Read it.
Sandj
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
2 Samuel 5 today..... 2_Samuel 6 tomorrow....
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 5: verse 1-3... the people knew God wanted David to be king, and they believed in his ability to be a good king since they had already experienced what he could do.
verse 4-5... wow! David reigned and lived a good long time!... also, I am amazed by all that had taken place during his short life up to this point... yet, God was not done... sometimes I think we think that the only thing is what God is doing now... we forget He is not done with us yet... we also forget all that He has already done... to properly worship and trust Him, we must not forget our past, we must not neglect our present, and we must not dispell our future... God is a God of all ages, and His plan is eternal, not momentary... we must remember the words of Paul in 2 Corinthains 4:18, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." A PS on these verses is that the study notes ask what is significant about age 30 and the number 40? I don't know for sure, but I have been told that the Jewish people (and others I'm sure) put alot of weight on numerology, so there is probably a reason for that, however, I can't say that I know what the meanings behind these numbers are, if any... I do know that Joseph was thrity when he because under the service of Pharoah (Genesis 41:46), Saul was 30 when he became king (1 Samuel 13:1), and Jesus was thirty when He started His ministry (Luke 3:23)... as for 40, the rain fell on the earth during the flood of Noah for forty days and nights (Genesis 7-8), the Isrealites wondered in the desert for 40 years (Exodus 16:35... or at least ate manna for forty years, Numbers 14:34), and Moses was on the mountain getting the 10 commandments for 40 days/nights-both times (Exodus 24:18, 34:28), Moses and Caleb were both forty years old at significant (turning) points in their lives/service to God (Joshua 14:7, Acts 7:23) also, Jesus fasted for 40 days/nights just prior to starting His ministry (Matthew 4:1-2)... maybe there is significance in these numbers because they are modeled in Jesus, I don't know, however, there are a bunch of other years/numbers that are used throughout the Bible for many things, so I don't know how much weight I personally put on the idea of significance in numbers... I might be wrong here, which is very likely as I have not formal theological training to really speak of, but it seems to me that there are more important things to put our time and understanding into than the possible significance of numbers... your input on this subject would be greatly appreciated. :)
verse 6-8... apparently David was stronger than the blind and lame... haha :)... isn't that one major rule of combat: never underestimate your opponent?... the study notes point out that in Judges 1:21, the Bejamites had failed to get rid of the Jebusites in Jerusalem before when God had given them their inheritance land.... the Jebusites were apparently good fighters and victorious then, but they let is get to their heads, as God does not accept defeat... defeat is not part of who He is and can not ever happen because He is too powerful. On a different note, there could be some prophetical parallels here in that the 'blind and lame' will not enter the palace of God, either, and that is why Jesus came, to 'give sight to the blind and heal the lame'... although He did this physically, the metaphor is more for the spiritual side of things... so they (and all of us) can see God and His glory and do His work (Psalm 146:8, Matthew 11:4-6, and others)
verse 9... the City of David?
verse 10-12... at least he gives credit where credit is due: "because the Lord God Almighty was with him"... also, a show of how God keeps His promises and gives the land He had promised to the Isrealites, to them.... I like the question in the study notes: "If you had absolute assurance that 'the Lord was with you,' how would your coming week be affected? What fears would dissipate? What new mission would you take on? What old habits would you break?"... the only part of this question that I don't like, is that it is asked as if we don't have that assurance, though, and the Bible clearly states that as children of God, we are fully equipped with His power to do all He has called us to do (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Philippians 1:3-6)... as long as we remain in His will, we can be assured of that 'the Lord is with us' (John 15:5)... and what would His will be?... well, how about living by/with the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), fulfilling the great commission (Matthew 28:18-20), being victorious over Satan and evil (James 4:7-10, 2 Timothy 1:7, Ephesians 6:10-18), etc... we can break those bad habits, we can start that new mission, and we don't have to be afraid, because when we are living within the will of God, the Lord God goes with us wherever we go (Joshua 1:9)
verse 13-16... I wonder what God thought about David taking more wives and having more children with them?
verse 17... did they go to attack him because they were angry since he had tricked them and lived among them claiming to want to fight the Isrealites and now he was their king (1 Samuel 27, 29) or for other reasons?
verse 18-21... interesting how David trusts in the power of God and he defeats the Philestines, and David's confidence in God grows... yet, the Philestines trust in their idols, who let them down, and so they abandon their idols... uncertain if David and his men carried off the Philestines or their idols... hopefully, if it was the idols, they then disposed of them. I like that the name of the place, according to the footnotes was "the Lord who breaks out"... kind of a cool name. :)
verse 22-25... again, God comes through... interesting to note that even though he was in God's will, God desired for David to take a second battle to complete the task... sometimes we think we have failed if it takes us more than once to do something, yet it may just be God's will to take more time, and it is usually for our benefit, and definately for the benefit of God's kingdom... so with that in mind, if we are giving our all to God, why should we worry about the time it takes to 'win the battle'... God is in control and it will happen when He is ready for it to happen. Cool how the imagery is in the idea of hear the sound of marching overhead, and that being a sign that the Lord's army has gone ahead to secure victory... we may not hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, but we can be sure that God has gone before us and secured the eternal victory (1 Corinthians 15:54-58, also all of 1 Corinthians 15 for more explaination, as well as other passages for Jesus's victory over darkness, sin, evil, death, etc)
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 5: verse 1-3... the people knew God wanted David to be king, and they believed in his ability to be a good king since they had already experienced what he could do.
verse 4-5... wow! David reigned and lived a good long time!... also, I am amazed by all that had taken place during his short life up to this point... yet, God was not done... sometimes I think we think that the only thing is what God is doing now... we forget He is not done with us yet... we also forget all that He has already done... to properly worship and trust Him, we must not forget our past, we must not neglect our present, and we must not dispell our future... God is a God of all ages, and His plan is eternal, not momentary... we must remember the words of Paul in 2 Corinthains 4:18, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." A PS on these verses is that the study notes ask what is significant about age 30 and the number 40? I don't know for sure, but I have been told that the Jewish people (and others I'm sure) put alot of weight on numerology, so there is probably a reason for that, however, I can't say that I know what the meanings behind these numbers are, if any... I do know that Joseph was thrity when he because under the service of Pharoah (Genesis 41:46), Saul was 30 when he became king (1 Samuel 13:1), and Jesus was thirty when He started His ministry (Luke 3:23)... as for 40, the rain fell on the earth during the flood of Noah for forty days and nights (Genesis 7-8), the Isrealites wondered in the desert for 40 years (Exodus 16:35... or at least ate manna for forty years, Numbers 14:34), and Moses was on the mountain getting the 10 commandments for 40 days/nights-both times (Exodus 24:18, 34:28), Moses and Caleb were both forty years old at significant (turning) points in their lives/service to God (Joshua 14:7, Acts 7:23) also, Jesus fasted for 40 days/nights just prior to starting His ministry (Matthew 4:1-2)... maybe there is significance in these numbers because they are modeled in Jesus, I don't know, however, there are a bunch of other years/numbers that are used throughout the Bible for many things, so I don't know how much weight I personally put on the idea of significance in numbers... I might be wrong here, which is very likely as I have not formal theological training to really speak of, but it seems to me that there are more important things to put our time and understanding into than the possible significance of numbers... your input on this subject would be greatly appreciated. :)
verse 6-8... apparently David was stronger than the blind and lame... haha :)... isn't that one major rule of combat: never underestimate your opponent?... the study notes point out that in Judges 1:21, the Bejamites had failed to get rid of the Jebusites in Jerusalem before when God had given them their inheritance land.... the Jebusites were apparently good fighters and victorious then, but they let is get to their heads, as God does not accept defeat... defeat is not part of who He is and can not ever happen because He is too powerful. On a different note, there could be some prophetical parallels here in that the 'blind and lame' will not enter the palace of God, either, and that is why Jesus came, to 'give sight to the blind and heal the lame'... although He did this physically, the metaphor is more for the spiritual side of things... so they (and all of us) can see God and His glory and do His work (Psalm 146:8, Matthew 11:4-6, and others)
verse 9... the City of David?
verse 10-12... at least he gives credit where credit is due: "because the Lord God Almighty was with him"... also, a show of how God keeps His promises and gives the land He had promised to the Isrealites, to them.... I like the question in the study notes: "If you had absolute assurance that 'the Lord was with you,' how would your coming week be affected? What fears would dissipate? What new mission would you take on? What old habits would you break?"... the only part of this question that I don't like, is that it is asked as if we don't have that assurance, though, and the Bible clearly states that as children of God, we are fully equipped with His power to do all He has called us to do (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 13:20-21, Philippians 1:3-6)... as long as we remain in His will, we can be assured of that 'the Lord is with us' (John 15:5)... and what would His will be?... well, how about living by/with the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), fulfilling the great commission (Matthew 28:18-20), being victorious over Satan and evil (James 4:7-10, 2 Timothy 1:7, Ephesians 6:10-18), etc... we can break those bad habits, we can start that new mission, and we don't have to be afraid, because when we are living within the will of God, the Lord God goes with us wherever we go (Joshua 1:9)
verse 13-16... I wonder what God thought about David taking more wives and having more children with them?
verse 17... did they go to attack him because they were angry since he had tricked them and lived among them claiming to want to fight the Isrealites and now he was their king (1 Samuel 27, 29) or for other reasons?
verse 18-21... interesting how David trusts in the power of God and he defeats the Philestines, and David's confidence in God grows... yet, the Philestines trust in their idols, who let them down, and so they abandon their idols... uncertain if David and his men carried off the Philestines or their idols... hopefully, if it was the idols, they then disposed of them. I like that the name of the place, according to the footnotes was "the Lord who breaks out"... kind of a cool name. :)
verse 22-25... again, God comes through... interesting to note that even though he was in God's will, God desired for David to take a second battle to complete the task... sometimes we think we have failed if it takes us more than once to do something, yet it may just be God's will to take more time, and it is usually for our benefit, and definately for the benefit of God's kingdom... so with that in mind, if we are giving our all to God, why should we worry about the time it takes to 'win the battle'... God is in control and it will happen when He is ready for it to happen. Cool how the imagery is in the idea of hear the sound of marching overhead, and that being a sign that the Lord's army has gone ahead to secure victory... we may not hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, but we can be sure that God has gone before us and secured the eternal victory (1 Corinthians 15:54-58, also all of 1 Corinthians 15 for more explaination, as well as other passages for Jesus's victory over darkness, sin, evil, death, etc)
sandJ
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
2 Samuel 3 today...... 2_Samuel 4 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 3: verse 1... a continuation of the end of Chapter 2, and another witness to God's hand being with David.
verse 2-5... David had a lot of wives! I never realized that he had so many.... interesting how each wife only had one son mentioned here.
verse 6-7... if that was Abner's plan to 'strengthen his position in the house of Saul', that doesn't seem to be a good plan... aren't concubines, let alone, women in general not viewed too highly, so really what clout could this girl give to Abner?
verse 8... Abner's offense was against Ish-Bosheth, since Saul's possessions as king would have become his now, so no wonder Ish-Bosheth confronted him... is Abner's anger because of an incorrect accusation or because he had gotten caught and his plan to overthrow Ish-Bosheth had been foiled... this verse kind of makes me wonder why Abner put Ish-Bosheth on the throne now, since he says 'I havent handed you over to David'... was that Abner's intentions all along at some point?... I wonder if Ish-Bosheth was kind of a push-over, and that was why Abner chose him? (see also verse 11)
verse 9-10... if Abner knew what God's will was, why didn't he do it, either before or now?... sounds like Abner is just trying to set himself up for something, and his threats, although true, are more given as a threat than an acknowledgement of God's will... do we ever do that in our own lives? do we take God's word and use it to bluff our way into or out of something or to make ourselves seem better? something to test our hearts on, I think
verse 12... if it is David's land, why would David need Abner's help... Abner is kind of slimy and self-seeking, I think
verse 13-14... David is not dumb, though, he is using this fake deal to his advantage
verse 15-16... kind of sweet in that the man loved his wife so much, but kind of dopey that he didn't back it up... not really a hallmark moment, but it does merit a small 'awwww'... also, it makes me feel sorry for this weak man, who obviously love his wife but was powerless to do anything about it... David had so many wives (verse 2-5), so why did he need to Michal'... just becuase she was 'his'... that doesn't seem right... David wasn't acting out of love, I don't think, but more out of selfishness... I don't like that.... kind of a theme with David and his desire for women, I think, as it reminds me somewhat of his directions concerning Bathsheba (chapter 11)... didn't care for anyone else's feelings but his own in the whole thing... just goes to show that yet again, even the most prominent of men in God's service are not perfect/blameless... we all are sinners (Romans 3:23), yet God calls us into His service anyway... He doesn't wait for us to become perfect before He is willing or able to use us (Philippians 3:12)... I wonder why we seem to place that burden on ourselves or others in light of God's thoughts on the matter? (Philippians 3:15-16)
verse 17-21... hmmmmm
verse 22-25... Joab seems to know Abner's true self, I wonder why David doesn't see it?... or does he?... or is Joab simply acting through bitter vision because of the past experience involving the death of his brother?... all the possible plot twists make me think of those shows with the narrator asking intriguing questions at the end, and then saying 'tune in next time...'. :)
verse 26-27, 30... ahhh, so some truth is out... Joab has selfish motives in Abner's return
verse 28-29... I wonder if Joab had talked to David about the death of Joab's brother and his desire for revenge if David would have still cursed Joab and this entire thing would have turned out the same?... sometimes it is better if we talk about these feelings to someone else... maybe, if nothing else, just releasing the hurt and anger might have given some healing, and David could have even reminded Joab of some truths from God concerning the whole thing... why do we act as if we are islands instead of part of a body at times?... it does not good for us, or anyone else
verse 31... ouch... now that is a humbling punishment, to have to show mourning and respect to the enemy you killed... yet, it is also in line with David's humility and respect for people as fellow children of God, whom David loved simply because of his deep love for God... do we love others simply because we love God, or do we require them to earn our love or even our notice/attention?
verse 32-39... I wonder if David's mourning is completely sincere, though, or if it is some part a performance to keep peace and win the hearts of the rest of Saul's kingdom in order to increase his power (see 1 Kings 2:5-6)?
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 3: verse 1... a continuation of the end of Chapter 2, and another witness to God's hand being with David.
verse 2-5... David had a lot of wives! I never realized that he had so many.... interesting how each wife only had one son mentioned here.
verse 6-7... if that was Abner's plan to 'strengthen his position in the house of Saul', that doesn't seem to be a good plan... aren't concubines, let alone, women in general not viewed too highly, so really what clout could this girl give to Abner?
verse 8... Abner's offense was against Ish-Bosheth, since Saul's possessions as king would have become his now, so no wonder Ish-Bosheth confronted him... is Abner's anger because of an incorrect accusation or because he had gotten caught and his plan to overthrow Ish-Bosheth had been foiled... this verse kind of makes me wonder why Abner put Ish-Bosheth on the throne now, since he says 'I havent handed you over to David'... was that Abner's intentions all along at some point?... I wonder if Ish-Bosheth was kind of a push-over, and that was why Abner chose him? (see also verse 11)
verse 9-10... if Abner knew what God's will was, why didn't he do it, either before or now?... sounds like Abner is just trying to set himself up for something, and his threats, although true, are more given as a threat than an acknowledgement of God's will... do we ever do that in our own lives? do we take God's word and use it to bluff our way into or out of something or to make ourselves seem better? something to test our hearts on, I think
verse 12... if it is David's land, why would David need Abner's help... Abner is kind of slimy and self-seeking, I think
verse 13-14... David is not dumb, though, he is using this fake deal to his advantage
verse 15-16... kind of sweet in that the man loved his wife so much, but kind of dopey that he didn't back it up... not really a hallmark moment, but it does merit a small 'awwww'... also, it makes me feel sorry for this weak man, who obviously love his wife but was powerless to do anything about it... David had so many wives (verse 2-5), so why did he need to Michal'... just becuase she was 'his'... that doesn't seem right... David wasn't acting out of love, I don't think, but more out of selfishness... I don't like that.... kind of a theme with David and his desire for women, I think, as it reminds me somewhat of his directions concerning Bathsheba (chapter 11)... didn't care for anyone else's feelings but his own in the whole thing... just goes to show that yet again, even the most prominent of men in God's service are not perfect/blameless... we all are sinners (Romans 3:23), yet God calls us into His service anyway... He doesn't wait for us to become perfect before He is willing or able to use us (Philippians 3:12)... I wonder why we seem to place that burden on ourselves or others in light of God's thoughts on the matter? (Philippians 3:15-16)
verse 17-21... hmmmmm
verse 22-25... Joab seems to know Abner's true self, I wonder why David doesn't see it?... or does he?... or is Joab simply acting through bitter vision because of the past experience involving the death of his brother?... all the possible plot twists make me think of those shows with the narrator asking intriguing questions at the end, and then saying 'tune in next time...'. :)
verse 26-27, 30... ahhh, so some truth is out... Joab has selfish motives in Abner's return
verse 28-29... I wonder if Joab had talked to David about the death of Joab's brother and his desire for revenge if David would have still cursed Joab and this entire thing would have turned out the same?... sometimes it is better if we talk about these feelings to someone else... maybe, if nothing else, just releasing the hurt and anger might have given some healing, and David could have even reminded Joab of some truths from God concerning the whole thing... why do we act as if we are islands instead of part of a body at times?... it does not good for us, or anyone else
verse 31... ouch... now that is a humbling punishment, to have to show mourning and respect to the enemy you killed... yet, it is also in line with David's humility and respect for people as fellow children of God, whom David loved simply because of his deep love for God... do we love others simply because we love God, or do we require them to earn our love or even our notice/attention?
verse 32-39... I wonder if David's mourning is completely sincere, though, or if it is some part a performance to keep peace and win the hearts of the rest of Saul's kingdom in order to increase his power (see 1 Kings 2:5-6)?
sandJ
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
2 Samuel 1 today...... 2_Samuel 2 tomorrow...
Read it... I have posted up through 1 Samuel 19 now... I am posting the historical stuff on 2 Samuel, since I am copying it from the "Invitation" section at the start of the book... however, I will blog on today's reading as soon as I catch up to it from the other posted readings.
sandJ
According to the "Invitation" the Author and Date info is the same for 2 Samuel as it was for 1 Samuel.
The Theme is different though... in 2 Samuel, the Theme is the "life and times of King David"
Historical Background: "David had been on the run from Saul. Now that Saul has died, David is able to take his rightful place on the throne over all of Isreal, but only after he emerges triumphant from a political power struggle. Surrounding nations, especially the Philestines, still pose the threat of war; however, Israel is militarily strong under David's victorious reign."... sounds exciting! :)
Characteristics: "Second Samuel continues the historical narrative of 1 Samuel, where David's youth and troublesome exile were the focus. Now in 'volume two' David reigns as Saul's successor and he must heal and unify the war-torn country. Chapters 1-10 narrate the prosperous early reign of David. He is annointed king over Judah and then over all Israel. He also sustains victory after victory on the battlefield. David's adultery with Bathesheba (chapter 11-12), however, marks a turning point in the book. In the chapters which follow, the 'sword never departs from David's house' (12:10). Throughout the book, God forms the backdrop as the One who establishes David upon the throne of Israel and gives him victory over his enemies."
Chapter 1: verse 1-10... first part is a summary of the last couple of chapters in 1 Samuel... then, however, some of the details change and some 'fill ins' are told... I find it interesting that the Amalekite would admit he was the 'enemy', especially David's enemy, or did he not know (see verse 1 and 8), and that he had escaped from the Isrealite camp (did he not realize David was an Isrealite, too?)... verse 4 seems kind of an insult, as if this man is saying that the Isrealites were cowardly... but if that is so, then why was he a prisoner of them?... also, David probably thinks that this man must have killed Saul, since why would Saul ask an enemy to kill him? That was exactly what he had wanted to avoid (see 1 Samuel 31:4)... also, how would a fugitive from the Isrealite camp still have Saul's crown and stuff in his possession?... also in verse 9, wouldn't it have been nobler and more helpful to David and the Isrealite people, if, instead of what was told here, if indeed this man had found Saul in such a state, that he had instead tended to his wounds instead of killing him? if Saul's wounds had been fatal, then he would have died anyway, and if they had not, then this man could have restored the king... seems like this man is just trying to gain honor for himself, where no honor is due... I would not trust him, as his story has too many contradictory and illogical parts to it... reminds me of the Proverbs 17:28-"Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent,and discerning if he holds his tongue."... I think this man would have been better off if he had held to this Proverb (although it was not written yet, but still the idea behind it has a practical application)
verse 11-16... the shock of the news of Saul and Jonathan's death was so great that David and his men didn't quite comprehend the rest of the report, I don't think... at least not at first... once they had grieved, though, David double checked the words of the man... the man had 2 things going against him... first, he was part of the people group that God had told David to wipe out, and second, he killed Saul (according to his recounting of the story)... the man probably thought he was home-free at first, when he was not killed right away, but he apparently was waiting around for his reward too long, instead of moving on and letting his glory come from God for any good works he might have done... makes me think about how often we look for reward from men, instead of God, and how it can lead us astray and get us into trouble, too, because our hearts are not in the right place... reminds me of the verse in Galatians 1:10- "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
verse 17-18... what is the Book of Jashar? According to the following website, it was a book of hymns, probably mostly battle hymns... read more following the weblink: http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/1026-what-was-the-book-of-jashar
"The expression, “book of Jashar,” translates two Hebrew words that signify “book of the upright” or “book of the righteous one.” Apparently it was an ancient Hebrew hymnbook containing nationalistic songs. The Syriac translation of the text in Joshua calls it the “book of praises,” or “book of hymns.” The references in the books of Joshua [Joshua 10:13] and 2 Samuel [1:18] would suggest that this collection of songs were compositions designed to celebrate great battles and notable characters in Israel’s illustrative history, as the nation prepared for the coming of the Messiah. A text in 2 Samuel may suggest that the book was used as a training text for Israel’s military forces. The passage reads: “and he bade them teach the children of Judah the song of the bow: behold it is written in the book of Jashar” (1:18 ASV). One scholar, R.A. Mitchell, of the Institute of Mediterranean Studies (Berkeley, California), has paraphrased the text as follows: “He instructed them to train the Judeans in bowmanship, the training-poem for which is written in the book of Jashar” (Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, C.F. Pfeiffer, Howard Vos, John Rea, eds., Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2003, p. 884). The book of Jashar is no longer extant. A copy, circulating under that name since 1751, has been determined to be a forgery."
verse 19... David is an amazing man to proclaim the glory of the man who had pursued him so diligently and had intended to kill him... also, I appreciate the double meaning behind the phrase "how the mighty have fallen", as we can see both the physical, as well as spiritual application to this lament throughout our past readings.
vesre 20... interesting how David does not want the news spread by gossip, because he does not want the people to both defame Saul's name, and probably does not want to give false encouragement to the attacks of enemies upon the Isrealites, but also, most importantly, I think David says this because he does not want to deglorify God's name or power... David, of course, knows that God's plan was for David to succeed Saul and that this was a long time coming in some way, however, probably not everyone knows this, and so the gossip could spread incorrect and harmful info, as far as God's reputation was concerned... something we should stop and think about before we spread gossip... we shouldn't just think how 'juicy' the story is, we should ask ourselves, does the retelling of this story bring glory to God... and if the answer to that question is no, then we should reconsider our recounting of the matter... this unglorifying part of the whole thing is most likely why Paul lists 'gossip' in with all the other 'wickedness' in Romans 1:29-32.
verse 21-25, 27... I like how David reminds people to remember the greatness of Saul and Jonathan, so they have something to talk about instead of their deaths... for example, the riches they bestowed on their people, their greatness in battles, etc
vesre 26... the study notes give several ways that this verse can be taken, but I think that it should be taken without unhealthy undertones... I am sure that David loved his wives (as he fought for them and cared for them on multiple accounts), however, David did have several wives, so he most likely did not have the same kind of friendship intimacy, as we might have with our spouses nowadays... when we are committed to one person, they become our best friend, they are the one we confide everything to, rely on for help and encouragement when we need it, love above all others and even more than ourselves... David could not have had that kind of love with his wives, because he had more than one, and being a husband demands certain other intimacies that would have caused a conflict among his relationship constraints to some degree... but with Jonathan, there was no sexual intimacy that led to jealousy or whatever, as it would have among Davids wives, so David and Jonathan were free to share that deep friendship and be 'soul brothers' to each other... this is one reason why I think that sexual purity in marriage is so important, so that a husband and wife have the ability to experience this kind of deep friendship within their marriage, instead of requiring them to find a substitute friendship elsewhere... it is hard to be friends with someone you can't trust to be faithful... also, by having both a deep friendship, as well as the specialness of a monogamos sexual intimacy, a marriage relationship can become an amazing bond that far outweighs anything else. I think that, even though David and Jonathan had a deep bond, I do not think that it was as strong as if David had kept himself to one wife, and allowed her to be his 'soul mate'... the bond of a marriage is so much stronger because it is multi-faceted in its depth of intimacy... we should all work hard to maintain that type of blessing within our marriage, so that we can uphold the beauty of being 'one flesh' (Genesis 2:24) with our spouse, and encourage others to do the same.... in addition, the great bond that David and Jonathan had as friends, is something we should all aspire to give to our friends... of course, not all our friends will be our 'best' friend, but the idea of unconditionally loving them more than ourselves, and giving them the comfort and certainty of knowing that they can always rely on us, are two of the most special gifts we can give our friends.
sandJ
sandJ
According to the "Invitation" the Author and Date info is the same for 2 Samuel as it was for 1 Samuel.
The Theme is different though... in 2 Samuel, the Theme is the "life and times of King David"
Historical Background: "David had been on the run from Saul. Now that Saul has died, David is able to take his rightful place on the throne over all of Isreal, but only after he emerges triumphant from a political power struggle. Surrounding nations, especially the Philestines, still pose the threat of war; however, Israel is militarily strong under David's victorious reign."... sounds exciting! :)
Characteristics: "Second Samuel continues the historical narrative of 1 Samuel, where David's youth and troublesome exile were the focus. Now in 'volume two' David reigns as Saul's successor and he must heal and unify the war-torn country. Chapters 1-10 narrate the prosperous early reign of David. He is annointed king over Judah and then over all Israel. He also sustains victory after victory on the battlefield. David's adultery with Bathesheba (chapter 11-12), however, marks a turning point in the book. In the chapters which follow, the 'sword never departs from David's house' (12:10). Throughout the book, God forms the backdrop as the One who establishes David upon the throne of Israel and gives him victory over his enemies."
Chapter 1: verse 1-10... first part is a summary of the last couple of chapters in 1 Samuel... then, however, some of the details change and some 'fill ins' are told... I find it interesting that the Amalekite would admit he was the 'enemy', especially David's enemy, or did he not know (see verse 1 and 8), and that he had escaped from the Isrealite camp (did he not realize David was an Isrealite, too?)... verse 4 seems kind of an insult, as if this man is saying that the Isrealites were cowardly... but if that is so, then why was he a prisoner of them?... also, David probably thinks that this man must have killed Saul, since why would Saul ask an enemy to kill him? That was exactly what he had wanted to avoid (see 1 Samuel 31:4)... also, how would a fugitive from the Isrealite camp still have Saul's crown and stuff in his possession?... also in verse 9, wouldn't it have been nobler and more helpful to David and the Isrealite people, if, instead of what was told here, if indeed this man had found Saul in such a state, that he had instead tended to his wounds instead of killing him? if Saul's wounds had been fatal, then he would have died anyway, and if they had not, then this man could have restored the king... seems like this man is just trying to gain honor for himself, where no honor is due... I would not trust him, as his story has too many contradictory and illogical parts to it... reminds me of the Proverbs 17:28-"Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent,and discerning if he holds his tongue."... I think this man would have been better off if he had held to this Proverb (although it was not written yet, but still the idea behind it has a practical application)
verse 11-16... the shock of the news of Saul and Jonathan's death was so great that David and his men didn't quite comprehend the rest of the report, I don't think... at least not at first... once they had grieved, though, David double checked the words of the man... the man had 2 things going against him... first, he was part of the people group that God had told David to wipe out, and second, he killed Saul (according to his recounting of the story)... the man probably thought he was home-free at first, when he was not killed right away, but he apparently was waiting around for his reward too long, instead of moving on and letting his glory come from God for any good works he might have done... makes me think about how often we look for reward from men, instead of God, and how it can lead us astray and get us into trouble, too, because our hearts are not in the right place... reminds me of the verse in Galatians 1:10- "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ."
verse 17-18... what is the Book of Jashar? According to the following website, it was a book of hymns, probably mostly battle hymns... read more following the weblink: http://www.christiancourier.com/articles/1026-what-was-the-book-of-jashar
"The expression, “book of Jashar,” translates two Hebrew words that signify “book of the upright” or “book of the righteous one.” Apparently it was an ancient Hebrew hymnbook containing nationalistic songs. The Syriac translation of the text in Joshua calls it the “book of praises,” or “book of hymns.” The references in the books of Joshua [Joshua 10:13] and 2 Samuel [1:18] would suggest that this collection of songs were compositions designed to celebrate great battles and notable characters in Israel’s illustrative history, as the nation prepared for the coming of the Messiah. A text in 2 Samuel may suggest that the book was used as a training text for Israel’s military forces. The passage reads: “and he bade them teach the children of Judah the song of the bow: behold it is written in the book of Jashar” (1:18 ASV). One scholar, R.A. Mitchell, of the Institute of Mediterranean Studies (Berkeley, California), has paraphrased the text as follows: “He instructed them to train the Judeans in bowmanship, the training-poem for which is written in the book of Jashar” (Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, C.F. Pfeiffer, Howard Vos, John Rea, eds., Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 2003, p. 884). The book of Jashar is no longer extant. A copy, circulating under that name since 1751, has been determined to be a forgery."
verse 19... David is an amazing man to proclaim the glory of the man who had pursued him so diligently and had intended to kill him... also, I appreciate the double meaning behind the phrase "how the mighty have fallen", as we can see both the physical, as well as spiritual application to this lament throughout our past readings.
vesre 20... interesting how David does not want the news spread by gossip, because he does not want the people to both defame Saul's name, and probably does not want to give false encouragement to the attacks of enemies upon the Isrealites, but also, most importantly, I think David says this because he does not want to deglorify God's name or power... David, of course, knows that God's plan was for David to succeed Saul and that this was a long time coming in some way, however, probably not everyone knows this, and so the gossip could spread incorrect and harmful info, as far as God's reputation was concerned... something we should stop and think about before we spread gossip... we shouldn't just think how 'juicy' the story is, we should ask ourselves, does the retelling of this story bring glory to God... and if the answer to that question is no, then we should reconsider our recounting of the matter... this unglorifying part of the whole thing is most likely why Paul lists 'gossip' in with all the other 'wickedness' in Romans 1:29-32.
verse 21-25, 27... I like how David reminds people to remember the greatness of Saul and Jonathan, so they have something to talk about instead of their deaths... for example, the riches they bestowed on their people, their greatness in battles, etc
vesre 26... the study notes give several ways that this verse can be taken, but I think that it should be taken without unhealthy undertones... I am sure that David loved his wives (as he fought for them and cared for them on multiple accounts), however, David did have several wives, so he most likely did not have the same kind of friendship intimacy, as we might have with our spouses nowadays... when we are committed to one person, they become our best friend, they are the one we confide everything to, rely on for help and encouragement when we need it, love above all others and even more than ourselves... David could not have had that kind of love with his wives, because he had more than one, and being a husband demands certain other intimacies that would have caused a conflict among his relationship constraints to some degree... but with Jonathan, there was no sexual intimacy that led to jealousy or whatever, as it would have among Davids wives, so David and Jonathan were free to share that deep friendship and be 'soul brothers' to each other... this is one reason why I think that sexual purity in marriage is so important, so that a husband and wife have the ability to experience this kind of deep friendship within their marriage, instead of requiring them to find a substitute friendship elsewhere... it is hard to be friends with someone you can't trust to be faithful... also, by having both a deep friendship, as well as the specialness of a monogamos sexual intimacy, a marriage relationship can become an amazing bond that far outweighs anything else. I think that, even though David and Jonathan had a deep bond, I do not think that it was as strong as if David had kept himself to one wife, and allowed her to be his 'soul mate'... the bond of a marriage is so much stronger because it is multi-faceted in its depth of intimacy... we should all work hard to maintain that type of blessing within our marriage, so that we can uphold the beauty of being 'one flesh' (Genesis 2:24) with our spouse, and encourage others to do the same.... in addition, the great bond that David and Jonathan had as friends, is something we should all aspire to give to our friends... of course, not all our friends will be our 'best' friend, but the idea of unconditionally loving them more than ourselves, and giving them the comfort and certainty of knowing that they can always rely on us, are two of the most special gifts we can give our friends.
sandJ
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
1 Samuel 30 today..... 1_Samuel 31 tomorrow....
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 30: verse 1-6... not a very nice way to be greeted upon return home... kind of adding insult to injury after being kicked off the Philistine team... I know that there have been times in my life when I just felt like nothing was going right, and I didn't see how it would get better any time soon... but then, it seems that I was only focusing on the negative things, which are so easy to find... how much better it made things to notice the blessings (albeit sometimes very small ones, but blessings none the less)... for example, here in verse 2, it mentions that none of the women were killed... that is definately a blessing, and quite frankly a miracle, considering all the killing everyone seems to be doing of each other's villages all the time lately. The end of verse 6 really gives us a key to how we can make that change in our perception from negative brooders to blessing counters... "David found strength in the Lord his God"... we may not be able to trust in people or things or circumstances, but we can always trust in God's love, justness, and unchanging faithfulness, and His truth based on His character. I also find it interesting that David found strength in God after he had wept and felt distressed... sometimes I think that we believe we must be strong at all times and never 'break down'... but how then, if we are always strong in and of ourselves, can we find strength in God?... it is when we pour out our frustrations, discourging thoughts, desires, and sadness, that we make room for God's peace, comfort, and strength to fill us... I think that is partly why Paul says in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, that when he is weak, then he is strong... because only when we come to our end, and stop relying on our selves, and our 'strength' can we then fully discover true strength, by relying on the strength of God to sustain us.
verse 7-10... sometimes we think that when God calls us to do something, He means for us to do it alone, or that if we have to let others go on ahead because we have reached a point of much needed rest, that we have somehow failed in our mission, or something... but God does not call us to work for Him on our own... we are all part of a team, and we all need to work together to acheive His ultimate goal... we all get tired sometimes, and when we can, we must spur others on or pick up the work of others when they need help... but when we are the ones who need encouraging, we need to be humble and allow others to spur us on and help us out... that is how a team works... a team does not involve everyone doing everything all the time... a team, instead, is about each person doing all they can to help each other work toward the common goal.
verse 11-17...I can't think of much to say here, but the study notes mention that it might be beneficial to reflect on how the slave might have been feeling, being forced to join the raid, being abandoned without food, being discovered by David's men, being fed and then interrogated by them, and finally being their guide to take them to fight your master... I'm not coming up with anything, but reflection on these things will likely bring something to mind, I would assume, since the study notes always seem to mention things worth mentioning.
verse 18-20... what a testament to God's faithfulness... you know, it just occured to me that David had asked God's advice first before he went and retaliated and took his stuff back... that is something we can all learn from, I think, becuase we should never assume that just because we lose something that God wants us to have it back... yet, when we do rely on God's will and obey it, it is obvious how He faithfully provides us with everythin we need... sometimes that is by recovering what we actually lost (like here), and sometimes that is by blessing us with other things (like in Job's life story)... but either way, God never lets us down.... important for me to remember this as I can sometimes get so stuck on what I've lost that I never move on to see what God wants me to do (or not do) about it.... which means that I then, also, miss out on the blessings that God had in store for me, if I had but obeyed.
verse 21-25... reminds me again of how we are all part of God's team, with no one being better or less than any one else (we are all equally important parts of the 'Body'- 1 Corinthians 12)... it also reminds me about when Jesus gave the parable talking about how each of us, who accept Him, are given equal shares into the Kingdom of Heaven, regardless of when we finally make that decision (Matthew 20:1-16)
verse 26-31... David reminds me of a kind of Isrealite Robin Hood... he takes from the Lord's enemies and gives to God's people... interesting that he does not appear to give anything to the Philestines, but he does give to those who he told the Philestines he had been fighting and raiding (Chapter 27).
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 30: verse 1-6... not a very nice way to be greeted upon return home... kind of adding insult to injury after being kicked off the Philistine team... I know that there have been times in my life when I just felt like nothing was going right, and I didn't see how it would get better any time soon... but then, it seems that I was only focusing on the negative things, which are so easy to find... how much better it made things to notice the blessings (albeit sometimes very small ones, but blessings none the less)... for example, here in verse 2, it mentions that none of the women were killed... that is definately a blessing, and quite frankly a miracle, considering all the killing everyone seems to be doing of each other's villages all the time lately. The end of verse 6 really gives us a key to how we can make that change in our perception from negative brooders to blessing counters... "David found strength in the Lord his God"... we may not be able to trust in people or things or circumstances, but we can always trust in God's love, justness, and unchanging faithfulness, and His truth based on His character. I also find it interesting that David found strength in God after he had wept and felt distressed... sometimes I think that we believe we must be strong at all times and never 'break down'... but how then, if we are always strong in and of ourselves, can we find strength in God?... it is when we pour out our frustrations, discourging thoughts, desires, and sadness, that we make room for God's peace, comfort, and strength to fill us... I think that is partly why Paul says in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, that when he is weak, then he is strong... because only when we come to our end, and stop relying on our selves, and our 'strength' can we then fully discover true strength, by relying on the strength of God to sustain us.
verse 7-10... sometimes we think that when God calls us to do something, He means for us to do it alone, or that if we have to let others go on ahead because we have reached a point of much needed rest, that we have somehow failed in our mission, or something... but God does not call us to work for Him on our own... we are all part of a team, and we all need to work together to acheive His ultimate goal... we all get tired sometimes, and when we can, we must spur others on or pick up the work of others when they need help... but when we are the ones who need encouraging, we need to be humble and allow others to spur us on and help us out... that is how a team works... a team does not involve everyone doing everything all the time... a team, instead, is about each person doing all they can to help each other work toward the common goal.
verse 11-17...I can't think of much to say here, but the study notes mention that it might be beneficial to reflect on how the slave might have been feeling, being forced to join the raid, being abandoned without food, being discovered by David's men, being fed and then interrogated by them, and finally being their guide to take them to fight your master... I'm not coming up with anything, but reflection on these things will likely bring something to mind, I would assume, since the study notes always seem to mention things worth mentioning.
verse 18-20... what a testament to God's faithfulness... you know, it just occured to me that David had asked God's advice first before he went and retaliated and took his stuff back... that is something we can all learn from, I think, becuase we should never assume that just because we lose something that God wants us to have it back... yet, when we do rely on God's will and obey it, it is obvious how He faithfully provides us with everythin we need... sometimes that is by recovering what we actually lost (like here), and sometimes that is by blessing us with other things (like in Job's life story)... but either way, God never lets us down.... important for me to remember this as I can sometimes get so stuck on what I've lost that I never move on to see what God wants me to do (or not do) about it.... which means that I then, also, miss out on the blessings that God had in store for me, if I had but obeyed.
verse 21-25... reminds me again of how we are all part of God's team, with no one being better or less than any one else (we are all equally important parts of the 'Body'- 1 Corinthians 12)... it also reminds me about when Jesus gave the parable talking about how each of us, who accept Him, are given equal shares into the Kingdom of Heaven, regardless of when we finally make that decision (Matthew 20:1-16)
verse 26-31... David reminds me of a kind of Isrealite Robin Hood... he takes from the Lord's enemies and gives to God's people... interesting that he does not appear to give anything to the Philestines, but he does give to those who he told the Philestines he had been fighting and raiding (Chapter 27).
sandJ
Friday, April 16, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
1 Samuel 28 today..... 1_Samuel 29 tomorrow....
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 28: verse 1-2... I wonder what David's plans/thoughts were? he was like one of those undercover cops that you see on movies, who have to 'get inside' and 'become' one of the bad guys in order to bust their operation... was David planning something like that?... he must have been pretty convincing of his loyalty, if the king was willing to take a previously crazy enemy Isrealite to be his bodygaurd for life
verse 3... the background set up for the things to come...
verse 4-7... I have to give Saul credit here... he tried to do what was right... he sought the Lord's help and advice first... my first question is why God didn't answer him... but as I ask it, two possible answers come to mind. First, maybe Saul already had been given the answer... he knew that God had already numbered his days, and it could be that God did not need to tell him that He was about to wipe him out. Another possible reason for God's lack of answer could be because Saul was so far removed from God at this point (by his own doing), that God was trying to answer him, but Saul could not hear Him... sometime we assume God has moved away from us, when in fact, we have moved away from God, and the rituals of worship is not what brings us back to God... it is our hearts... full of repentence (not selfish desires or fears). Saul's decision to seek the advise of evil, instead of persevering in seeking answers from God, makes me think that Saul was not so sure he would hear from God, did not really want to hear from God, or maybe didn't like the answer he knew would (or had) come from God previously.... sometimes I think we turn to things/people we know will give us what we want, not necessarily what we need to hear.
verse 8-9... Saul is consummed by evil at this point... not only does he have no regard for his soul, but he doesn't care who else he brings down in the process... the exact opposite of God, because it is the exact opposite of love (1 John 3:10)... PS the woman is scared for her life because of Saul's decree (see whys behind decree in Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:9-13), but also because of the laws/consequences set in place in Leviticus 20:27
verse 10... I think Saul has a lot of guts... not only did he break God's laws, but then he swore by God's name to uphold his sins... how rude!... I hope we never get entangled by sin that we can't even recognize what is right and wrong... when lines begin to blur, we better take that as a sign to not walk, but run, back to God... we are headed for a heap of trouble if we don't!... the study notes point out that the pagan witch fears God more than the Isrealite king.
verse 11, 15... I find it so interesting that even in his dark state, Saul is still trying to find reconcilliation, yet he is unwilling to follow the ways God has set up for it to happen... I think this is just another proof that humans are made to be in the presence of God... when we are absent from God, we can't help but try to find ways to get back to Him, even if we don't recognize that that is what we are doing... Saul could have asked her to summon up anyone, yet, he chose Samuel, Saul's last known direct link to God... here is another image of hell here... to know that you are meant to be with God, yet completely unable to do so... God tells us that that day is a very viable reality... if we chose to not acknowledge God in our lives here, He will not acknowledge us on the day of judgement (Luke 12:8-10)... if we think our misery without God is bad now, it can only be hell to say that we will know that we are eternally separated from Him... without God... without grace... without love... forever
verse 12-14... I find it interesting that there is truth to the occult's claim to be able to raise the dead... at least in the past... I do wonder if that is still true today, though, since Jesus has now conquered death?... either way, it is just one more reason to take very seriously the negative effects of 'playing' with occult things, like the Ouija board, tarot cards, seances (spelling?), etc... for whether the dead is still able to return or not, at this point in time, we must be certain that they are coming back under the call of Satan, who we know is the father of lies, so whatever happens is NOT to be trusted! really, do we want to talk to Satan or be face-to-face with him and his power? if such things are factual, and evil power exists, then that must mean there is good, as one cannot, by rights and definition, exist without the other... and since I have a choice, I would totally rather be in the power of good/truth (God), than in the power of evil/deceit (satan)... and God says we can have that power, in Him(2 Timothy 1:7, 2 Corinthians 4:6-7)... it also reminds me of how Paul was sent to tell people about just that, how to turn from the power of Satan to God (Acts 26:15-18), and Jesus, as well as other New Testament writers, talk about moving from 'darkness' to 'light' many many times... we all have the option to renounce the darkness of sin that so easily entangles us (Hebrews 12:1), and embrace the healing light of truth in Jesus (Acts 10:38, Romans 10:9-11)
verse 16-19... I am reminded of the Parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus" (Luke 16:19-31), and how the rich man wanted someone to come back from the dead to tell his family to believe in God, yet he is told that ''If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'... I think that is true here of Saul... even though Samuel rises from the dead, Saul still does not believe what God has already told him enough to repent while he still has time... it is too late for Saul because he has chosen not to listen
verse 20-25... I don't think it really has all that much to do with how much food he had eaten that day.... don't we sometimes blame physical things when we don't want to face the reality that it is our spiritual life that is causing us pain... it is easier to pop some asprin that it is to confess our sins, yet, the healing of confession and repentence far outweighs the power of a few asprin, to be sure!
The study notes make a final question point: "How do you suppose the fattened calf tasted to one who now knew he was about to die?"... something to reflect on in our own lives and ways, I think.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 28: verse 1-2... I wonder what David's plans/thoughts were? he was like one of those undercover cops that you see on movies, who have to 'get inside' and 'become' one of the bad guys in order to bust their operation... was David planning something like that?... he must have been pretty convincing of his loyalty, if the king was willing to take a previously crazy enemy Isrealite to be his bodygaurd for life
verse 3... the background set up for the things to come...
verse 4-7... I have to give Saul credit here... he tried to do what was right... he sought the Lord's help and advice first... my first question is why God didn't answer him... but as I ask it, two possible answers come to mind. First, maybe Saul already had been given the answer... he knew that God had already numbered his days, and it could be that God did not need to tell him that He was about to wipe him out. Another possible reason for God's lack of answer could be because Saul was so far removed from God at this point (by his own doing), that God was trying to answer him, but Saul could not hear Him... sometime we assume God has moved away from us, when in fact, we have moved away from God, and the rituals of worship is not what brings us back to God... it is our hearts... full of repentence (not selfish desires or fears). Saul's decision to seek the advise of evil, instead of persevering in seeking answers from God, makes me think that Saul was not so sure he would hear from God, did not really want to hear from God, or maybe didn't like the answer he knew would (or had) come from God previously.... sometimes I think we turn to things/people we know will give us what we want, not necessarily what we need to hear.
verse 8-9... Saul is consummed by evil at this point... not only does he have no regard for his soul, but he doesn't care who else he brings down in the process... the exact opposite of God, because it is the exact opposite of love (1 John 3:10)... PS the woman is scared for her life because of Saul's decree (see whys behind decree in Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:9-13), but also because of the laws/consequences set in place in Leviticus 20:27
verse 10... I think Saul has a lot of guts... not only did he break God's laws, but then he swore by God's name to uphold his sins... how rude!... I hope we never get entangled by sin that we can't even recognize what is right and wrong... when lines begin to blur, we better take that as a sign to not walk, but run, back to God... we are headed for a heap of trouble if we don't!... the study notes point out that the pagan witch fears God more than the Isrealite king.
verse 11, 15... I find it so interesting that even in his dark state, Saul is still trying to find reconcilliation, yet he is unwilling to follow the ways God has set up for it to happen... I think this is just another proof that humans are made to be in the presence of God... when we are absent from God, we can't help but try to find ways to get back to Him, even if we don't recognize that that is what we are doing... Saul could have asked her to summon up anyone, yet, he chose Samuel, Saul's last known direct link to God... here is another image of hell here... to know that you are meant to be with God, yet completely unable to do so... God tells us that that day is a very viable reality... if we chose to not acknowledge God in our lives here, He will not acknowledge us on the day of judgement (Luke 12:8-10)... if we think our misery without God is bad now, it can only be hell to say that we will know that we are eternally separated from Him... without God... without grace... without love... forever
verse 12-14... I find it interesting that there is truth to the occult's claim to be able to raise the dead... at least in the past... I do wonder if that is still true today, though, since Jesus has now conquered death?... either way, it is just one more reason to take very seriously the negative effects of 'playing' with occult things, like the Ouija board, tarot cards, seances (spelling?), etc... for whether the dead is still able to return or not, at this point in time, we must be certain that they are coming back under the call of Satan, who we know is the father of lies, so whatever happens is NOT to be trusted! really, do we want to talk to Satan or be face-to-face with him and his power? if such things are factual, and evil power exists, then that must mean there is good, as one cannot, by rights and definition, exist without the other... and since I have a choice, I would totally rather be in the power of good/truth (God), than in the power of evil/deceit (satan)... and God says we can have that power, in Him(2 Timothy 1:7, 2 Corinthians 4:6-7)... it also reminds me of how Paul was sent to tell people about just that, how to turn from the power of Satan to God (Acts 26:15-18), and Jesus, as well as other New Testament writers, talk about moving from 'darkness' to 'light' many many times... we all have the option to renounce the darkness of sin that so easily entangles us (Hebrews 12:1), and embrace the healing light of truth in Jesus (Acts 10:38, Romans 10:9-11)
verse 16-19... I am reminded of the Parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus" (Luke 16:19-31), and how the rich man wanted someone to come back from the dead to tell his family to believe in God, yet he is told that ''If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'... I think that is true here of Saul... even though Samuel rises from the dead, Saul still does not believe what God has already told him enough to repent while he still has time... it is too late for Saul because he has chosen not to listen
verse 20-25... I don't think it really has all that much to do with how much food he had eaten that day.... don't we sometimes blame physical things when we don't want to face the reality that it is our spiritual life that is causing us pain... it is easier to pop some asprin that it is to confess our sins, yet, the healing of confession and repentence far outweighs the power of a few asprin, to be sure!
The study notes make a final question point: "How do you suppose the fattened calf tasted to one who now knew he was about to die?"... something to reflect on in our own lives and ways, I think.
sandJ
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Monday, April 12, 2010
1 Samuel 25 today.... 1 Samuel 26 tomorrow...
Read it... posted on 1 Samuel 13 and partially on 14 tonight... I would catch up sooner if I stopped being so wordy... sorry... still persevering and will eventually get caught up. :)
sandJ
Chapter 25: verse 1... I wonder how old Samuel was?
verse 2-3... interesting the things noted about Nabal... wealthy, smart and pretty wife... but he was mean and a Calebite... does being a Calebite have anything to do with his character, or just a point of birth for the sake of interest?... I guess that having money and a great wife, doesn't necessarily mean a person will be happy... sometimes we think that if we only had... but, here it appears Nabal does have it, yet he is still unkind, dumb, and doomed.
verse 4-13... now, normally I would think this was kind of rude, and like doing a favor just to "cash it in" later... however, I recently read a book called "Foreign to Familiar", which describes cultural differences, and I am wondering if this was a common way of doing things then... also, if it was, and the things I think I learned in my book apply, then it would also have been presupposed that Nabal would have followed the cultural norms and been happy to oblige their request... and to not do so would have been a huge insult... instead of being the other way around, with David's request being the insulting thing.... by refusing David, Nabal is essentially saying that David is neither friend, nor family... which would then make these two men enemies, as there would have been no other option at that point, since the other two were exhausted.
verse 14-19... I wonder how many times Abigail has had to bail her husband out of trouble because of his rash temper and rudeness?
verse 20-22... I find it interesting that David had given up right before God was sending an intervention (Abigail)... I think about how often I am ready to throw the towel in and then God steps in to set it all right... if I could just learn to persevere a little longer, and not get frustrated during the tough things, then I would be able to enjoy the blessings a little more, I think, because I would not have condemned myself by rash words or ill actions (like David's saying "May God deal..., be it ever to severely...")... I wish I could just trust God more in my everyday life, instead of trying to take on the tough stuff on my own, or getting frustrated by it and wanting to give up so easily.
verse 23-25... quite an apology... Abigail should consider going into diplomacy!
verse 26-31... so what does a good apology consist of?... humility, taking responsibility, pointing out the positives of the other as well as the situation, being aware of who the person you are apologizing to is (apparently Abigail had heard of David and his kingship), providing the other person another graceful way out of the situation to help them save face, offering them a blessing (both verbally and physically), and a request for mercy/forgiveness from the other person... sure beats the heck out of a pouty "I'm sorry", or an "If you hadn't, I wouldn't have..."
verse 32-35... sometimes we think that our request for forgiveness is all about us... but here, it is clearly a mutual benefit... Abigail has saved her household, but David has been saved from the guilt of a rash decision to avenge himself out of anger and revenge... Abigail has brought grace and blessing to both parties because of her willingness to humble herself (even for an act that did not involve her)... she could have gone around blaming Nabal for his stupidity and wasted her time pointing out his mistakes, or she could have gone out in a rage to yell at David for his temper and desire for revenge, or she could have just curled up in corner to cry about their impending doom, or she could have just fled to save herself without regard for anyone else, or even gravelled pitieously without a desire to promote the wellbeing of anyone but herself... she could have acted in any number of other ways that would have been human, however, she did none of those... instead, she acted in wisdom... which comes from God (Ephesians 1:17, James 1:5)
I also love how David and Abigail both recognize God's hand in the whole matter...
This story also helps me see some of David's
humaness, and get a glimpse at why God loved him so much... David may have been full of mistakes, but he was quick to repent, and quick to acknowledge and obey God's hand and will when he was made aware of it... it makes me think about how we talked about righteousness a long time ago, back when we first began all these blogs... and so, to carry on more on that, righteousness is not about being perfect, but it is about acting as David has displayed in his character here... repenting and obeying when we realize our mistakes and discover God's will.
verse 36-38... I wonder why she waited to tell Nabal? did she want to make sure that the intensity of the matter sunk in in hopes that he would learn his lesson? apparently, God took care of that part, though
verse 39... ok, that kind of sounds like gloating to me... not sure about that.
verse 40... I can see why David would want her as his wife!
verse 41-42... and I get why she would agree.
verse 43... not so crazy about the whole multiple wives thing... although, I suppose it is a positive that David doesn't just ditch the others when he finds a "new" one
verse 44... how is that Saul's right to do that?
Study Notes suggest that this story about Nabal and David might be a "parable" of Saul's relationship to David.... however, the notes point out that David acts differently to Saul (24:4), than he does to Nabal... the notes then ask why... my only thought on the matter is because Saul is God's annointed, and so off-limits, yet Nabal was not within the protection of God's hand, so David did not feel any remorse in taking him out (like he had done to so many other God-less men through out the lands)
The study notes also seem to suggest that David's request for Abigail's hand in marriage might be a response to her request to "remember your servant" (verse 31). Also, in reference to verse 10 and 29, the notes ask if there could have been a 'cover up' going on... I don't know for sure what is meant by that, but I wonder if the thought is that Nabal was hoping to side with Saul instead of David in hopes of gaining favor with Saul, the current king?
sandJ
sandJ
Chapter 25: verse 1... I wonder how old Samuel was?
verse 2-3... interesting the things noted about Nabal... wealthy, smart and pretty wife... but he was mean and a Calebite... does being a Calebite have anything to do with his character, or just a point of birth for the sake of interest?... I guess that having money and a great wife, doesn't necessarily mean a person will be happy... sometimes we think that if we only had... but, here it appears Nabal does have it, yet he is still unkind, dumb, and doomed.
verse 4-13... now, normally I would think this was kind of rude, and like doing a favor just to "cash it in" later... however, I recently read a book called "Foreign to Familiar", which describes cultural differences, and I am wondering if this was a common way of doing things then... also, if it was, and the things I think I learned in my book apply, then it would also have been presupposed that Nabal would have followed the cultural norms and been happy to oblige their request... and to not do so would have been a huge insult... instead of being the other way around, with David's request being the insulting thing.... by refusing David, Nabal is essentially saying that David is neither friend, nor family... which would then make these two men enemies, as there would have been no other option at that point, since the other two were exhausted.
verse 14-19... I wonder how many times Abigail has had to bail her husband out of trouble because of his rash temper and rudeness?
verse 20-22... I find it interesting that David had given up right before God was sending an intervention (Abigail)... I think about how often I am ready to throw the towel in and then God steps in to set it all right... if I could just learn to persevere a little longer, and not get frustrated during the tough things, then I would be able to enjoy the blessings a little more, I think, because I would not have condemned myself by rash words or ill actions (like David's saying "May God deal..., be it ever to severely...")... I wish I could just trust God more in my everyday life, instead of trying to take on the tough stuff on my own, or getting frustrated by it and wanting to give up so easily.
verse 23-25... quite an apology... Abigail should consider going into diplomacy!
verse 26-31... so what does a good apology consist of?... humility, taking responsibility, pointing out the positives of the other as well as the situation, being aware of who the person you are apologizing to is (apparently Abigail had heard of David and his kingship), providing the other person another graceful way out of the situation to help them save face, offering them a blessing (both verbally and physically), and a request for mercy/forgiveness from the other person... sure beats the heck out of a pouty "I'm sorry", or an "If you hadn't, I wouldn't have..."
verse 32-35... sometimes we think that our request for forgiveness is all about us... but here, it is clearly a mutual benefit... Abigail has saved her household, but David has been saved from the guilt of a rash decision to avenge himself out of anger and revenge... Abigail has brought grace and blessing to both parties because of her willingness to humble herself (even for an act that did not involve her)... she could have gone around blaming Nabal for his stupidity and wasted her time pointing out his mistakes, or she could have gone out in a rage to yell at David for his temper and desire for revenge, or she could have just curled up in corner to cry about their impending doom, or she could have just fled to save herself without regard for anyone else, or even gravelled pitieously without a desire to promote the wellbeing of anyone but herself... she could have acted in any number of other ways that would have been human, however, she did none of those... instead, she acted in wisdom... which comes from God (Ephesians 1:17, James 1:5)
I also love how David and Abigail both recognize God's hand in the whole matter...
This story also helps me see some of David's
humaness, and get a glimpse at why God loved him so much... David may have been full of mistakes, but he was quick to repent, and quick to acknowledge and obey God's hand and will when he was made aware of it... it makes me think about how we talked about righteousness a long time ago, back when we first began all these blogs... and so, to carry on more on that, righteousness is not about being perfect, but it is about acting as David has displayed in his character here... repenting and obeying when we realize our mistakes and discover God's will.
verse 36-38... I wonder why she waited to tell Nabal? did she want to make sure that the intensity of the matter sunk in in hopes that he would learn his lesson? apparently, God took care of that part, though
verse 39... ok, that kind of sounds like gloating to me... not sure about that.
verse 40... I can see why David would want her as his wife!
verse 41-42... and I get why she would agree.
verse 43... not so crazy about the whole multiple wives thing... although, I suppose it is a positive that David doesn't just ditch the others when he finds a "new" one
verse 44... how is that Saul's right to do that?
Study Notes suggest that this story about Nabal and David might be a "parable" of Saul's relationship to David.... however, the notes point out that David acts differently to Saul (24:4), than he does to Nabal... the notes then ask why... my only thought on the matter is because Saul is God's annointed, and so off-limits, yet Nabal was not within the protection of God's hand, so David did not feel any remorse in taking him out (like he had done to so many other God-less men through out the lands)
The study notes also seem to suggest that David's request for Abigail's hand in marriage might be a response to her request to "remember your servant" (verse 31). Also, in reference to verse 10 and 29, the notes ask if there could have been a 'cover up' going on... I don't know for sure what is meant by that, but I wonder if the thought is that Nabal was hoping to side with Saul instead of David in hopes of gaining favor with Saul, the current king?
sandJ
Sunday, April 11, 2010
1 Samuel 24 today....... 1_Samuel 25 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 24: verse 1-2... I have to say that these past chapters and verses might give good definition to obsession... I wonder what Saul's men thought about having to constantly be away from their families and homes and such just to pursue Saul's obsession? do we ever do that to those we care about? do we ever force them to follow us around or live in the shadow and hardship of our obsessions? it might be helpful to take a long hard look at ourselves and see what, if anything, we are obsessed about... yes, we should devote our lives to God, but that is not what we are talking about here... God also reminds us that all things should be in moderation (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 1 Corinthians 6:12, 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, Titus 2:1-8,12, 1 Peter 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9, 1 Corinthians 10:31, and Romans 8:5-6), and God even tells His people to take a rest of even doing His work (Exodus 31, Exodus 35)... so obsession is not a good thing, from what I can tell
verse 3...ok, the immaturity in me is laughing :)
verse 4... hmmmm
verse 5-7... I find it amazing that David is still honoring Saul, not because of Saul, but because of God... it reminds me of the verse in Romans 13:1-2: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."... I think about how when we don't agree with our 'authorities' how we can be quick to complain or rebel, or 'cut off their robe' or whatever... but when we do so, we are actually rebelling against God because they are only in their place of authority because of God's sovereignty... David totally gets this, and I believe that is why he doesn't kill him, and then, also why he is ashamed of even his slight subordinate act... it would be like if our boss instituted a new rule in our workplace, and our co-workers encouraged us to go 'tell off' our boss... instead of saying it face-to-face, we just mock him in front of his door... even if he didn't see us, we would still know we were disrespectful and wrong... David recognized this, too... if we love and trust God, then we will respect those whose authority He places us under.
verse 8... David is setting things right with Saul by taking responsibility for his actions... he is confessing, and apologizing for his infractions against the authority of God as represented through the man, Saul... interesting to note that David did not wait for Saul to apologize for his actions, nor does he wait until he is 'caught' to apologize... instead, David 'mans up' and steps up to reconcile because he knows it is the right thing to do, and he is more aware of his wrongdoing, than focusing on the sins of others (Matthew 7:1-5)... David realizes that in order to reconcile his sin against God, he must also confess and repent for the sins he has committed against man/Saul (Ephesians 4:26-27, Mark 11:25, 1 John 4:20-21)
veres 9... do we believe what we hear from others or do we go to the source to find out the truth?
vesre 10-13... I love how David does not allow the actions of others to provoke him to wrongdoing... I pray this for me, too, to not be controlled by the circumstances that surround me, but instead for my actions and words to be based on the truth, grace, and love of Jesus.
verse 14-15... reminds me of the verses that tell us to let God figth our battles for us and to let God be the judge not us (Acts 5:38-39, Deuteronomy 3:22, Deuteronomy 20:4, Proverbs 21:31, 1 Corinthians 4:5, Hebrews 10:30, Romans 2:1-6,16)... also makes me ask myself "when was the last time I exuded humility in the face of a tough situation instead of acting out of defense to perceived offenses?"... how could situations have been different if I had done so on other occassions, too?
verse 16-19... makes me think about the Proverbs 16:23-24 ("A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and makes his lips persuasive. Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.")... kind of like the addage "you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar"... yet, how often do we try to out do others in the art of revenge, instead of applying the healing elixer of mercy, forgiveness, and grace?... which did Christ do for us? (Romans 5:6-10)... aren't we glad He did that for us? if so, shouldn't we do the same for others? (Matthew 10:7-8, 1 Timothy 1:15-16, Matthew 7:12).
verse 20-21... I think these verses right here explain Saul's reasons/fears/motivation for trying to kill David
verse 22... interesting that David has reconciled with Saul, yet does not feel peaceful enough in his ability to trust Saul (as demonstrated by David's desire to return to the 'stronghold')... makes me think of the verse in Matthew 10:16, which cautions us to act in wisdom and discernment, not out of naiveness or undue trust ("I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.")... we've talked before about how forgiveness and trust are not the same thing... here is another example, I think.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 24: verse 1-2... I have to say that these past chapters and verses might give good definition to obsession... I wonder what Saul's men thought about having to constantly be away from their families and homes and such just to pursue Saul's obsession? do we ever do that to those we care about? do we ever force them to follow us around or live in the shadow and hardship of our obsessions? it might be helpful to take a long hard look at ourselves and see what, if anything, we are obsessed about... yes, we should devote our lives to God, but that is not what we are talking about here... God also reminds us that all things should be in moderation (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 1 Corinthians 6:12, 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, Titus 2:1-8,12, 1 Peter 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9, 1 Corinthians 10:31, and Romans 8:5-6), and God even tells His people to take a rest of even doing His work (Exodus 31, Exodus 35)... so obsession is not a good thing, from what I can tell
verse 3...ok, the immaturity in me is laughing :)
verse 4... hmmmm
verse 5-7... I find it amazing that David is still honoring Saul, not because of Saul, but because of God... it reminds me of the verse in Romans 13:1-2: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."... I think about how when we don't agree with our 'authorities' how we can be quick to complain or rebel, or 'cut off their robe' or whatever... but when we do so, we are actually rebelling against God because they are only in their place of authority because of God's sovereignty... David totally gets this, and I believe that is why he doesn't kill him, and then, also why he is ashamed of even his slight subordinate act... it would be like if our boss instituted a new rule in our workplace, and our co-workers encouraged us to go 'tell off' our boss... instead of saying it face-to-face, we just mock him in front of his door... even if he didn't see us, we would still know we were disrespectful and wrong... David recognized this, too... if we love and trust God, then we will respect those whose authority He places us under.
verse 8... David is setting things right with Saul by taking responsibility for his actions... he is confessing, and apologizing for his infractions against the authority of God as represented through the man, Saul... interesting to note that David did not wait for Saul to apologize for his actions, nor does he wait until he is 'caught' to apologize... instead, David 'mans up' and steps up to reconcile because he knows it is the right thing to do, and he is more aware of his wrongdoing, than focusing on the sins of others (Matthew 7:1-5)... David realizes that in order to reconcile his sin against God, he must also confess and repent for the sins he has committed against man/Saul (Ephesians 4:26-27, Mark 11:25, 1 John 4:20-21)
veres 9... do we believe what we hear from others or do we go to the source to find out the truth?
vesre 10-13... I love how David does not allow the actions of others to provoke him to wrongdoing... I pray this for me, too, to not be controlled by the circumstances that surround me, but instead for my actions and words to be based on the truth, grace, and love of Jesus.
verse 14-15... reminds me of the verses that tell us to let God figth our battles for us and to let God be the judge not us (Acts 5:38-39, Deuteronomy 3:22, Deuteronomy 20:4, Proverbs 21:31, 1 Corinthians 4:5, Hebrews 10:30, Romans 2:1-6,16)... also makes me ask myself "when was the last time I exuded humility in the face of a tough situation instead of acting out of defense to perceived offenses?"... how could situations have been different if I had done so on other occassions, too?
verse 16-19... makes me think about the Proverbs 16:23-24 ("A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and makes his lips persuasive. Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.")... kind of like the addage "you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar"... yet, how often do we try to out do others in the art of revenge, instead of applying the healing elixer of mercy, forgiveness, and grace?... which did Christ do for us? (Romans 5:6-10)... aren't we glad He did that for us? if so, shouldn't we do the same for others? (Matthew 10:7-8, 1 Timothy 1:15-16, Matthew 7:12).
verse 20-21... I think these verses right here explain Saul's reasons/fears/motivation for trying to kill David
verse 22... interesting that David has reconciled with Saul, yet does not feel peaceful enough in his ability to trust Saul (as demonstrated by David's desire to return to the 'stronghold')... makes me think of the verse in Matthew 10:16, which cautions us to act in wisdom and discernment, not out of naiveness or undue trust ("I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.")... we've talked before about how forgiveness and trust are not the same thing... here is another example, I think.
sandJ
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
1 Samuel 22 today....... 1_Samuel 23 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 22: verse 1... just find it interesting that so many people find out about David's hiding spots... he is not very good at being covert
verse 2... interesting... David was kind of a "Robin Hood" of sorts?
verse 3-4... the study notes suggest looking at Ruth 1:1-5 and Ruth 4:17 to find reasons as to why David would have entrusted his family to the Moabite king... from what I can see, it would be because they were 'part of the family', so it would be natural for them to protect 'their own'
verse 5... apparently, though, David's family did not stay with the king for long?
verse 6-8... is Saul mixing guilt for past 'mistakes' with a promise of success and blessing for those who support him now? probably a pretty powerful combination to gain allegiances, but also probably not a real lasting allegiance, since the guilt will wear off and when the gifts stop coming, so will the loyalty, I think... just my guess
verse 9-10... apparently Saul's tactic does work, at least somewhat
verse 11-16... poor Ahimelech! He has no idea what is going on and is totally innocent, I think, since he was acting out of confidence in David's trustworthiness... the study notes ask "If David had told Ahimelech the truth (see 21:2-4), do you think Saul might have not killed him?"... to this, I would say that Ahimelech would have at least had a choice in the matter and not been 'tricked' into helping... then, he might have at least known to hide for safety, or been aware of his imminent death and been at peace as to the 'why' of it all... as it is now, though, David has robbed Ahimelech of his joy in serving God because David did not give Ahimelech the option of serving him voluntarily and under truthful pretenses... I wonder how often I think I am 'saving' someone, only to find out that my 'sheltering' has done them more harm than good... I guess that might fall under the topic of parents enabling their children or friends enabling the addictions of those they hang out with, or whatever?... it also makes me think about how I would likely justify my behavior by saying I am doing it for the good of the other person... yet, it is pretty clear here, that the real reason behind the 'lie' is selfishness on the part of David... the person trying to 'save' the other, is actually acting out of selfishness or personal fear, instead of out of love... not really a good thing, when seen in that light. The study notes go on to further ask "Is David in fact guilty for these deaths?" (verse 22)... that is a hard one, but I think I would have to say 'yes', at least to some degree... David did not make Saul kill them, but he also did not prepare Ahimelech for the confrontation, nor did he set him up to be in a good spot when the inevitable course of life happened... just like a parent is not fully responsible for the 'bad' choices of their child, they still are somewhat to blame if they did not try to teach their children how to behave morally or 'rightly', if they did not 'prepare' their children for the 'inevitable course of life', like being face to face with temptation, and knowing how to say 'no', etc.... hard thing to face and say, but still I think it is true.
verse 17... interesting how Saul knows enough and fears enough not to do this himself, but still, he chooses to have it done, so I think that is just as bad
verse 18-19... wow! what a bad, Godless man!... if I were Saul, I would be wary of having that man on my side... if he is bold enough to go against God, then what makes Saul think he is safe from this opportunist?... another note, as brought up by the study notes: this act, as heinous as it was, was apparently a fulfillment of the prophecy in 1 Samuel 2:30-33... sometimes we just have to sit back and accept that God knows what is best
verse 20-23... would Abiathar really want to stay with the man who is self-professed the cause of all the family's deaths?... also, I find verse 23 interesting/amusing in that David tries to comfort him by saying that since Saul is after his life, too, Abiathar should stay with him for safety... I guess David does have an army and all, but still, I don't think I would look for safety in the company of a hunted man who just caused my family to be massacred... but what do I know, I suppose... a PS on this story: the study notes mention that David 'prays' for Doeg in Psalm 52... although, I would add to this by clarifying that the 'prayer' is not really of the edifying kind like we might initially associate with the word.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 22: verse 1... just find it interesting that so many people find out about David's hiding spots... he is not very good at being covert
verse 2... interesting... David was kind of a "Robin Hood" of sorts?
verse 3-4... the study notes suggest looking at Ruth 1:1-5 and Ruth 4:17 to find reasons as to why David would have entrusted his family to the Moabite king... from what I can see, it would be because they were 'part of the family', so it would be natural for them to protect 'their own'
verse 5... apparently, though, David's family did not stay with the king for long?
verse 6-8... is Saul mixing guilt for past 'mistakes' with a promise of success and blessing for those who support him now? probably a pretty powerful combination to gain allegiances, but also probably not a real lasting allegiance, since the guilt will wear off and when the gifts stop coming, so will the loyalty, I think... just my guess
verse 9-10... apparently Saul's tactic does work, at least somewhat
verse 11-16... poor Ahimelech! He has no idea what is going on and is totally innocent, I think, since he was acting out of confidence in David's trustworthiness... the study notes ask "If David had told Ahimelech the truth (see 21:2-4), do you think Saul might have not killed him?"... to this, I would say that Ahimelech would have at least had a choice in the matter and not been 'tricked' into helping... then, he might have at least known to hide for safety, or been aware of his imminent death and been at peace as to the 'why' of it all... as it is now, though, David has robbed Ahimelech of his joy in serving God because David did not give Ahimelech the option of serving him voluntarily and under truthful pretenses... I wonder how often I think I am 'saving' someone, only to find out that my 'sheltering' has done them more harm than good... I guess that might fall under the topic of parents enabling their children or friends enabling the addictions of those they hang out with, or whatever?... it also makes me think about how I would likely justify my behavior by saying I am doing it for the good of the other person... yet, it is pretty clear here, that the real reason behind the 'lie' is selfishness on the part of David... the person trying to 'save' the other, is actually acting out of selfishness or personal fear, instead of out of love... not really a good thing, when seen in that light. The study notes go on to further ask "Is David in fact guilty for these deaths?" (verse 22)... that is a hard one, but I think I would have to say 'yes', at least to some degree... David did not make Saul kill them, but he also did not prepare Ahimelech for the confrontation, nor did he set him up to be in a good spot when the inevitable course of life happened... just like a parent is not fully responsible for the 'bad' choices of their child, they still are somewhat to blame if they did not try to teach their children how to behave morally or 'rightly', if they did not 'prepare' their children for the 'inevitable course of life', like being face to face with temptation, and knowing how to say 'no', etc.... hard thing to face and say, but still I think it is true.
verse 17... interesting how Saul knows enough and fears enough not to do this himself, but still, he chooses to have it done, so I think that is just as bad
verse 18-19... wow! what a bad, Godless man!... if I were Saul, I would be wary of having that man on my side... if he is bold enough to go against God, then what makes Saul think he is safe from this opportunist?... another note, as brought up by the study notes: this act, as heinous as it was, was apparently a fulfillment of the prophecy in 1 Samuel 2:30-33... sometimes we just have to sit back and accept that God knows what is best
verse 20-23... would Abiathar really want to stay with the man who is self-professed the cause of all the family's deaths?... also, I find verse 23 interesting/amusing in that David tries to comfort him by saying that since Saul is after his life, too, Abiathar should stay with him for safety... I guess David does have an army and all, but still, I don't think I would look for safety in the company of a hunted man who just caused my family to be massacred... but what do I know, I suppose... a PS on this story: the study notes mention that David 'prays' for Doeg in Psalm 52... although, I would add to this by clarifying that the 'prayer' is not really of the edifying kind like we might initially associate with the word.
sandJ
Thursday, April 8, 2010
1 Samuel 21 today....... 1_Samuel 22 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 21: verse 1... why would Abimelech be scared that David was alone?
verse 2... I get 'why' David lies to Abimelech, but why give this lie, and really, why lie at all?
verse 3-6... I suppose it would be wise for the men to be 'kept from women' during all their missions so that their minds were fully on the matters at hand and they had no distractions to make them falter... the study notes make reference to Leviticus 24:9, Matthew 12:1-4, and Luke6:1-5, as further insight into this topic of 'laymen' eating 'consecrated' bread... in the New Testament verses, I think Jesus is saying that helping people is more important than following the ritual, which makes sense since we keep seeing throughout our readings how God is much more focused and concerned with the 'heart' of people than He is with their 'actions' and 'ceremonies'... so, here, Abimelech would have been doing a service for David and his men, which would have made this action (usually only reserved for the priests), made it ok to do... also, it was good of Abimilech to still show honor to God by making sure the men were not 'unclean', as was a requirement of the priests also, I believe... basically, I think this applies to us today, too, in the idea that, when we approach God or take part in His blessings and His service, we should check ourselves and make sure that we are right with Him by 'cleansing' ourselves through confession and repentence of our sins... not that we can make ourselves pure, as only Jesus can do that and has done that for us... but we are just allowing that pureness, which was given to us by Jesus, to shine through yet again, and reconcile us again with God... to show Him honor and to allow us to be fully cleared of anything else, so we can be fully filled with God and used by Him without hinderances.
verse 7... uh oh...
verse 8-9... interesting that David's obedience and trust in God at one point in his life (), ends up helping/blessing him later in his life... maybe even when he needs it the most... something for us to think about when we are feeling like something is too hard or too big or whatever, for us to accomplish... I think that even if we don't get Goliaths sword later in life, we do build up character traits that will help us in our future 'battles' so we become stronger in God and stronger in our faith (see Paul's words about this in Romans 5:1-5)... James and Peter also talk about this in their books (James 1:2-18, James 5:7-13, 1 Peter 1:3-16, 2 Peter 1:3-15)
verse 10-15... Psalm 34 and 56 were apparently written based on these events (according to the study notes for both of these Psalms)
verse 10... interesting that Gath is Goliath's hometown... David is fleeing from Saul, with Goliath's sword to Goliath's hometown... kind of ironic... I am kind of wondering why David thought that was a good idea... didn't he think about his possible reception by the people who he humiliated and defeated?... just curious...
verse 11-12... maybe David is now realizing that going to Gath might not have been the best option because of his history with these people?
verse 13... curiouser and curiouser... anyway, study notes ask "Why does David feel it necessary to act like a madman? What sort of 'marks' does he make?"... I was going to ask similar questions so I don't fully know the answers to these, but I will attempt to say something about them... maybe David feels like his best hope is to 'counteract' the men's lofty ideals of him, either to make them think that he is not David, or to make him appear as a 'non-threat'... obviously though, it is so he can escape... as for the marks, I do not know for sure what they were... when I first read this I was thinking he was like scratching the doors like an animal or something, maybe trying to get out?...but maybe, since it was specifically noted to be on the doors of the gate, maybe it was that he was making writing marks on the doors like he was putting some unintelligible curse or some such on them, or whatever... I guess I am thinking of movies or something I saw where 'crazy' people drew 'aliens' or 'codes' or whatever on paper, walls, etc, and mumbled things about the future or past events or warnings or whatever... anyway, I guess really, I have no idea what 'marks' David made, just conjectures on it... maybe David was just playing tic-tac-toe, who knows :)... probably not though... have to say the drooling thing is kind of gross though. :)
verse 14-15... ok, these verses totally crack me up!... I love it "am I so short of madmen...?"... sometimes I wonder this myself (often including myself in the count) :)
and so, on that totally untheological note, I move on to blogging on the next chapter :)
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 21: verse 1... why would Abimelech be scared that David was alone?
verse 2... I get 'why' David lies to Abimelech, but why give this lie, and really, why lie at all?
verse 3-6... I suppose it would be wise for the men to be 'kept from women' during all their missions so that their minds were fully on the matters at hand and they had no distractions to make them falter... the study notes make reference to Leviticus 24:9, Matthew 12:1-4, and Luke6:1-5, as further insight into this topic of 'laymen' eating 'consecrated' bread... in the New Testament verses, I think Jesus is saying that helping people is more important than following the ritual, which makes sense since we keep seeing throughout our readings how God is much more focused and concerned with the 'heart' of people than He is with their 'actions' and 'ceremonies'... so, here, Abimelech would have been doing a service for David and his men, which would have made this action (usually only reserved for the priests), made it ok to do... also, it was good of Abimilech to still show honor to God by making sure the men were not 'unclean', as was a requirement of the priests also, I believe... basically, I think this applies to us today, too, in the idea that, when we approach God or take part in His blessings and His service, we should check ourselves and make sure that we are right with Him by 'cleansing' ourselves through confession and repentence of our sins... not that we can make ourselves pure, as only Jesus can do that and has done that for us... but we are just allowing that pureness, which was given to us by Jesus, to shine through yet again, and reconcile us again with God... to show Him honor and to allow us to be fully cleared of anything else, so we can be fully filled with God and used by Him without hinderances.
verse 7... uh oh...
verse 8-9... interesting that David's obedience and trust in God at one point in his life (), ends up helping/blessing him later in his life... maybe even when he needs it the most... something for us to think about when we are feeling like something is too hard or too big or whatever, for us to accomplish... I think that even if we don't get Goliaths sword later in life, we do build up character traits that will help us in our future 'battles' so we become stronger in God and stronger in our faith (see Paul's words about this in Romans 5:1-5)... James and Peter also talk about this in their books (James 1:2-18, James 5:7-13, 1 Peter 1:3-16, 2 Peter 1:3-15)
verse 10-15... Psalm 34 and 56 were apparently written based on these events (according to the study notes for both of these Psalms)
verse 10... interesting that Gath is Goliath's hometown... David is fleeing from Saul, with Goliath's sword to Goliath's hometown... kind of ironic... I am kind of wondering why David thought that was a good idea... didn't he think about his possible reception by the people who he humiliated and defeated?... just curious...
verse 11-12... maybe David is now realizing that going to Gath might not have been the best option because of his history with these people?
verse 13... curiouser and curiouser... anyway, study notes ask "Why does David feel it necessary to act like a madman? What sort of 'marks' does he make?"... I was going to ask similar questions so I don't fully know the answers to these, but I will attempt to say something about them... maybe David feels like his best hope is to 'counteract' the men's lofty ideals of him, either to make them think that he is not David, or to make him appear as a 'non-threat'... obviously though, it is so he can escape... as for the marks, I do not know for sure what they were... when I first read this I was thinking he was like scratching the doors like an animal or something, maybe trying to get out?...but maybe, since it was specifically noted to be on the doors of the gate, maybe it was that he was making writing marks on the doors like he was putting some unintelligible curse or some such on them, or whatever... I guess I am thinking of movies or something I saw where 'crazy' people drew 'aliens' or 'codes' or whatever on paper, walls, etc, and mumbled things about the future or past events or warnings or whatever... anyway, I guess really, I have no idea what 'marks' David made, just conjectures on it... maybe David was just playing tic-tac-toe, who knows :)... probably not though... have to say the drooling thing is kind of gross though. :)
verse 14-15... ok, these verses totally crack me up!... I love it "am I so short of madmen...?"... sometimes I wonder this myself (often including myself in the count) :)
and so, on that totally untheological note, I move on to blogging on the next chapter :)
sandJ
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
1 Samuel 20 today....... 1_Samuel 21 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 20: verse 1-3... it surprises me that Jonathan is surprised that Saul wants to kill David, yet again, since in Chapter 19, Saul flat out told Jonathan and everyone else to kill David then (see verse 1, etc).
verse 4-7, 24-29... interesting the plan that is set up... Jonathan is a good friend to agree to helping David
verse 8-11... yet, there seems to be some mistrust or something between them since Jonathan does not fully believe David, and David is not so sure that Jonathan will tell him the truth... I wonder why this is so... maybe becuase of the relationship each has with Saul... Jonathan still loves his father, and David is still afraid of Saul, so each are reading things through their own viewpoint of things... David might assume Jonathan's love for his father might overpower his love for David... and Jonathan might think that David's past problems with Saul might be clouding David's current judgement?
verse 12-17, 42... but Jonathan and David are still great friends dispite their uncertainties of the other... makes me think about how we love our friends (and they love us) despite the disagreements or imperfections or differing viewpoints or whatever that each of us has... there is a great unconditional love here, and a loyalty based on a love for God, not just for the deeds of man... Jonathan still recognizes God's calling of David and honors him for it... I do not know if I would want to have "the Lord with [me] as He has been with [Saul]" though, since God is no longer pleased with Saul, but maybe this is just a way of Jonathan blessing David, and yet, still honoring his father.
verse 18-23, 35-40... I like the code language :)
verse 30-31... why bring Jonathan's mother into this?!... funny how a 'rebellious' child is always the other parent's child... anyway, is Saul angry because David asked Jonathan's permission and not his? because Jonathan sided with David? because David wasn't around for Saul to keep an eye on? because he was stressed about David and even the smallest thing 'tipped' him 'off the edge'? because he knew his time of kingship was up, but was hoping Jonathan's time would carry on, and was angry that David stood in the way of that?... interesting how Saul doesn't use David's name, instead, he calls him by 'son of Jesse' just like he does not call Jonathan by his name... I wonder why?
verse 32-34... now Jonathan is quite a friend!... he was not angry because of Saul's insult of him or his mother... he was not angry because Saul just tried to kill him... he was angry because of Saul's mistreatment of David! wow!... I could stand to learn from this, as so often I would have gotten angry about how I was treated... yet, instead, I should remember,it is not about me... I should put others first... etc
verse 41... I wonder why David bowed 3 times?... I understand their sadness in the whole situation... they were both losing a dear friend, they were sad because of the intense wrongness of the whole situation, and David was not forced to give up so much in order to follow God even though it did not seem fair for him to have to do so... sometimes we think following God will be glorious and exciting, and to be sure, God's plan is always for His glory and it is exciting to know we are a part of that... but there is still much grief we might have to work through when the reality of all we are giving up hits us... I am encouraged that David did not try to stuff his grieving, or 'put on a happy face', or whatever... instead, he was real, and faced this grief so he could move on in obedience and not dwell on unresolved disappointment, sadness, grief, etc.... and Jonathan allowed David to grieve and even joined in with him... sometimes I think that we, as Christians, think it is 'wrong' or 'unholy' to be sad about things in this life, or to grieve and show disappointment about the way things are playing out... as if we are showing distrust or disobedience in God or something... yet, I think that God is fully aware of our human nature and our need to express our emotions, one of which is grief over loss... He did create us afterall... and look at all the times people did express their 'negative' emotions throughout the Bible (in Psalms, Job, even in the stories we have read so far, etc)... I think that the only way we would be dishonoring or disobeying God is if we cursed Him for the loss, allowed it to draw us away from faith in Him, or wallowed in it our grief and did not move on after we had had time to grieve.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 20: verse 1-3... it surprises me that Jonathan is surprised that Saul wants to kill David, yet again, since in Chapter 19, Saul flat out told Jonathan and everyone else to kill David then (see verse 1, etc).
verse 4-7, 24-29... interesting the plan that is set up... Jonathan is a good friend to agree to helping David
verse 8-11... yet, there seems to be some mistrust or something between them since Jonathan does not fully believe David, and David is not so sure that Jonathan will tell him the truth... I wonder why this is so... maybe becuase of the relationship each has with Saul... Jonathan still loves his father, and David is still afraid of Saul, so each are reading things through their own viewpoint of things... David might assume Jonathan's love for his father might overpower his love for David... and Jonathan might think that David's past problems with Saul might be clouding David's current judgement?
verse 12-17, 42... but Jonathan and David are still great friends dispite their uncertainties of the other... makes me think about how we love our friends (and they love us) despite the disagreements or imperfections or differing viewpoints or whatever that each of us has... there is a great unconditional love here, and a loyalty based on a love for God, not just for the deeds of man... Jonathan still recognizes God's calling of David and honors him for it... I do not know if I would want to have "the Lord with [me] as He has been with [Saul]" though, since God is no longer pleased with Saul, but maybe this is just a way of Jonathan blessing David, and yet, still honoring his father.
verse 18-23, 35-40... I like the code language :)
verse 30-31... why bring Jonathan's mother into this?!... funny how a 'rebellious' child is always the other parent's child... anyway, is Saul angry because David asked Jonathan's permission and not his? because Jonathan sided with David? because David wasn't around for Saul to keep an eye on? because he was stressed about David and even the smallest thing 'tipped' him 'off the edge'? because he knew his time of kingship was up, but was hoping Jonathan's time would carry on, and was angry that David stood in the way of that?... interesting how Saul doesn't use David's name, instead, he calls him by 'son of Jesse' just like he does not call Jonathan by his name... I wonder why?
verse 32-34... now Jonathan is quite a friend!... he was not angry because of Saul's insult of him or his mother... he was not angry because Saul just tried to kill him... he was angry because of Saul's mistreatment of David! wow!... I could stand to learn from this, as so often I would have gotten angry about how I was treated... yet, instead, I should remember,it is not about me... I should put others first... etc
verse 41... I wonder why David bowed 3 times?... I understand their sadness in the whole situation... they were both losing a dear friend, they were sad because of the intense wrongness of the whole situation, and David was not forced to give up so much in order to follow God even though it did not seem fair for him to have to do so... sometimes we think following God will be glorious and exciting, and to be sure, God's plan is always for His glory and it is exciting to know we are a part of that... but there is still much grief we might have to work through when the reality of all we are giving up hits us... I am encouraged that David did not try to stuff his grieving, or 'put on a happy face', or whatever... instead, he was real, and faced this grief so he could move on in obedience and not dwell on unresolved disappointment, sadness, grief, etc.... and Jonathan allowed David to grieve and even joined in with him... sometimes I think that we, as Christians, think it is 'wrong' or 'unholy' to be sad about things in this life, or to grieve and show disappointment about the way things are playing out... as if we are showing distrust or disobedience in God or something... yet, I think that God is fully aware of our human nature and our need to express our emotions, one of which is grief over loss... He did create us afterall... and look at all the times people did express their 'negative' emotions throughout the Bible (in Psalms, Job, even in the stories we have read so far, etc)... I think that the only way we would be dishonoring or disobeying God is if we cursed Him for the loss, allowed it to draw us away from faith in Him, or wallowed in it our grief and did not move on after we had had time to grieve.
sandJ
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
1 Samuel 18 today..... 1_Samuel 19 tomorrow...
Read it... have blog postings up through chapter 8 now... working on posting more comments tommorrow night. Thanks for your patience, and perseverance!
God Bless,
sandJ
God Bless,
sandJ
Sunday, April 4, 2010
1 Samuel 17 today..... 1_Samuel 18 tomorrow...
Read it.
sandJ
Chapter 17: verse 1-7... ok, admittantly intimidating.
verse 8-28... you know, we could comment about how the Isrealites had yet again forgot the strength they had in God, but I want to take a different look at this... maybe God was just waiting for the right time (when the people had truly realized that they could do nothing without God) before God sent in the final "lesson" of the battle: David. Sometimes we get so focused on looking at the negatives and the downfalls, that we forget that it is not about us, it is not about the Isrealites, it is not about people in general, it is about God... maybe we could stand to focus on Him a little more, and realize that David was not a back up plan when the Isrealites chickened out... God has one plan, and He executes it perfectly... the Isrealites were already defeated in their attitudes and in the worship of God, so God was giving them a good lesson to get them to do an about face and bring them back to the realization that God is God and they are not, and only God is worthy of worship... not the big fierce Philestines, not the mighty king, not about the jealous haughty arrogant brothers, not about the daughter of Saul, nor about a prize or glory or honor, not about David even, or about the individuals themselves (or should I say 'ourselves', too), not about created things like intimidating armor or imposing weapons... it is only and always about focusing on, worshipping, and trusting in the One True Creator God
verse 29... ok, this verse reminds me of the cry of all younger siblings in light of their older brothers and sisters self-supposed wisdom and goodness... ok, moment is now over, moving on...
vesre 30-37, 41-47... we should take a lesson from David's unwavering faith and trust in God... let me repeat that in hopes of clarification and significance... faith and trust not in himself, but in God... we can so easily allow others negativity and doubt creep in and overtake our faith... there will always be people out there who want to tell us we are not good enough or capable enough, or old enough, or big enough, or strong enough, or whatever enough... they are most liekly right... but that is not what matters... that is not the point... it is not about what we are or are not, it is about what God wants to accomplish through us and to what we are willing to let Him do that... it reminds me of the verese in 1 Corinthians (17-31): For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. Christ the Wisdom and Power of God For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." [Isaiah 29:14] Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."'... this seems quite true of David.
verse 38-39... just curious, if David was Saul's armor-bearer (see chapter 16:21), but he couldn't wear Saul's armor, then how did David "bear" if for Saul? If it was too heavy to wear, then it would be even harder to carry I would think... not important I suppose, but still curious to me... on a more theological note, we can take a lesson in the value of not try to be someone we are not, and not trying to become like someone else to accomplish what God is calling us to do... if God had wanted someone like the other person to do the job, then He likely would have just called the other person instead.
verse 40...I always wondered why he took 5 stones... a PS here: the study notes talk about "weapons" we can use to "fight the 'Goliath' in our lives"... they site Ephesians 6:17 (sword of the Spirit), Ecclesciates 4:9-12 (strength of Christian fellowship), Matthew 5:39 (turning the other cheek), Joshua 1:9 (God's presence), and Matthew 26:41 (prayer against temptation)
verse 48-51, 54, 57...why did David cut off Goliath's head if he was already dead? was it a cultural battle thing to do to show victory? was it a prize of respect for the king (Saul)? what was it about?
verse 52-53... yes, the men came into the battle late, but as I am thinking about that, I am reminded of Jesus's parable about people who enter the 'spiritual battle late'... those who accept Christ at the last minute or in their later years of life, verses those who have been Christains for many years, or even their whole lives and have 'fought the good fight' (1 Timothy 1:18, 1 Timothy 6:12, 2 Timothy 4:7) and been 'poured out' (Philippians 2:17, 2 Timothy 4:6)... His parable goes like this (Matthew 20:1-15): workers came to work in a field at various points of a day, at the end of the day, the field owner paid everyone the same wage, when some complained, he said "Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?" (verse 14-15)... basically, I think Jesus is saying, "you have your salvation, which I gave you quite generously, mind you. so, what difference does it make to you if I choose to give others salvation, too? It is My salvation to give, so I can give it to whoever, whenever I want to. If you don't like it, maybe you want to give yours back? didn't think so, so stop begrudging other people the same joy of eternal life."... we can so easily get caught up in the battle of who has what, and forget about the importance and immense value of what we have been given so freely, and our lack of deservedness, in the first place... I pray we don't fall into that temptation.
verse 55-56, 58... why didn't Saul know who David was? especially since it was David who played music for him, and was one of his armor-bearers? was it because when God is truly working in and through us, then we look different, because all anyone can see is God and not us? there is a pastor who comes to our church sometimes, who prays that we will see less of him and all of God... I think that that should be our goal at all times, and I wonder if that is what is going on with David in the sight of Saul right now?
sandJ
sandJ
Chapter 17: verse 1-7... ok, admittantly intimidating.
verse 8-28... you know, we could comment about how the Isrealites had yet again forgot the strength they had in God, but I want to take a different look at this... maybe God was just waiting for the right time (when the people had truly realized that they could do nothing without God) before God sent in the final "lesson" of the battle: David. Sometimes we get so focused on looking at the negatives and the downfalls, that we forget that it is not about us, it is not about the Isrealites, it is not about people in general, it is about God... maybe we could stand to focus on Him a little more, and realize that David was not a back up plan when the Isrealites chickened out... God has one plan, and He executes it perfectly... the Isrealites were already defeated in their attitudes and in the worship of God, so God was giving them a good lesson to get them to do an about face and bring them back to the realization that God is God and they are not, and only God is worthy of worship... not the big fierce Philestines, not the mighty king, not about the jealous haughty arrogant brothers, not about the daughter of Saul, nor about a prize or glory or honor, not about David even, or about the individuals themselves (or should I say 'ourselves', too), not about created things like intimidating armor or imposing weapons... it is only and always about focusing on, worshipping, and trusting in the One True Creator God
verse 29... ok, this verse reminds me of the cry of all younger siblings in light of their older brothers and sisters self-supposed wisdom and goodness... ok, moment is now over, moving on...
vesre 30-37, 41-47... we should take a lesson from David's unwavering faith and trust in God... let me repeat that in hopes of clarification and significance... faith and trust not in himself, but in God... we can so easily allow others negativity and doubt creep in and overtake our faith... there will always be people out there who want to tell us we are not good enough or capable enough, or old enough, or big enough, or strong enough, or whatever enough... they are most liekly right... but that is not what matters... that is not the point... it is not about what we are or are not, it is about what God wants to accomplish through us and to what we are willing to let Him do that... it reminds me of the verese in 1 Corinthians (17-31): For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. Christ the Wisdom and Power of God For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate." [Isaiah 29:14] Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."'... this seems quite true of David.
verse 38-39... just curious, if David was Saul's armor-bearer (see chapter 16:21), but he couldn't wear Saul's armor, then how did David "bear" if for Saul? If it was too heavy to wear, then it would be even harder to carry I would think... not important I suppose, but still curious to me... on a more theological note, we can take a lesson in the value of not try to be someone we are not, and not trying to become like someone else to accomplish what God is calling us to do... if God had wanted someone like the other person to do the job, then He likely would have just called the other person instead.
verse 40...I always wondered why he took 5 stones... a PS here: the study notes talk about "weapons" we can use to "fight the 'Goliath' in our lives"... they site Ephesians 6:17 (sword of the Spirit), Ecclesciates 4:9-12 (strength of Christian fellowship), Matthew 5:39 (turning the other cheek), Joshua 1:9 (God's presence), and Matthew 26:41 (prayer against temptation)
verse 48-51, 54, 57...why did David cut off Goliath's head if he was already dead? was it a cultural battle thing to do to show victory? was it a prize of respect for the king (Saul)? what was it about?
verse 52-53... yes, the men came into the battle late, but as I am thinking about that, I am reminded of Jesus's parable about people who enter the 'spiritual battle late'... those who accept Christ at the last minute or in their later years of life, verses those who have been Christains for many years, or even their whole lives and have 'fought the good fight' (1 Timothy 1:18, 1 Timothy 6:12, 2 Timothy 4:7) and been 'poured out' (Philippians 2:17, 2 Timothy 4:6)... His parable goes like this (Matthew 20:1-15): workers came to work in a field at various points of a day, at the end of the day, the field owner paid everyone the same wage, when some complained, he said "Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?" (verse 14-15)... basically, I think Jesus is saying, "you have your salvation, which I gave you quite generously, mind you. so, what difference does it make to you if I choose to give others salvation, too? It is My salvation to give, so I can give it to whoever, whenever I want to. If you don't like it, maybe you want to give yours back? didn't think so, so stop begrudging other people the same joy of eternal life."... we can so easily get caught up in the battle of who has what, and forget about the importance and immense value of what we have been given so freely, and our lack of deservedness, in the first place... I pray we don't fall into that temptation.
verse 55-56, 58... why didn't Saul know who David was? especially since it was David who played music for him, and was one of his armor-bearers? was it because when God is truly working in and through us, then we look different, because all anyone can see is God and not us? there is a pastor who comes to our church sometimes, who prays that we will see less of him and all of God... I think that that should be our goal at all times, and I wonder if that is what is going on with David in the sight of Saul right now?
sandJ
Saturday, April 3, 2010
1 Samuel 16 today..... 1_Samuel 17 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 16: verse 1... interesting that God tells Samuel to move on and stop mourning over Saul!... I guess it goes along with the concept of "dusting of your feet" in the New Testament (Matthew 10:14, Mark 6:11-12, Luke 9:5, Luke 10:10-11)... it does make me think about how often I will wallow in the what-ifs or the guilt of a past event instead of moving on and taking action on what I can do (here in the present)... a good lesson in that we should not waste energy or emotion over 'lost causes' or 'past mistakes'... we should do what we can, learn what we can, and then 'be on our way' to the next God appointed thing for us to do.
verse 2-5... funny how Samuel is scared of Saul and the townspeople are frightened of Samuel... yet, the only one who should be worried is Saul, since his throne is being usurped, and he isn't even around to know it... also, it says Samuel 'consecrated Jesse and his sons'... what does that mean?... and last point in these verses... I find it really comforting to see how God orchestrates everything, and all Samuel has to do is to obey... He equips Samuel with the heifer, so it all falls into place... how often do we worry unneccessarily instead of just 'pick up our heifer'?
verse 6-13... kind of like 'been there done that in Saul' (a choice made to satisfy the desires of the people-height, good warrior... chosen as an example to the people and to teach them)... now God is saying, 'lets do it MY way with MY choice... God seems to tend to do this in His choices, as He did it with Joseph (Genesis 37-47), as well as others... God cares most about our hearts, not our credentials... He is the one who makes us who we are anyway, so we may as well acknowledge that and abide in Him since the Creator always knows the best purpose for the things He creates....
verse 14-16... Ok, I'm going to comment on this verse in 2 parts... first, I found it interesting that the Spirit (capital S) departed from Saul, and then, a spirit (small s) came upon Saul... apparently when the Spirit is in us, the spirit cannot come upon us... I recently read a book that talked about spiritual warfare and how many Christians believe that true born-again Christians cannot ever be "demon-possessed" or even, on a less intense scale and un-demon related "depressed" etc... this idea is based on the fact that we are filled with the Spirit, not just have it come and go... the author of the book however went on to say that even though we are born-again, we can still fall away from God in that we can choose to no longer abide with Him... we can stop reading His Word, we can stop praying, we can stop doing all the things that keep us connected to God (to the vine- John 15)... when we are no longer communing with God, when we have pushed God away and have tried to do things on our own, then we are more susceptible to Satan's attacks... be that negative thoughts and feelings (dwelling or believing in them)... be that even the intense attack of an actaul demon... anyway, I don't profess to know very much about all that, but I do know the God tells us to put on our "armor" daily, so we can withstand Satan's attacks (Ephesians 6:10-20)... and these peices of armor, include things like the truth of our Salvation through Jesus, the truth of our righteousness through the death and resurrection of Jesus, the belt of truth that holds all the other parts of the armor together, shoes of peace, shield of faith in God's power and trustworthiness, sword of the Spirit (again, capital S, and likely to mean God's Word, too, as it is referred to as a sword in other passages-Hebrews 4:12)... and the other thing I know is my experiences... when I am in God's Word, and relying on Him and His power, then I feel more joyful, secure, and at peace about life in general, and who I am in Him specifically... yet, when I neglect those things, and draw away from God, I find that I am more likely to feel discouraged, frustrated, bitter, angry, and so on. So, I guess that doesn't really answer the evil spirit part, though, so, since I did not have a good explanation of this verse, I did a google search and came across a sermon that I thought was really good concerning this. This is then, the part 2 commentary... It comes from a Methodist man/Vietnam Veteran, who first explains how the passage was chosen (so you get some lessons on how Methodists do worship, as well... I chose to keep that part in out of interest, since I am not a Methodist)... anyway, I am posting the sermon here: "Evil Spirit of the Lord By Jackson H. Day, Maryland State Convention, Vietnam Veterans of America Aberdeen, Maryland, 12 June 1994
1 Samuel 16:14-23
2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1
Mark 3:20-35
The Third Sunday after Pentecost
An Evil Spirit of the Lord
I. I did not choose this morning's scriptures. In the past twenty years, Catholics and Protestants working together have developed a Common Lectionary of readings from scripture. These scriptures are being read this Sunday morning in many churches of different denominations--although occasionally some denominations change them. (As Murphy's Law would have it, on this Sunday, my own United Methodist denomination is following a different set of readings!) If you follow the lectionary readings for three years, you will have read the entire New Testament and a lot of the Old Testament. It's a discipline I've accepted to preach on whatever lessons are named for a particular Sunday.
II. The Story
Of this morning's three readings, the Old Testament lesson began to draw me in. On its surface we have a story about a man named Saul who lived 3000 years ago whose torment is relieved when a young man named David is brought in to play the soothing notes of a harp. It's part of the larger story of the books of Samuel telling how Israel got its first kings. Specifically, it's a transitional passage between the old King Saul who begins a downhill slide to his death, and the young David who starts a series of successes that will lead to his installation as the new King.
That much of the story doesn't have much to do with us, so I was tempted to move on. But before I did, a phrase caught my attention. "Now the spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him." Here was a thought I wasn't used to--and frankly, didn't like: An evil spirit from the Lord tormented Saul. Does the God we worship do things like that?
Now I was hooked. I had to read the whole life of Saul -- from chapters 8 to 31 -- to see what this evil spirit of the Lord could be. It's a story full of drama. I'm surprised I haven't seen it at the movies or on stage.
First in the cast is Samuel in whose honor these two books of the Bible are compiled. When the story opens, Samuel, as prophet and judge, is as much of a ruler as Israel has, but the people are asking for a real king. This offends Samuel, who eloquently tells Israel how wrong it would be for them to have a king. Samuel's God tells him, "don't be upset, if they want a king, that's not a rejection of Samuel, that's a rejection of God, but if they want a king, a king they shall have.
Next in the cast is the early Saul, driver of oxen on his father's farm until Samuel anoints him to be Israel's first king. After hearing Samuel's attitude about kings, why are we not surprised when Saul never gets it right, never gets the esteem or respect he desperately wants from Samuel? Samuel's God's first task for Saul is to totally destroy the Amelikite nation, men, women, children, cattle and sheep, possessions, an act which strikes us as reminiscent of My Lai, or Rwanda. Saul is obedient when it comes to slaughtering people, but spoils it all by allowing his soldiers to keep the cattle and sheep. Soon thereafter he becomes a tormented person.
Then there is David, brought in from his father's flocks first to play the soothing harp and then to hurl the winning stone at Goliath of the enemy Philistines. His best friend is Saul's son Jonathan, he marries Saul's daughter Michal, he wins battles, and the crowds adore him; he can do no wrong. Driven out by a jealous Saul, David goes off to fight for the Philistines.
And there is the later Saul, increasingly jealous of David, whose continuing contest with David slides his life downhill with whatever Saul tries going wrong, while David's efforts are met with success. Finally Saul faces his last battle. Failing to get an answer from God to his pleas for advice, he turns to his old mentor, Samuel. Samuel has already died, so Saul breaks God's law by going to a medium who conjures up Samuel's spirit from the dead. Samuel's spirit promptly tells Saul that he has blown it once again, and will die on the morrow. A sad ending to a tragic story.
As a Vietnam veteran, I hear echoes of our experience.
I hear a tale of a young man who is taken from his father's home and his hometown tasks and sent into a terrible battle that's beyond his ability to deal with -- and as a result of that war he is changed forever.
I hear the story of a young man put by the political and religious leadership of his day into a situation where he can't win, certainly not according to his own understanding of winning.
I hear the story of a young man whose own mistakes contribute to his problems, who does well as a fighter, but who messes up his life by his judgments off the battle-field.
I hear a story that didn't have to happen, but did. I hear a story I find myself increasingly sympathetic with, and I don't like its end.
III. Evil Spirits and PTSD
How could Saul's story have turned out differently? This morning's passage, where David first appears and where Saul begins to "lose it", tormented by an evil spirit and soothed by the music of a harp, seems to be the place to look for a clue.
Saul's torment might sound familiar to anyone who read the Spring 1994 VVA Maryland State Council newspaper, which gives a self-assessment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD.
We don't know if Saul had feelings of detachment from other people, but his staff certainly worried about him.
We don't know if he had distressing trauma-related dreams and nightmares, we don't know if he had difficulty concentrating, but something certainly tormented him.
We don't know if he had feelings of reliving traumatic experiences, or uncontrollable memories of war or other trauma--but we know he had been through those experiences.
We aren't told he had a lack of interest in everyday activities, but spending one's time being soothed by a harp is not the normal way an active ruler spends his time.
We don't know if he had sleep problems, but we know how important that soothing harp was to him.
We do know about irritability or angry outbursts; one time while David was playing, Saul began throwing his spear at him. And that says something about inability to experience loving feelings.
Sounds to me like PTSD is a good description of what Saul was going through.
IV Justice & Mercy
If that's the diagnosis, do we have a cure? We still don't know how things might have turned out differently, and all of this still doesn't answer the question of this odd turn of speech: "an evil spirit of the Lord". Since when is God in the business of sending evil spirits, or even in the business of sending people depression or headaches?
I asked my friends on a computer bulletin board. Richard Hunt, a lawyer in Texas responded with the following thought:
I see in these verses an idea of the relationship between God's justice and mercy.
The evil spirit is justice, as seen by Saul, who has disobeyed God's command. Justice is never pleasant for us sinners, and so always appears evil.
David, the harp player who can soothe Saul's insanity, shows that even in the midst of punishment there is mercy, also from God.
What is paradoxical and interesting about this is that David is the instrument of God's mercy, but is also Saul's problem, as the rest of I Samuel shows.
Saul's real descent into madness begins not when God punishes him for his disobedience, but later, when Saul turns on David.
Saul fails to recognize that in giving him David, not only to soothe his madness but also to bring him military victory, God has been merciful.
Saul rejects this gift of mercy, seeing it instead as a usurpation of his own power and prestige.
One reading then is that justice will be tempered by mercy if we accept that mercy, which we can do only by acknowledging our dependence on God for all things. If we try to stand on our own, forgetting that all good things come from the Lord, we will reject God's mercy and be left, as Saul was, with only the justice we deserve but cannot endure.
We could debate whether Saul, like Vietnam veterans, was just an innocent victim of a situation he didn't ask for, or whether Saul, like Vietnam Veterans, was now suffering torment because of appropriate guilt for real offenses that had been done. Most likely Saul, like Vietnam veterans, suffered some combination of the two.
But the debate wouldn't get us anywhere. The bottom line is that Saul, like many of us, was tormented.
The critical element my friend pointed out is how God's mercy was right there in the story--and Saul couldn't see it.
Saul saw only an affliction -- the evil spirit; and the threat -- David.
The true tragedy of the Saul story is not that his life went progressively downhill -- but that God sent him an opportunity to change and he couldn't see it, he didn't take it.
That is why Saul's torment is attributed to an "evil spirit of the Lord". It was a red light on our dashboard warning us to take immediate action if we don't want to be stopped dead in our tracks. But Saul couldn't see God's mercy, and therefore he couldn't accept it.
V. A Different Ending
There is another ending to the story which never got written because it never happened.
In that ending Saul poured out to God and maybe even to his friend David the burden of the many things that troubled him. The battle he had been sent to, straight from plowing with oxen, the battle to destroy the Amelekites--it was a terrible thing, and anyone like Saul brought up on the Ten Commandments should have been angry at being ordered to kill every living thing, men, women, children. In this other ending to the story he pours out to God his anger at having been involved in such a thing. He pours out to God his fear about the basic values of his life, for if he can be asked to do such a thing as this, what values remain secure? He pours out to God his guilt at the things he has done which violate all he has been trained from childhood to do.
And in this other ending, Saul thanks God for David--not just for the music of David's harp, but for the leadership he can see in David. In this other ending Saul, who wished to be a truly great king, mourns tears of grief as he acknowledges to God that he can see David will be a greater king than he. And in this other ending, he lets go of his own wishes, and tells God, "Lord, I can see what you are leading to, and if that's what you want, I will help you."
This other ending that never happened wouldn't have been easy, but if it had happened, the story of Saul would not have been a tragedy, and David, who loved Saul, would not have had the people of Israel sing, at Saul's death, "Lo, how the mighty are fallen."
What is there about us humans that keeps us from God's mercy, that keeps the second ending from happening? One thousand years after Saul rejected David, another ruler of Israel named Herod rejected a descendant of David named Jesus, and sent him to die on the cross. In this morning's Gospel reading, Jesus, like his ancestor David, is helping people deal with their evil spirits, and the population is ready to accuse him of doing Satan's business, not God's.
There is a song about looking for love in all the wrong places. Saul looked for God in all the wrong places, and couldn't see God right before him.
The choice faces us today as it truly faced Saul 3000 years ago. When we find ourselves in a place of torment, could it be that we are experiencing an evil spirit of the Lord? When an experience of the absence of God weighs heavy on us, could it not be because, as St. Augustine once prayed, "Lord, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."?
The restlessness we feel may be what the book of Samuel calls "an evil spirit of the Lord." Even in the midst of feeling God has deserted us, the feeling itself may be proof that God has not deserted us.
Saul's story is a challenge to each of us to accept the torments which come our way as a spirit sent by God to wake us up, to accept the Davids sent to sooth us, as companions not enemies, and to rest our hearts in the One of whom we say, "you have made us for yourself."' [End of sermon]...
verse 17-23... I do wonder if it was the music, or the comfort of having the Spirit of God in David being near, that really eased Saul's suffering... I also wonder what might have changed in this story if Saul had just repented of his sinful arrogance from before... truly repented, not just for show and blessing... would that have made a difference? I truly think it would have... and I hope we can all take a good look at our lives to see if we can learn and apply this, too.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 16: verse 1... interesting that God tells Samuel to move on and stop mourning over Saul!... I guess it goes along with the concept of "dusting of your feet" in the New Testament (Matthew 10:14, Mark 6:11-12, Luke 9:5, Luke 10:10-11)... it does make me think about how often I will wallow in the what-ifs or the guilt of a past event instead of moving on and taking action on what I can do (here in the present)... a good lesson in that we should not waste energy or emotion over 'lost causes' or 'past mistakes'... we should do what we can, learn what we can, and then 'be on our way' to the next God appointed thing for us to do.
verse 2-5... funny how Samuel is scared of Saul and the townspeople are frightened of Samuel... yet, the only one who should be worried is Saul, since his throne is being usurped, and he isn't even around to know it... also, it says Samuel 'consecrated Jesse and his sons'... what does that mean?... and last point in these verses... I find it really comforting to see how God orchestrates everything, and all Samuel has to do is to obey... He equips Samuel with the heifer, so it all falls into place... how often do we worry unneccessarily instead of just 'pick up our heifer'?
verse 6-13... kind of like 'been there done that in Saul' (a choice made to satisfy the desires of the people-height, good warrior... chosen as an example to the people and to teach them)... now God is saying, 'lets do it MY way with MY choice... God seems to tend to do this in His choices, as He did it with Joseph (Genesis 37-47), as well as others... God cares most about our hearts, not our credentials... He is the one who makes us who we are anyway, so we may as well acknowledge that and abide in Him since the Creator always knows the best purpose for the things He creates....
verse 14-16... Ok, I'm going to comment on this verse in 2 parts... first, I found it interesting that the Spirit (capital S) departed from Saul, and then, a spirit (small s) came upon Saul... apparently when the Spirit is in us, the spirit cannot come upon us... I recently read a book that talked about spiritual warfare and how many Christians believe that true born-again Christians cannot ever be "demon-possessed" or even, on a less intense scale and un-demon related "depressed" etc... this idea is based on the fact that we are filled with the Spirit, not just have it come and go... the author of the book however went on to say that even though we are born-again, we can still fall away from God in that we can choose to no longer abide with Him... we can stop reading His Word, we can stop praying, we can stop doing all the things that keep us connected to God (to the vine- John 15)... when we are no longer communing with God, when we have pushed God away and have tried to do things on our own, then we are more susceptible to Satan's attacks... be that negative thoughts and feelings (dwelling or believing in them)... be that even the intense attack of an actaul demon... anyway, I don't profess to know very much about all that, but I do know the God tells us to put on our "armor" daily, so we can withstand Satan's attacks (Ephesians 6:10-20)... and these peices of armor, include things like the truth of our Salvation through Jesus, the truth of our righteousness through the death and resurrection of Jesus, the belt of truth that holds all the other parts of the armor together, shoes of peace, shield of faith in God's power and trustworthiness, sword of the Spirit (again, capital S, and likely to mean God's Word, too, as it is referred to as a sword in other passages-Hebrews 4:12)... and the other thing I know is my experiences... when I am in God's Word, and relying on Him and His power, then I feel more joyful, secure, and at peace about life in general, and who I am in Him specifically... yet, when I neglect those things, and draw away from God, I find that I am more likely to feel discouraged, frustrated, bitter, angry, and so on. So, I guess that doesn't really answer the evil spirit part, though, so, since I did not have a good explanation of this verse, I did a google search and came across a sermon that I thought was really good concerning this. This is then, the part 2 commentary... It comes from a Methodist man/Vietnam Veteran, who first explains how the passage was chosen (so you get some lessons on how Methodists do worship, as well... I chose to keep that part in out of interest, since I am not a Methodist)... anyway, I am posting the sermon here: "Evil Spirit of the Lord By Jackson H. Day, Maryland State Convention, Vietnam Veterans of America Aberdeen, Maryland, 12 June 1994
1 Samuel 16:14-23
2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1
Mark 3:20-35
The Third Sunday after Pentecost
An Evil Spirit of the Lord
I. I did not choose this morning's scriptures. In the past twenty years, Catholics and Protestants working together have developed a Common Lectionary of readings from scripture. These scriptures are being read this Sunday morning in many churches of different denominations--although occasionally some denominations change them. (As Murphy's Law would have it, on this Sunday, my own United Methodist denomination is following a different set of readings!) If you follow the lectionary readings for three years, you will have read the entire New Testament and a lot of the Old Testament. It's a discipline I've accepted to preach on whatever lessons are named for a particular Sunday.
II. The Story
Of this morning's three readings, the Old Testament lesson began to draw me in. On its surface we have a story about a man named Saul who lived 3000 years ago whose torment is relieved when a young man named David is brought in to play the soothing notes of a harp. It's part of the larger story of the books of Samuel telling how Israel got its first kings. Specifically, it's a transitional passage between the old King Saul who begins a downhill slide to his death, and the young David who starts a series of successes that will lead to his installation as the new King.
That much of the story doesn't have much to do with us, so I was tempted to move on. But before I did, a phrase caught my attention. "Now the spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord tormented him." Here was a thought I wasn't used to--and frankly, didn't like: An evil spirit from the Lord tormented Saul. Does the God we worship do things like that?
Now I was hooked. I had to read the whole life of Saul -- from chapters 8 to 31 -- to see what this evil spirit of the Lord could be. It's a story full of drama. I'm surprised I haven't seen it at the movies or on stage.
First in the cast is Samuel in whose honor these two books of the Bible are compiled. When the story opens, Samuel, as prophet and judge, is as much of a ruler as Israel has, but the people are asking for a real king. This offends Samuel, who eloquently tells Israel how wrong it would be for them to have a king. Samuel's God tells him, "don't be upset, if they want a king, that's not a rejection of Samuel, that's a rejection of God, but if they want a king, a king they shall have.
Next in the cast is the early Saul, driver of oxen on his father's farm until Samuel anoints him to be Israel's first king. After hearing Samuel's attitude about kings, why are we not surprised when Saul never gets it right, never gets the esteem or respect he desperately wants from Samuel? Samuel's God's first task for Saul is to totally destroy the Amelikite nation, men, women, children, cattle and sheep, possessions, an act which strikes us as reminiscent of My Lai, or Rwanda. Saul is obedient when it comes to slaughtering people, but spoils it all by allowing his soldiers to keep the cattle and sheep. Soon thereafter he becomes a tormented person.
Then there is David, brought in from his father's flocks first to play the soothing harp and then to hurl the winning stone at Goliath of the enemy Philistines. His best friend is Saul's son Jonathan, he marries Saul's daughter Michal, he wins battles, and the crowds adore him; he can do no wrong. Driven out by a jealous Saul, David goes off to fight for the Philistines.
And there is the later Saul, increasingly jealous of David, whose continuing contest with David slides his life downhill with whatever Saul tries going wrong, while David's efforts are met with success. Finally Saul faces his last battle. Failing to get an answer from God to his pleas for advice, he turns to his old mentor, Samuel. Samuel has already died, so Saul breaks God's law by going to a medium who conjures up Samuel's spirit from the dead. Samuel's spirit promptly tells Saul that he has blown it once again, and will die on the morrow. A sad ending to a tragic story.
As a Vietnam veteran, I hear echoes of our experience.
I hear a tale of a young man who is taken from his father's home and his hometown tasks and sent into a terrible battle that's beyond his ability to deal with -- and as a result of that war he is changed forever.
I hear the story of a young man put by the political and religious leadership of his day into a situation where he can't win, certainly not according to his own understanding of winning.
I hear the story of a young man whose own mistakes contribute to his problems, who does well as a fighter, but who messes up his life by his judgments off the battle-field.
I hear a story that didn't have to happen, but did. I hear a story I find myself increasingly sympathetic with, and I don't like its end.
III. Evil Spirits and PTSD
How could Saul's story have turned out differently? This morning's passage, where David first appears and where Saul begins to "lose it", tormented by an evil spirit and soothed by the music of a harp, seems to be the place to look for a clue.
Saul's torment might sound familiar to anyone who read the Spring 1994 VVA Maryland State Council newspaper, which gives a self-assessment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD.
We don't know if Saul had feelings of detachment from other people, but his staff certainly worried about him.
We don't know if he had distressing trauma-related dreams and nightmares, we don't know if he had difficulty concentrating, but something certainly tormented him.
We don't know if he had feelings of reliving traumatic experiences, or uncontrollable memories of war or other trauma--but we know he had been through those experiences.
We aren't told he had a lack of interest in everyday activities, but spending one's time being soothed by a harp is not the normal way an active ruler spends his time.
We don't know if he had sleep problems, but we know how important that soothing harp was to him.
We do know about irritability or angry outbursts; one time while David was playing, Saul began throwing his spear at him. And that says something about inability to experience loving feelings.
Sounds to me like PTSD is a good description of what Saul was going through.
IV Justice & Mercy
If that's the diagnosis, do we have a cure? We still don't know how things might have turned out differently, and all of this still doesn't answer the question of this odd turn of speech: "an evil spirit of the Lord". Since when is God in the business of sending evil spirits, or even in the business of sending people depression or headaches?
I asked my friends on a computer bulletin board. Richard Hunt, a lawyer in Texas responded with the following thought:
I see in these verses an idea of the relationship between God's justice and mercy.
The evil spirit is justice, as seen by Saul, who has disobeyed God's command. Justice is never pleasant for us sinners, and so always appears evil.
David, the harp player who can soothe Saul's insanity, shows that even in the midst of punishment there is mercy, also from God.
What is paradoxical and interesting about this is that David is the instrument of God's mercy, but is also Saul's problem, as the rest of I Samuel shows.
Saul's real descent into madness begins not when God punishes him for his disobedience, but later, when Saul turns on David.
Saul fails to recognize that in giving him David, not only to soothe his madness but also to bring him military victory, God has been merciful.
Saul rejects this gift of mercy, seeing it instead as a usurpation of his own power and prestige.
One reading then is that justice will be tempered by mercy if we accept that mercy, which we can do only by acknowledging our dependence on God for all things. If we try to stand on our own, forgetting that all good things come from the Lord, we will reject God's mercy and be left, as Saul was, with only the justice we deserve but cannot endure.
We could debate whether Saul, like Vietnam veterans, was just an innocent victim of a situation he didn't ask for, or whether Saul, like Vietnam Veterans, was now suffering torment because of appropriate guilt for real offenses that had been done. Most likely Saul, like Vietnam veterans, suffered some combination of the two.
But the debate wouldn't get us anywhere. The bottom line is that Saul, like many of us, was tormented.
The critical element my friend pointed out is how God's mercy was right there in the story--and Saul couldn't see it.
Saul saw only an affliction -- the evil spirit; and the threat -- David.
The true tragedy of the Saul story is not that his life went progressively downhill -- but that God sent him an opportunity to change and he couldn't see it, he didn't take it.
That is why Saul's torment is attributed to an "evil spirit of the Lord". It was a red light on our dashboard warning us to take immediate action if we don't want to be stopped dead in our tracks. But Saul couldn't see God's mercy, and therefore he couldn't accept it.
V. A Different Ending
There is another ending to the story which never got written because it never happened.
In that ending Saul poured out to God and maybe even to his friend David the burden of the many things that troubled him. The battle he had been sent to, straight from plowing with oxen, the battle to destroy the Amelekites--it was a terrible thing, and anyone like Saul brought up on the Ten Commandments should have been angry at being ordered to kill every living thing, men, women, children. In this other ending to the story he pours out to God his anger at having been involved in such a thing. He pours out to God his fear about the basic values of his life, for if he can be asked to do such a thing as this, what values remain secure? He pours out to God his guilt at the things he has done which violate all he has been trained from childhood to do.
And in this other ending, Saul thanks God for David--not just for the music of David's harp, but for the leadership he can see in David. In this other ending Saul, who wished to be a truly great king, mourns tears of grief as he acknowledges to God that he can see David will be a greater king than he. And in this other ending, he lets go of his own wishes, and tells God, "Lord, I can see what you are leading to, and if that's what you want, I will help you."
This other ending that never happened wouldn't have been easy, but if it had happened, the story of Saul would not have been a tragedy, and David, who loved Saul, would not have had the people of Israel sing, at Saul's death, "Lo, how the mighty are fallen."
What is there about us humans that keeps us from God's mercy, that keeps the second ending from happening? One thousand years after Saul rejected David, another ruler of Israel named Herod rejected a descendant of David named Jesus, and sent him to die on the cross. In this morning's Gospel reading, Jesus, like his ancestor David, is helping people deal with their evil spirits, and the population is ready to accuse him of doing Satan's business, not God's.
There is a song about looking for love in all the wrong places. Saul looked for God in all the wrong places, and couldn't see God right before him.
The choice faces us today as it truly faced Saul 3000 years ago. When we find ourselves in a place of torment, could it be that we are experiencing an evil spirit of the Lord? When an experience of the absence of God weighs heavy on us, could it not be because, as St. Augustine once prayed, "Lord, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."?
The restlessness we feel may be what the book of Samuel calls "an evil spirit of the Lord." Even in the midst of feeling God has deserted us, the feeling itself may be proof that God has not deserted us.
Saul's story is a challenge to each of us to accept the torments which come our way as a spirit sent by God to wake us up, to accept the Davids sent to sooth us, as companions not enemies, and to rest our hearts in the One of whom we say, "you have made us for yourself."' [End of sermon]...
verse 17-23... I do wonder if it was the music, or the comfort of having the Spirit of God in David being near, that really eased Saul's suffering... I also wonder what might have changed in this story if Saul had just repented of his sinful arrogance from before... truly repented, not just for show and blessing... would that have made a difference? I truly think it would have... and I hope we can all take a good look at our lives to see if we can learn and apply this, too.
sandJ
Friday, April 2, 2010
1 Samuel 15 today...... 1_Samuel 16 tomorrow....
Read it.
Sandj
Chapter 15: verse 1... like Saul didn't know who Samuel was?
verse 6... kindness pays, huh... I wonder what the Amalekites thought when the Kenites packed up and took off? I would be wondering what was going on
verse 7-9, and 2-3... not what God told them to do
verse 10-13... was Saul really that dumb or just so blinded by his own desires that he was oblivious to his sin?... an important lesson to learn from as we take a good, long, hard look at ourselves
verse 14... Samuel cracks me up! :)
verse 15... blaming the soldiers, and then acting like it was all for God... yet, God didn't ask for the sheep or whatever... reminds me of when my kids bring me a cookie and say it is for me, but when I say I don't want it, they ask if they can have it... now, you be the judge, was the cookie ever for me?... if Saul really thought the sheep sacrificing was a good idea, wouldn't he have proudly expressed his part in the whole thing instead of blaming it on the soldiers?
verse 16... ok, cracking up again... this is so like many conversations in our house... the kids start to go into detail about why they decided to disobey, and I yell out "Just stop", because I don't want to hear anymore of their justifications... the fact of the matter is they disobeyed and they know it, why waste time letting them dig themselves in deeper with lies and falsehoods... then, it floors me how Saul is like, 'oh, God spoke to you, I want to hear it, cause maybe He has more blessings to give me', in all excited anticipation, when that is not at all what he's about to hear.
verse 17-19... you were nothing before God made you into something, so why did you just spit in the face of the one who made you into what you are now?
verse 20-23... wow... I do feel bad for Saul if he really is not getting it... makes me wonder how often I am that hard-headed.
veres 24-29... God knows the heart... is Saul truly repentant, or just trying to smooth things over so he doesn't lose his right to rule?... do we ever say sorry to God just so we can get it over with and move back onto the 'fun' stuff we really want to do?... can we fool God?... that is a rhetorical question by the way
verse 30-31... does Samuel go back and worship with Saul because Samuel knows it is not his place to judge Saul? Samuel seems to get that he is God's messanger, but not God himself... what a contrast there is between Samuel and Saul
verse 32-34... wow... hard to be a priest... poor Samuel had to finish the job that was supposed to be for Saul, but because Saul didn't obey and follow through with all God's commands, Samuel had to do it... when we don't do all God wants us to, we shouldn't think that it has been forgotten... God will still accomplish all He had planned to do, but we will just not be allowed to be apart of it... and we will be bringing added work onto someone else who was not as equipped or well-suited for the job, possibly... however, if we ever end up in the "clean-up" position, we should remember that it is by God's power that we can accomplish anything, so He will give us what we need to get through this "mess", too.
verse 35... sad... this is a really good verse to explain the difference between forgiving and trusting... we need to always forgive those who hurt us, because God has forgiven us... we should forgive even when the other person is not aware of what they have done, and even if the other person does not forgive us... forgiveness is our act of love and obedience toward God... however, forgiveness and trust are not the same thing... where forgiveness is not earned, trust is earned... trust can only be given to someone who has repented of their ways and shown that they are remorseful and have worked to restore the relationship and have turned from their previous evil ways... this is very important... this concept is why a woman who has been beaten by her husband should not return to him unless he has truly changed... it is why a child molester should not be allowed to be around children without extreme therapy (and maybe even never)... it is not unbiblical to keep yourself or your child safe from an untrustworthy person... it is however, unbiblical to keep from granting them forgiveness... we should pray for our enemies and those who hurt us... we should love them, as Christ loves us... but we do not have to trust them or hang out with them unless they prove that they are willing to do what it takes to properly restore the relationship, and keep it intact.... this verse also makes me think about what it means for God to grieve His choice in picking Saul... I wonder if I ever grieve God... even as I write this, I know that I have... and so, why did He choose me even though He knew I would disappoint Him... that is love to know that someone will hurt you, but give them the blessing of being apart of your life anyway.
sandJ
Sandj
Chapter 15: verse 1... like Saul didn't know who Samuel was?
verse 6... kindness pays, huh... I wonder what the Amalekites thought when the Kenites packed up and took off? I would be wondering what was going on
verse 7-9, and 2-3... not what God told them to do
verse 10-13... was Saul really that dumb or just so blinded by his own desires that he was oblivious to his sin?... an important lesson to learn from as we take a good, long, hard look at ourselves
verse 14... Samuel cracks me up! :)
verse 15... blaming the soldiers, and then acting like it was all for God... yet, God didn't ask for the sheep or whatever... reminds me of when my kids bring me a cookie and say it is for me, but when I say I don't want it, they ask if they can have it... now, you be the judge, was the cookie ever for me?... if Saul really thought the sheep sacrificing was a good idea, wouldn't he have proudly expressed his part in the whole thing instead of blaming it on the soldiers?
verse 16... ok, cracking up again... this is so like many conversations in our house... the kids start to go into detail about why they decided to disobey, and I yell out "Just stop", because I don't want to hear anymore of their justifications... the fact of the matter is they disobeyed and they know it, why waste time letting them dig themselves in deeper with lies and falsehoods... then, it floors me how Saul is like, 'oh, God spoke to you, I want to hear it, cause maybe He has more blessings to give me', in all excited anticipation, when that is not at all what he's about to hear.
verse 17-19... you were nothing before God made you into something, so why did you just spit in the face of the one who made you into what you are now?
verse 20-23... wow... I do feel bad for Saul if he really is not getting it... makes me wonder how often I am that hard-headed.
veres 24-29... God knows the heart... is Saul truly repentant, or just trying to smooth things over so he doesn't lose his right to rule?... do we ever say sorry to God just so we can get it over with and move back onto the 'fun' stuff we really want to do?... can we fool God?... that is a rhetorical question by the way
verse 30-31... does Samuel go back and worship with Saul because Samuel knows it is not his place to judge Saul? Samuel seems to get that he is God's messanger, but not God himself... what a contrast there is between Samuel and Saul
verse 32-34... wow... hard to be a priest... poor Samuel had to finish the job that was supposed to be for Saul, but because Saul didn't obey and follow through with all God's commands, Samuel had to do it... when we don't do all God wants us to, we shouldn't think that it has been forgotten... God will still accomplish all He had planned to do, but we will just not be allowed to be apart of it... and we will be bringing added work onto someone else who was not as equipped or well-suited for the job, possibly... however, if we ever end up in the "clean-up" position, we should remember that it is by God's power that we can accomplish anything, so He will give us what we need to get through this "mess", too.
verse 35... sad... this is a really good verse to explain the difference between forgiving and trusting... we need to always forgive those who hurt us, because God has forgiven us... we should forgive even when the other person is not aware of what they have done, and even if the other person does not forgive us... forgiveness is our act of love and obedience toward God... however, forgiveness and trust are not the same thing... where forgiveness is not earned, trust is earned... trust can only be given to someone who has repented of their ways and shown that they are remorseful and have worked to restore the relationship and have turned from their previous evil ways... this is very important... this concept is why a woman who has been beaten by her husband should not return to him unless he has truly changed... it is why a child molester should not be allowed to be around children without extreme therapy (and maybe even never)... it is not unbiblical to keep yourself or your child safe from an untrustworthy person... it is however, unbiblical to keep from granting them forgiveness... we should pray for our enemies and those who hurt us... we should love them, as Christ loves us... but we do not have to trust them or hang out with them unless they prove that they are willing to do what it takes to properly restore the relationship, and keep it intact.... this verse also makes me think about what it means for God to grieve His choice in picking Saul... I wonder if I ever grieve God... even as I write this, I know that I have... and so, why did He choose me even though He knew I would disappoint Him... that is love to know that someone will hurt you, but give them the blessing of being apart of your life anyway.
sandJ
Thursday, April 1, 2010
1 Samuel 14 today..... 1_Samuel 15 tomorrow...
Read it.
Sandj
verse 7... what great faith and friendship!
verse 8-10... you know, this is not even close to the first time that Isrealites have asked God for a sign of what they should do, and given choices that will help them determine God's will based on the outcome of their actions... I guess I always thought that this was a bad thing, to test God and ask Him for a sign, and all... but I wonder if it really is?... maybe it is more of an act of faith and obedience... God says that if we ask anything according to His will, He will grant it to us (1 John 5:14-15), so maybe seeking His will in our next steps like this is ok?... I'm not real sure about this, but it does remind me of how Jesus showed His hands and feet to all the disciples, not just Thomas... and He did so even before the first ones asked Him to... it was like He knew that the disciples needed to "see" before they could believe (John 20, specifically verses 20, 25, 27-29, also verse 8 and 16 on other ways His followers had to first "see" to believe)... so maybe God just knows that our human nature is to need a sign for confirmation and He is willing to provide it given we are willing to obey (and not just test to see if He'll do something 'cool' or whatever)?... we were told once that God can't direct our paths if we don't start stepping, so maybe this is similar to what is happening here... Jonathan is stepping and asking God to direct his next steps?... any thoughts or insights?
verse 11-12... this seems to be a living testimony to the addage "pride comes before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18)
verse 13-14... impressive... both their battle-worthiness, as well as their climbing skills! I think it is interesting that Jonathan's agility is detailed out, yet it is his poor armor bearer that we really need to give credit to, I mean he is the one who made the climb carrying the heavy armor! wow!... just curious about the whole armor bearer thing... did they men wait to fight until they were prepared for battle? was it like a rule of battle ettique? and if Jonathan's armor bearer had given Jonathan all the armor, what did the bearer fight in? I think the courage of the armor bearer is under-rated... a good lesson for us... just because we are not the one who gets all the credit, we are still just as important in the work of God... conversely, just because we do get all the credit does not mean that we accomplished any of it on our own, or that we were the most remarkable worker in the whole process.
verse 15... what is 'panic sent by God'? does it mean that because the battle was won by God's power that the Philestines were now afraid of God and so, in a sense the panic was 'caused' by God? or does it mean that God sent a spirit of fear upon the men? is that even possible(the spirit of fear thing)?
verse 16-23...interesting how so many people joined in once Jonathan was willing to step out in faith... sometimes one person being obedient to God's will is all it takes to start a army of obedient followers... interesting, too, how those who were originally disserters or too afraid to come out at first were now filled with courage, at least enough to join in the victory... we should never underestimate the extent that our actions might have for God's glory, even if we don't see it... conversely, our negative actions can be equally as impactful, so we should take note and stick close to God.
vesre 24... that is dumb... why would anyone keep their men from eating... maybe the idea is that Saul didn't want his men to be more consumed with food than with battle, but really now, they do need energy to fight! Saul seems quite impetuous.... however, I am impressed with the obedience of his army.
verse 25-30... why would the soldier wait to tell Jonathan about the curse?... why would Jonathan bad-mouth his father in front of the troops?... however, the oath was "before I have avenged myself on the enemies", this was done, was it not? so by rights, the men should be allowed to eat now, right?... let's hope for Jonathan's sake that that is true, because otherwise, Jonathan is still liable even if he didn't know the matter of the oath, or is Saul at fault for making such a thoughtless oath? (see Leviticus 5:4-5,17-19)
verse 31-34... at least here Saul is trying to keep his men from sinning... good leader... at least for this moment
verse 35... this must be a retelling of events in Chapter 13, then (see 1 Samuel 13:1-13)? or maybe Saul didn't build an alter before, just offer offering on one before... sin is a slippery slope, I tell ya... "it was the first time he had done this" makes me think he will do it again in the future? or maybe it is to express his uncraftmanship-like final product? or maybe, as the Study Notes suggest, this was a telling on Saul about how un-Godly he was not to have built an alter before now?
verse 36-38... I find it interesting that they knew God was not answering them because of a sin... is that why we don't "hear" God in our lives, today? how might we be able to change that? some things to ponder on.
verse 39... why would Saul say such a stupid thing? all the men, who obviously knew of Jonathan's actions, must have been freaking out.
verse 40... did Saul know somehow, or was it jsut by coincidence that he divided them that way?
vesre 41-46... was Saul getting jealous over Jonathan's success over the Philestines, and the army's admiration of Jonathan? Is that why Saul was ok with Jonathan's death? Is that why God spared Jonathan from the curse of the oath? Was that why Saul, after the men took Jonathan's side by praising Jonathan's victory over the Philestines, was that why Saul decided to stop fighting the Philestines? Saul seems more self focused, instead of God or others focused
verse 47-48... was this because God was leading him to do so, or so that Saul could prove himself a better leader/fighter than Jonathan?
verse 49-52... fulfills the prophecy that Saul's job as king was to 'deliver the Isrealites from the hands of the Philestines'(1 Samuel 9:15-16)... interesting that Saul's daughters and wife's names were mentioned... and that Saul only has one wife... Saul must have had a close-knit family if his cousin was his commander of the army... I wonder why we never hear about Saul's other sons?
sandJ
Sandj
verse 7... what great faith and friendship!
verse 8-10... you know, this is not even close to the first time that Isrealites have asked God for a sign of what they should do, and given choices that will help them determine God's will based on the outcome of their actions... I guess I always thought that this was a bad thing, to test God and ask Him for a sign, and all... but I wonder if it really is?... maybe it is more of an act of faith and obedience... God says that if we ask anything according to His will, He will grant it to us (1 John 5:14-15), so maybe seeking His will in our next steps like this is ok?... I'm not real sure about this, but it does remind me of how Jesus showed His hands and feet to all the disciples, not just Thomas... and He did so even before the first ones asked Him to... it was like He knew that the disciples needed to "see" before they could believe (John 20, specifically verses 20, 25, 27-29, also verse 8 and 16 on other ways His followers had to first "see" to believe)... so maybe God just knows that our human nature is to need a sign for confirmation and He is willing to provide it given we are willing to obey (and not just test to see if He'll do something 'cool' or whatever)?... we were told once that God can't direct our paths if we don't start stepping, so maybe this is similar to what is happening here... Jonathan is stepping and asking God to direct his next steps?... any thoughts or insights?
verse 11-12... this seems to be a living testimony to the addage "pride comes before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18)
verse 13-14... impressive... both their battle-worthiness, as well as their climbing skills! I think it is interesting that Jonathan's agility is detailed out, yet it is his poor armor bearer that we really need to give credit to, I mean he is the one who made the climb carrying the heavy armor! wow!... just curious about the whole armor bearer thing... did they men wait to fight until they were prepared for battle? was it like a rule of battle ettique? and if Jonathan's armor bearer had given Jonathan all the armor, what did the bearer fight in? I think the courage of the armor bearer is under-rated... a good lesson for us... just because we are not the one who gets all the credit, we are still just as important in the work of God... conversely, just because we do get all the credit does not mean that we accomplished any of it on our own, or that we were the most remarkable worker in the whole process.
verse 15... what is 'panic sent by God'? does it mean that because the battle was won by God's power that the Philestines were now afraid of God and so, in a sense the panic was 'caused' by God? or does it mean that God sent a spirit of fear upon the men? is that even possible(the spirit of fear thing)?
verse 16-23...interesting how so many people joined in once Jonathan was willing to step out in faith... sometimes one person being obedient to God's will is all it takes to start a army of obedient followers... interesting, too, how those who were originally disserters or too afraid to come out at first were now filled with courage, at least enough to join in the victory... we should never underestimate the extent that our actions might have for God's glory, even if we don't see it... conversely, our negative actions can be equally as impactful, so we should take note and stick close to God.
vesre 24... that is dumb... why would anyone keep their men from eating... maybe the idea is that Saul didn't want his men to be more consumed with food than with battle, but really now, they do need energy to fight! Saul seems quite impetuous.... however, I am impressed with the obedience of his army.
verse 25-30... why would the soldier wait to tell Jonathan about the curse?... why would Jonathan bad-mouth his father in front of the troops?... however, the oath was "before I have avenged myself on the enemies", this was done, was it not? so by rights, the men should be allowed to eat now, right?... let's hope for Jonathan's sake that that is true, because otherwise, Jonathan is still liable even if he didn't know the matter of the oath, or is Saul at fault for making such a thoughtless oath? (see Leviticus 5:4-5,17-19)
verse 31-34... at least here Saul is trying to keep his men from sinning... good leader... at least for this moment
verse 35... this must be a retelling of events in Chapter 13, then (see 1 Samuel 13:1-13)? or maybe Saul didn't build an alter before, just offer offering on one before... sin is a slippery slope, I tell ya... "it was the first time he had done this" makes me think he will do it again in the future? or maybe it is to express his uncraftmanship-like final product? or maybe, as the Study Notes suggest, this was a telling on Saul about how un-Godly he was not to have built an alter before now?
verse 36-38... I find it interesting that they knew God was not answering them because of a sin... is that why we don't "hear" God in our lives, today? how might we be able to change that? some things to ponder on.
verse 39... why would Saul say such a stupid thing? all the men, who obviously knew of Jonathan's actions, must have been freaking out.
verse 40... did Saul know somehow, or was it jsut by coincidence that he divided them that way?
vesre 41-46... was Saul getting jealous over Jonathan's success over the Philestines, and the army's admiration of Jonathan? Is that why Saul was ok with Jonathan's death? Is that why God spared Jonathan from the curse of the oath? Was that why Saul, after the men took Jonathan's side by praising Jonathan's victory over the Philestines, was that why Saul decided to stop fighting the Philestines? Saul seems more self focused, instead of God or others focused
verse 47-48... was this because God was leading him to do so, or so that Saul could prove himself a better leader/fighter than Jonathan?
verse 49-52... fulfills the prophecy that Saul's job as king was to 'deliver the Isrealites from the hands of the Philestines'(1 Samuel 9:15-16)... interesting that Saul's daughters and wife's names were mentioned... and that Saul only has one wife... Saul must have had a close-knit family if his cousin was his commander of the army... I wonder why we never hear about Saul's other sons?
sandJ
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