Today is my brother’s birthday. I am very grateful for his presence in my life. God's blessing on your birthday Brother! David (oh by the way David is my brother’s name) in 2 Samuel prays before every major decision, 2 Sam 4:19, “David inquired of the Lord,” Jesus will do the same thing, “Not my will, but yours be done.” We don’t hear the whole process with either David or Jesus, but you can bet that there was some silent heart work being done. Listening with the ear

King David a faithfulness and a sense of integrity that is befitting a king for Judah and Israel. We hear that nobleness throughout the first chapters of 2 Samuel. He understands the position of God’s anointed king. Therefore, he does not harm King Saul, and the one that does must die. David was able to reconcile with enemies and even mourn their death. We see whether quickly in 2 Samuel how David will be the model for all kings to come, including the King of kings. Comin

Do you trust in the Lord or yourself? In the end, Saul could not or would not trust the Lord. His armor bearer would not take his life, so he did it himself. It is sad when Saul or anyone gets to the point that they see no value in their lives or are unable to see where help can come from. Regarding Salvation History, yes Saul was going to need to exit stage right. David was to be king, but David would not take Saul’s life and neither should he have taken his life. Yes

In all this drama is a shining light to see David stand up in 1 Sam 22:20-23 and take responsibility for his bad decision. Again, David shows integrity 1 Sam 24:5f as he regrets his action against God’s anointed. David shows compassion in 1 Sam 25:32 by hearing Abigail’s plea for her husband and people’s lives. He is turning into a real king for Israel. Can you trace the path of your faith life to this point? What have been some of the markers or turning points drawing y

It is not easy to trust God, Saul didn’t, and it was to his demise. Then with David’s rise in favor of the people, he becomes jealous. How do you bow gracefully before other’s gifts? How do you support the “new guy” to use their gifts and talents? The ending of Corinthians 12:31b, “But I shall show you a still more excellent way,” sets us up for the awesome gift of Chapter 13. Yes, it is used for more weddings than not, and you may be tired of it, but it is just too perfe

Words about you that you do not want to hear from God, “I regret…” Saul did not listen or follow what the Lord asked of him. He thought he could interpret or choose to ignore Samuel’s God-given words. Whatever the reason good or bad, we are not God. Therefore, it is imperative that we listen to and follow His commands. Samuel goes on to say in 1 Sam 15:22, “…Obedience is better than sacrifice, to listen, better than the fat of rams…” May we learn now to listen to God’s wo

1 Sam. 12:24-25, “But you must fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart, for you have seen the great things the LORD has done among you. If instead you continue to do evil, both you and your king shall be swept away.” Our lives are in our hands. Just as the Lord had given the people of Israel all that they ask for and needed, so the Lord has done for us. Regarding life and necessity, I have all I need. Do I place myself at the service of the Lord? Is G