Spring cleaning

Today: 2 Chronicles 28-31


It's spring and some people get REALLY into spring cleaning. I'm not one of those people...but I do try to at least clean out my closet seasonally. :)

Today's passage actually talks about cleaning. King Hezekiah cleaned house (so to speak) by encouraging priests to clean out God's House...and encouraging people to clean out their lives. Take a look:

"Levites, listen! Consecrate yourselves and consecrate The Temple of God—

give this much-defiled place a good housecleaning.

Our ancestors went wrong and lived badly before God—

they discarded him,

turned away from this house where we meet with God, and walked off...

Children, don't drag your feet in this!

God has chosen you to take your place before him

to serve in conducting and leading worship—

this is your life work;

make sure you do it and do it well."

The priests started from the inside and worked out;

they emptied the place of the accumulation of defiling junk—

pagan rubbish that had no business in that holy place...

I love how these verses describe the inside-out cleaning of the Temple. In the New Testament, Christians are described as temples (see 1 Corinthians 6:19)--because similar to the Temple in the Old Testament days, God can live in us and transform our lives from the inside-out.

I love that in this passage, Hezekiah said, "Clasp God's outstretched hand." It's a beautiful picture of how God reaches out to humanity. He does the cleaning--we just have to invite Him and let Him get to work.

Some people find it hard to admit that they have junk in their hearts--they feel embarrassed to let God see it or clear it up. But the fact is, God already knows about your messy house and your messy life.

Others think that they can clear out all the junk in their lives themselves...but they forget about the random trash under the bed, the forgotten filth in the hall closet and the microscopic bacteria that lies in their carpet fibers. Junk is still junk even if it's hidden or undetected by human eyes. God sees it--and He's the only one who can get rid of it all.

Maybe your heart and your life need some spring cleaning (heck, we all need some clean-up every single day!). Just ask for God's forgiveness and help. Aim to stop making habitual messes in the first place. When your heart has been dusted with a even a few pieces of junk or if it looks like a tornado has wrecked havoc on your life again, just ask for help and forgiveness again. God's cleaning abilities aren't limited to spring, but beautifully timeless.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 32-34

When it gets to your head...

Today: 2 Chronicles 25-27

It was the summer of 1992. I was a 12-year-old hanging out with my best friend, my first major crush and a crew of other kids who will remain nameless (mainly because I don't remember their names). :) It was the era of "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air" and I was wearing shortalls with one strap undone...simply because I thought it was cool. My crush wanted to play baseball in a nearby field. To get there, we all had to climb a fence. And in the exact moment when I wanted to be the prettiest, coolest chick around, my undone strap caught in the fence and ripped my shorts all the way down the back!

Needless to say, I was absolutely mortified. Ever since then, it seems that in the moments when I try to be most impressive, I fall flat on my face (sometimes literally). Perhaps this is God's sense of humor at work in my life...or His natural way of keeping me humble. :)

Joking aside, the desire to be successful, respected and admired can drive people to do REALLY stupid things. In some cases, this unchecked desire leads to pride and pushes them to dismiss God and His ways.

In today's chapter, King Uzziah exemplified this behavior. (If only he had chosen cheesy 90s clothing instead...) For much of his life, Uzziah was a good guy and a God-fearing king. And then we read this:

...But then the strength and success went to his head.

Arrogant and proud, he fell.

One day, contemptuous of God,

he walked into The Temple of God like he owned it and took over,

burning incense on the Incense Altar.

The priest Azariah, backed up by eighty brave priests of God, tried to prevent him.

They confronted Uzziah:

"You must not, you cannot do this, Uzziah—

only the Aaronite priests, especially consecrated for the work, are permitted to burn incense. Get out of God's Temple;

you are unfaithful and a disgrace!"
But Uzziah, censer in hand, was already in the middle of doing it

and angrily rebuffed the priests.

He lost his temper; angry words were exchanged—

and then, even as they quarreled, a skin disease appeared on his forehead...

Uzziah had his skin disease for the rest of his life

and had to live in quarantine;

he was not permitted to set foot in The Temple of God.

It's interesting that this story appears so close to a similar one we saw yesterday (see "The Disease of Dishonor"). It's not a coincidence that both stories point to the same core issue. Most of us have plenty of "I can do it myself!" moments (just hang out with toddlers for a few hours and you'll see what I mean). The next time you have such a moment, remember me and my ripped shortalls...or this tragic story about Uzziah. It's absurd to think that we can dismiss God and His instructions. Ultimately, life with God isn't about trying to look cool and in control. It's a strange paradox: When you try so hard to be impressive, you'll fail--but when you submit to Him in obedience, you'll shine (Phil. 2:14-15).

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 28-31

The disease of dishonor

Today: 2 Chronicles 21-24

Oh. Wow. Today's passage includes some...how should I say this?...odd?...stories. Perhaps the strangest is the story of a king cursed with incontinence (in a pre-Pepto Bismol and Depends era). Seriously.

King Jehoram was a descendant of David who had blatant disregard for God and His ways. Jehoram built shrines to idols, killed all of his own brothers and lead the nation of Judah in rebellion. Because of his total dishonor toward God, a prophet told Jehoram that God would curse him with a painful disease of the colon. Here's what happened:

After about two years

he was totally incontinent and died writhing in pain.

His people didn't honor him by lighting a great bonfire,

as was customary with his ancestors.

He was thirty-two years old

when he became king and reigned for eight years in Jerusalem.

There were no tears shed when he died

—it was good riddance!—

and they buried him in the City of David, but not in the royal cemetery.

I'm no math wizard, but if I'm looking at the numbers right, it looks like King Jehoram went through a nasty illness and died when he was only 40 years old. What's really tragic is the fact that Jehoram didn't have to live this way--he chose to dishonor God and as a result, he was dishonored himself.

Jehoram was a guy who should have known better. His family had a history of serving God. Jehoram could have sought advice from priests and leaders. As I read this passage, I wondered, "How different would Jehoram's life have been if he chose to serve God? And even when he failed, what would have God done if Jehoram asked for forgiveness?"

I don't know the answers to these questions. I do think that beyond his colon issues, Jehoram had the disease of dishonor--it was a disease that defined and destroyed his life. I, for one, think that the disease of dishonor has destroyed WAY too many lives. And the cure is simple: Live to love and honor God and people. That's it.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 25-27

The Valley of Blessing

Today: 2 Chronicles 18-20

"Expect the unexpected" is often a phrase quoted in reality TV game shows. Maybe it's a phrase that could apply to the Bible as well. In today's passage, I noticed something I hadn't seen before: A reference to the Valley of Blessing.

Think about it: The concept of a Valley of Blessing is unexpected. Most of the time, mountains are associated with blessings--not valleys. Kids still play "King of the Mountain." People talk about "peak performances" as synonymous with triumph. In the Bible, Mt. Sinai and Mt. Zion are referred to as places where God dwells. And conversely, valleys are used to describe major lows or disappointments...like "the valley of shadow and death" (Psalm 23).

In this passage, there's a place named the Valley of Blessing. Why?

The Valley of Blessing represents God's unexpected favor and miraculous power in the midst of trial. In the actual valley described in chapter 20, God's people were surrounded by armies from three neighboring countries trying to attack them--it's like being in the midst of a world war with no (visible) allies. Talk about a valley! I'm sure some of the people felt afraid, overwhelmed, or doomed to die. They trusted God anyway. He confused the enemy armies, so they attacked each other--and Judah was saved.

I've talked with some people lately who experienced their own versions of the Valley of Blessing--people who faced stress, trial and overwhelming fear, but were blessed by God and His peace in the midst of a valley.

If you're in a valley at the moment, look for the blessings. God's a big God--He doesn't just reserve blessings for mountaintop moments. He can show up to stand with you in your valley and overwhelm you with His love.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 21-24

Who can help?

Today: 2 Chronicles 13-17

When you're faced with an impossible situation, where do you turn?

It's a question today's chapters address in a few ways. Even one guy (King Asa) had different answers at moments--sometimes, he was right and at other moments, he was wrong.

In the first scenario, Asa and his army were surrounded by over a million enemy warriors. They were seriously outnumbered and in a very precarious situation. Asa turned to God for help:

Then Asa prayed to God,

"O God, you aren't impressed by numbers

or intimidated by a show of force

once you decide to help:

Help us, O God;

we have come out to meet this huge army

because we trust

in you and who you are.

Don't let mere mortals stand against you!"

God showed up and helped Asa and his army--He performed a major miracle.

However, at another point in Asa's life when his kingdom was threatened again, Asa first went to another king (Ben-Hadad, king of Aram) and requested an ally in battle. After Asa made this pact, Hanani, a prophet, came to visit. The prophet said to King Asa:

"Because you went for help

to the king of Aram and didn't ask God for help,

you've lost a victory over the army of the king of Aram.

Didn't the Ethiopians and Libyans come against you with superior forces,

completely outclassing you with their chariots and cavalry?

But you asked God for help and he gave you the victory.

God is always on the alert,

constantly on the lookout

for people who are totally committed to him.

You were foolish to go for human help

when you could have had God's help.

Now you're in trouble..."

Wow. How quickly we can forget God's help, miracles and willingness to be an ally working on our behalf. I'll be really clear: Getting help from other people is not a bad thing. We all have moments where we need friends and allies. But shouldn't we first ask God for His help--especially if He's proven Himself to us before?

When we first ask God for help, we're making a statement that He is first in our lives--and that we trust Him to come through. We can still get help from people or by being resourceful ourselves...but even other people and our own intelligence are gifts from God. He's ultimately the source of everything good we know. Trust that.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 18-20

Computers, coffee and cubicle perceptions

Today: 2 Chronicles 9-12

When you work with people, you get to know them and all their eccentricities.

For example, when I'm frustrated with my (slow) computer, I bang my mouse on its mousepad or talk to the computer as if it can hear me ("For the love of Pete--what are you thinking, Computer?!?"). I go out for coffee at least once a day to catch up with a friend, see the sun or just get some fresh air and a walk. I like to laugh (sometimes at inappropriate times). I often listen to music while I work and have to stop myself from singing out loud in the middle of an open office environment.

If you talked with my current and former co-workers, you might hear about some of these quirks. But you'd probably hear more.

The people we work with or interact with on a daily basis see us at our best and perhaps our worst. What would they say about you? How do they feel about being around you every day?

In today's passage, I liked what the Queen of Sheba said to Solomon:

"...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 your God

who has taken such a liking to you,

making you king..."

There are a few things that I gathered from reading the Queen's words here:

1. Be the kind of person others feel lucky to know, work with and/or count as a friend. Because Solomon was such a man, he was able to influence people. Reputation matters.

2. Wisdom counts...but you've got to speak up and listen. If people can trust you to make good decisions, give good advice and speak the truth, they'll respect you. A few key things? Wisdom sometimes means knowing when to listen--and on the flip side, wisdom can also propel you out of silence.

3. In the eyes of others, who you are reflects on Who God is. If you say you believe in God and want to follow Him, people see that--and they'll develop perceptions about God based on how you interact with them. That fact may not be right, but it's reality.

If you're completely judgmental and condescending, they'll see God as judgmental and condescending. If you are kind and generous, they may see God as kind and generous. And if you're undependable and erratic...you get the picture.

4. Who you are can impact where you are...and how you respond. Solomon's character and as a result, God's blessing, raised him up to a position of power. His response to that power was also a reflection of his integrity. I don't believe that there's a set formula for success (people in the Bible like Joseph, David, and Solomon all struggled at times and made bad decisions, too!). But even in the midst of crisis (some would argue especially in a crisis!), who you are determines your attitude and response.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 13-17

The proof is in the promise

Today: 2 Chronicles 6-8

Here's one thing I've learned while reading through the Bible for this blog project: There are definitely common threads throughout. One that never gets old? The idea that God keeps His promises. Take a look at a few portions of Solomon's prayer from today's chapters:

....And now you see the promise completed.

God has done what he said he would do...

God, O 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 unfailingly

loves them

while they sincerely live in obedience

to your way.

You kept your word to David my father, your promise.

You did exactly what you promised—every detail.

The proof is before us today!

Trust is a big hang-up for people. Many are jaded because of lives marked by unkept promises--from parents, friends, exes, employers, you name it! I've often heard comments like, "I'll believe it when I see it" or "The proof is in the pudding." There's sometimes an element of truth to these statements. But when it comes to God, I've noticed throughout the Bible that He's proved His truth worthiness over and over and over and over and over again. With God, the proof is in the promise--you and I can count on that.

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 9-12

Like, love, staples and superglue

Today: 2 Chronicles 2-5


A few months ago, I was reading a magazine ad that caught my attention (yeah, I know it's a little weird--I actually read ads). Here's what it said:

Don't just like.

LIKE is watered-down love.

Like is mediocre.

Like is the wishy-washy emotion of the content.

Athletes don't do it for the like of the sport.

Artists don't suffer for the like of art.

There is no I like NY T-shirt.

And Romeo didn't just like Juliet.



LOVE. Now that's powerful stuff.

Love changes things.

Upsets things.

Conquers things.

Love is at the root of everything good that has ever happened and ever will happen.


LOVE what you do.*

I LOVE this ad because I think that most of the time, we live in the Land of Like (hello, Facebook button!). What separates love and like? Passion that leads to undying commitment. Like is a staple easily removed; love is superglue. Scratch that--love is fire that welds things together and leaves them permanently altered.

In today's passage, I loved this declaration about God's kind of love:

The choir and trumpets made one voice of praise and thanks to God—

orchestra and choir in perfect harmony singing and playing praise to God:

Yes! God is good!

His loyal love goes on forever!

What and who do you really LOVE? What's the evidence of your loyal, fire-fused love?

*Credit: This was an ad for BlackBerry. Hopefully, that does not lessen the impact of its words for iPhone lovers. Note that the author is Switzerland-style impartial in the great BlackBerry versus iPhone debate. :)

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 6-8

Generosity, giving and God

Today: 1 Chronicles 28-2 Chronicles 1

In today's passage, this portion of one of David's final prayers (just before he passed the throne and Temple-building project on to his son Solomon) stood out to me most. I love the phrasing in The Message and though this excerpt is short, there's a lot of great wisdom and heart :

"...But me—who am I, and who are these my people,

that we should presume to be giving something to you?

Everything comes from you;

all we're doing is giving back what we've been given from your generous hand.

As far as you're concerned,

we're homeless, shiftless wanderers like our ancestors,
our lives mere shadows, hardly anything to us.

God, our God, all these materials—

these piles of stuff for building a house of worship for you,

honoring your Holy Name—

it all came from you!

It was all yours in the first place!

I know, dear God, that you care nothing for the surface—

you want us, our true selves—

and so I have given from the heart, honestly and happily.

And now see all these people doing the same, giving freely, willingly—

what a joy!

O God, God of our fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Israel,

keep this generous spirit alive forever

in these people always,

keep their hearts set firmly in you.

And give my son Solomon

an uncluttered and focused heart

so that he can obey what you command,

live by your directions and counsel,

and carry through with building The Temple for which I have provided."

Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 2-5

Security!

Today: 1 Chronicles 25-27

If you think of places where security guards are present at every entrance, I would guess that church wouldn't be at the top of your list.

Over the past few weeks...okay, over the past 24 hours...I've experienced the fact that security guards are present at airports and borders. They guard famous sites like Buckingham Palace. They guard precious materials--like those found at Tiffany & Company. But most churches today don't have security guards at every single entrance during every single moment of the day.

That's why I was a little taken aback to read about them in today's Old Testament passage. It's only been a (relatively) recent phenomenon over the past few hundred years ago to have constant, thorough security at borders and jewelry shops. Yet thousands of years ago, God designated people to monitor the security of His House. Why?

From a practical standpoint, I guess we could argue that it was guarded heavily because of its value...the Temple in the Old Testament had WAY more precious metal than all of Donald Trump's properties put together. But I also wonder if God appointed security for the Temple to make a statement to the Israelites about its non-monetary value? Perhaps He wanted His House to be highly respected and revered, protected, treasured and safe.

Do you feel that way about God's House today?

It's an interesting question and train of thought. Let's be clear: I'm not prescribing that your church needs full-time security staff (just say "no" to Paul Blart-like characters...trust me) :) or a decor style that The Donald would approve. However, part of me wonders if people today have lost that sense of awe and value for God's House. More importantly, I wonder if we've lost those feelings about His presence?

Your church may not be Buckingham Palace or Tiffany's, but do you treasure it? Do you value the beauty of its people, worship and message? Do you enter with an excited, awe-filled heart, like a kid visiting Disneyland or the airport and wondering, "Will I get to meet God here today? Really?!?" I hope so.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 28-2 Chronicles 1

You're all set

Today: 1 Chronicles 22-24

The past few weeks, I’ve been traveling a lot…on a really big boat, planes, cars and right now, I’m actually on a train. It’s a really good feeling (especially at the airport) when you’ve checked in your bags, picked up your boarding pass, get through security and then hear these magical words: “You’re all set.” Love it!

In today’s passage, David said those great words to his son Solomon. But Solomon was set for so much more than planes, trains and automobiles. Take a look at David’s words to his son here:

"So now, son, God be with you.

God-speed as you build the sanctuary for your God,

the job God has given you.

And may God also give you discernment and understanding

when he puts you in charge of Israel

so that you will rule in reverent obedience

under God's Revelation.

That's what will make you successful,

following the directions

and doing the things that God commanded

Moses for Israel.

Courage!

Take charge!

Don't be timid;

don't hold back.

Look at this—

I've gone to a lot of trouble

to stockpile materials for the sanctuary of God…

And you're free to add more…

You're all set—get to work!

And God-speed!"

What I love about this passage is what it reveals about the concept of legacy. David left Solomon great wealth, but not just in material things. In this brief excerpt, we can see how David passed along spiritual guidance, encouragement and advice. But David set up his son with more than just words—he tangibly gathered things and people together to help Solomon complete his life’s work (building a temple for God). David never saw the temple, yet he sacrificed his time, wealth and energy to prepare for its existence.

As I read this passage, I looked at it from both ends—the David side of setting up someone else and the Solomon side of reaping benefits from previous generations. Here are a few simple questions that I’m asking myself…and maybe you want to ask them, too:

• How have you been “set up” by other people (family, friends, co-workers and complete strangers)? By God?
  
• What are you doing to set up someone else for his/her purpose?

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 25-27

Faith and facts

Today: 1 Chronicles 18-21

When I was a baby, my Dad was diagnosed with lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes). Dad and Mom were in their mid-twenties. The doctor conducted tests and had scientific results showing that cancer was present. But my parents had one thing he didn't have: Faith that God could heal Dad. They were new Christians and after hearing the results (and maybe a few tears), Dad said to the doctor, "I believe God can heal me."

The doctor probably thought those words were very naive, tragically cute hope spoken by a young guy with a young family and passionate faith. But before his first chemotherapy treatment, Dad started to feel better. The doctor conducted more tests. And the cancer that had been clearly present before...was gone.

The doctor was astounded. He even wrote my parents a letter (that's now sitting framed on their dresser) giving Dad a clean bill of health and confirming the inexplicable truth. And for the record, it's over 25 years later and Dad has not had a recurrence of cancer. At all.

I shared this story because I have been recently reminded that faith and facts are not always aligned. Sometimes, facts confirm a faith that already exists. At other times, facts give us faith. And in this case (like many others), faith exists despite the facts.

Today's passage had a brief story that illustrated this concept. Take a look:

Now Satan entered the scene

and seduced David

into taking a census of Israel.

David gave orders to Joab and the army officers under him,

"Canvass all the tribes of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba,

and get a count of the population.

I want to know the number."
Joab resisted: "May God multiply his people by hundreds!

Don't they all belong to my master the king?

But why on earth would you do a thing like this—

why risk getting Israel into trouble with God?"
But David wouldn't take no for an answer, so Joab went off and did it...

And God, offended by the whole thing, punished Israel.
Then David prayed,

"I have sinned badly in what I have just done,

substituting statistics for trust;

forgive my sin—I've been really stupid."

What's strange about this passage is the fact that it doesn't tell us why David wanted to take a census (other than the fact that Satan prompted the idea). Maybe he was getting a little insecure about the size of his army. Maybe David was getting a little greedy and wanted to collect more money from all of the people. I don't know his rationale...but I'm guessing by the words and context here that David put his faith in facts versus trusting God to take care of him and his kingdom.

If David got hung up on facts instead of trusting God, I know the same thing can (and does) happen to us. But like David, I think it's important for us to recognize when we mess up, ask God for forgiveness and try to move on. Trust isn't trust if it's dependent on statistics. And faith that relies solely on facts isn't faith at all.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 22-24

The love that never quits

Today: 1 Chronicles 15-17

This past week I saw some things that took my breath away—like whales, turtles and jumping dolphins in the wild Pacific. As I read today’s passage, I thought about those God-created masterpieces and agreed with David’s sentiments here. God reigns over earth, sky and sea with a love that never quits. Love it!

God is serious business, take him seriously;

he's put the earth in place and it's not moving.

So let Heaven rejoice, let Earth be jubilant,

and pass the word among the nations, "God reigns!"

Let Ocean, all teeming with life, bellow,

let Field and all its creatures shake the rafters;

Then the trees in the forest will add their applause

to all who are pleased and present before God

—he's on his way to set things right!

Give thanks to God—he is good

and his love never quits.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 18-21

Reputation

Originally written on March 18

Today: 1 Chronicles 12-14

Let’s play a little game. I’m going to write a series of words. As you read them, think about the first adjective that comes to your mind to describe them:

Coca-Cola

Mexico

Michael Jordan

New York

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Princess Diana

McDonald’s

These words may seem a bit random, but it’s likely that each word conjures up an image in your mind. Each one of these people, brands and places has a reputation. And so do you.

There are some people who would argue, “I don’t care what other people think about me” or “God’s opinion is the only one that matters.” And there are others whose decisions are driven by what “everyone” thinks. I’d argue that neither approach is right. We shouldn’t dismiss the importance of reputation, but we shouldn’t be driven to uphold a reputation with others for our own sake.

Today’s passage had a few interesting excerpts that touched on the concept of reputation. Take a look:

King Hiram of Tyre sent an envoy to David,
along with cedar lumber, masons, and carpenters
to build him a royal palace.
Then David knew for sure
that God had confirmed him as king over Israel,
because of the rising reputation
that God was giving his kingdom
for the benefit of his people Israel.
…David was soon famous all over the place,
far and near;
and God put the fear of God into the godless nations.

What stands out to me here is the fact that David’s reputation was so tied to God and/or God’s reputation. When people from other nations heard about David and what God was doing in and through him, it impacted their views not just of David, but of God. David’s reputation likely opened some doors (like the King of Tyre giving him materials for a palace) and closed others (e.g. some godless countries, afraid of God’s power, probably didn’t attack Israel because of David’s reputation).

What is your reputation?

How does it reflect what/Who you believe in?

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 15-17

Diving, climbing and linking

Originally written March 17

Today: 1 Chronicles 9-11

A few days ago, I visited the city of Acapulco in Mexico. I had never been to Acapulco before and kept hearing and reading, “When you go to Acapulco, you have to watch the cliff divers.” My friend and I attended a night show—and we weren’t disappointed. Seven divers, including one who was only 13, scaled the side of a massive cliff bare-handed. The water below was only 12 feet deep and the cliff was not a straight drop into the water. It curved so that the divers not only had to dive off a high point, but they had to jump out from the edge enough to miss the jagged edges on their way to the water. The really insane thing? For the last two dives (from the very top of the cliff several hundred feet about the water), the lights went dark and the divers lit small torches they carried all the way to the depths of the sea. Crazy!

I thought about the cliff divers as I read in today’s passage about David’s Mighty Men—more specifically, when I read about the people referred to in this passage as “The Big Three.” Take a look:

The Big Three from the Thirty
made a rocky descent to David at the Cave of Adullam
while a company of Philistines was camped in the Valley of Rephaim.
David was holed up in the Cave
while the Philistines were prepared for battle at Bethlehem.
David had a sudden craving:
"What I wouldn't give for a drink of water
from the well in Bethlehem, the one at the gate!"
The Three penetrated the Philistine camp,
drew water from the well at the Bethlehem gate,
shouldered it, and brought it to David.
And then David wouldn't drink it!
He poured it out as a sacred offering to God, saying,
"I'd rather be damned by God than drink this!
It would be like drinking the lifeblood of these men—
they risked their lives to bring it."
So he refused to drink it.
These are the kinds of things that the Big Three
of the Mighty Men did.

Wow. The Big Three might have gotten along well with the cliff divers of Acapulco. :) What’s truly amazing about the Big Three was their motivation. The Big Three weren’t trying to earn money or become famous. Let’s review how the passage describes them:

These are the chiefs of David's Mighty Men,
the ones who linked arms with him
as he took up his kingship,
with all Israel joining in,
helping him become king
in just the way God had spoken regarding Israel…

The Big Three served David to the point of risking their lives—because they wanted to be part of fulfilling God’s promise. These guys had some serious guts. They weren’t just loyal friends or employees—they were linked to David and as such, they were linked God’s purpose.

Who are you linked to?

It’s an important question. I’m not talking about the people you’re connected with on Facebook or LinkedIn. I’m talking about the people whose backs you’ve got and/or the people who have your back. If you’re reading this and you can’t think of anyone, I’m sorry. But I’d encourage you to find someone worth backing—maybe a family member, pastor or friend. No one will be perfect (even David was far from it!), but we all need to be linked to someone. And hopefully, that someone is linked to God’s purpose for life.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 12-14

The mark of a man

Originally written March 16

Today: 1 Chronicles 7-8

What will people say about you when you’re no longer with them?

It may sound like a morbid question, but that’s not my intent. We all have people in our lives who we touch for moments—maybe even several years—and then we’re no longer part of their lives. Maybe because we no longer live near them, work with them or attend the same school.

I thought about this question as I read today’s chapters—chapters filled mostly with names. To me at this moment, most of the names are letters filling a screen (for you, they might be letters on an actual page). They are letters that mark lives long forgotten.

But not all of them. Here’s one description that stood out to me today:

These were Asher's sons,
all of them responsible,
excellent in character,
and brave in battle—
good leaders.

Unlike some of the people mentioned in today’s passage (like Joshua or Jonathan), I don’t know much about Asher’s sons. I like what I read, though. This tombstone-like depiction of Asher’s sons describes men with greatness in them. Perhaps most significantly, these were men who left a mark. What will yours be?

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 9-11

The worship family

Originally written March 15

Today: 1 Chronicles 6

This chapter describes the people dedicated to worship—including the Levite priests and worship leaders. It also describes how God and His people provided land for them. This chapter really doesn’t have much to say about the priests and worship leaders, but I think it’s interesting that before the Israelites had a royal family, they had families dedicated to serving God’s Tent/Temple and leading them in worship—they had a worship family.

The fact that God established a nation that way says something about who He is and what He likes. He likes to be first. He likes to have people dedicated to worshipping Him. Today’s churches don’t have worship families because ultimately, I think God wants all of us to be worshippers who love serving Him and His house.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 7-8

The stand-out prayer

Originally written March 14

Today: 1 Chronicles 3-5

Have you ever prayed a stand-out prayer?

In my book, a “stand-out” prayer isn’t necessarily loud. And it’s probably not full of fancy words. A stand-out prayer is simply memorable—maybe not because of what you said, but because of what God did in response.

In today’s passage, I’d describe the prayer of Jabez as a stand-out prayer. These chapters are mostly filled with genealogies (again), but there are some small stories—Jabez’s being one of them—interspersed in. It’s interesting because with Jabez, we don’t even read much of a story at all, just a simple prayer. Here’s what it says:

Jabez prayed to the God of Israel:

"Bless me, O bless me!

Give me land, large tracts of land.

And provide your personal protection—don't let evil hurt me."

God gave him what he asked.

In some ways, I’m a little puzzled why this prayer made it into the Bible. Jabez didn’t pray for someone else’s healing. He didn’t pray to win a battle. He didn’t ask for some miraculous sign. To be honest, his prayer sounds a little selfish—it’s focused on asking God to bless him personally and materially. This is a stand-out prayer?!?

But hold on—prayer is often about so much more than words (if anyone can see through a mask of phony words, it’s God!). Prayer is also an expression of our faith. While Jabez’s words may sound selfish, were a statement of his trust in God. Jabez was, in essence, admitting that he needed God’s help to provide for his family and to live in safety. Ultimately, he depended on God—not himself, the earth, other people or idols--for provision and protection.

What made Jabez’s simple words stand out? God’s response: God gave him what he asked.
I won’t tell you that Jabez’s prayer was the most significant prayer in the Bible (Jesus prayed those and gave us some great model prayers). The prayer of Jabez is definitely a stand-out prayer—and so is the heart of faith and trust behind it.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 6

The family tree

Originally written March 13

Today: 1 Chronicles 1-2

“What are you? I mean—what’s your cultural background?”

For some reason, I get this question a lot. Perhaps it’s because of my name. Maybe it’s because of how I look. I have no idea.

“I’m an American mutt,” I answer with a smile. “I’ve heard that I have a mix of English, Welsh, German, French…and probably a few other nationalities and races I don’t even know about.”

Perhaps you’re like me with little or no understanding about your family tree. Or maybe you know more—one of your parents or grandparents could be really into genealogy. For many people today, the history of our family trees does not define who we are or our positions in life. But that’s not always the case. Depending on where you live and who you are, your family tree may make a huge difference in your life (that means you, Prince William). :)

From these chapters and others that we’ve read over the past few weeks, I think the Bible sheds light on the importance (or lack thereof) of family trees. Here are a few things I’ve picked up:

• Your family can have a big impact on who you are—especially when it comes to your faith and moral character. Throughout 1 & 2 Kings, I remember continually reading “And So-and-So carried on in the evil ways of his father….”
  
• However, sometimes great people can come from totally messed up families and horrible situations (and vice versa). For example, King Solomon was the son of David and Bathsheba—a woman David had an affair with. However, King Solomon became known as a wise and good king who built a temple to honor God.
  
• Don’t underestimate the value of passing on your beliefs to your children—they will emulate what they see (not just what they hear). Solomon was a good king, but he had a weakness for women (perhaps like his dad?). He had hundreds of wives and concubines (translation: mistresses), many of whom worshipped false gods. Their beliefs impacted him and led him to disobey God. But on the positive side, David lived as a “man after God’s own heart”—Solomon must have seen that, too, because though he wasn’t perfect, he lived his life to honor God.

We can’t control where we come from—your family tree may be less than perfect or absolutely amazing. Even though your family may have a big impact on who you are, the impact can be superseded. Because of the sacrifice and love of Jesus, we can be adopted into God’s family—just by believing that His sacrifice at Calvary paid for our sins. I love that the Bible talks about salvation as adoption. It says that we didn’t choose God first, He first chose us. That’s an incredible gift of love. It’s such an amazing family tree that I’m proud to be part of.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 3-5

The one-in-a-million kind

Originally written March 12

Today: 2 Kings 23-25

This week, I’m writing from a cruise ship…a balcony overlooking the Pacific, to be exact. I took a tour of the ship yesterday and learned that one of the (many!) areas on this massive floating city is a casino. I saw penny slot machines, blackjack tables and Texas hold ‘em players.

I have to say that I’m not really into gambling, but if I were, I would have a “Go big or go home” kind approach…meaning that I would purchase $5 worth of mega-millions tickets.

My rationale is that a) I don’t want to spend too much or get sucked into upping the ante in an adrenaline-filled competitive moment and b) If I’m going to play, I want to win enough (after taxes!) to make a serious impact not only my life or my family, but first on God’s kingdom and on other people. This rationale may be completely irrational because the odds of winning a megamillions jackpot are heavily stacked against me (that’s why I really don’t play much!).

You and I may never win the megamillions jackpot—but I hope we have one-in-a-million kinds of experiences or that we become one-in-a-million kind of people.

I’d describe King Josiah in today’s passage as that one-in-a-million kind of guy. He became a king at age 8 and totally turned around his views of God and tried to help his subjects serve God. He tore down idols and shrines. He burned altars where people sacrificed their children to false gods (yeah—they seriously did that!). He helped people hear the word of God. I love how the Bible depicts him:

There was no king to compare with Josiah—
neither before nor after—
a king who turned in total and repentant obedience to God,
heart and mind and strength,
following the instructions revealed to and written by Moses.
The world would never again see a king like Josiah.

I think it’s interesting that the things that made Josiah a one-in-a-million kind of king are characteristics anyone could emulate. He repented (did a 180 degree turn-around) and lived in obedience to God. He loved God with his heart, mind and strength. And he followed the instructions in the Word of God.

We don’t have to be kings or queens to exhibit those qualities—we can be one-in-a-million kinds of students, volunteers, workers, givers, friends, spouses…you name it. And I hope we will.

Tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 1-2

Living for approval

Originally written March 11

Today: 2 Kings 20-22

Tonight I watched a comedian discussing his wife’s obsession…with shoes.

“She tries to tell me, ‘I wear these shoes so I can look good for you.’ And I tell her, ‘Honey—I’m a guy. I don’t care about your shoes!’”

The comedian then reasoned that the reason women really care so much about shoes is so they can impress other women.

I’m not sure if his summary of my female peers was accurate (personally, I like wearing certain shoes just because I like them and think they look good). But I do think that there are many people (women and men) who say, think and do things a certain way because they are looking for approval from someone else.
Is living for approval always a bad thing?
I thought about that question as I read today’s passage. Check out King Hezekiah’s words to God here:

Hezekiah turned from Isaiah and faced God, praying:

Remember, O God, who I am, what I've done!
I've lived an honest life before you,
My heart's been true and steady,
I've lived to please you;
lived for your approval.

After Hezekiah prayed these words, God healed him from an illness and added additional years to his life. Living for God’s approval is definitely a good thing…and thankfully, He cares about things in our lives well beyond footwear.

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 23-25

Reading schedule for the next few days

Dear blog readers,
I’m going “off the grid” for awhile. I won’t have access to the Internet, but I will continue reading and writing—the posts will show up when I’m connected again.

If you’d like to keep reading in the meantime, here’s the schedule:

• Mar 11: 2King 20-22
• Mar 12: 2King 23-25
• Mar 13: 1Chron 1-2
• Mar 14: 1Chron 3-5
• Mar 15: 1Chron 6
• Mar 16: 1Chron 7-8
• Mar 17: 1Chron 9-11
• Mar 18: 1Chron 12-14
• Mar 19: 1Chron 15-17
• Mar 20: 1Chron 18-21
• Mar 21: 1Chron 22-24

I'll "talk" with you again soon! :)

Hold on for the ride

Today: 2 Kings 18-19

Have you ever watched people ride a zip line?

Most hang on for dear life (even though they're held by a harness) as they zip through trees and over jungles and waterfalls and streams.

I pictured a zip line as I read part of today's passage. Check it out:

Hezekiah put his whole trust in the God of Israel.

There was no king quite like him,

either before or after.

He held fast to God—

never loosened his grip—

and obeyed to the letter

everything

God had commanded Moses.

And God, for his part,

held fast to him through all his adventures.

Our lives sometimes feel like zip line adventures--sometimes perilous, sometimes exciting and fun. Through it all, God is like the line and the harness--if we hold onto Him, the adventure is a bit smoother. But even if we lose our grip, He's there--holding us with His love.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 20-22

Fake and praise

Today: 2 Kings 15-17

I'm getting ready for a trip to a sunny destination. I've decided not to "fake and bake" in a tanning salon, so I'm trying self-tanning lotion. It looks pretty legit for the most part. But the first time I put it on, I had definitive lines between my snow-white skin and the faux glow. Not cute. I'm not normally into fake stuff, but when it comes to self-tanner versus wrinkles, faux glow is the way to go (does that sound like a really sick cheer or something?). :)

I'm not a fan of fake and bake...and as I read today's passage, I thought it's clear God isn't a fan of something I'll call "fake and praise." Take a look:

They don't really worship God—

they don't take seriously what he says

regarding how to behave and what to believe...

God made a covenant with his people and ordered them,
"Don't honor other gods:
Don't worship them, don't serve them, don't offer sacrifices to them.
Worship God,

the God who delivered you from Egypt in great and personal power.
Reverence and fear him. Worship him. Sacrifice to him.

And only him!

All the things he had written down for you,

directing you in what to believe and how to behave—

well, do them for as long as you live.

And whatever you do, don't worship other gods!

And the covenant he made with you, don't forget your part in that.

And don't worship other gods!

Worship God, and God only—

he's the one who will save you from enemy oppression."
But they didn't pay any attention.

They kept doing what they'd always done.

As it turned out, all the time these people were putting on a front

of worshiping God,

they were at the same time involved with their local idols.

And they're still doing it...

This passage piqued my interest for a few reasons. First, I'll say that faux worship is often something you can't see in other people. Sometimes, people are criticized as being "showy" in their worship when they might be genuine--or vice versa, they're criticized for being too stoic when they might be very sincere as well. Fake praise is not always visible. It's often a heart thing.

That said, faux worship has to do with more than what the modern church often labels as worship (e.g. singing during a church service). In this passage, God defined worship as behaving and believing in line with His instructions--that's a lifestyle. It's living for God exclusively every day instead of living for ourselves or an idol (which could really be anything that takes God's place in our lives).

Let's stop the fake and praise--it's even worse than wrinkles and the faux glow of my orangey hands as I'm typing this. :)

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 18-19

Mercy should make a difference

Today: 2 Kings 12-14

Webster's dictionary defines mercy as compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power.Translation: Mercy is compassion given to someone who doesn't deserve it--or granted to one by someone else with greater authority.

When you've experienced mercy, what was your response?

Today's chapters had a few interesting examples of God's mercy. This one stood out to me most:

Jehoahaz son of Jehu became king of Israel in Samaria—
a rule of seventeen years.
He lived an evil life before God...
Exasperated, God was furious with Israel
and turned them over to Hazael king of Aram and Ben-Hadad son of Hazael.
This domination went on for a long time.

Then Jehoahaz prayed for a softening of God's anger,
and God listened.
He realized how wretched Israel had become
under the brutalities of the king of Aram.
So God provided a savior for Israel
who brought them out from under Aram's oppression.
The children of Israel were again able to live at peace in their own homes.
But it didn't make any difference: They didn't change their lives...

A few things I noticed in this brief story? God was gracious enough to listen to an evil king--and even beyond listening, He provided an escape. You would think that life would be different for slaves granted freedom.

I picture it like a near-death experience: People who face death often re-think their lives...if they survive, they are changed forever. They have a different value for what's really important.

You would think that the freed slaves granted mercy by God Himself would face life with a different perspective. But they didn't. Mercy changed their circumstances, but they didn't allow it to change their lives.

When you and I are granted mercy--by God or other people--it should move us. Compassion and grace are not meant to be discarded or treated with a flippant response. When our lives are touched by mercy, our lives should be redefined. Mercy should make a difference.

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 15-17

A divided heart

Today: 2 Kings 9-11

Have you ever had a divided heart?

I'm not talking about being divided over the smaller things like "Coke or Pepsi?" or "Superman versus Batman?" (Right answers: Coke and Superman...in my opinion anyway.) :)

In reality, having a divided heart can be a very tough thing. If you're wrestling between two (or more) life-changing options, it's not always easy to make a decision. We sometimes make things more complicated by giving part of our hearts to one thing/person...and part of our hearts to something/someone else. That half-hearted giving and half-hearted love defines a heart divided.

When I started reading today's passage, Jehu might have been the last guy in the world I would have described as half-hearted. He was so passionate about carrying out God's purpose that he massacred followers of Baal. He tore down shrines to idols. That's why I was surprised to read this:

Even then, though, Jehu wasn't careful

to walk in God's ways and honor the God of Israel

from an undivided heart.

He didn't turn back from the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat,

who led Israel into a life of sin.

This description intrigued me. It didn't say Jehu was bad to his core. It said that he wasn't careful. It said he didn't honor God from an undivided heart. Translation? He sorta served God...and sorta served other stuff. But "sorta serving" doesn't work in God's book...because "sorta love" isn't love at all.

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 12-14

Open eyes

Today: 2 Kings 6-8

Have you ever looked at something but not really seen the whole picture?

I don't know about you, but I am totally grossed out by TV news stories that revel magnified views of sheets...teeming with bedbugs. Ewww! I know bedbugs are real, but do I need to see them? Particularly if there's not much I can do to prevent them? Most of the time, I see my sheets and not the bugs. For this I am thankful. :)

On the flip side, there are good things we totally don't see, either. Someone in your life may absolutely love you and you might not fully realize it. The coworker you've never "clicked" with may have some awesome qualities and talents that you overlook. And of course, God may be actively working in your life...but you might not see it.

In today's passage, I liked this short story about Elisha and his servant:

Early in the morning a servant of the Holy Man got up and went out.

Surprise! Horses and chariots surrounding the city!

The young man exclaimed, "Oh, master! What shall we do?"
He said, "Don't worry about it—

there are more on our side than on their side."
Then Elisha prayed, "O God, open his eyes and let him see."
The eyes of the young man were opened and he saw.

A wonder!

The whole mountainside full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha!

I love this--Elisha's servant saw the obvious--the enemy, but Elisha saw God's massive angel armies. When they prayed for open eyes, the servant also saw God at work.

Sometimes, if you want open eyes, you just have to ask--and make an effort. God is probably working in your life every single day--just look for everyday miracles. Your annoying co-worker probably does have some good qualities you have to be willing to look for them. But trust me--don't pray for open eyes to see bed bugs. :)

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 9-11

Making space for God's work

Today: 2 Kings 4-5

Here's the deal: I have a lot of clothes.

Every season, I systematically sort through all of them. I donate things I don't wear. I throw out items that are in total disrepair. And I box up clothes from the last season (not fashion season, actual season) to store them in my attic. I know the process makes me sound like I have OCD, but it's helpful in a few ways--it helps me to avoid becoming a pack rat who gets too attached to "stuff", it hopefully benefits people who need the items more than I do and it helps me to create space in my closet for new pieces. :) If I didn't go through my seasonal sorting, it would be really easy for my closet to be overfilled--to the point where I wouldn't have room for anything else.

Have you ever felt like your life was like an overstuffed closet?

Sometimes it's easy to fill our lives with random stuff and miss out on what's truly meaningful. We run of out room and often forget to set aside space for God's work in our lives. God can always intervene, but He LOVES it when people dedicate space in their lives for him. This dedicated space isn't usually literal--it's a committed heart--that often exhibits itself through the dedication of time, talent and money.

In today's passage, there were several examples of people who made space for God's work. One woman literally created a space--setting aside a room in her home to welcome a prophet. Her dedicated space was her way of honoring God and His servant--and she was blessed because of it.

Namaan, the general, also had to make space for God's work in his life. He was afflicted with leprosy, heard Israel's God could do a miracle and set aside time and money to travel to Israel over a long distance. But that wasn't all. When Elisha the prophet told Namaan to dip in the Jordan River and immerse himself seven times for a healing, Namaan was offended. The river was dirty. In Namaan's mind, God (via the prophet Elisha) could have healed him through a more dignified, mystical ceremony. Namaan's servants gave him a reality check: They helped Namaan make space for God to work God's way. Namaan got rid of his pride and submitted to God's direction. After he made space for God to perform a miracle, Namaan was healed.

I don't know what "making space" looks like in your life--maybe you just need to dedicate time in your day to talk to God and listen. Maybe you need to let go of something--like pride or doubt or insecurity. I don't know. But from this passage, I do know that when you and I make room for God, He likes it. He shows up.

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 6-8

Bypassing God

Today: 2 Kings 1-3

I'll admit it--I bypass people sometimes.

I avoid work colleagues in the cafeteria when I know their projects fell to the bottom of my neverending, massive to-do list. I bypass short, middle-aged guys who show up alone at cocktail parties. I definitely bypass salespeople at mall kiosks selling Jessica Simpson-style hairpieces or lotion from the Dead Sea or both...in a weird combination kiosk called "Dead Sea Hair." (Just kidding--I don't think such a place exists, but I honestly wouldn't know...I completely avoid looking too closely at all mall kiosks!)

My reasons for bypassing people vary. Sometimes it's just because I'm in too much of a hurry. At other times, I avoid people because I'm embarrassed by my own errors (case in point: hiding from the colleague whose project I haven't tackled). In some cases, I bypass people to simply avoid awkwardness (apologies to the short, middle-aged guy). To seriously mess things up, I also totally bypass people I'd really like to talk to--which means I probably won't step out and mingle with a cute, friendly single guy at a party, either (unless he comes to talk to me first, that is!). And if I really screwed something up, I might try to avoid the people I love most--or even God Himself. That doesn't work well.

In today's passage, a king tried to bypass God. When he seriously injured himself, he sent off his messengers to consult with a false god about his health. And the real God wasn't happy about it. He showed up and showed His power. He knew what was going on. The king lost his life--partly because he ignored God and turned to an idol. God can't be bypassed. At all.

Why would a king even try to avoid Him? And perhaps more pointedly--why do you and I try to bypass God?

We can sometimes get away with bypassing people--I've become a pro at dodging mall kiosk salespeople. [No Dead Sea Hair for me! :) ] But God knows everything and sees everything. It's impossible to avoid Him, yet we often try--because we're busy, we're embarrassed, we feel awkward, we're ashamed or we think we're inadequate. That's goofy. God made us, God loves us and God knows everything about us anyway.

More than anything, He wants to connect with us. This may sound really lame, but it's kind of like He's the most incredible person at a party--who finds you in the corner and pulls you into His circle. In reality, His love is much greater than that! He laid His life on the line for us. Why would we even try to bypass One who loves us that much?!?

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 4-5

What does it mean to be greedy?

Today: 1 Kings 21-22

Greed. It's an interesting word. What do you think it means to be greedy?

I instantly picture The Grinch and Scrooge--not Ebenezer Scrooge from Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol." I picture Scrooge McDuck (from a cartoon called Duck Tales, in case you didn't know), swimming in piles of money. I also picture people behind bars like Bernie Madoff, a guy with an all-too-appropriate name who stole millions from innocent people in a now infamous scam.

Those are the obvious choices, but they are the caricatures of greed in my head. Do I dare to see greed in myself or my friends? Usually not--but it doesn't mean that some form of greed doesn't exist in me, in the people I love or even people who claim to be God's chosen leaders.

Today's passage includes several stories that give us glimpses of greed. Here are a few ideas about greed I observed in this passage:

• King Ahab was very greedy--he REALLY wanted Naboth's vineyard. He tried to buy it (Naboth said no). But he continued to obsess about the vineyard. He wanted it so badly that he kept talking about it even when it was apparent that Naboth wouldn't sell.
  
• Jezebel jumped on the greed bandwagon. She didn't care about Naboth's vineyard, but she knew her husband did. So she constructed a scheme to have Naboth killed. Was she greedy? If not for the vineyard, maybe she was greedy for something else--power? Praise from her husband? Attention?
  
• Even though Ahab didn't know about the plot to murder Naboth, God held Ahab partly responsible. Did you notice that? I wonder if it was because of Ahab's greed...or the fact that Ahab voiced his greedy desires from a position of power (which influenced someone else to act on his behalf)?
  
• Despite all of his evil actions (these chapters describe him as a guy who "set an all-time record in making big business of evil"), Ahab repented and benefited from God's mercy. Wow.
  
• In another story about greed, two kings (one from Israel, one from Judah) wanted to go into battle against another city. They wanted to go and conquer REALLY badly and voiced their desire--or greed. (Sound familiar?)
  
• Hundreds of God-ordained prophets fell into a people-pleasing trap, telling the kings what they wanted to hear. Similar to the scenario with Jezebel above, were they greedy? Maybe they didn't care about conquering a neighboring group--but they may have cared more about pleasing the kings than speaking the truth. Did they crave praise? Power? Recognition?
  
• One guy (Micaiah) had the guts to tell the kings the truth. He told them what they needed to hear, which was different from what they wanted to hear. He took a big risk, but he did the right thing. It's the opposite of greed--he was selfless to serve God with honor, speaking the truth.

So what does it mean to be greedy?

Greed isn't just about wanting "things." You don't have to be rich to be greedy. You could be greedy for power, praise, attention...and a zillion other things. Greed is an attitude that says, "It's my way or the highway,""As long as I look good and get what I want, I don't care what happens," or "I'm not the one who's greedy. I'm just implementing what my leader wants."

Greed is a double-edged sword. It's a passionate pursuit at any cost, but greed is also a careless disregard--for other people, for doing the right thing and for actually listening (or caring) about what God has to say.

Tomorrow: 2 Kings 1-3

The showdown at Mt. Carmel (and the brave comedian)

Today: 1 Kings 18-20

I don't know about you, but I love a good showdown--especially the classic good guy versus bad guy. And I like it when the good guy wins.

Today's chapters depict one of the biggest showdowns in Scripture: The contest at Mt. Carmel.

In one corner, we've got 450 prophets of idol Baal. They're backed by the queen. They've got lots of power and resources at their disposal.

In the other corner, we've got Elijah. One guy. The good guy. God's guy.

Take a look at Elijah's contest set up:

"I'm the only prophet of God left in Israel;
and there are 450 prophets of Baal.
Let the Baal prophets bring up two oxen;
let them pick one, butcher it, and lay it out on an altar on firewood—but don't ignite it.
I'll take the other ox, cut it up, and lay it on the wood. But neither will I light the fire.
Then you pray to your gods and I'll pray to God.
The god who answers with fire will prove to be, in fact, God."

All right--we've set the stage. You know the rules. The 450 prophets of Baal won the coin toss and had the first opportunity to ask their god to ignite the fire. They prayed. They begged. They pleaded. They cut themselves (ewww...). And Baal didn't answer.

This part I'm including just for fun--because I think our friend Elijah the underdog enjoyed watching their silly rituals that yielded na da:

Desperate, they jumped and stomped on the altar they had made.
By noon, Elijah had started making fun of them, taunting,
"Call a little louder—he is a god, after all.
Maybe he's off meditating somewhere or other,
or maybe he's gotten involved in a project,
or maybe he's on vacation.
You don't suppose he's overslept, do you, and needs to be waked up?"

Oh, I love our brave comedian. :) He challenged the prophets of Baal, but he also challenged God, drenching his altar with water before asking God to set it on fire. Check it out:

The altar was drenched and the trench was filled with water.
When it was time for the sacrifice to be offered,
Elijah the prophet came up and prayed,
"O God, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel,
make it known right now that you are God in Israel,
that I am your servant,
and that I'm doing what I'm doing under your orders.
Answer me, God; O answer me and reveal to this people that you are God,
the true God, and that you are giving these people another chance at repentance."
Immediately the fire of God fell
and burned up the offering, the wood, the stones, the dirt, and even the water in the trench.

Wow. I love how God immediately showed up and showed He was real. Elijah didn't have to sing, dance, yell or cut himself--God answered his simple prayer in a miraculous way. Even though Elijah might have seemed like the underdog (1 guy versus 450), he knew he was on the winning team. He trusted God and took some brave steps to prove it. I would have liked to witness that showdown...it sounds pretty stinkin' awesome.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 21-22

Doubt and a double miracle

Today: 1 Kings 15-17

Have you ever doubted God--or even a person--even when they've already proven themselves to you?

Today's passage describes an interesting story along these themes. The prophet Elijah approached a widow and asked for a meal. Unfortunately, the widow only had a handful of flour and a little bit of oil--enough to make a final meal for herself and her son. But selflessly, she trusted Elijah. Here's what it says:

And she went right off and did it, did just as Elijah asked.

And it turned out as he said—daily food for her and her family.

The jar of meal didn't run out and the bottle of oil didn't become empty:

God's promise fulfilled to the letter, exactly as Elijah had delivered it!
Later on the woman's son became sick.

The sickness took a turn for the worse—and then he stopped breathing.
The woman said to Elijah,

"Why did you ever show up here in the first place—

a holy man barging in, exposing my sins, and killing my son?"
Elijah said, "Hand me your son."
He then took him from her bosom,

carried him up to the loft where he was staying,

and laid him on his bed.

Then he prayed, "O God, my God,

why have you brought this terrible thing on this widow

who has opened her home to me? Why have you killed her son?"
Three times he stretched himself out full-length on the boy,

praying with all his might,

"God, my God, put breath back into this boy's body!"

God listened to Elijah's prayer and put breath back into his body—

he was alive!

Elijah picked the boy up, carried him downstairs from the loft, and gave him to his mother. "Here's your son," said Elijah, "alive!"
The woman said to Elijah,

"I see it all now—you are a holy man.

When you speak, God speaks—a true word!"

I thought this story was interesting because the widow had already witnessed one of God's miracles--He provided food to save her and her son. However, when her son was sick, her first reaction was to turn on Elijah, God's messenger in her life. But despite her doubt, God healed her son.

I can't imagine what this woman's life was like--she lost her husband, she faced desperate poverty, she watched her son suffer from severe illness and then she watched him die, too. I'm sure moments of doubt plagued her periodically. Where was God in her suffering? Why did all of these bad things happen to her?

I honestly don't know the answers to these questions and I don't think the woman in this story did, either. But the truly amazing thing is the fact that her life was not defined by her suffering. In the midst of her doubt, this widow selflessly gave her last meal in obedience to one of God's messengers. Her life wasn't defined by her suffering, but by a selfless step of faith...that ultimately led to a miracle.

Another interesting thing? Her second miracle didn't require anything on her part. She didn't do anything. She didn't even have the strength to believe her son could be healed or come back to life after death. But God intervened and performed a miracle anyway--it was pure grace and goodness.

By definition, all miracles are unexpected, supernatural gifts. I think that sometimes miracles happen partly because of faith (e.g. Jesus' words in Matthew 15). But one thing is certain: Miracles always happen because of God. God can make the impossible happen despite anything we do, think or believe--that's what makes Him God and what makes something truly miraculous.

Tomorrow: 1 Kings 18-20