August 1
1 Samuel 23:15
Jonathan said something to David in this passage that was most important and worthy of note. “Fear not: for the hand for Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my Father knoweth.”
Everything Jonathan said was true except one. He would never be next to David in the kingdom. Jonathan will be slain before that would ever be a possibility, but Jonathan’s statement was one of faith and of assurance. He really was more confident in this truth than David. David was on the receiving end of Saul’s jealousy and hatred, and it was difficult for him to so clearly see the future as did Jonathan. It is interesting that Jonathan knew that Saul was understanding that David would someday be Israel’s king, “…that also Saul my father knoweth.” The incident that followed in this chapter just affirmed the truth of Jonathan’s statement.
Lesson:
In the heat of the battle, it is never really easy to stand strong in the faith, trusting completely in God’s promises. Flesh becomes fearful, and the Lord seems far away.
When we find ourselves in such situations as David found himself, we must remind ourselves of the promises of God, and walk in faith of those promises.
August 2
1 Samuel 24
In this chapter, Saul was literally placed in David’s hands, and David could have done as he pleased. He could have slain Saul, thus ending his days of being a fugitive. Who could have questioned his actions had he done so? His men encouraged him do so. Most of the men of Israel would have fully understood David’s actions had he slain Saul, but he did not.
This was not because David was unwilling to take another life. In fact, he had proven that repeatedly before this occasion. When David sought to build the Temple, the Lord refused it because David was a man of war and blood. He did not spare Saul for fear of retribution. David’s logic was sound. The Lord had placed Saul in the position of king, Saul was the “Lord’s anointed.” Samuel had been commanded by God to anoint him as Israel’s first king. David’s thoughts were that the Lord chose and anointed Saul to be king, then the Lord would be the One that would remove him from his throne. David would not take the Lord’s doings into his own hand.
Lessons:
Popular opinion cannot be the deciding factor in the life and actions of God’s children. We cannot base our actions on what would be acceptable and understood by the vast majority.
There are things in this life that are simply God’s prerogative. In those cases, we must trust God to do what is needed. To violate that truth is to delve into areas that are not man’s place. In David’s case, it was in the taking of Saul’s life in vindication of Saul’s actions toward him. The vast majority of Israel would have understood these actions.
August 3
1 Samuel 25:1
“And Samuel died….”
Here, please read the following passages: Genesis 5:5; 9:29; 23:2; 25:8; 50:26; Deuteronomy 10:6; 34:5-7; Joshua 24:29; 1 Chronicles 29:26-28.
“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offense, so also is the free gift. For if through the offense of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many of offences unto justification. For if by one man’s offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” Romans 5:12-17
Lessons:
While God uses human instrumentality to accomplish His sovereign plans, His work is not dependent upon one individual, regardless of their faith and of their accomplishments. Samuel was a great man, but his death did not alter the workings and plans of God. This could be said of Adam, of Abraham, of Moses or of any great servant of the Lord.
All are facing death, with the exception of those who will be taken out of this life through the Rapture of the Church. We must live lives that if the record of those lives were written as was Samuel’s, the report left would be pleasing to God and reflective of His grace. Know this, child of God, a record is being kept. May the Lord help us to leave a good report. Amen!
August 4
1 Samuel 25
Nabal was a man described as being very rich in material goods but very poor in character. He is described as being “churlish,” which means that he was cruel and hard, and very obstinate. He was “evil in his doings,” and this said of a man that was a descendant of Caleb. Caleb was a great man of Israel, the son of Jephunneh, one of the twelve spies that were sent into the land of promise by Moses. He and Joshua were the two spies that tried to encourage the people to enter and occupy the land that had been given to Abraham. Obviously Nabal was not of the same character as was his great ancestor.
Through the advocacy of Abigail, David was kept from doing harm to churlish Nabal, which although deserved would have been a mistake on David’s part. The Lord judged the evil man Nabal, and David took Abigail to be his wife for her kindness to him and his men. John Gill made the following observation concerning David’s marriage to Abigail; “…Nabal being dead, and Michal, David’s wife, being taken from him, and given to another man, with whom she lived in adultery; or as divorced by David, as the Jews say, David by the law of God was free from her.”
Lessons:
1. As in the case of Samuel, a good man’s descendants do not necessarily inherit his goodness or his faith. Nabal’s ancestor, Caleb, was a man of strong character and faith, but Nabal did not share these traits.
2. The Lord never overlooks acts of kindness and charity. Abigail’s kindness toward David and his men was rewarded by the Lord.
3. As people of faith, the Christian should never seek revenge, for we
told in Scripture that “vengeance is mine, I will repay saith the Lord.” (Romans 12:19)
August 5
1 Samuel 26
David spared Saul a second time. Once again King Saul found himself in David’s hand, and most would have hailed David as a hero had he taken matters of vengeance into his own hands. The events of this chapter were much like that of Chapter 24, and again David proved himself to be a man of strong faith and high moral character.
Like David, God’s people are to be held to a higher standard than that of the unregenerate. Actions that might be accepted and even praised by the world are not necessarily actions that should be found among followers of Christ. David’s sparing of Saul was reflective of his faith. and of his belief in the respect and honor that was to be given to “the Lord’s anointed,” even if Saul was undeserving of such treatment.
Lessons:
1. Followers of the Lord Jesus Christ are not to be driven by carnal or
worldly standards. The standard of actions for God’s people is
found in His Word.
2. Faith in God will solve so many issues, including the feeling of the need for vengeance. David could have justified killing his adversary, but rather he left such things up to his Lord. So must we. When we leave our feelings of hurt and betrayal with the Lord,
the anguish and hurt can be replaced with peace and joy.
August 6
1 Samuel 27
Please read this chapter carefully. In it, David reveals a lapse of faith in his dishonesty with Achish, the king of Gath. It is really questionable for David to have fled to the enemy of Israel in the first place. The Lord had revealed His care for David and His protection of the next king of Israel from Saul. The very fact that David fled to Gath was a sign of a weakened faith. God’s people should never seek safety among the enemies of the Lord and His Word. While there, David attacked the enemies of Israel, but then was less than honest with Achish as to his warfare, wording his answer to Achish so as to make the king think that he and his men had attacked the southern part of Israel. His ploy worked, Achish believing that David had attacked Judah, thus assuring that “his people Israel” utterly abhorred him. Perhaps the incident that we will examine in Chapter 30 was the Lord’s chastening of David for his dishonesty, but we can know assuredly that the Lord never smiles on a dishonest and lying soul. Turn to Psalms 120, Verses 1-7. Could it be that in this Psalm. David was speaking of his own dishonest tongue?
Lessons:
1. True faith ever depends upon the Lord, and not upon the world.
2. Dishonesty should never be the policy of the redeemed. There are times silence is the call of the day, but never dishonesty. Read Proverbs 6:16-19.
August 7
1 Samuel 28
You will probably never read a more perplexing chapter in all God’s Word; Samuel rising from the dead through the efforts of a medium to speak to Saul, king of Israel. For one thing, the Lord gave command to the Children of Israel that they should never seek to communicate with the dead through necromancy. (Deuteronomy 18:9-14) Because it is a perplexing scene, many explanations have been offered as to its interpretation. Some have concluded that the woman of Endor was a fraud and that the appearance of Samuel was a demonic being. Other explanations have been offered, and because there is no explanation explicitly given in Scripture this is understandable.
It must be remembered that Satan has tremendous power, and that the commandment given to Israel concerning the consulting with those who had familiar spirits or claimed to be able to communicate with the dead was given for a reason. Also, that an individual that had passed away could once again interact with the living can be seen in the appearance of Elijah and Moses on the Mount of Transfiguration. It would seem that Samuel indeed did appear to Saul, for everything that he said in that appearance was true, even reminding Saul of things that he had prophesied to him while Samuel was still living. His appearance was an act of God confirming to Saul His Divine judgment on the wicked king. The woman of Endor seemed to be surprised that Samuel appeared, which would seem to indicate that she was a fraud that had played on the emotions of hurting souls.
As already noted, this is a perplexing chapter. But when taken at face value as it is given, the scene teaches us many lessons.
Lessons:
1. One of the age-old questions plaguing humanity is that of whether or not there is life after death. The appearance of Samuel to Saul
is just another confirmation of an affirmative answer to that question.
2. The Lord never lifted His restrictions concerning the consulting with
one who claims to have a “familiar spirit,” or one who can
communicate with the dead. Those who do so are subjecting
themselves to Satanic power than is most dangerous for their
spiritual and physical wellbeing.
3. God’s Word is never changing. His condemnation of Saul, and the
prophesied judgment spoken by Samuel was certain, as are all
other truths and prophesies of Scripture.
August 8
1 Samuel 29
In fleeing from Saul, David had gone to King Achish of the Philistines. That act in itself seemed questionable, and perhaps revealing a lack of faith on his part. By uniting with the enemy of Israel, there was always a possibility that David and his men would find themselves on the opposite side of a field of battle against their own people, Israel. That possibility became a reality in this chapter; the Philistines were going to battle against Israel at Aphek, and David and his men were going to bring up the rear in the advancing army of the Philistines.
God is so merciful! Through Divine intervention, David was kept from finding himself in battle against his own people. Where do you suppose the reticence of the Philistine “princes” originated? The song says, “I’m trusting to the unseen hand….” That “unseen hand” prevented David from doing something that would have cost him dearly for the rest of his life.
Lessons:
1. Faithless actions never lead to good results. Compare Galatians 5:15 with Romans 8:1 and 2 Peter 2:10.
2. God’s grace and mercy are often revealed in our lives not so much
by what He gives, but by what He prevents or keeps from us. We
will perhaps never know on this side of eternity how many times He
has intervened in our lives for good without us even knowing it.
August 9
1 Samuel 30:1-20
On October 7th this past year, we saw on the news the report of the invasion of Israel by Hamas in which 1200 were slain and hundreds taken captive. The grief pictured on the faces of Jews in Israel was easily understood. Our text gives a similar situation with the invasion of Ziklag by the Amalekites. All of the wives and children of David and his men were taken captive, and the grief in the hearts of David’s men was so great that they spoke of stoning him, their leader.
David did a couple of things that reflect the kind of leader he really was. First, we read that David “encouraged himself in the Lord.” The second thing David did was that he diligently sought God’s direction for his response to this awful invasion. Due to his leadership, all that was taken by the Amalekites was restored. Don’t you imagine that this only solidified David’s position as leader among these men?
Lessons:
1. There will be times that God’s people will find themselves alone and troubled. David’s example should teach us a valuable lesson for those times. David’s encouraging himself in the Lord cleared his mind so that he could consider what his next steps should be. This is a most valuable lesson for God’s people.
2. God’s direction for our lives should ever be sought diligently. This is especially true in those times when spontaneous action could result in disappointing results.
August 10
1 Samuel 30:21-31
A new statute was established in Israel as a result of the events
recorded in our text. Two hundred of David’s men were simply not able to go into battle against the Amalekites. Consequently they were left at the brook Besor, charged with guarding those things that were not necessary to carry into the battle. When David and the four hundred soldiers with him returned from the battle, some of the men felt like the two hundred that had been left behind were not worth of any of the “spoil” that had been taken in victory. David’s response was, “…but as his part that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.”
That ordinance in Israel could be traced back to David’s fair dealings with those soldiers who physically and mentally were just not able to go into battle at that time.
Lessons:
1. Compare the story and events of our text with 1 Corinthians 12:12-28. Our Lord rewards faithfulness in service, regardless of the magnitude of that service.
2. In the Church, those who “stay by the stuff” are considered just as important to the cause of Christ as those who might be considered front line servants of Christ.
August 11
1 Samuel 31:1-13 - 2 Samuel 1:1-7
Saul’s judgment fell upon him in this battle against the Philistines. There are several promises made to Israel in the Old Testament that verify this fact. See the following: Exodus 14:14; Deuteronomy 1:30; 2 Chronicles 20:17; Proverbs 16:17. God had withdrawn from Saul, and he fell prey to the Philistines for his sins.
Did Saul commit suicide, or did the Amalekite take his life? The account given in 1 Samuel indicates that Saul took his own life when his armor bearer refused to do so. The Amalekite testified that he found the king yet living, and in response to Saul’s request “slew him,” bringing his crown and bracelet back to present them to David. The account given in 1 Samuel is the record of Scripture, that in 2 Samuel is the record given by the Amalekite. Is there a contradiction? No. Here is a possible answer. The Amalekite chanced upon Saul after his death. He removed the crown and bracelet from Saul before he was found by the Philistines. The Amalekite then brought these to David. Why would the Amalekite bring these articles to David along with the news of Saul’s death? Why not rather take this opportunity to return to his own people? The Amalekite thought in bringing these items, the news of Saul’s death, and the report of how he slew the king in response to his request would bring him recognition in the eyes of David. Another possible explanation is that Saul was unsuccessful in his effort to take his own life rather than being captured and tortured by the Philistines. When the Amalekite found the king, he slew the king, hastening his death before he could be found by the enemy. This possibility seems to be ruled out by 1 Samuel 31:6.
Lessons:
David’s refusal to take matters into his own hands concerning Saul proved to be the right choice to make. By leaving this situation completely up to the Lord, David’s hands were clean concerning Saul’s death.
“Wait upon the Lord.” This thought is expressed repeatedly in Scripture. Read Isaiah 40:31. David provides for us an example of the rewards given to those that wait upon the Lord.
August 12
2 Samuel 2:8-32
Three hundred eighty Israelis died in the passage we are reading today, and they died needlessly. God had already anointed the next king of Israel after the death of Saul. He had taken the throne from Saul and his family and had given it to David through the prophet Samuel. When Abner took Ishbosheth and was instrumental in making him king over all Israel except Judah, he did so contrary to the will of God. His action, along with that of Ishbosheth, caused the death of these of the children of Israel. What confusion is wrought when the will of God is ignored and forsaken!
Lessons:
1. “And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:17
2. “…choose you this day whom ye will serve….” Joshua 24:15 We
all have choices to make, especially when it comes to the will of
God. Abner, and others as well, chose contrary to God’s will, and
their choice was costly.
August 13
2 Samuel 3:1-11
Ishbosheth showed the same shortcomings in the area of leadership as did his father, Saul. His accusations against who was undoubtedly his most powerful and loyal military leader, Abner, was unwarranted and revealed his own insecurities and lack of judgment. He was truly unfit to be Israel’s king. It took this action on the part of Ishbosheth to make Abner realize his mistake in helping secure the throne for Saul’s son. From this point, Abner made it his task to see that David was made king over all Israel.
It is interesting to note that Abner was a man of great power, so much so that Ishbosheth, although the king of Israel, “could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.” We will see a similar situation later in David’s dealings with Joab. This scenario has been repeated numerous times through the centuries as military leaders have actually possessed as much or more power than their political superiors. That was certainly the case with Abner and Ishbosheth.
Lessons:
1. Read Proverbs 1:10-19. The choices we make concerning our associations and friendships can have devastating consequences.
2. Not all leaders have those qualities that make them worthy of a
faithful following. God’s people must seek His guidance in directing them in their loyalty in following those who are placed in authority over them.
August 14
2 Samuel 3:12-39
Abner’s bad choices caught up with him. His loyalty to Ishbosheth had caused a conflict between the armies of Ishbosheth and David. His actions resulted in the death of Joab’s brother, Asahel. In our text today, Joab did that which was allowed in the law in slaying Abner, his brother’s killer. While acting the part of the avenger of his brother, Joab was really not ethical in his actions, for his king had made a peace pact with Abner. He indicated to Abner that he needed to speak with him privately, and when he was close enough he “smote him there under the fifth rib.”
David says something that we noted earlier concerning political leaders and their military commanders. “…these men the sons of Zeruiah be too hard for me….” Zeruiah was David’s sister and the mother of the three sons being dealt with in 2 Samuel; Joab, Abishai and Asahel. (See 1 Chronicles 2:16 with 2 Samuel 2:18.) These men were obviously strong and apt warriors in David’s army. While they had a family loyalty to their uncle, David actually knew their power among his own military posed a threat to his rule as Israel’s king. We will see that even more clearly when David hands his throne over to his son Solomon.
Lessons:
1. Why was it said, “Died Abner as a fool dieth?” The thought expressed the sadness in the fact that this great warrior, this man of military might and power, died foolishly had the hand of Joab and his deception. Jesus said, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” Matthew 10:16
2. Read James 1:5. Believers must have God’s wisdom in all decisions and choices they are called upon to make in this life.
August 15
2 Samuel 4:1-12
Have you ever heard the saying, “Two wrongs don’t make a right?” Was it wrong for Ishbosheth to seek Israel’s throne in light of the fact that Samuel had anointed David to be Israel’s king after the passing of Saul? It was wrong. You will recall that Jonathan, Ishbosheth’s brother, acknowledged knowing that David was supposed to be Israel’s next king. After the death of Abner, two of Ishbosheth’s military leaders slew him and brought his severed head to David. They obviously did this for their own advancement, and not for David’s honor. David saw this as a great evil, and rightly so. Their action may have cleared the way for David to be king over all the land, but their action was wrong, and “two wrongs don’t make a right.” David sentenced these men to death for their wickedness. He would have no part in their murderous deception.
Lessons:
1. Paul addressed an accusation that had been made against him, noting “(as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) let us do evil, that good may come?” Of course, those accusations were false. It is never right to do wrong in an effort to achieve good.
2. See 1 Peter 3:16-17
August 16
2 Samuel 5:1-5
Two truths in Scripture are worthy of note in conjunction with our Bible reading for today. The first is found in Numbers 32:23 where we read, “…be sure your sin will find you out.” We have witnessed the reality of that truth over the past chapters we been reading in Samuel’s books. The second truth is found in Galatians 6:9 where we read, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” David waited on the Lord, and the Lord brought to pass the promises He had made concerning David’s kingship.
Lessons:
1. God’s timing is just that, it is His timing. His timing is always best and it is always right. See Isaiah 55:8-9. God’s timing is based upon His sovereign will and His infinite wisdom. His people must
learn to trust this truth.
2. Much time passed from David’s anointing to his crowning as Israel’s king. God knew well when David would be ready for that privilege and responsibility, and when Israel would be ready to follow him as their king.
August 17
2 Samuel 5:6-16
Please note the following quote from the International Court of Justice that this past week condemned modern Israel concerning the land of Palestine.
“The International Court of Justice has issued its opinion and the conclusion is loud and clear: Israel’s occupation and annexation of the Palestinian territories are unlawful, and its discriminatory laws and policies against Palestinians violate the prohibition on racial segregation and apartheid.
“This is a historic vindication of the rights of Palestinians who have endured decades of cruelty and systematic human rights violations stemming from Israel’s unlawful occupation.
“The occupation is a key pillar of the system of apartheid that Israel uses to dominate and oppress Palestinians, and which has caused suffering on a mass scale. Palestinians have witnessed their homes being demolished, their lands expropriated to build and expand settlements, and have faced suffocating restrictions disrupting every aspect of their daily lives, from family separation and restrictions on freedom of movement to denial of access to land, water and natural resources.”
This court’s judgment condemns Israel’s occupation of Jerusalem which in modern history dates back to the Six Day War in 1967. It should be noted that the United States does not recognize this court, providing no support or credibility to this body.
In our passage today, David officially made Jerusalem the capital of the country of Israel. This move by Israel’s great king was made over 3,000 years ago. Israel does not recognized this court’s authority or its ruling, and neither should the people of God.
Lessons:
1. Man has no authority over the rulings of God.
2. “As birds flying, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also he will deliver it; and passing over he will preserve it.” Isaiah 31:5
August 18
2 Samuel 5:17-25
We have witnessed several attacks against Israel in recent months. Hamas attacked Israel in an unprovoked and most inhumane assault on October 7, 2023. Hezbollah continues in its attacks on Israel from the north, and Iran launched a massive missile attack against her. Over the past months, the terrorist group called Houthis has attacked shipping in the Persian Gulf that is associated with Israel. This is nothing new.
When David was officially crowned king over all Israel, the Philistines responded with an attack in the valley of Rephaim. These assaults against Israel have been a reality throughout her entire existence as a nation, and will continue until the Prince of Peace comes. For this reason, we must “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.” Psalms 122:6
Lessons:
1. Read Revelation 12:1-6. Satan hates Israel, for Israel gave the world the Bible, she gave the world the Messiah, and because the Jews are God’s chosen people.
2. Modern antisemitism is nothing new. Until Jesus comes it will not end, only increase in these “last days.”
August 19
2 Samuel 6:1-15
To understand this passage, please read 1 Chronicles 15:1-15. David learned a very difficult lesson. None by the Levites were to carry the Ark. While the Philistines were ignorant of how the Ark was to be handled, the Children of Israel were given detailed instructions by God. See Numbers 4:2-15.
Lessons;
1. Ignorance of God’s law was inexcusable for the Children of Israel, especially the Levites, and also the nation’s leaders.
2. When it comes to God’s work, all things must be done His way.
August 20
2 Samuel 6:16-23
David’s faith was genuine. It wasn’t an act he performed before the subjects of his kingdom when he led the procession bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. When Michal saw him “leaping and dancing before the Lord,” she mocked him saying, “How glorious was the king of Israel today….” David’s answer to this mocking accusation says much of his character and spirit. See Verses 21-22. What a blessing this must have been to those in the procession and those watching along the way to see their king in a genuine attitude of humility and worship! What a blessing it would be today to see such genuine spiritual devotion in our political leaders today!
Lessons:
1. God’s people must forever be more concerned with pleasing their
Lord than pleasing their peers.
2. What we are before the eyes of the Lord is so much more
important than what we are before the eyes of men.
Acts 21
2 Samuel 7
This is an important chapter, for in it there are prophesies made of the Messiah. David’s desire to build a Temple to replace the Tabernacle was the catalyst of this Divine revelation, and the message that was given to Nathan to share with David gave information that is most important in Messianic theology. Look at the following key words given in Verses 12-16:“thy seed…which shall proceed out of thy bowels,” “the throne of his kingdom forever,” “thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee,” “thy throne shall be established forever.” Obviously, these promises were far more reaching than could see fulfillment in Solomon, David’s son.
The Lord Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of these promises made in what is called “The Davidic Covenant.” The day will come when a literal fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant will become a reality, when the Lord Jesus sets up His literal kingdom upon this earth. What a day that will be!
Lessons:
Please note that God was less concerned with an impressive edifice than was David. See Verses 5-7.
David’s lengthy prayer of thanksgiving and praise, Verses 18-29, reveal one of the reasons he was referred to as “a man after God’s own heart.” Can you see the difference in David and in Saul, the first of Israel’s kings?
August 22
2 Samuel 8
Of necessity, David was a warrior king, leading Israel into battles against her many enemies. The only way Israel could enjoy peace was through the defeat of the foes that were determined to destroy God’s chosen people. Incidentally, the world has witnessed the same phenomenon over the past 100 years since the return of the Jews to their God-given homeland.
When reading passages like this in today’s devotional study, keep in mind the following words penned by the Apostle Paul, “Now all these things happened unto them for ensembles: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.” (1 Corinthians 10:11) With that in mind, please read the following passages; Colossians 3:1-17; Romans 6:6,13; 1 Peter 5:8-11.
Lessons:
1. The child of God is considered a soldier in the Lord’s army, with
definite foes to face and battles to endure. Some of these battles are from without, some from within. As it was in David’s time when he faced literal enemies all around Israel, not fighting in this conflict is not an option for the believer.
2. Please note Verses 15-18. David’s victories over his enemies would have been impossible without those who served with and under him. Paul was forever quick to acknowledge his co-workers, those who helped him in the ministry. They were indispensable aids in the advancement of the Gospel. This has been true since the inception of the Church, and continues to be so today.
August 23
2 Samuel 9
“And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?
David and Jonathan were close friends. This was true even through the difficulties David faced from Jonathan’s father. When David became king over all Israel, it would have been an accepted practice in that day for David to have executed vengeance on the house of Saul, but that was not in David’s character. He never raised his hand against Saul, even in times when it appeared that the Lord had given him the opportunity to do so. After coming into full power in the kingdom, David never sought to strike out against any of Saul’s remaining family. Rather, he sought one from Saul’s family to whom he could show kindness, and that kindness shown would be due to his friendship with Jonathan.
That kindness would be shown to a cripple of Saul’s family, a son of Jonathan’s named Mephibosheth. This son had been crippled from a fall, the account being recorded in 2 Samuel 4:4. This son of Jonathan’s presents an interest picture of the sinner; crippled from a fall, living in the house of Machir (meaning bondage, or sold into bondage) in the land of Lodebar (meaning a land of no pasture). This poor crippled soul was shown kindness by the king “for Jonathan’s sake,” just as the sinner is shown the kindness of God for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ. When he became a recipient of kindness from King David, he was seen from that time forward eating “continually at the king’s table,” “as one of the king’s sons.” What a blessed picture of God’s amazing grace!
Lessons:
1. All of the kindnesses received by the redeemed come to us because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!
2. Grace takes the sinner from being alienated from God and His goodness, to being one of the King’s sons, dining at His table and fully enjoying all of the privileges of sonship. Romans 8:12-17
3. One lesson surely should be drawn from David’s activities concerning Mephibosheth, and that is found in Matthew 5:43-48.
August 24
2 Samuel 10
What kindness Nahash, king of Ammon, had shown to David is not known, but he had obviously been the recipient of some favor from the heathen leader. In an effort to repay that kindness, David sent ambassadors from Israel to express his condolences to Nahash’s son upon his father’s death. As Israel’s king, David saw the advantages of having favorable relations with kingdoms that had been enemies in the past. (See 1 Samuel 11) Unfortunately Hanun’s advisors were untrusting souls, revealing a character flaw in themselves, and they counseled him to act in accordance with their evil suspicions. The result was the shaming and embarrassing of Israel’s ambassadors. The suspicions continued to the point of leading into war between Israel and the combined armies of Ammon and “the Syrians of Bethrehob, and the Syrians of Zoba, twenty thousand footmen, and of king Maacah a thousand men, and of Ishtob twelve thousand men.” (Does this not sound like Islamic confederacies that have historically fought against modern Israel, which is actually happening at the present?)
Israel was victorious over these enemies, and “they made peace with Israel and served them. So the Syrians feared to help the children of Ammon any more.”
Lessons:
1. When dealing with the unregenerate, followers of Christ must exercise Scriptural wisdom. See Matthew 10:16; James 1:5.
2. Christians must be on guard at all times when there is the possibility of misunderstanding, especially when dealing with those who know not the Lord. See Colossians 4:5. Our adversary (1 Peter 5:8) will foster misunderstanding to his advantage, and to the disadvantage of God’s people.
August 25
2 Samuel 11
Would it not be nice to be able to leave this chapter, and subsequent chapters related to the events found therein, out of the Bible? These events were recorded for a very specific purpose; “these things were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.” (1 Corinthians 10:6) David was a good men, a man after God’s own heart, a man used of God in many ways, but he was a sinner. As such David was capable of committing grievous sins against his God. (Psalms 51:4) This chapter is a record of one such incident in his life.
Lessons:
1. The children’s song says, “O, be careful little eyes what you see.” Read Proverbs 4:25-27. May the Lord help us to learn this lesson from David’s error.
2. One mistake can lead to another if not dealt with in a Scriptural way. This was certainly true in David’s sin with Bathsheba.
3. The Lord Jesus’ death on the Cross was for our sins, and “He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
4. The consequences of sin may be extremely painful, long-lasting and difficult to overcome. We will see that this is certainly true in the case of David.
August 26
2 Samuel 12:1-23
“And the Lord sent Nathan unto David….”
These few words reflect a true act of Divine grace toward David. David had sinned. God’s sending Nathan to David revealed that He was willing to deal with David in bringing him to a place of repentance and restoration. Nathan’s message was hard, direct and spoken fearlessly. David’s response was simple, “I have sinned against the Lord.” It is really doubtful that this was the first time this thought had crossed David’s mind, but it was the first time he acknowledged it openly and outwardly. This was a beginning of a healing process for the erring saint of God.
Lessons:
1. Confession is an important key in overcoming sinful tendencies or actual sins in the lives of Christ’s followers. (See 1 John 1:8-9)
2. Divine chastisement of God’s wayward children is a Scriptural teaching throughout the Word of God. It is found here in Chapter 12, and is noted in Psalms 32:1-5; 89:30-34; Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:7-8.
August 27
2 Samuel 12:24-31
What is grace? This is a word, and a truth, that is taught in both the Old and New Testaments. It speaks of God’s unmerited favor, His Divine kindness toward sinful souls. David’s sin was great. So was the chastisement he received for that sin. God was, however, merciful to David; restoring His fellowship with David and restoring him to a place of usefulness and blessing. Grace can be seen in David’s second son with Bathsheba. Solomon became the son through whom the covenant made with David in 2 Samual 7 would see partial fulfillment. Grace can be seen in the fact that when examining the genealogy of the Lord Jesus Christ, one can find the name of Solomon. Grace can be seen in the fact of David’s victory against the children of Ammon in the end of this chapter.
Lesson:
1. The redeemed of the Lord are yet sinners; saved and pardoned through God’s grace, but sinners nonetheless. As such, all are prone to sin and sinfulness. For this reason, God’s children must keep their eyes upon Him, their knees bowed at His altar and their lives led by His Holy Word.
2. When the believer is confronted with the reality of an act of disobedience or transgression in life, that must be dealt with Scripturally, and done so without hesitation.
3. Once sin has been abandoned, confessed and pardoned, God’s child must move forward by the help and grace of our Lord. His forgiveness must be accepted and acted upon, and the child of God must get back into the battle for the Lord.
August 28
2 Samuel 13
What a sad, heart breaking chapter in God’s Word, and in the life of King David! The events in this chapter are actually part of the carnage wrought in David’s family because of his sin. His multiple wives were part to blame for the terrible scenes played out here. The sin with Bathsheba is part to blame, with its fourfold condemnation pronounced by Nathan. (See 2 Samuel 12:5-14) The effect of the incidences recorded in Chapter 13 will be witnessed for years to come in David’s life; a daughter sexually abused by her half brother, that half brother slain by another of David’s sons, Absalom. Absalom’s fleeing to Geshur, and David mourning for his son every day. These are all pictures of the devastating effects of sin in the life of a believer.
Lessons:
1. See Hebrews 12:1-2
2. See Romans 12:1-2
3. See 2 Timothy 2:22
4. See Romans 6:1-23
August 29
2 Samuel 14
Amnon’s abuse of his sister was actually a capital offense that was punishable by death. (Deuteronomy 22:26) When Amnon was unpunished for his crime, Absalom took matters into his own hands, having his half brother slain. He then fled to Geshur where his mother’s family resided, remaining there for two years. Through Joab’s intervention, Absalom was permitted to return to Jerusalem, but was not brought to the king for two full years. Once again, working through Joab, Absalom was permitted to appear before the king, his father, and “the king kissed Absalom.”
Lessons:
1. The Christian home is to be a haven, a place of peace and love. See Ephesians 5:22-33.
2. When sin enters into the home, along with sin comes confusion and heartache.
3. The hope of home lies in Jesus Christ. Thankfully, the Lord Jesus can take our mistakes and our sins and cleanse them through His precious blood. He can make our homes what they should be if we will only allow Him to do so. “And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:5
August 30
2 Samuel 15:1-12
“…so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.”
Absalom determined to take the throne from his father David, and the Scripture declares that “the conspiracy was strong.” As was noted earlier in some of the disturbances and heartaches associated with David’s family, the incident came as a result of David’s not completely obeying laws concerning kings. See Deuteronomy 17:14-20. Having said that, there was no justification for Absalom’s conspiracy. It was not of God, and will end tragically. Absalom was conniving, deceitful and acting in total rejection of the fact that the Lord had anointed his father as Israel’s king. David had honored that anointing of Saul during the days that Saul hunted him like a fugitive throughout the land, driven by his jealousy. Absalom, however, was obviously not of the same character and faith as was his father.
Lessons:
1. David had been chosen and anointed by God as Israel’s king. Anyone who tried to remove David from his throne, or to take David’s place as Israel’s king, would find himself fighting against the revealed will of God. All should learn from Absalom grave error.
2. There will always be those who think their plans and schemes are better than God’s. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12; 16:25
August 31
2 Samuel 15:13-37
Loyalty comes to mind with reading this passage of Scripture. David had many that loved him and were loyal to him. As he departed Jerusalem, they rallied to him, supporting him and risking their lives to protect their beloved king. Some loyal to David returned to Jerusalem at his command in order to be his eyes and ears in the capital city, and in an effort to thwart the counsel of Ahithophel. Others in this passage were loyal to Absalom, and others will be seen later in this story of Absalom’s conspiracy turning their back on David to support him in his rebellion.
Lessons:
1. See Proverbs 1:8-19. Warnings are given in God’s Word about the alliance’s one chooses in this life. See also Proverbs 20:19 and Ephesians 5:11.
2. To choose to walk with Christ loyally is not to choose an easy path. Those who chose to be loyal to David were required to leave Jerusalem, their homes and the relative comfort and safety to which they were accustomed. Their choice was the correct one to make, and the final outcome of this situation will prove them right that stood with King David. So it is in our lives as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
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