Who Will Be Your Guide?

 

Today's Verse is 2 Chronicles 18:6

But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD besides, that we might inquire of him? 

    Some interesting things here to note. First, a King that knows God, knows when those that claim to be of the Lord (after the manner of Jeroboam) were not. Yet these same were persuaded that the Lord spoke to them. Even King Adam knew the difference between the two sects, and when the Lord’s Prophet spoke not directly from God. But still, having heard from God that he would die from this battle, still he rejected God and His message, and as God had said, so it came to pass. Therefore, let us seek to know God and His Message by knowing Him through His Word, for by knowing it, we shall also know when it is not Him, but another. Even as John warned us to try the spirits lest we be blinded by our own desires, even as Ahab was. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 18

Monday’s reading will be 2 Chronicles 19-23

Knowing God, But Not Obeying.

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 20:13

And, behold, there came a prophet unto Ahab king of Israel, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Hast thou seen all this great multitude? behold, I will deliver it into thine hand this day; and thou shalt know that I am the LORD. 

    There is a cry about from those that know not God of why He does not show Himself. Here in this passage, we have an example of a man that God showed Himself to, and what does he do afterward? He demands that another man give up the inheritance which God had given him. (Notice how Ahab, appeared to be willing to give up his wives and children for the sake of keeping peace.) And thus was Ahab judged and sentence passed. I do believe this is part of the reason God hides himself from those that do not wish to hear the truth, because if He is known, the punishment must also be greater. Do you Know the Lord, do you labour to enter into His Rest, can others see your Love for him by your actions? As James has told us, Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Ahab knew who God was, and yet he still disobeyed, will you do the same, or will you purpose in your heart to Follow Him that is Faithfull? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 20-21

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 18

Just A Regular Man.

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 17:1

And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word. 

    Not much is know of Elijah before this, but through James, God tells us that he was a man of similar passions as you or I, and before he appears before Ahab he had prayed for the rain to stop, but did not approach Ahab till it had not rained for six months, and in this first narrative, after doing some great things he stubbles displaying some lack of faith, and before his ministry has really begun, he already has his successor named by God. Throughout all of this we find that God is faithful and as God had worked through Elijah, He also desires to work through you. Will you submit to Him and find out what God can do through one totally surrendered to Him. Dwight L. Moody had taken up that challenge and still on his death bed after doing many Great things for God, still said, “The world has yet to see what God can do with a man fully consecrated to Him.” Will you see what God can do through you? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is I Kings 17-19

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 20-21

Following The Example Of Those Destroyed.

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 15:29

And it came to pass, when he reigned, that he smote all the house of Jeroboam; he left not to Jeroboam any that breathed, until he had destroyed him, according unto the saying of the LORD, which he spake by his servant Ahijah the Shilonite: 

    Herein is a danger we must guard against. God used Baasha to Judge the wickedness of Jeroboam, yet as we read just a few verses later, he follows and commits the sin for which he was used to destroy his predecessor. This is why we must seek out and learn the ways of God, which we can find only by His Word, of which the Psalmist, even David proclaimed, The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: /The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. /The Statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: /The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. /The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: /The judgment of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. And having said that, this must be emphasized, More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: /Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Even as Paul prayed for the Colossians and desired that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. For how can we walk worthy of the lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work if we know not what his will is? The kings of Israel demonstrate this even after warning after warning, having rejected the counsel of God’s Word. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 15:25-16:34, 2 Chronicles 17

Tomorrow’s reading will be I Kings 17-19

A Light Left For Better Times Coming

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 15:4

Nevertheless for David’s sake did the LORD his God give him a lamp in Jerusalem, to set up his son after him, and to establish Jerusalem: 

    Throughout the History of the southern Kingdom of Judah, much was done for the sake of David, starting with his grandson and his son Abijah, and though Rehoboam appeared to repent, Abijah walked after his father’s sins (take care of the example you set for your children.) Yet Abijah, himself, gained the victory over the Northern Kingdom, because he gave God the Glory. And so, Asa saw that light and responded to it. And as God has done then, so also He is doing now, giving light for those that are willing to see it, that until the time of Wrath which is coming, the Righteous (those that Trust in Christ) may have peace from time to time until all is fulfilled at Christ’s Return. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 15:1-24, 2 Chronicles 13-16

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 15:25-16:34, 2 Chronicles 17

Not Without Purpose.

 

Today's Verse is 2 Chronicles 11:8

Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries. 

    The Apostle Paul has admonished us to be content in whatsoever state we may find ourselves. And so, it is here. Rehoboam for his rebellion against God found himself a servant to the Pharoah Shishak, and though Rehoboam had repented, that he might learn the error of his transgression, God left him as he was, to learn better to be God’s Servant. Therefore, let us also so examine ourselves, and see what it is that God wishes us to learn from the state we currently find ourselves. As we do this, being found faithful, has He not promised that His Faithful Servants shall be, in due course, rewarded according to their faithfulness? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 2 Chronicles 10-12

Monday’s reading will be 1 Kings 15:1-24, 2 Chronicles 13-16

Solomon's Grievous Reign?

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 12:4

Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he put upon us, lighter, and we will serve thee. 

    If Solomon ruled with wisdom, and happy were his servants, and he brought wealth, prosperity even, to the Kingdom, why did the people count their service to him grievous? Looking at the counsel of the old men, they reminded Rehoboam, that even as the people served him, he was to serve them. It would seem apparent, that as Solomon forgot God as he sought to please his wives, that he sought also to please himself and use his power to obtain his own ends (contrary to God’s commands) and left off the balance of Judgment, Justice, and Mercy. Therefore, let us remember to find out what this meaneth: I will have mercy, and not sacrifice for as Christ has said, understanding this we will not condemn the guiltless. Selah [Consider these things.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is I Kings 12-14

Tomorrow’s reading will be 2 Chronicles 10-12

Do You Know Their Names?

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 30:4

     Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended?

      Who hath gathered the wind in his fists?

      Who hath bound the waters in a garment?

      Who hath established all the ends of the earth?

      What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if thou canst tell?

    Here we have an invitation to seek out the One that made Heaven and Earth and all that in them are. And in the question, we have the Ministry of the Son, who descended from heaven, who even as He spake here on earth, testified that as He spoke, He was also in heaven. And even as we see His creation, He shewed us that He controls the wind, and can still the seas. We even have Peter’s testimony that even as our Salvation is based upon a God that cannot lie, Nor brake a promise, we can see it in evidence of our Knowledge of God and of His Son. So to repeat the final question, What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if thou canst tell? For how shall we Kiss the Son if we know not who He is? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 30-31

Tomorrow’s reading will be I Kings 12-14

The Message Goes Out.

 

Today's Verse is 2 Chronicles 9:23

And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart. 

    As the fame of Solomon spread throughout the world, so did the God of Israel, for to separate the Wisdom of Solomon from God that created Heaven and Earth is not possible (even as Solomon later attempted to do.) The Kings of the earth sought out Solomon for answers and received them (for which they paid) then brought back their answers and by one means or another, so the report of God spread to all the Lands which traded with Israel. The spread of God’s message was then passive, but now, even today, we have been commissioned to Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, and again Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. With this promise: But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. So, you that have received forgiveness through Jesus Christ, will you go and tell your Neighbour of what He has done for you? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 10-11, 2 Chronicles 9

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 30-31

Thinking Upon Death, Or The Judgment!

 

Today's Verse is Ecclesiastes 7:2

It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. 

    Some forty years ago I read part of the biographies of a couple of men, one the mentor of the other, and they both meditated upon death, and I thought it strange. However, both men were men of God, and thus, men of God’s Word, and it would appear they had laid this verse to heart, even as it was reinforced at the end of the book in the context of this: Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it. And thus, they meditated upon death, that is, the day when they would have to stand before God and give an account of all they had thought, said, or done. And to my knowledge, they were ready for that day, having met the Advocate, and lived their lives for Him. What of you, are you ready? Do you have one that will speak for you, or will you find yourself as Job proclaiming: Behold, I am vile; what shall I answer thee? /I will lay mine hand upon my mouth. . . Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent /In dust and ashes. And even as Job was found among the Righteous, where should those that know not God appear? Selah [What woud be your answer?] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Ecclesiastes 7-12

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 10-11, 2 Chronicles 9

A Proper Perspective

 

Today's Verse is Ecclesiastes 3:12

I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. 

    Solomon had researched all and found that “under the sun” all is vanity. There is nothing on this earth that of itself has any real value. Even great riches are only good for being looked at (have you ever heard, “You can’t have your cake and eat it too.”) Nevertheless, there is one thing that does have value, both now and in the world to come: Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For whether we have much, or all has been taken away, we that have surrendered to His care know that He has our backs (For ye shall not go out with haste, /Nor go by flight: /For the Lord will go before you; And the God of Israel will be your rereward [rear guard].) Therefore, whether you have great abundance, or appear to be suffering need, Will you Trust in the Lord God, even to calling Him YOUR Lord, placing your HOPE in Him, that whatever circumstance you find yourself in, you can rejoice? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Ecclesiastes 1-6

Monday’s reading will be Ecclesiastes 7-12

Wise As Serpents, Harmless As Doves Part 2

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 29:9

     If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man,

      Whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.

    As one that posts on Social Media, this I can attest. This verse is an extension of that I shared yesterday. For we that have chosen to Follow Jesus Christ and seek to obey his command to Go ye therefore, and teach all nations. . . will quickly learn that there are those who have no desire to learn of the God that Loves them, and once we have determined this, we need not to engage with them any further as far as their soul is concerned. Not that God is unable to reach them still, but that is His domain and not ours. Selah [If you engage, know why you are engaging.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 27-29

Tomorrow’s reading will be Ecclesiastes 1-6

Wise As Serpents, Harmless As Doves

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 26:4

     Answer not a fool according to his folly,

      Lest thou also be like unto him.

    Have you also heard, neither cast ye your pearls before swine? But what of the command to preach the gospel to every creature? Such can be understood by the next verse in this context: Answer a fool according to his folly, /Lest he be wise in his own conceit. We are not to speak to convince such of their error, but to show and warn others, that they may avoid falling into the same pit. It is not our job to remove the scales from our neighbours eyes, for God will do that if they should so desire. Our job is to declare the truth to all that have ears to hear, that they with us might learn and receive life eternal through Jesus Christ. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 25-26

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 27-29

Judgment Set, But Longsuffering Prevails

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 9:7

Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among all people: 

    As God had said, so was it done, but we also see the longsuffering of God, for while Solomon had himself set the outcome by his disobedience, still God gave space for Israel and Judah to prove who they were, but even then, when God chastened His people, his hand was stretched out still, and while many could not find him, there were always a few who were spared. And so can we see today, even as many tout their morality without God (not knowing that the things they think are moral are worthy of death) we can learn that God can be Feared because He forgives, for even now, His hand is stretched out still as we are closer then ever for His Wrath to be poured out upon the earth. Will you place your Hope in Him? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 9, 2 Chronicles 8

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 25-26

A Reason (of many) To Praise God

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 147:11

     The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him,

      In those that hope in his mercy.

    Here is a glimpse of a mystery declared by Paul, . . . and what the riches of the glory of his [God’s] inheritance in the saints[.] Many ask and are confounded about the delay in God’s Judgment, saying that it is impossible for God to be good and all powerful, for an all-powerful and Good God would have already dwelt with the wicked. But they ignore that part of being Good is this word called “longsuffering” and in this delay, space is given to those that would Repent to do so. All because of what we have seen in these two verses, which as I said are but a glimpse of the riches God sees in us. Therefore, as the context of Today’s Verse is found Praise ye the Lord: /For it is good to sing praises unto our God; /For it is pleasant, and praise is comely. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 134, 146-150

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 9, 2 Chronicles 8

Would God Heal Your Land?

 

Today's Verse is 2 Chronicles 7:14

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 

    There are those that would say that this promise is only given to Israel, and that Gentiles, even those who are part of the body of Christ have no part in it. Yet, through Paul God has said, For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. In another place, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile And even before the Cross, God’s purpose for Israel was as a Testament to all peoples of the God that Created Heaven and Earth, and that if any Nation should follow the design God had given Israel, He would bless them in a similar way. So, even now, we all, whichever Nation we are Of, have this promise. For all who have been made Sons of God by receiving Him that was made Flesh that He might take our place when He Died upon the Cross, and are now also Called: His People, If we also Humble ourselves, and Pray, and Seek his face and Turn from our wicked ways (Repent), so will God hear from heaven, and forgive our sins, and will heal our lands (whichever land [Nation] that may be.) Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 2 Chronicles 6-7, Psalm 136

Monday’s reading will be Psalm 134, 146-150

Authority Of Access

 

Today's Verse is I Kings 8:9

There was nothing in the ark save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb, when the LORD made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of Egypt. 

    One might ask, where is the mana? Where is Aaron’s Rod? But we will leave these mysteries until such time as God chooses to reveal them. Instead, let us answer the question, why was Solomon able to determine what was currently in the ark of the covenant? We know that when transporting the ark through the wilderness great care was used that those that bear the ark did not see it, for when those that were commissioned as Porters came to bear it, it was covered still by the veil. And the last time we were told of someone being curious of the contents: And he smote the men of Beth-shemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the Lord, even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented, because the Lord had smitten many of the people with a great slaughter. But here, we have not the Levite, but one of the sons of Aaron, commissioned of God, and chosen to be the High Priest, and at the command of the King appointed so by God, and God knows those that are His. But now that the veil was torn when Christ died upon the Cross giving access to all that come to Him for redemption so that now we can come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 8, 2 Chronicles 5

Tomorrow’s reading will be 2 Chronicles 6-7, Psalm 136

What Will Remain?

 

Today's Verse is 2 Chronicles 4:1

Moreover he made an altar of brass, twenty cubits the length thereof, and twenty cubits the breadth thereof, and ten cubits the height thereof.

    When I read of King Ahaz replacing the brazen altar which Solomon had prepared for the Temple, I was thinking it was nearer the size to the altar which God had Moses make for the tabernacle. So, let us understand the size of the altar that was made for the Temple, at 18 inches per cubit, that would make this altar 30 feet to a side and 15 feet high, so, no small thing, yet the only measure we are given is that it was “the great altar” indicating that it was bigger than the one described here. But let us take note, much detail is given for the works that were done for God, but while the works done to spite God seem to be “greater,” in the end they do not matter at all. Even as we that have been brought into the family of God have a daily choice of what materials to build with, only those that are done by the power of the Spirit within us will remain, for all the rest will be burned up leaving nothing. Selah [Consider the ramifications.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 4

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 8, 2 Chronicles 5

When We Include Other In Our Labours

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 5:5

And, behold, I purpose to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God, as the LORD spake unto David my father, saying, Thy son, whom I will set upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build an house unto my name. 

    In seeing that it would be a good thing to include another in his Purpose, Solomon laid out his goal to build an house unto the name of the Lord his God. Now, we see with Nehemiah, that there will be times when the stranger must be excluded, for in Nehemiah’s case, it was clear that those without were adversaries to the cause. But in Hiram’s case from the outset, He appeared and was fully a willing participant to Solomon’s endeavor. Therefore, Solomon laid bear his plans, and fully included Hiram in the project (remembering also that the labour is worthy of his hire.) Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 5-6, 2 Chronicles 2-3

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 7, 2 Chronicles 4

Envy The Wicked?

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 23:17

     Let not thine heart envy sinners:

      But be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

    How tempting is it to look at another, and see what appears to be prosperity, but we also see (or think we do) how such was achieved by ways that would not be pleasing to God, and think why should I not do the same? But do we not also need to consider: For there shall be no reward to the evil man; /The candle of the wicked shall be put out. Then again, if our Fear is in the Lord, so then is our hope and thus; Thine expectation shall not be cut off. And, Delight thyself also in the Lord; /And he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. But all things in due course. We who fear the Lord have it so much better, even as David had said, The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. That is we know whatever else may be we can trust in the Lord’s Provision even as we obey His precepts. So why should we envy those who know not the peace of the Lord? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 22-24

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 5-6, 2 Chronicles 2-3

Forgiving, Yet Practicing Justice.

 

Today's Verse is Probverbs 19:11

     The discretion of a man deferreth his anger;

      And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

    I am not going to pretend understanding on this concept, but I see that God is longsuffering to us and is slow to anger, even to finding a way that we who have transgressed against Him time and again, He has found a way for our sins to be covered. Yet, in contrast, we are also told: To do justice and judgment /Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. That is, to hold ourselves (and others) accountable and to do the right thing the first time, is better than to repent later. How can we put these two things together? We have been told that God chastens those that He counts His own, not leaving them to follow their natural destructive paths. So, as God has forgiven us, but then seeks to restore us to the right path, let us do the same, first correcting our own way, then helping those that are around us, that as few as possible might land in the pit. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 19-21

Monday’s reading will be Proverbs 22-24

The Only Way To Depart From Evil

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 16:6

     By mercy and truth iniquity is purged:

      And by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

    Today, there be many who think that they are better than us that fear God, thinking that they do “good” without fear, not knowing There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, /But the end thereof are the ways of death. I know of an author that promotes Reason, and from such Altruism is condemned, yet others believe that Altruism must be forced, and both fall short and only leads to evil. Now, take note, our verse today puts an emphasis upon Mercy and Truth with Mercy in the prominent place. (Ten days ago, my Post “How Nations Fall” I was not pleased with because I now know I forgot Mercy which some has defined as “Not receiving that which we deserve.”) However, Mercy must be tempered by Truth, and without God, we have no idea what truth is, for as Jesus Christ told his disciples, I am the way, the truth, and the life[.] And in rejecting God, we only can find those things that are not convenient, which lead only to death, and think them good. Therefore, as we have learned from the computer age: with reason and logic; GIGO, but with truth, which only comes from God we can find that which is truly Good which leads to Life. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 16-18

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 19-21

How To Find The True Way

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 14:6

     A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not:

      But knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

    Herein is a mystery, and the answer lies in a riddle: As God is not willing that any should perish, why does He hide the truth from those that are not willing to hear it? And to find understanding, we must first recognize that we do not. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. But as we accept that God is, we find that He is a rewarder of them that not only seek Him, but do so with diligence. And while our hearts are desperately wicked leading us astray, because Jesus Christ submitted to the Cross, we all have the ability to choose to repent and come to Him and the knowledge of the Truth. Will you come? Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 13-15

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 16-18

What Do You Expect To Reap?

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 10:2

     Treasures of wickedness profit nothing:

      But righteousness delivereth from death.

    In this, we are invited to examine ourselves and the things that we do (even why we do them) that we might understand what profit or lack thereof our labours return to us, even as Paul also challenged, What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. And when we understand that we reap according to what we sow, we have additional motivation to follow after not the flesh but the Spirit, even the Holy Spirit which we were given when we accepted the gift of God though Jesus Christ. And when others see the change God has wrought in us, we see not only the profit for ourselves but our own gain may also cause others to repent. Even we are told later: The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; /And he that winneth souls is wise. Therefore let each of us examine ourselves and the things that we do, abstaining from those things that profit not, knowing now that we have the liberty to do those things that lead to Life. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 10-12

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 13-15

Do You Have A Teachable Spirit?

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 9:8

     Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee:

      Rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.

    For years, I sought to find the quote, “Convince a man against his will, and he is of the same mind still.” (“How to make friends and influence people”) When I look at this verse I see the root of that saying. Yet when you read it, of which sort are you? Are you more likely to hate the one that points out your flaws, or do you love them for it? Regardless of what their motive may be? Let us not consider the other person at this time, but rather what sort am I. Can I be taught, or do I hate those that would help me improve? Selah [Let God’s Word be your mirror.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 7-9

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 10-12

Seeking Out And Holding To Sound Doctrine.

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 4:2

     For I give you good doctrine,

      Forsake ye not my law.

    It is amazing at the things we can discover as we seek to understand God through His Word. Solomon is instructing his son (is it just one of them) even as he also testified that David taught him, and he (they) did so on a personal basis, even one on one. Has not Paul also instructed Timothy? Even as he admonished him to hold to sound doctrine. Therefore, let us also seek out the doctrine which can be found by the study of God’s Word as we have been told: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. But as we now see through a glass darkly, and thus do not understand all mysteries, and until we do, let us not forget to: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; /And lean not unto thine own understanding. /In all thy ways acknowledge him, /And he shall direct thy paths. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 4-6

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 7-9

When God Laughs

 

Today's Verse is Proverbs 1:26

     I also will laugh at your calamity;

      I will mock when your fear cometh;

    There is a false belief, that because God is a god of love, that He would not allow millions, yea, billions be destroyed that have not “heard” of him and the redemptive power of His Son. But here we see God laughing at those who have rejected Him. The question is, do they need to hear about Jesus to have rejected God? The answer is a clear NO! For both through David and Paul, God has told us that he has left all a testimony of Himself in the very nature of the World he has created. Now, God is Love, and He has proved this by the Sacrifice His Son suffered willingly on our Behalf. Therefore, only those who have rejected God, and the Goodness He is (not just represents) will He reject, but not just reject, but laugh at and mock when they despair as they receive the fruit of their Labours. Therefore, as we, at just the thought of being accountable for our works losing only our rewards (not gaining an eternity in the Lake of Fire,) ought to know he terror of the Lord, let us seek to persuade those who are blind to this to receive God’s gift. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Proverbs 1-3

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 4-5

How To Find The True God

 

Today's Verse is Song of Solomon 1:7

     Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth,

      Where thou feedest, where thou makest thy flock to rest at noon:

      For why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?

    A question I see often asked, If there be a God, how do we know which is the right one? And so does the request above reflect. Paul as informed us that faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God, and the Psalms are regularly reminding us to remember the works of God which he has faithfully done, even as Paul also alludes to as he states that tribulation works patience; and patience, experience which gives us cause to Hope. Therefore, even as God has Challenged us through Moses to compare the Law God had given us to the others given both before and afterward, and to see if God does truly know the end from the beginning. As for me, I have found that the Bible, God’s Word, confirms itself as it is compared to the world around me. Go and see if you find the same thing. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Song of Solomon 1-8

Tomorrow’s reading will be Proverbs 1-3

A Settled Word

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 119:89

      For ever, O LORD,

      Thy word is settled in heaven.

    So that we can know Him (both of his Goodness, and how Terrible He can be) God has given to us His Word, and as the first two words imply, He knew what they all would be from the very beginning to the very end: “For ever.” They are not the imagination of Men, but where delivered to us through men that God had moved, and as John has said were written that we that Trust Him (the Son of God, The Word) might KNOW that we have eternal life. So, see how God has told the end from the beginning, and how, before we can know them, the workings of the world, and seeing that these things are true, that thus a testimony to His Faithfulness, will you then Trust Him in the things that cannot at this time be tested, even to the Salvation of your Soul. Selah [Consider these things with a unfeigned diligence.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 119:89-176

Tomorrow’s reading will be Song of Solomon 1-8

How Nations Fall

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 3:16

Then came there two women, that were harlots, unto the king, and stood before him. 

    In considering King Josiah, the last King that was considered Good in the Judean King line, and at how quickly the nation declined, even though it went through an apparent revival. Here at the height of Israel’s prosperity, we have two women of whom the Law prohibits saying: Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a whore; lest the land fall to whoredom, and the land become full of wickedness. Yet, this is not dwelt with here but is passed by. And later Solomon stubbled at a different form of the same sin, even as he became known as a harsh King. Having said this, Today, we see the same things, but we have been counseled to clean our own house first before judging our neighbour, and even then, we who have trusted Christ have been commissioned to proclaim the Redemption found only in Jesus Christ, and allow God to judge them who will not hear (Not forgetting the responsibility of Government to punish the evil doers.) So, if fear of the Judgment of God, let us remember: Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. Even as Paul considered the terror of the Lord (Just having reflected on the Redeems’ having to give an account) as sufficient cause to persuade others toward Christ. Selah [Consider these things.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 3-4, 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 72

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 119:89-176

Real Liberty!

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 119:45

     And I will walk at liberty:

      For I seek thy precepts.

    I had thought from the very first verse of this Psalm to speak of Sola Scriptura, but in seeing this verse I could not resist speaking of the Liberty of Righteousness. Some, even Many, think that liberty to doing whatsoever one pleases, whatever makes them feel good, but in forgetting God, unbeknownst to them what they do can only be called inconvenient, and is the beginning of the Judgment of God unto them. However, those that seek to conform themselves to the Law (God’s Word) find the blessings of the Lord in full. Even though as we find that the Law is beyond us, we find that God has already prepared the Way through Jesus Christ, freeing us to pursue the Greatest commandment: To Love God with all of our hearts, our souls and might, or as Christ said, our hearts, our souls, and minds. And as we succeed in doing this, all the more it is easier to love our neighbours even as we love ourselves. This is the True Liberty! Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 119:1-88

Monday’s reading will be 1 Kings 3-4, 2 Chronicles 1, Psalm 72

Figuring Out What Our Responsibility Is

 

Today's Verse is 1 Kings 1:11

Wherefore Nathan spake unto Bath-sheba the mother of Solomon, saying, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith doth reign, and David our lord knoweth it not?

    A problem has arisen which is contrary to the expressed will of God. In such cases what must one do? The first time that I believe such a case happened was with Jacob, when it was his father’s express purpose to give Esau the blessing. I believe we can safely say, Jacob’s actions were not acceptable, Yet he received the blessing. Then later, we have the example of Esther, who was warned that if see did not act, God would find a way, but she herself may not be spared, for her lack of action. Yet, when David himself was anointed King, he refused to rise up against Saul, and it, I believe, is counted in his honour. One thing we can see in Nathan and Bathsheba’ case, along with Ester, is that they took their case to the Authority God had set over them, and thus, God’s will was done. But with Jacob, and also with David, the Authority was the source of the problem. And so, with David as the example, he trusted that in due time, God would do as He had said; which He had indeed done. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Kings 1-2, Psalm 37,71, 94

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 119:1-88 

Acknowledge God As The Righteous Judge!

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 111:3

     His work is honourable and glorious:

      And his righteousness endureth for ever.

    I am amazed, and I marvel, but am not surprised at how those that refuse to acknowledge God constantly attempt to accuse Him of unrighteousness. Even as Paul described, But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? This argument did not work with Job of whom God had said, . . . Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. And upon encountering God his response was Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent /In dust and ashes. Let us, therefore, Glorify God as God, and be thankful that He has given us an opportunity to Repent before we must face Him as Judge, for without the Advocate provided for us in Jesus Christ, we would not have any answer for Him, even as Job did not. Selah [Meditate on this.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 111-118

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Kings 1-2, Psalm 37,71, 94

Be Strong, And Do It.

 

Today's Verse is 1 Chronicles 28:10

Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it.

    Just as Solomon has been given a charge, a duty, a thing to accomplish, so too, has all who have recieved Jesus as Saviour. At the bare minimum, we have all been commissioned to tell our neighbour what Jesus Christ has done for us, that they too may chose His gift of Salvation. But whether or not we have recieved the gift, just as God had chosen Pharoah to shew His Power and to cause him to release God’s People, or Cyrus to do the same, but willingly, we have all been given by God a purpose as Paul testified, For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me: yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. So, let us choose to be more like Paul, than of Jonah: both saw many choose Repentance, but only one recieved the desired reward. So, be strong and do it. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Chronicles 26-29, Psalm 127

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 111-118

Making The Most Of God's Thoughts Toward Us.

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 139:17

     How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God!

      How great is the sum of them!

    To this I want to add The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: /Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: /Forsake not the works of thine own hands. Though I had been saved many years, I had no concept of the thoughts God had of me, marveling at the question, When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, /The moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; /What is man, that thou art mindful of him? /And the son of man, that thou visiteth him? Yet, such is the thought of God to all, that he is mindful of us all, but to those that receive His gift, he goes beyond, and begins His work in us molding us into the image of His Son, that on that day when our change shall be complete, we shall be able to enjoy His company, even as he shall enjoy ours. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 131, 138-139, 143-145

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Chronicles 26-29, Psalm 127

Decently And In Order

 

Today's Verse is 1 Chronicles 24:1

Now these are the divisions of the sons of Aaron. The sons of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. 

    Because of David’s Desire to build God an house, and God’s Promise that his son would do it, David knew that what the Sons of Levi had done in the past would no longer be appropriate. So, David, as King, set about to change the orders and duties of those whose inheritance is God. As we are later reminded by Paul Let all things be done decently and in order. So too, therefore, ought we also having sought out the proper order in the scriptures seek to serve our God as He has directed. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 1 Chronicles 23-25

Monday’s reading will be Psalm 131, 138-139, 143-145

Who Is Fighting Your Battles?

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 108:13

     Through God we shall do valiantly:

      For he it is that shall tread down our enemies.

    I am not going to pretend to understand this, but I have seen that while there are times when there is a battle to be fought, God does it all (Jehoshaphat against Moab and confederates). However, most of the time when there is a battle to be won, we are ourselves expected to fight (David against Goliath) but we are not to fight in our own strength, but we are allow our God to fight through us. So, then, whether we have lost before or no, let us seek God and His counsel, and learn to be Strong and of good Courage, for we have been promised that He shall strengthen our hearts, even as we wait upon Him. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 108-110

Tomorrow’s reading will be 1 Chronicles 23-25

Looking At The Whole Picture

 

Today's Verse is 2 Samuel 24:1

And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah. 

    A lot of things are coming out of this beginning. Some would complain, but we have answered that in another place. As we see later, David is ignorant of the reason God is angry against Israel, “but these sheep, what have they done?” However, take note, that from these events the place the Temple is to be built is determined. Even in Judgment, God’s mercies are evident, and His Grace is boundless. Selah [Consider these things.] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21-22, Psalm 30

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 108-110

The Proper Reaction To The Coming Judgment Of God

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 98:4

     Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth:

      Make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.

    It is an interesting thing that the “Wicked” (all that know not God) complain about how God has not dwelt with all the wickedness that is currently transpiring on the earth, even as they deny that the “most wicked” things are even wicked at all. Not knowing that God is not willing that any should perish, and is therefore given them an opportunity to repent. So, we that have recieved the goodness of God through the Redemption we have found in Jesus Christ, let us Joyfully make known of God’s Goodness, and not softly but loudly Rejoicing and Giving God the Praise. For we know that He is indeed coming to Judge the earth with righteousness. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 95, 97-99

Tomorrow’s reading will be 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 21-22, Psalm 30

God's Promises Over Our Worthiness

 

Today's Verse is 2 Samuel 23:5

     Although my house be not so with God;

      Yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant,

      Ordered in all things, and sure:

      For this is all my salvation, and all my desire,

      Although he make it not to grow.

    In this verse we are seeing a contrast. The first and the last lines are, I believe, David’s own view of himself, yet in the middle is that Promise that God has given him, yea, even the promise of the Messiah though his own line, and in this he has his hope in God, but as we all do, he has his doubts. I know and I have found, that when I doubt it is time to refresh why I believe. To study both those who have had the experience of God keeping His promises (through God’s Word) then also to remember those times that despite my doubt, and waywardness, those promises that God has made me, both through His Word, and personally, He has kept, even as we have been told our Salvation is based upon a God that has promised over and above the Fact, that He cannot lie. Will you continue to Trust Him even though things do not appear currently to be as He has said? Remember, Abraham was fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able to perform. And was Justified in that belief. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 2 Samuel 22-23, Psalm 57

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 95, 97-99

Why We Are Not Already Destroyed!

 

Today's Verse is Psalm 5:5

     The foolish shall not stand in thy sight:

      Thou hatest all workers of iniquity.

    When you consider this statement, it is a wonder that God hath also said through Paul, For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And for this cause we are told that He delays His judgment because He is not willing that any should perish, but when His Judgment comes, all shall know His Wrath and His Power, even as we shall see what are the riches of His Glory on the vessels of Mercy (those who have received forgiveness through Jesus Christ.) So then, we know that It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. But there is forgiveness with thee [God,] /That thou mayest be feared. What then shall be your choice, will you suffer the wrath of God for your wicked works? Or, will you accept His Forgiveness through Jesus Christ His Son and Live. Selah [Don’t make this choice by default] Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is Psalm 5, 38, 41-42

Monday’s reading will be 2 Samuel 22-23, Psalm 57

Do You Place God Above All Others?

 

Today's Verse is 2 Samuel 19:6

In that thou lovest thine enemies, and hatest thy friends. For thou hast declared this day, that thou regardest neither princes nor servants: for this day I perceive, that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this day, then it had pleased thee well. 

    Have you not heard what God hath said should be done to a stubborn and rebellious son? And all the men of his city shall stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear. Do you not know that it is the parents of such a one that is to lay the charge? But like many today, David loved his children more than the way of God, as we see in this example here. What did Jesus teach us on this matter? If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And in another place, he said it this way, He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. This is the very thing that we are taught by the example of Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his son Issac, the son of promise, at God’s request. In this David failed, and in failing, he suffered even more. Yet this same man had declared this hope, Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. /Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity. We have all failed to hit the mark, we have all come short of the glory of God. But God has provided redemption though Jesus Christ, even as David has been forgiven of all of his short comings. Amen.

To God be the Glory

Scott

Today’s reading is 2 Samuel 19-21

Tomorrow’s reading will be Psalm 5, 38, 41-42