that for us. But He does.

Tomorrow: Judges 10-12