2 Chronicles 13 - The Folly of Fighting the Lord

2 Chronicles 13

"Now behold, God is with us at our head and His priests with the signal trumpets to sound the alarm against you. O sons of Israel, do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers, for you will not succeed." (verse 12) 

Message: The Folly of Fighting the Lord

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: Abijah is king of the south (Judah) and Jeroboam is king of the north (Israel). Abijah reigned 3 years. Abijah had 400,000 men and Jeroboam, 800,000 (though the actual numbers are believed to be 40,000 and 80,000). Abijah appeals to Jeroboam in an outcry that the Lord God gave the rule over Israel to David and his descendants (verse 5) - and thus he believes he is aligned more correctly than Jeroboam. Jeroboam abandoned God by setting up his own means of worship and sacrifice and a different form of priesthood. Abijah also mentions a covenant signified with salt - a necessary part of a sacrifice and part of the covenant renewal between God and man. Jeroboam rebelled (verse 6) though Solomon had previously put him in charge of the labor force. Jeroboam was aided by wicked men (verse 7). Good or bad, you can always find enough men and women to rally around you. 

In verse 8, Abijah now confronts this coalition, that they would have the gall to resist the kingdom of David, even with their larger numbers of military prowess, coming to David with man-made gods. Jeroboam believed that he could make human appointment for sacrifices. The problem with Jeroboam is he believed he was doing right, and he changed the way of worship to fit himself and help him be comfortable. He wasn't one that necessarily promulgated a different God. He simply wanted to change the manner of worship and sacrifice, not appealing to God but instead to what made sense to him. 

In verse 10-12, by him doing this, he has forsaken the Lord. My guess is Jeroboam didn't agree and my guess is he thought he was doing right because this is what most people think. They believe that their way of doing things is not only just as good, but often better. He might have called Abijah's ways the old way of doing things. Abijah even says in verse 12, "Do not fight against the Lord God of your fathers." 

Jeroboam had a good plan of action in confronting and coming against Abijah, attacking them "both front and rear." But in the end God honored Judah and the victory was given to them as "Abijah and his people defeated them" (verse 17). Why? "Because they trusted in the Lord, the God of their fathers" (verse 18). "Jeroboam did not again recover strength....and the Lord struck him and he died" (verse 20). 

Abijah followed what Solomon and David had done in taking many wives and fathered many children (v. 21). 

To me, this text is sort of scary. Yes, God prevails over those that try to set up alternative forms of worship, but I don't believe Jeroboam was trying to not worship God. He was simply wanting to do it in his way believing that he now had a better way of doing it. But he also went to fight Judah. His focus was self and what he thought was right rather than looking to God for assistance and guidance. 

Summary: Abijah and Jeroboam engage in war with Abijah/Judah prevailing because God was on their side. 

Promise: God is on the side of those who rightly praise His name and seek His honor.

Prayer: God, there is a danger in this text and that is going after God in one's own way, thinking that there is an easier way. I wonder at times if I practice the way of Jeroboam while believing I am still part of the favored way of David. Give me guidance and wisdom to know what is right and what is wrong. Help me to seek You always. For those that are in the way of Jeroboam, may they repent and remove their pride so that they can truly see their right place before You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

TABLETALK - August 2019

2019 looks at the history of Old Testament Israel showing that the failures and successes of the Israelites led to the coming of Jesus, the Savior who redeems us from sin and empowers us by His Spirit to bear spiritual fruit in obedience to Him. 

January 2019 (October 25, 2024 - January 23, 2025) - Joshua 1-14 - How the Lord brought Israelites into Canaan

February 2019 (January 24, 2025 - July 6, 2025) - Joshua 15 to Judges 11 - God calls his people to finish driving out the inhabitants of Canaan, but they fail. God disciplines them and saves them from destruction. 

March 2019 (July 7, 2025 - August 24, 2025) - Judges 12 to I Samuel 1 - God's people may fall into great sin, but there is always a righteous remnant. 

April 2019 (August 25, 2025 - January 20, 2026) - I Samuel 2 to I Samuel 17 - Israel transitions from the eras of the judges to the monarchy. And also see Israel's ongoing conflict with the Philistines. 

May 2019 (January 21, 2026 - February 19, 2026) - I Samuel 17 to 2 Samuel 5 - David is on the run between his anointing and his assumption of the throne of Israel. 

June 2019 (February 20, 2026 - March 12, 2026) - 2 Samuel 6 to 2 Samuel 15 - David begins his 40 year reign of Judah/Israel.

July 2019 (March 13, 2026 - April 14, 2026) - 2 Samuel 16 to I Kings 2 - David is protected from Absalom’s revolt and Solomon succeeds him as king. 

August 2019 (April 15, 2026 - September 21, 2026) - 1 Chronicles 29, 1 Kings 2-14, 2 Chronicles 3-12 - The reign of Solomon builds the temple and his palace, but because of his latter disobedience the kingdoms of Judah/Israel are divided with separate kings in Jeroboam and Rehoboam. 

I Chronicles 29:10-30 - Solomon Exalted - David offers a beautiful prayer praising God and confirming all of our riches are from God. Then Solomon is anointed king again. 

I Kings 2:10-27 - Adonijah's Treachery - Adonijah once again comes before Solomon to usurp his authority in hopes of laying claim to the throne. Solomon has him killed but spares the life of Abiathar the priest.

I Kings 2:28-46 - Joab and Shimei Eliminated - Solomon followed through on David's request to have Joab and Shimei killed. 

I Kings 3 - Solomon's Great Wisdom - Solomon begins to intermarry from other nations, then prays to God that He would give him discernment in making decisions and is given practice in this between two harlots and their babies. 

I Kings 4 - The Glory of Solomon - Solomon establishes his leaders and all of his provisions. 

I Kings 5 - Solomon Prepares for the Temple - Solomon hires the Sidonians and people of Tyre to provide cedars for the construction. 

2 Chronicles 3 - Solomon Builds the Temple - Solomon builds the temple in 7 years with the site being on the threshing floor marking the separation God makes in us from the secular to the sacred. 

I Kings 6:37-7:12 - Solomon Builds the Palace - The Temple is completed in 7 years. Solomon's palace is completed in 13 years. The Temple was first to be completed and the priority. The palace had multiple functions and was larger.

I Kings 7:13-51 - Furnishings for the Temple - All of the elements and structural parts of the temple are described with a strong emphasis on preparation and organization of material in performing the sacrifices. 

2 Chronicles 5:1-6:11 - The Ark Comes to the Temple - Samuel gathers the elders and leaders together to bring the ark to the inner sanctuary of the temple he has built, and God presences is seen in a thick cloud. 

2 Chronicles 6:12-42 - Solomon's Prayer of Dedication

2 Chronicles 7 - The Temple Dedication - After Solomon prayer of dedication, God makes a covenant with His people as they walk in obedience, pray, humble, obey, and turn from their wicked ways. 

2 Chronicles 8:1-9:12 - Solomon's Accomplishments and Renown - Solomon demonstrates his power, wealth, and influence while also showing his commitment to worshipping God daily and seeking forgiveness for his sins. 

I Kings 10:14-11:8 - Solomon's Disobedience - While Solomon accumulated a lot of riches and had access to much wealth his life was also marked by union with many women and this led him away from following God completely. 

I Kings 11:9-43 - Solomon's Final Days - The Lord was angry with Solomon. His final days was marked by God raising up adversaries and splitting the Israelite kingdom. And then he died.

I Kings 12:1-24 - A Young King's Folly - Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam for mercy and does not receive it and in return receives the 10 tribes of Israel while Rehoboam gets Judah and a division results. 

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16 - Rehoboam's Reign - Rehoboam's reign is marked by taking on many wives and concubines and forsaking the Lord which results in a king of Egypt taking over the land, but not destroying it because the people repent. 

I Kings 12:25-33 - Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant - Jeroboam fears that if his people leave his area to go worship and sacrifice in Jerusalem then they will turn their allegiance to Rehoboam so he sets up alternate ways to worship and sacrifice in his area. 

I Kings 13 - A Disobedient Prophet - A prophet is sent to speak judgment toward Jeroboam's alternative worship plans for his people. In returning home, the prophet is taken off course by another man which eventually results in his death from that disobedience. 

I Kings 14:1-15:8 - The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam - From the northern and southern kingdom, the reigns of Jeroboam and Rehoboam, respectively, did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jeroboam's consequences are detailed. 

Philippians 4:13 - Rarely do we hear "I can do all things through Christ..." from the losers side. No one should think that when apart from winning Christ is not there and guiding steps. The "all things" Paul is referencing is “hunger,” “need,” and being “brought low.” Christ must sustain His people in easier seasons as well, because the temptation to forget God arises not only when His blessings are absent but also when they abound.

Isaiah 43:25 - God says, “I will not remember your sins.” This is figurative language to communicate to Israel the complete forgiveness of our sins. 

I Corinthians 13:13 - In 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul writes, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love,” leading some Christians to conclude that love is more important than faith or hope. While we wait for the return of Jesus, we need faith, hope, and love in equal and increasing measure. The greatest part is referring to our time in heaven. 

Matthew 7:1 - “Judge not, that you be not judged.” The reason you confront another person about his sin is to win him over, not to put him down, condemn him, or make yourself feel superior to him. There is a standard of right and wrong, and it is contained in the Scriptures.

Jeremiah 29:11 -  “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This is not a health and wealth verse to apply. Jeremiah had warned the Judahites that punishment was coming, and he pleaded with them to repent of their idolatry and evildoing. The Lord promised that after a time, He would bring them back (Jer. 29:10). 

Galatians 3:28 - "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." The parity he’s advocating is with respect to salvation; it’s not a wholesale blurring of all human distinctions. Distinctions in the church, so long as they aren’t divisive, are permitted, while partiality of any kind is not.

I John 4:8 - That God is love is certainly a truth to be shouted from the rooftops as well as to be treasured in our hearts. But it is the same with all His attributes. One is not more beautiful than another; one is not primary over the others. None is in tension with the others, and all are essential. There is perfect harmony within the being of God, with all His attributes belonging essentially and necessarily to His glory.

Revelation 3:16 - The City Laodicea was situated 5 miles from Hierapolis which had a natural and medicinal hot spring. Colossae, 10 miles away had a cold spring from water drinking.  By saying hot or cold Jesus is not asking his followers to choose obedience or disobedience, but to be profitable, choosing to be hot or cold. What He doesn't want is someone lukewarm. 

Revelation 3:20 - This verse is not about asking Jesus into our heart. It is written to the church at Laodicea to repent for having departed from the gospel of the kingdom Christ gave it to proclaim. The church must continually examine themselves and repent if they are choosing any paths that do not seek to reconcile the World to Christ. 

The God of All Comfort - How well do I suffer? Our focus needs to be on providing comfort to those suffering. May we receive these benedictions: (1) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Cor. 13:14); (2) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. (2 Thess. 2:16–17). Amen. 

Love Believes All Things - We are to think the best of others. We often default in thinking the best of ourselves, not the best of others. We need to come alongside and rejoice with their victories and encourage them in their defeats. 

A Blueprint for Living - There is no issue in living a simple life. But we need to take direction still from the Bible and its teachings on how to live. The world does not like anyone telling anyone else how to live, but we need the direction of Scripture to inform us. 

Rebutting Objections to the Pro-Life Position - The Abortion issues comes down to protecting life and looks at some of the most common questions today on the issue. One question I didn't see addressed is one of the common reasons mentioned today and that is when the fetus is known to show signs of not being a normal and healthy baby. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 14:1-15:8 - The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam

I Kings 14:1-15:8 

And Judah did evil in the sight of the Lord, and they provoked Him to jealousy more than all that their fathers had done, with the sins which they committed. For they also built for themselves high places and pillars and Asherim on every high hill and beneath every luxuriant tree. And there were also male cult prostitutes in the land. They did according to all the abominations of the nations which the Lord dispossessed before the sons of Israel. (14:22-24)

Message: The Fall of Jeroboam I and Rehoboam 

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: In the preceding chapter, at the end of the chapter it is mentioned that "Jeroboam did not return from his evil way." The problem with Jeroboam is he did not turn from his evil ways but continued. He also did not take the naming of priests seriously, but instead "he made priests...from among all the people." In his world, he could name whomever to take upon the role as priest. Despite Jeroboam being warned, he did not change. Jeroboam's problem was he did right in his own eyes. This is the biggest problem of man and one I think we must be careful to observe --People make up their own rules and follow their own personal feelings or desires instead of obeying an external, higher authority or absolute moral law. 

I was speaking to a man from work yesterday who said that he no longer attends church. He seemed to have genuine faith but he felt like because of the crookedness of leadership in churches, it was better for him to not practice church. I have heard of others doing this, but this seems contrary to God's words. To me, man is deciding it is easier to not do church. He also mentioned his daughter marrying an atheist. But, what can we do with our children at times. They must sow their own seeds. 

Thus, as chapter 14 begins, Abijah is mentioned. He is the son of Jeroboam. He is ill. The author seems to be connecting the sin and destruction of Jeroboam's house with Abijah, his son's sickness. Perhaps we need to look at the illness that comes into our lives for a connection to sin - not only personal sin, but national sin as well. Then in verse 2, Jeroboam tells his wife to disguise herself and go to the prophet Ahijah, who was known to communicate God's messages to Jeroboam. She brought food with her to give to him. Ahijah is now blind. The Lord told Ahijah that Jeroboam's wife was coming in disguise and so Ahijah calls Jeroboam's wife her real name upon her arrival. 

In verse 7-16 pronounces a judgment on Jeroboam, by way of Ahijah. His judgment on Jeroboam is intense. First of all, Jeroboam had a model of good and righteous behavior with David and he ignored it. It had been 40 years since David's reign ended. Solomon's reign began good but then ended poorly in the way of submitting and surrendering to God and now Jeroboam is even worse and in verse 9 he is called to "have done more evil than all who were before you." He defined worship and deity in the manner he was more comfortable with and that was more convenient. Those closet to Jeroboam will receive the worst death - "the dogs will eat." When his wife enter the city Abijah will die upon entry (v. 12). In verse 20, it states Jeroboam reigned 22 years, died and his son Nadab reigned in his place. 

Meanwhile, Rehoboam reigned in Judah (the son of Solomon); verse 21. Rehoboam did not fare any better than Jeroboam. "Judah did evil in the sight of the Lord" (verse 22). Nothing good is said of Rehoboam. These people also "built for themselves high places." They substituted what God had made with something else that fit their liking. 

Another king of Egypt (to the south) comes up against Jerusalem, taking treasures and shields of gold from Jeroboam. Jeroboam made shields of bronze to replace. Rehoboam's reign ends after 17 years and his son Abijam takes his place. (v. 25-31). Abijam did no better as "he walked in all the sins of his father" (15:3).  

Summary: From the northern and southern kingdom, the reigns of Jeroboam and Rehoboam, respectively, did evil in the sight of the Lord. Jeroboam's consequences are detailed. 

Promise: Let us serve God faithfully, continually, consistently. 

Prayer: God, you establish ways for us to worship. Sometimes I think I look for the way that is most convenient or justify my worship ways and modes of worship. I am not sure I am always careful to align myself with your plans for me. I pray that our ways of worship are true and praiseworthy. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 13 - A Disobedient Prophet

I Kings 13 

After this event Jeroboam did not return from his evil way, but again he made priests of the high places from among all the people; any who would, he ordained, to be priests of the high places. (verse 33)

Message: A Disobedient Prophet

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: Jeroboam sought an alternative for his people, setting up places to worship God, crafting golden calves. At this time in history, worship and sacrifice was to occur at the temple. The people of Israel had planned to go to Jerusalem but he gave them another way. But the text doesn't say that he consulted God on this. He came up with a different way and possibly a way where he could kept control. Verse 1 of chapter 13 mentions a man of God coming to Jeroboam. He is unnamed. His mission is to speak from the word of the Lord (a prophet), to confront the unauthorized worship taking place at Bethel. The man speaks of Josiah coming in the future (prophecy); one who will come and restore and deal with these false forms of worship (verse 2). It is made clear that the altar set up will be split and the ashes of the sacrifices will be rejected (verse 3). 

Jeroboam didn't like what was being said and told his guards to seize the man but in the process Jeroboam's hand withered and he could not complete his plan (verse 4). Instead the altar was split and ashes spilled out (verse 5). Jeroboam's cries out for mercy that the man of God would intercede and restore his hand (verse 6). Jeroboam asks the man to have a meal, but the man says the word of the Lord said to him, "You shall eat no bread, nor drink water, no return by the way which you came" (v. 7-9); he was to have nothing to do with Jeroboam. Instead he returned home a different way (v.10). 

A different, old prophet, was told of what had occurred by this unnamed man by his son and so the old prophet went after this man, confronted him, to have him come back with him, but the unnamed prophet refused citing what he had told Jeroboam, but this old prophet said an angel of the Lord spoke to him telling him to come to his house and the unnamed prophet did (verse 11-19). Then a word came from the Lord to the old prophet of the unnamed man being disobedient to the Lord in coming back with him. The man saddled him a donkey and on the way back a lion met him and killed him and this was told to the old prophet (v. 20-25). The old prophet had him men retrieve the body and he brought it back and buried it in his grave and said that when he dies he wants to be buried in the same grave - "lay my bones beside his bones (v. 26-31). 

And "Jeroboam did not return from his evil way" (verse 33). 

This is a strange story and unsure its significance. There is a word of the Lord spoken by the first prophet - and his outcry that Jeroboam had committed false worship seems reasonable. But the idea that another prophet would lead him astray and then be killed, while the other prophet remains alive seems odd.

I think the lesson here is once hearing from the Lord we must be very careful when hearing someone else speak a new word that contradicts the previous word. God can make new covenants with His people. But I think in those instances, we need to consider all of the evidence with those new words. The first prophet too quickly had his mind changed. There really was no reason for this old prophet to go after the first prophet so it is an odd story. The loss of life was the result. And it is hard for me to understand why this prophet must be killed. Disobeying God at these times often resulted in end of life. And often stating it from the Lord. That is hard to reconcile. 

Summary: A prophet is sent to speak judgment toward Jeroboam's alternative worship plans for his people. In returning home, the prophet is taken off course by another man which eventually results in his death from that disobedience. 

Promise: Be very careful about being led off course from an original word from the Lord. 

Prayer: God, you are Holy. I am not. But Lord, I am not understanding this passage and why it is in the Bible and what it means to me. I read explanations and yet I am not sure of the application. It seems that when you give me a Word that I need to be careful of anyone changing my mind. In this passage, the simple changing of one's mind led to an untimely death. I don't see those radical outcomes today. Thus, it is hard to make sense of these words. But, perhaps I need not get too hung up on this passage. It definitely should not change my mind - long-term - even if I found it contradictory. It is one passage of many in the Bible and overall your message remains clear, but if there is a word of promise or teaching that is clear, show it to me. Thank you for listening. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 12:25-33 - Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant

I Kings 12:25-33

And Jeroboam said in his heart, "Now the kingdom will return to the house of David. If this people go up to other sacrifices in the house of the Lord at Jerusalem, then the heart of this people will return to their lord, even to Rehoboam king of Judah; and they will kill me and return to Rehoboam king of Judah." (verse 26-27)

Message: Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: As a reminder, the resulting northern and southern kingdoms was due to the sin of Solomon, namely I think his disregard for marriage and taking wives and concubines from many different nations, comprising the integrity of Jerusalem but also his dual ways of building the temple and yet building a larger palace and wrongly treating workers to make his kingdom larger. I Kings 11:11 the Lord says, "I will surely tear the kingdom from you." What followed was his son Rehoboam then also not listening to the wise council of men from Solomon's days but instead listening to youthful wisdom with I Kings 12:11 speaking of a greater discipline to come and Rehoboam receiving a small kingdom in the south. I looked at his reign in 1 Chronicles 11 and 12 and now here look to the north and Jeroboam's reign. 

Jeroboam established his residence at Shechem, a mere 116km north of Jerusalem. Abraham had built an altar at Shechem after the Lord had promised land to his descendants (Genesis 12:6–7), and Joshua renewed the covenant there before Israel (Joshua 24:1, 25–26). He established himself in a good place, but this doesn't mean that he necessarily had good outcomes. In verse 26 and 27, Jeroboam fears that his new northern kingdom will leave him and instead return to Jerusalem to do their sacrifices and their loyalty will shift back to the house of David. But Jeroboam continues to consult himself and he sets up two worship centers of his own doing at Dan and Bethel. Jeroboam actually wasn't trying to replace God, but he thought it could be as simple as he himself setting up 2 worship centers - erecting calves which he believed could be physical representations of God. Animals were used as sacrifices at the temple and bulls especially were treated as a high value sacrifice and so by erecting a calf, a young bull, he thought that he could craft something that would work as well and be more convenient. 

Jeroboam doesn't ask God about this but instead devises his own plan. Do we do this? Do we erect our own way of doing things out of convenience? Is it possible we have replaced too quickly the sabbath day worship day? For many they would say we have. Have we too quickly gone to high octane, entertainment focused worship services where we pay professional musicians to lead us and create atmospheres that are possibly too seeker focused? In our worship services, we brand our messages often times more on self-help than God glorifying messages. As Christians, do we too quickly separate ourselves from the world to safeguard ourselves from reaching out to people in the name of staying safe? Do we think that trusting in Jesus is simply our 'get of hell free card' and we can resume life the way we like to live it? But do we often too quickly follow a rigid checklist of obedience in order to ensure somewhat that we are close to God? Do we only evangelize with people at certain times? Is Sunday the most spiritual day of the week for us? Do we invite God into all the areas of our lives? 

I think the hard point here in this passage is Jeroboam was seen as working in opposition to God and yet he might have believed something different. 

Jeroboam had been given a promise in I Kings 11:38 by God when it was said to him, "if you listen to all that I command you and walk in My ways, and do what is right in My sight by observing My statutes and My commandments, as My servant David did, then i will be with you and build you an enduring house as I built for David, and I will give Israel to you." God here in these verses is asking Jeroboam to follow him and listen to Him and walk in His ways. The word 'My' is used 5 times. But in this chapter, Jeroboam responds by not citing God when he makes decisions. The author makes a point to mention that he did not. 

The subject of this lesson is that Jeroboam I Breaks the Covenant. This is the Mosaic covenant which was a conditional covenant at the time. God had set up specific ways of worship and sacrifice and places where these need to occur - namely the temple. In these times, it was very important that people acted in the way God prescribed, not simply doing things there own ways for him in hopes that it would be good enough. No, God expected strict conformity to His ways. Yes, he forgave but He still had a standard. 

Summary: Jeroboam fears that if his people leave his area to go worship and sacrifice in Jerusalem then they will turn their allegiance to Rehoboam so he sets up alternate ways to worship and sacrifice in his area. 

Promise: We must listen carefully to God's leading. 

Prayer: Lord God, these are hard passages. It is hard to understand the conditional messages here and wonder if there is more condition expected of us today. Thank you for showing me how you accept our repentance and turning to You. Thank you for your sacrifice. Show me how I need to sacrifice for You. Give me wisdom in decisions and doing things that will glorify You. Help me to know the best way to go always. Give me direction as I speak to people about you. Keep me focused on this in life and surrendering to You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16 - Rehoboam's Reign

2 Chronicles 11:5-12:16

So King Rehoboam strengthened himself in Jerusalem, and reigned. Now Rehoboam was forty-one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the Lord had chosen from all the tribes of Israel, to put His name there. And his mother's name was Naamah the Ammonitess. And he did evil because he did not set his heart to see the Lord. (12:13-14)

Message: Rehoboam's Reign

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: Rehoboam is now enshrined as the first king of the southern territory, known as Judah, which mainly encompasses Jerusalem, the most favored city in that region. Rehoboam had rebelled against wise counsel and instead listened to the counsel of youth, but in God's divine providence this was the path God used to separate the northern and southern kingdoms. While Jeroboam gets most of the areas with the Northern Kingdom, Rehoboam does secure the most favored area of Jerusalem - an area that even now almost 3,000 years later is still a prominent place. He will also now mention the cities that he fortifies, repairs, and enlarges in order to build up a strong defense toward the Northern Kingdom. There is Bethlehem, 2 hours south of Jerusalem and Etam next to it. Tekoa is 2 hours then south of Bethlehem. Also Beth-zur, Soco, Adullam, Gath, Mareshah, Ziph - cities that could be in the south eastern part or the hill country. Adoraim (southwest), Lachish (west), and Azekah, Zorah (birthplace of Samson) and Aijalon (of the 15 mentioned here these are the furthest north), and Hebron. 

The Levites or chief priests were not welcomed with Jeroboam so instead they came to Jerusalem, under Rehoboam where they felt safe and appreciated (v. 14). And yet Jeroboam also provided other high places for the worship of Baal and goats (v. 15). [Note: I don't think it is the role of the Christian to encourage alternate forms of worship; they will most likely happen anyway, but we are not to help make them happen.] The best Israelites united themselves in Jerusalem for worship (v. 16). And so for the first 3 years of Jeroboam's reign all was well with r egards to the people's worship of God (v. 17). It appears that Rehoboam then takes 2 wives (v. 18) and this is affirmed in verse 21 stating he had 18 wives and 60 concubines. This resulted in 28 sons and 60 daughters. Thus, the sins of Solomon in taking many wives is now seen by his son Rehoboam. 

Thus, at the beginning of chapter 12 it sees that "he (Rehoboam) and all Israel with him forsook the law of the Lord." This forsaking would have consequences. In verse 2, Shishak the king of Egypt comes up against Jerusalem and "captured the fortified cities." Shemaiah the prophet tells Rehoboam from the Lord, "You have forsaken Me, so I also have forsaken you." But fortunately in response - "the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves and said, "The Lord is righteous."" It was wrong to forsake the Lord, but after a little judgment the people remark that the Lord is righteous. They turn from their evil ways, even if it is just for a moment. But even in that moment there is a reprieve. Thus, God continues to acknowledge and do something after the repentance of His people. In verse 7 he says, "My wrath shall not be poured out" and yet "they will become his slaves."  

In verses 13-16 is a little summary. Rehoboam reigned 17 years from age 41 to 58. But "he did evil because he did not set his heart to seek the Lord." Yes, he repented at times. Yes, he did say he was sorry when evil came his direction, but "his heart did not seek the Lord." His repentance was momentary, but his life was not lives toward the Lord. It was a momentary life or turning to God. God wants a life consistently lived for Him. God wants our entire life and heart. We are to "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5). 

Summary: Rehoboam's reign is marked by taking on many wives and concubines and forsaking the Lord which results in a king of Egypt taking over the land, but not destroying it because the people repent. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "When we hear from the Word of God about our sin, the proper response is repentance."

Prayer: O Lord My God, you are the great I AM. I want to be that person that is said to seek You all of the days of my life and make you known. Help me God to be that person. I miss the mark I know. I question. My faith can be wishy-washy, but I pray that my life looks like one that seeks you. Thank you for the clarity of understanding You have provided me and the good time to read and study Your word. Lord, give me wisdom and strength. Give me the words to say. Give me focus on You. Defeat enemies and be glorified. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

1 Kings 12:1-24 - A Young King's Folly

I Kings 12:1-24

And he spoke to them according to the advice of the young men, saying, "My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions. (verse 14)

Message: A Young King's Folly

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, is now the central figure. Rehoboam heads to Shechem to be crowned king through a ceremonial process with representatives from the 12 tribes. In the last chapter it was prophesied that Jeroboam would be in charge of the ten tribes of the northern part of Israel. He was a former servant of Solomon and placed in charge of parts of the labor of the temple and changes. After Solomon's death he had fled to Egypt (verse 2) and now hears of Rehoboam's assent to king. He returns to speak to Rehoboam (verse 3). 

Jeroboam mentions to Rehoboam in verse 4, "Your father made our yoke hard." Solomon's reign was marked with prosperity but in building a lot he also placed a lot of pressure on his labor force, to build a temple but then also build his much larger palace. Prosperity takes hard work. It is not simply hand-outs. It is hard work building something. So Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam to "lighten the hard service of your father...and we will serve you." The problem is not hard work but instead forced labor. This is the problem that remains, forcing people to work. The evils of society speak of this often - forcing people to be sex slaves is one of the biggest problems today. Rehoboam responds that he needs time to deliberate and think of this. Sometimes we need time to consider a path forward. 

In verse 6, Rehoboam counsels elders. This is good - to go to those who came before him, to the elders. He goes to those that previously counseled Solomon. In life, hopefully we seek aid from the wisdom of others. Hopefully our leaders are being counseled by others. The elders recommendation to Rehoboam hold true today in verse 7, "Be a servant to this people...serve them...speak good words to them." 

But instead Rehoboam "forsook the counsel of the elders" and instead "consulted with the young men" instead that had been serving him and they told him to say to Jeroboam in verse 11, "I will add to your yoke; my father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions." Basically, you thought you had it hard, but I will show who is really tough. In verse 12, the 3 days is up from verse 5 and Rehoboam tells Jeroboam what the young men told him. 

And yet, this was God's sovereign will - judgment on Solomon's idolatry, splitting the kingdom with Jeroboam who receives the bulk of the split while Rehoboam receives the least. Only a small portion of people would remain loyal to David (Judah) while the bulk would go in the direction of Jeroboam. The people, Israel, responded by stoning to death (verse 18) the man in Adoram who had overseen the force labor under Solomon's reign. The people made Jeroboam king over all Israel (v. 20) and the ten tribes. Rehoboam and the people of Judah wanted to fight Israel, but God said no (v. 24). The division of the kingdom fulfilled God’s judgment on Solomon’s unfaithfulness and His prior word concerning Jeroboam. Rehoboam’s loss of the northern tribes was not to be reversed by force.

Matthew Henry comments, “God serves his own wise and righteous purposes by the imprudence's (lack of good judgment) and iniquities of men.” This passage doesn't go in the direction you would think with Rehoboam listening to wise counsel, but instead listens to foolish counsel but in so doing God's sovereign ways are fulfilled. God works things out in the way he had mentioned by fulfilling wrath toward Solomon and Israel, splitting the kingdoms and yet not allowing a civil war between the people. 

Summary: Jeroboam petitions Rehoboam for mercy and does not receive it and in return receives the 10 tribes of Israel while Rehoboam gets Judah and a division results. 

Promise: God uses our decisions to achieve His purposes. 

Prayer: Lord, I think that my default thinking is that my decisions achieve purposes that will work out in my favor, but this passage shows that decisions made by people, selfish decisions, can also work out in your favor and result in judgment sometimes. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 11:9-43 - Solomon's Final Days

I Kings 11:9-43

So the Lord said to Solomon, "Because you have done this, and you have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you, and will give it to your servant. Nevertheless I will not do it in your days for the sake of your father David, but I will tear it out of the hand of your son. (verse 11-12)

Message: Solomon's Final Days

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: In the last lesson, the disobedience of Solomon was described. Disobedience is often simple - it is trading God for something else in life. The main thing that led to sin of Adam and Eve was selfishness and wanting something that wasn't theirs. It was questioning a situation. It was an unwillingness to live within the standards set up. And that is a problem that continues throughout our lives today. 

Solomon had a way within him that seemed right and he pursued it rather than lining it up with God and what God thought was right. But it also could be that he looked at the things he was doing for God and felt like he was okay with doing some things his way or for himself. Thus, there wasn't a complete surrender to God and His ways. 

11:9 says "The Lord was angry with Solomon because his heart was turned away from the Lord." God had blessed and called Solomon and his turning away was outside of the will of God. He expected more of Solomon. Instead he went "after other gods." I think we don't call the vices and sins in our lives other gods but I think they really are. I think we downplay those other things often and try to frame them as sounding not as offensive to God. And because of his turning away there would be consequences. I think this is the lesson here - our sin has consequences. 

Verse 11 the Lord says, "I will surely tear the kingdom from you" which means the kingdom goes from being united to being separated - splitting into Israel (north) and Judah (south). A reminder that unity is preferred over division. But while there is a long term consequence there is also a shorter term consequence - verse 14 - "The Lord raised up an adversary...Hadad the Edomite." Hadad is associated with a storm god and the Edomites have long opposed Israel. 

Context is provided. Joab, the army commander under David "had struck down every male in Edom" (verse 15) staying in Edom 6 months to make sure it was complete and carried out. Hadad was a young boy at the time, but he fled to Egypt with others in exile and was provided a home and food by Pharaoh, establishing him as an ally. Pharaoh gave Hadad the sister in his own wife, the sister of Tahpenes the queen" (verse 19) as his wife, had a son named Genubath and was brought up in the Pharaoh household.

Then upon Hadad hearing of David and Joab's death, he sought to return to his home country, though Pharaoh wondered why he would leave. This became Solomon's adversary, allowed by God, something that can occur (Judges 2:14). A reminder that we not only wait for God's judgment upon death and in the future for all mankind, but judgment also is present at times in life, most often when we see the corruptness of national leaders. 

"God also raise up adversary...Rezon the son of Eliada" (verse 23). Rezon is also connected to David's previous reign in defeating Hadadezer king of Zodah (2 Samuel 8:3).  Rezon "gathered men to himself...and they went to Damascus (a strategic location in the ancient near East; verse 24)."

Once again, "King Solomon loved many foreign women along with the daughter of Pharoah, Moabite, Ammonite, Edomite, Sidonian and Hittite women" (verse 1) and in the process has enmity with men from those kingdom like Rezon and Hadad. 

In verse 26, "Jeroboam...Solomon's servant...also rebelled against the king." Solomon originally placed Jeroboam as one of his servants. He was an Ephraimite (within the tribe of Ephraim), a tribe of leadership and strength. As a servant, Jeroboam showed loyalty and was part of the administration of Solomon. There was a repair in the wall of the city. Jeroboam was placed in charge of the labor force. And during Solomon's reign, the prophet Ahijah met Jeroboam on a road (a divine appointment). Ahijah took his cloak as prophets often used physical objects to illustrate divine truths. He tore the cloak into 12 pieces, signifying the 12 tribes of Israel. And Ahijah gives Jeroboam 10 pieces. "Behold, I will tear the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon and give you ten tribes" (verse 31). The ten tribes represent the majority of the Israelite nation, which would form the northern kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam's rule.

Ahijah lets Jeroboam know that taking ten tribes is "because they have forsaken Me." And verse 33 is a tough verse of judgment: (1) "worshiped Ashtoreth the goddess of Sidonians" - a prominent deity in the ancient Near East, associated with love and war; their worship practices often included rituals that were abhorrent to the Israelites, such as temple prostitution. The worship of Ashtoreth represents a direct violation of the first commandment, which prohibits the worship of other gods (source); (2) "Chemosh the god of Moab" - deity of the Moabites, a people often in conflict with Israel. The worship of Chemosh included practices such as child sacrifice, which were strictly forbidden in Israelite law; (3) "Milcom the god of the sons of Ammon" - involved detestable practices, including child sacrifice. 

And then there is mention of metaphors signifying the disobedience of the people. "they have not walked in My ways" - Walking in God's ways is a metaphor for 'living according to His commandments and statutes.' Not walking in His ways led to judgment and exile. Verse 34 mentions that the remnant is because of "My servant David whom I chose, who observed my commandments and statutes." The contrast is "not walking" and "observing." -- this is hard, especially after reading Solomon's prayer in I Kings 8. But it is like that never happened. His words were one thing, but his actions were more important and unlike David who had bouts of sin, Solomon seems to have let sin crept into his life and stayed in the name of foreign wives. 

In verse 36, "But to his son I will give one tribe" or a remnant and this is Solomon's son Rehoboam. God says this is because of David and his faithfulness and therefore while there is judgment upon Israel and there is division, a remnant remains. There will be a "lamp always before Me." And this is in Jerusalem - clearly a place of significance for God. Yes, a symbol of His presence but also it has a role in end times - Zechariah 14:4 - The prophecy of His Second Coming - "In that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, which is in front of Jerusalem on the east." 

In verse 40, despite the divine sovereignty from the disobedience Solomon, "Solomon sought to put Jeroboam to death." He sought to take matters into his own hands, but Jeroboam fled to Egypt. 

"Solomon reigned in Jerusalem over all Israel for 40 years." And "His son reigned in his place." 

I have taken my time with this text as I have studied it daily, but it has taken me 4 days to get through it. It remains a haunting text to me knowing the life of Solomon and yet the judgment that comes from him, despite him worshipping God and praying to Him and leading a life at times of wisdom to God and taking care to build the temple and furnish it. Yet, he married foreign wives. To me, he did a lot of right things and at times had his heart turned toward God, but he clearly had God's judgment. I am not sure what to think of this. Maybe I tend to focus on the good rather than the bad and wonder about these acts of obedience that I see in people. 

Summary: The Lord was angry with Solomon. His final days was marked by God raising up adversaries and splitting the Israelite kingdom. And then he died. 

Promise: God has grace on me and spares me often from the repercussions of my sin. 

Prayer: O God, king of the earth, king of all. You are righteous and true and You are holy. You recognize our frailty as people and how we often walk away from You. You give us grace and spare us very often. You give us moments of victory. Solomon lived a lavish life. He had the finer things of life and you remind me of this. Wealth was big in his life and as I look at and see people experiencing this, that lifestyle is often what I want to emulate, but I am to be obedient to your commandments and statutes. You expect a people to be faithful first and the riches come to some but not to others. This is your grace and your providence and your divine way. I am grateful for whatever gift comes my way. Lord, I pray my life ends well, like my friend Karl. He had good people in His life and it encouraged him to remain steadfast and learn Your Word. Lord, good people are needed and present in our lives. Help me to be this to other people. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 11:24 - Give Freely

Proverbs 11:24

There is one who scatters, yet increases all the more. 

And there is one who withholds what is justly due, but [it results] only in want. 

Message: Give freely

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: The King James version of this verse is "One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor." New Living Translation says, "Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything." The principle seems clear, perhaps here more specifically applying to our money. We are to see it as a gift from God and as such we are to give it away freely. The New American Standard version seems to move beyond only the thinking of money and more of the idea of anything in our life in which we have an opportunity to give - our time and our finances. Both are significantly important in our lives. It seems that thinking about time and applying this to giving freely my time actually gains more time. 

I give my time to people and being with them and serving them rather than being at home so often and sitting in front of a screen. God's blessings are tied to our willingness to share with others, reflecting the selfless love of God. 

When my focus in only on myself and only taking care of my own needs, there is never enough money, but as I shift that focus and give to others freely, then it makes my heart feel good and blessed. And suddenly the cares of this world are not as great and what I need is not so great. 

This verse almost communicates that there is something magical that occurs when we give to others. 

Prayer: Lord, show me how we are to give. You have put people in our life with needs and as they come to us, show me how I am to give freely, expecting nothing in return. This may include family members and children. Direct me Lord. And show me what this means with all aspects of my life.

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

I Kings 10:14-11:8 - Solomon's Disobedience

I Kings 10:14-11:8

And Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, and did not follow the Lord fully, as David his father [had done]. (11:6) 

Message: Solomon's Disobedience

Time: The author of 1&2 Kings (originally 1 book) is not known. First Kings follows the history of this divided kingdom from the death of David around 971 BC through the year 853 BC. First Kings reveals Solomon’s relationship with Yahweh and introduces the prophet Elijah who pronounces judgment on the evil northern king Ahab. Like other books, it helps us to understand the history of Israel and Judah.

What the Lord is Saying: Solomon was indeed wealthy. "King Solomon became greater than all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom" (10:23). Solomon accumulated wealth annually. Traders and trade was significant under his reign and Israel's strategic location made it a hub for commerce. He had so much gold he used it in shields. The House of the Forest of Lebanon (verse 17) was a place to store treasures. He used ivory in construction of the throne, showing opulence. Gold was also readily available at the time. Silver was actually not as much of a luxury due to the abundance of gold. In verse 27, "The king made silver [as common] as stones in Jerusalem." His wisdom is also legendary with the books Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon associated with him. 

But Solomon had a problem - "he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines, and his wives turned his heart away." He formed alliances with other nations through these women, nations were often hostile toward Israel. The concern was intermarriage would lead someone away from worshipping God.  His heart was divided between his love for God and his love for his wives. And as he aged, his heart turned away from God, sometimes a problem for aged men. Aging can bring challenges to maintaining the same fervor for God. "His wives turned his heart away after other gods, and his heart was not wholly devoted to the Lord his God" (verse 4). 

I think of this verse and the impact these wives had on Solomon, turning him away from God. Yet we think of Solomon as a man of great wisdom. The principle here is found in the verse and it is real and true. I am seeing this occur in someone life that is close to me. I am watching a woman (though it could be a man as well in other situations, but in this case a woman or girlfriend) take this person off course. He was deeply involved in church prior to her, but since her he has not been as strong in church and continues to wander and find reasons for himself to not be involved. He has become divided and the focus on spiritual things is not as strong as it once was in his life. It makes me think about my own life and making sure I am being careful about what might be moving me away from God and serving Him. Are there other gods in my life? I think in reading this about him having so many women seem preposterous today, but in a way men can have a tendency to do this with the lust of the eyes and more specifically pornography. Through that people can form a union with those pictures even though it is not the same as real life, but back in those times real life relationships with women was the option. 

In Solomon's life it also seems like riches also became a problem and might have lured himself away from God as well. I think Solomon had a lot of respect for God. He followed the ordinances, but still his heart, later in life especially, had turned away from God. In this passages he is compared often to his father David. David's sins were apparent as well, but maybe didn't stand out as much. Like Solomon he penned many of the wisdom literature (Psalms). 

Summary: While Solomon accumulated a lot of riches and had access to much wealth his life was also marked by union with many women and this led him away from following God completely. 

Promise: Only Christ will never fail in our lives and while there are good men in life all of us have areas of compromise. 

Prayer: God, you are rich in mercy and you make real people that have real problems. I want to be guided by your principles and seek You. I thank you for Solomon and the wisdom that he had but also see some of his words about being lured away by women he wrote he fell victim to in his life. I thank you for the wisdom he had and you gave him. Help me to be wise and focus on doing things right. Thank you for the peace that is found in You. Lord, thank you for my friend Karl and hearing of his passing yesterday, I am thankful for the man of God he was and the testimony he had for others. He struggled in his life as well with many sort of temptations, but he ended well and I am thankful for this. Thank you for placing Him in my life. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Chronicles 8:1-9:12 - Solomon's Accomplishments and Renown

2 Chronicles 8:1-9:12

Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to Jerusalem to test Solomon with difficult questions. She had a very large retinue, with camels carrying spices, and a large amount of gold and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon she, she spoke with him about all that was on her heart. (9:1)

Message: Solomon's Accomplishments and Renown

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: Today is Sunday morning, prior to church. This is when I begin this lesson though not sure what day it will be that it ends as my study of late is taking longer each day. I really enjoyed chapter 7 after I really enjoyed the prayer in chapter 6. Though for some strange reason those two lessons were over 6 weeks. I just get off doing too many different things in the morning. Not bad, just trading best for good. 

Chapter 8, verse 1-2 - Solomon is done building the temple and his own house and now he moves to building "the cities which Huram (or Hiram) had given to him." Hiram, the king of Tyre, was a significant ally of Solomon. He now enlarges his territories, capturing and building cities "in all the land under his rule" (verse 6). The people not destroyed but left in these cities "Solomon raised as forced laborers" (verse 8). From the sons of Israel he made rulers over the people. He set up his government in the way he felt best. Laborers were needed and rulers. He was a leader and he led in the way he thought was best. 

In verse 11, he establishes a house for his wife, separate from the holy places (house of David and where the ark of the Lord had entered). 

In 12 and 13, "Solomon offered burnt offerings...according to the daily rule...for the sabbaths, the new moons, and the three annual feasts." This seems like an ordinance. Leviticus 1 details burnt offerings - "a male without defect (v.3)...to make atonement (v.4)...the priests shall offer up the blood and sprinkle the blood around the altar (v.5)...cut it into pieces (v.6)...offer up in smoke all of it on the altar for a burnt offering (v.9)...a soothing aroma to the Lord (v.9)." The animals can be from the herd (a young bull), from the flock, of the sheep or of the goats, or birds, the turtledoves or young pigeons. The daily rule references Exodus 29:38-42, "you shall offer...each day, continuously. The one lamb you shall offer in the morning; and the other lamb you shall offer at twilight...a soothing aroma, an offering by fire to the Lord. It shall be continual burnt offering throughout your generations." [Note: I went to a Greek Orthodox church 2 weeks ago and this is one thing I noticed - a soothing aroma in that place...the priest swung a Thymiato during services to burn incense, which symbolizes the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven.] I wonder if this is one reason we make sure we bathe and prepare ourselves with our best clothes for church (or our best presentation) so that our bodies might be a sweet aroma to the Lord. 2 Corinthians 2:15, "For we are a fragrance of Christ to God." The goal of the burnt offering was to offer atonement which is made to turn away wrong and restore harmony with God. My belief is this offering must be outside of my self, like a lamb, or like Jesus, with the goal of it being an aroma or fragrance to God. Ephesians 5:2, "Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma." 

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Now it is Monday. I really enjoyed learning about burnt offerings yesterday, the atonement and how Jesus replaced the animals that had been sacrificed daily. "For the death that he died, He died to sin, once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God." I have been speaking online to a young woman that sounds Muslim. She says Paul's words are the works of Satan. And yet there is a connection between the Old Testament offerings and the sacrifice of Jesus. 

Solomon was committed to observing the religious practices instituted by God through Moses or the Torah. He mentions the daily rule of the burnt offering, the weekly Sabbath, the new moons (monthly festivals), and the three annual feasts -- the feast of Unleavened Bread (associated with Passover, commemorated Israel's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:17-20)), the Feast of Weeks (celebrated the wheat harvest and the giving of the Law at Sinai; in the New Testament this was Pentecost which marked the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the birth of the Church, and the fulfillment of God's promise to write His Law on believer's hearts), and the Feast of Booths (or Tabernacles, rejoicing and remembering Israel's wilderness wanderings, anticipating the future dwelling of God with His people). 

I immediately think here that I wonder if we are this intentional in our celebrations yearly about commemorating God's activities or if we are more focused at times on our worldly reasons for gathering. Jehovah's Witnesses I understand do not celebrate any of the world's holidays including birthdays, citing all are pagan. This seems unnecessarily too radical and yet the idea to focus more on God seems admirable (even though I believe most of the JW doctrine to be an offense to God and His word; it has a questionable foundation). 

These feasts were times of communal worship, thanksgiving, and remembrance of God's provision and deliverance.

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Now it is Tuesday and in verses 14-16 Solomon "appointed the divisions of the priests for their service, and the Levites for their duties of praise and ministering before the priests according to the daily rule." And then in verse 16, "the house of the Lord was completed." Every detail has been addressed. The financial resources (storehouses) are present. The duties of praise makes me think of worship service and signing songs. Solomon's reign is marked by wisdom and wealth, where peace and prosperity abound. 

In Chapter 9, the queen of Sheba arrives to question Solomon with riddles which was an intellectual exchange common in those times with kings to question their wisdom and discernment. "And Solomon answered all her questions" (verse 2). And seeing all he had done, "she was breathless" (verse 4). The queen of Sheba recognizes though that all this is because of the Lord God's blessing -- "Blessed be the Lor God who delighted in you, setting you on His throne as king for the Lord your God; because your God loved Israel establishing them forever, therefore He made you king over them, to do justice and righteousness." 

Israel has a special distinction and love by God. Deuteronomy 7:7-8, "The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any of the people, for you were the fewest of all peoples, but because the Lord loved you, and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers, the Lord brought you out by a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt." 

Solomon exemplified power, wealth, and influence during his reign. This chapter mentions his building projects and at the end identifies trade routes. Solomon leaned on Hiram for help in establishing sea commerce. Sheba came to test him and saw his immense wisdom and Solomon gave her gifts. Yet, through all of this activity Solomon was also committed to the religious practices. He was a strong businessman and leader, but also very committed in his faith and obedience. 

Summary: Solomon demonstrates his power, wealth, and influence while also showing his commitment to worshipping God daily and seeking forgiveness for his sins. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, the Lord often rewards His people materially when they serve Him. 

Prayer: O God, you set apart people for your service and here with Solomon he responds by building the house of the Lord, his house, setting up every detail and along the way continues to worship and praise you through daily offerings. I know you have blessed me and I focus on You through my time in serving You and worshipping You. Yet Lord, I pray that this is done well and correctly. I struggle at times with daily prayers. I do praise your name and am thankful for your blessings. I'm thankful for that which you established in me. I pray for others and want to see change and am in discouragement when this does not occur. It is hard to keep fighting the fight. It is hard at times to press on. Last night, I simply wanted the distraction and so turned on the TV and watched shows with Pamela, maybe with a desire to escape things I had heard that concern me. I shy away from this Lord. Forgive me Lord for my doubts. Help me and make yourself known to my family always. I want to rest in You. I thank you for my wife and all those before me that seek you and pray that your will is continually done. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Chronicles 7 - The Temple Celebration

2 Chronicles 7

...and My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (verse 14)

Message: The Temple Celebration

Time: 2 Chronicles, like 1 Chronicles has a mystery writer and was separated into 2 books in 200 BC when the Septuagint was translated. This book focuses on Judah from 971-586 BC. The chronicler focused on the blessings God bestowed when leaders were faithful to His law. It covers Solomon's ascension to the throne to Judah finally carried into exile in Babylon. 

What the Lord is Saying: I was really moved by Solomon's prayer of dedication in 2 Chronicles 6. In that prayer Solomon addresses God and also teaches people that the Temple is a place for the people to come to God, seek forgiveness for their sins and recognize their wrongful actions are an offense to a Holy God. Solomon also pleads to God to minister to those in need - like foreigners and those in battle. (The same prayer is recorded in 1 Kings 8:22-61.) 

One difference with I Kings is a benediction or a challenge he communicates to the people in verses 56-61, " “Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to his people Israel just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses. May the Lord our God be with us as he was with our ancestors; may he never leave us nor forsake us. May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in obedience to him and keep the commands, decrees and laws he gave our ancestors. And may these words of mine, which I have prayed before the Lord, be near to the Lord our God day and night, that he may uphold the cause of his servant and the cause of his people Israel according to each day’s need, so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God and that there is no other. And may your hearts be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time.” What a wonderful closing thought that can be repeated by me and others. God has given us rest. He has not failed. May He never leave us. May he turn our hearts to him, to walk in obedience and keep the commands. May God uphold the cause of His servant and His people Israel daily with the purpose of all people knowing Him. May we be fully committed. To know God and to make Him known. 

Chapter 7, verse 1 says "when Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house." If one thing stands out here it is the importance of praying. In the aftermath of praying is God giving a blessing and validating the offerings of his people. The Lord loves and wants to hear from his people. And we are thankful for this as there were in this time "praise to the Lord, saying, 'Truly He is good, truly His lovingkindness is everlasting.' " We pray. God confirms himself to us. He sends love and we are blessed and go back to praising His name. 

I am thankful for a church that acknowledges this and continues to praise God and His name always. In verse 4, "King Solomon offered a sacrifice of 22,000 oxen, and 120,000 sheep." Oxen represents hard work and sheep represent God's people, the Israelites. I wonder if these #'s are more metaphorical than actual. That is a lot of animals and maybe in a way this is saying that the Israelites numbered that many people at the time and were communicating to God we are here to offer our entire life to God. And the numbers speak of the significance of that commitment. 

"They held a solemn assembly, for the dedication..." - they continue to dedicate the temple and its uses and their future sacrifices to God. "Solomon finished the house of the Lord and the king's palace." 

The next section of this chapter is 12-22 with the heading, "The Lord Confirms the Covenant." The Lord is the name used in the Bible out of reference for the Hebrew letter YHWH. "The Lord appeared to Solomon at night and said to him, "I have heard your prayer" which is good because Solomon has been praying (2 Chronicles 6). God listens to our prayers. The Lord also states that "this place (the temple) is a house of sacrifice." 

He explains then in verse 13 a conditional statement - if He were to control the weather in such a way to stop rain which means agriculture can't receive the water they need for plants to grow and then also sends locusts to devour the crops already established and pestilence and plague to confirm his withholding of what they value as important - if God were to do all of this and then His people respond by turning from their wicked ways then He will forgive their sin and heal their land. I think this communicates that God is active. He does not simply wind a clock (of history) and let it run. He is present in life. And any time a weather issue comes, it should drive us to our knees and thank Him. Weather problems are increasing. Science wants to only give credit to climate change for the reason, but perhaps God is growing displeased. And hoping to wake people up.   

This is verse 14 -- "My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and heal their land."  Pray - seek God - turn or repent - God hears- forgives and heals our land. 

In verse 17 and 18 God continues: "walk before Me....do according to all that I have commanded you and will keep My statutes and My ordinances." And then God "will establish your royal throne." We are to walk in God's ways, in the ways He has instructed us. And we are to keep His statutes and ordinances. 

I am a little perplexed as to ordinances. It seems every denomination and every non-denomination has a different definition of what is included in ordinances. I think what concerns me about making sure we do them is the piety or boastful feeling that may result. Maybe also the feeling that doing them makes you special or feeling set apart from those that don't. It seems we do them out of a response for God's love for us. In essence, his words here should not be alarming anyone that follows God. Seek God, turn from wicked ways, keep doing what He says we need to do - simply show my allegiance to Him. But perhaps in this passage we have examples. Prayer, repentance, turn from sin, have feasts, gather together to commit His provision to Him, be humble. These are ordinances or practices we need to continue to do. 

The idea of God "will establish your royal throne" to me is similar to Paul's words in Romans 8:28-39 - "Nothing can separate us from the love of God." I think with the royal throne God is saying I will never leave you. You will always be My people. God will always be there to take care of us. 

Likewise in verse 19 - "if you turn away and forsake My statutes and My commandments...and go and serve other gods...I will cast (you) out of My sight." It seems we can't be surprised then when things don't go our way. 

This is a really good chapter. I admit, I have taken my time getting through it. But, it is a great chapter and full of lots of great ideas and acts of obedience and evidence of God's love for us. 

Summary: After Solomon prayer of dedication, God makes a covenant with His people as they walk in obedience, pray, humble, obey, and turn from their wicked ways. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "When God’s people go astray, He will restore them if they return to Him."

Prayer: God, you bless your people. You prepare a place for them and in response we are obedient and you bless us, but as people turn from you, you deal with their obstinance and their sin. The order of things is simple. Live in obedience and expect good things. Help me to remember this passage. Take me back to it and let it remind me of your commitment to me. Be praised. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Falling in Love with God's Commandments - Psalm 119:97-104

Psalm 119:97-104

Message: Falling in Love with God's Commandments

Time: Psalms, a collection of lyrical poems, with multiple authors. David wrote 73 Psalms, though for 50 or so the author is unknown. Psalms means songs of praise. The writings span 1,000 years. They encourage us to praise God, illuminate the greatness of God, affirm His faithfulness in times of trouble, and remind us of the absolute centrality of His word. 

What the Lord is Saying: This was the message today, July 26, 2026, at Hoffmantown Church. I studied this as the preacher spoke. The pastor spoke with words of "We need to" and though I agree with the sentiment, I am not fond of the delivery. Instead I prefer to look at the example of the writer of this Psalm, see what they have done and working from the Word can automatically see the need to respond. The pastor got off on a lot of tangents during the message. I prefer to stay a little closer to the words. 

Verse 97 - O How I Love Thy Law! 

The cross references in my Bible are of note here. Psalm 119:47, 48, and 127 all say, "Love Thy Commandments." Rather than taking these words to immediately look at our entire Bible, I want to get more specific and look at the Law of the writer. The writer of this Psalm is not known. Most of the evidence is Hezekiah or Daniel, but God is mentioned repeatedly and we are told over and over to know, keep, and love God's laws. The Law is the Torah, the first 5 books of the Old Testament. Yes, we can subscribe the entire Bible but it would also be good to narrow our subject matter rather than broadening it. In narrowing it, we can see the riches of the text and God's word. Yes, we have more, but in the Torah is enough right now. 

It is my Meditation All the Day. 

We are not only to be obedient to commands, but love them. We are to love God's commands. Look at today's commands - speed limits, traffic signals, stop signs. Do I love at the airport the long ropes that I must weave through even when no one is there? Do I love the traffic signal at 3am when no cars are around? Do I really love God's commands or do I treat them more like obstacles or warnings rather than as loving statements. They are words of protection and they are meant to make me stronger and protect me. Is not life better if I have one God. Isn't life better if I work hard 6 days and then have 1 entire day to rest? Is not life better to dedicate an entire day to Him? Isn't life better when children are obedient to parents? Isn't life better when we do not, lie, murder, steal, covet? Psalm 1:2 - "In His law he meditates day and night." 

Verse 98 - Thy Commandments make me wiser than my enemies.

Deut. 4:6 - "So 'KEEP AND DO," for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the people's who will hear all these statutes and say, 'Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.'" When I keep these commandments, people notice. They see a difference in me. Plus, the psalmist wants to show always that there is a far reaching result when we keep thy commandments. 

For they are even mine (with me).

We know each other's possessions. I know the car my friends drive, the one's that have a boat, the one's with the nice house. But do people know I hold to God's commandments. They may think I do because they know I go to church, but do they know really? Does my life look like I do? 

Verse 99 - I have more insight than all my teachers.

Practice makes perfect. This statement speaks of repetition. Our teachers educate us in such a way for us to get ready for life after education. This verse says I have more insight than all my teachers. Insight is a clear understanding of a deep insight. What sets me apart from my teachers is not my intellect but my doing. In high school, Mrs. Romero gave me insight and awakened my desire for accounting and bookkeeping. And yet now I have more insight. But it didn't simply come about from reading books, but by doing and practicing. This all enabled me to have more insight and this mirrors my application to God's words. I get smarter not simply by reading, but by doing. 

For Thy testimonies are my meditation. 

verse 15 - "Meditate on thy precepts." A testimony is a formal statement about a personal experience. A testimony is God at work in me. I meditate on what God has done. And that is what gives me insight, deeper meaning of the things of God. I am to dwell on good works. The church is right now inside these walls, but the true church is outside of these walls. This is a place to educate or encourage and spur one another on. But the real church is in the parking lot. 

Verse 100 - I understand more than the aged. 

This is the practical advantage of living life and doing things in life in line with God's commands, His Law, the Torah. Our understanding eclipses the aged. We all want to be aged and have that level of knowledge, but again, by doing and keeping we have more understanding. 

Because I have observed your precepts. 

This is the reason. Because I am a "doer of the Word" (James 1:22). This gives me more understanding than those who are simply older. I have experienced life. 

Verse 101 - I have restrained my feet from every evil way. 

This is the result of loving the Law. There was a famous book called, "Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good people." But how do we define a good person. All of us are sinners. We all have sinned and no one keeps the whole law. To really know God we must abstain from every evil way. And I would say this is impossible. But at times it is our ambition. Proverbs 1:15, "My son, do not walk in the way with them (i.e. "sinners" in verse 10), keep your feet from their path." We need to be careful of how close we are walking near evil ways. How close are we to their paths? It is so easy to get off the path. And sometimes it is easier to live in the absolutes than the gray. 

That I may keep your Word.

This is my goal. Love thy law, practice it. Love it, practice it, meditate on it, stay clear of the path of the wicked. My goal - keep your word. 

Verse 102 - I have not turned aside from thine ordinances. 

Deuteronomy 17:19-20 - "By carefully observing all the words of this law and these statutes that his heart may not be lifted up above his countrymen and that he may not turn aside from the commandment." In other words, we have such a high view of his commandments that we don't want to be disobedient to him. In talking to people, often they can't accept they have been disobedient to their parents because they have such a high value of them. In Joshua 23:6, "Be very firm then, to keep and do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, so that you may not turn aside from it to the right or to the left." It is is okay to want to stay close to something but we need to be careful to have grace when someone stray's. We never want to be proud in saying we do not turn aside and when people fall, we want to have grace.

For Thou Thyself has taught me.

The source of all of these commandments is God. God has breathed in this word. 

Verse 103 - How Sweet are the Thy Words to my taste!

Amy Grant sang, "Thy Word" is a lamp unto my feet. We praise God. Sweet is a metaphor here to trigger in our minds the taste of something that we desire. I remember growing up and having something sweet was unusual. It wasn't an everyday thing. And this verse reminds us to look upon God's words with it being sweet. Do we crave God's word?

Yes, than honey to my mouth. 

Honey often accents food. Again, another metaphor here to arouse in my the wonder of God's words. Honey accents food like sopapilla's here in New Mexico and hot tea. These are words that need action. They are not meant to stand alone, but they are used in part with action. 

Verse 104 - From Thy precepts I get understanding

119:130 - Unfolding of thy words. Take apart. Dwell. 

Therefore I hate every false way. 

This section begins with love and ends with hate. We are to love the Law; We are to hate false ways. Myself, I need to be careful of the middle. In the middle, God spits out. In Revelation 3:16, the church of Laodicea was the church of the middle ground. "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." 

God's word is Rich. And this passage reminds us to love the Law, Love His Commandments, and in mediation and obedience we become wise and have more understanding. Practice makes perfect. 

Prayer: God, thank you for Your Word. Bring me back to it, to study and learn and be guided by it. I start to venture away from it and the study of it and start getting comfortable standing on my own two feet. Show me its importance continually and help me to walk in it always. You are good God, so good. Amen. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Romans 8:12-17 - Literal or Metaphor

Romans 8:12-17

So then brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh---for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba Father!" The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. 

Message: Literal or Metaphor - Finding Meaning

What the Lord is Saying: It is Friday morning, June 19, 2026. Juneteenth and as such a holiday for me, though I may still work some today. In the past 48 hours, in the midst of everything else going on in my life, on Thursday, I was directed to a video by Youtube in which a Mormon podcaster (opinion writer) is responding to a video by Allie Beth Stuckey in which she states that Mormons are not Christian. This isn't anything unusual for Allie Beth, but that video did get the ire of this Mormon podcaster and others as someone who represents Christianity is not backing down but being specific about Mormons not being including in the list of Christian denominations by a Department of Defense list on June 4, 2026 which was listing religious preference codes for military personnel. The DOD then revised that announcement on June 8, 2026, not by including Mormons as Christians, but simply listing all denominations separately. 

The first Mormon podcaster video was by a guy that had previously been on Allie Beth Stuckey's show that was labeled as a debate. I ended up posting a comment on the Mormon Podcaster's video page. As a note, I have been conversing with Mormons off and on over the last couple of years, meeting with them regularly, trying to understand first hand their beliefs. The conversations have been beneficial but a labor as it has been somewhat difficult to nail down their beliefs in person and in subsequent visits with other missionaries or other members of the LDS church pulled into the discussion, often as a mention what I learned previously, I am corrected. Now from their standpoint, they seem to know exactly where I stand in my beliefs as they are quick to agree with everything I state, and their beliefs are simply add-on's or upgrades. They often speak of my faith (and every other faith system) having partial truth or understanding and they have the full picture. 

Here is my comment: 

Well, Find me a Christian that believes:

- Children in Romans 8:16 is not a metaphor

- that non-Christians can go to heaven

- hold to an after life Spirit School World that gives everyone an opportunity to know CJCLDS / JS true prophet is really the only way

- that studies the New Testament corporately in their church once every 4 years

- that happiness is the object and design of our existence

This isn't simply 'full' vs 'partial' -- no, this is different and different is not Christian at least according to our definition, but hey, the definition for heaven, gospel, salvation, God, Jesus, Fall - are all different so why not Christian. 

Now, you all definitely have the good works and God definitely wants us to do good deeds, so here's hoping for your sake that good works (after all we can do) and atonement work collaboratively instead of good works being the natural response of the person saved by grace.

Granted, my comment was a jab. While Allie Beth focused on Trinity and Baptism and the podcaster did an admirable job defending those remarks, I felt like putting forth some items that I see as clear differences that separate the faiths and whereby I don't think that LDS theology is an upgrade. 

Thus far, no one has commented on my post. 

Later on, on the same page, I saw this comment: "If there was no Apostasy, then there is no need for the Protestant church, but if there was an Apostasy, then the Protestant church was built on that Apostasy." This is defending the Apostasy idea. I took a moment to look up Apostasy definition and it that definition speaks to renunciation of a religion. Yet, it seems the reformation didn't want to wash away the previous faith, just remove the idea that grace and works have sort of a handshake relationship in resulting in salvation. Thus my comment in response stated, "That is true. The Protestant church argued that the Catholic Church had replaced grace alone thinking with grace plus works (i.e. after all we can do)." I have since received 4 likes for this post and my guess is people don't understand that I am one again, making a dig in stating that by defending the notion of apostasy it is ironic because the Reformation wanted to move beyond grace + works and then Joseph Smith brought the idea back. But my comment is sort of cryptic. 

That was Wednesday. On Thursday evening, at home, I saw a different LDS video podcaster. This one was more of a group mentality and was basically a roundtable discussion on defending LDS as Christian again in response to Allie Beth's most recent comment regarding DOD"s first announcement. I got through most of it. These guys or more contemporary, young, and their banter is appealing. Initially, I took some notes: 

• 14:08 - The host wonders if the BOM presents a gospel that usurps Allie Beth's comments of the previous gospel found in the NT. This is an interesting question as Allie Beth didn't call out the Book of Mormon but rather stated "What Mormons Believe." But the host focuses instead on the words of the Book of Mormon. I thought this was noteworthy because the Book of Mormon is not really a book that in general differentiates too much from the Bible. It is recorded that 1 in 12 chapters of the Book of Mormon and 1 in 7 verses are directly pulled from Joseph Smith's reading of the KJV. Thus, it might be easy to link the central concept of the gospel of Mormonism to the NT, but the fullness of the gospel goes way beyond the verses of the New Testament. 
• 19:03 - Here the hosts focus on the ideas of central and secondary. Good points. But then he starts to go in a familiar direction that Protestants aren't correct on the gospel as the New Testament presents it mentioning that faith alone originated in the Reformation and the previous faith thinkers did not hold to justification by faith alone, but instead justification and sanctification worked in tandem. This is a bold statement and not sure if it is true. Thinkers like Clement of Rome and John Chrysostom did write of justification by faith alone. And it is hard to dispute the verses of Ephesians 2:8-9 and Romans 3:28 when looking at those verses alone. 

That said, I awoke this morning with the video on my thoughts. I thought of adding this comment to the video: "You asked for comments from those not of 'The Church." I am not. In listening to your rebuttal it seems that on one hand you are stating that a Christian can simply be defined as a follower of Christ. Then later differentiating between central (I Cor. 15:1-4) and secondary (how it is received) definitions. In the secondary, then stating Protestants aren't even operating in the way Christ or the NT writers and early century believers practiced. Yet, still feeling a need to be under the umbrella of the Christian definition (which is predominantly post-Reformation denominations) and taking offense at anyone who might say otherwise. Why? Is it because Christians by their number represent the majority and Mormons one of the many minorities? Perhaps there is an agenda to align and then eventually show you are the only true Christian's? No faith system has a goal to simply play in the same sandbox but rather to be top dog."

Now, this morning in my daily quiet time I took time to first read Psalm 104, rally enjoying some of the metaphors as I am giving a lesson on July 5 in Sunday School on metaphors and preparing for that lesson, but also just really taken aback by this passage, thinking simply how God designed and ordained creation for us, for people. Even verse 15, "and food which sustains man's heart."  And in response the writer praises God. 

But then I turned to Romans 8, wanting to examine the metaphor I called attention to in verse 16. I took time to start with verse 1. Wow. These are some amazing verses. The first 11 verses speak of walking in the Spirit and "if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him." We must have the Spirit of Christ. But then in verse 12-17 states in verse 14, "all who are being led by the Spirit of God; these are the sons of God." The overwhelming theological interpretation of sons is that this is a metaphor. Then in verse 16 is "children of God" also a metaphor. The LDS folks believe this is literal. It struck me this morning, sitting under the Pergola the idea that these two beliefs are so sharply divided on interpretation. It saddens me. The division that is present. 

On one hand, questions like this simply rouse up two different camps. LDS I am sure has many professors, teachers, expositors that can defend their literal take, while non-LDS will have many to support this as a metaphor. The consequences or ramifications are plentiful. Both sides will claim the other is blinded to one perspective. 

Prayer: Lord, I look at these texts and thank you for them and yet hurt for the differences. I am reminded of your words to Paul in verse 7 that the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God. Help us all God to discern truth in this world that seems so confusing and has so many voices and help me to know how to keep my blinders on. On one hand I love the apologetics talk, but at times I struggle with it in a might way. Sometimes Lord I feel like I descend down rabbit trails and my brain is getting mixed up. Keep me anchored Lord and help me maybe to turn off the other views. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.