Chapter 16 - The Beginning of the End

2 Kings 17-19

Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53

Introduction to the Reading: I just finished my wife’s Christmas present… well half of it.  She wanted matching night stands for our bedroom.  The first one is done.  As I was building it, I was so thankful for the tools that I have collected over the years.   I can think of at least twelve separate tools that I used on this particular project.  It is possible to make things without some of them, but the end product is not nearly as nice and it doesn't come as easily. 

It's amazing how easy things are to do when you have the right tools. Things go better when you use the right tools. However, that doesn't mean that we always pick the right tools for the job.

We start off our reading hear about the deportation and annihilation of the Northern tribes of Israel. They definitely didn't pick the right tools: They practiced false religions. They trusted in alliances with nations like Egypt instead of the Lord. They didn't use the toolbox of God's commands.

As I worked on the night stand over the past few weeks, there were times that things didn't go exactly smoothly. Usually it was because I had gone about a challenge with the wrong tool or not the best tool.  In a way, I tried to make a certain tool fit the problem.  How often don't we reach for the wrong tools in our life, instead of reaching out to the Lord for help!

Breaks Along the Journey - p. 224: As I read this section, I couldn't help but compare it to any and every news story about trouble in the Middle East and nations like Iran and North Korea building bigger and better missiles all the time.  Reporters always talk about our military presence in the areas and our readiness.  But never in the discussion do they talk about praying to the Lord like Hezekiah did. Our nation hasn't completely forgotten the Lord. I still remember the fervent prayers after 9/11, but isn't it interesting how quickly we forget what the most important tools are in our toolbox?

Yet what an amazing display that the Lord gave the people of Judah! Was there any doubt as to whom the glory belonged? He didn't just help his people - he conquered the enemy all on his own. You can just picture Sennacherib scurrying home with his tail between his legs whimpering. The battle is the Lord's!

Slowing it Down - p. 225: Speaking of using the right tools, what do you use to get oil based stain off your hands?  I usually use some GOJO with pumice in it, but as I sit and work on this nightstand right where my car usually sits, I can’t help but think about changing the oil  It’s really amazing how nicely oil will clean your hands.  You wouldn't think that dirty oil will clean your hands, but it makes sense when you think about it: oil is filled with detergents so that it keeps your motor from getting too dirty.   Or think about ashes.  They get all over everything when you need to move the grill or fire pit.  It's the last thing you would think of for cleaning. Yet what do they give someone in the emergency room who has just drank a harmful substance? Liquid charcoal! It's a mess, but it absorbs all the toxic chemicals in the stomach.

Isaiah realizes he is not clean. He has a vision in which he is standing before the throne of God. Isaiah knows he is a sinner. He knows he can't stand in the presence of God. He cries out, "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the king, the Lord Almighty!"

So what does Isaiah need? What tool will solve his problem? Charcoal! An angel flies from the altar with a coal and touches his lips. What a strange picture to us, especially since we don't have many burnt offerings anymore. (At least I haven't been to any burnt offerings lately!) How would something dirty like coal make him clean? And yet if you realize that the sacrifice on the altar was a sign to God's people that their sins were taken away by the shedding of blood and that this was a sign to Isaiah that the sacrifice made on the altar applied to him personally, you understand what an amazing picture this is. 

As strange as it may sound, these are some of my favorite verses of scripture. One of the reasons is because they make me think of communion. Now Isaiah isn't specifically picturing the Lord's Supper, but I can't help but think about communion whenever I read these words of Isaiah. Think of the similarities: (First of all, it's interesting to note that in the traditional liturgy, right before the words of Institution, we sing "Holy, holy, holy Lord God of heavenly hosts: heaven and earth are full of your glory." Sound familiar?) In the Lord's Supper, Christ, the ultimate sacrifice for sin, touches our lips. The Lord's Supper is a sign for us that the sacrifice that was made on the altar of the cross applies to us and seals forgiveness for us personally. Luther, as he explains the sacrament, writes, "What blessings do we receive through this eating and drinking? That is shown us by these words: 'Given' and 'poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins.' Through these words we receive forgiveness of sins, life and salvation in this sacrament. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation." 

And where there is forgiveness of sins, a sanctified desire to do good works naturally follows. Did you notice that Isaiah's lips that he was formerly ashamed of he now offers willingly for service to God? When the Lord asks, "Who will go for us?" I see Isaiah jumping up and down, flailing his arms and saying, "Oh, oh, me! Me! I'll do it! Pick me!" What a change of attitude from a man formerly terrified in God's presence.

Does the same hold true for us? Maybe we come to worship plagued by our sins in the last week. Perhaps you've heard the message of forgiveness during the sermon and perhaps even heard pastor say, "I forgive you all of your sins," at the beginning of the service after the confession. Yet, for whatever reason, you think, "Well he can't really be talking to me. He might be talking to that family in front of me. I know they are sinners, but they are really nice people. God could forgive them. But I know me. I know that I'm a mess. I'm too terrible for God to forgive me."

But then you make your way to the Lord's Supper. You stand before the altar of God. Here you are in his presence as you gather with other worshipers. And what happens? He gives you his body and blood together with the bread and wine. Yes, you! The sacrifice touches your lips. The forgiveness is for you! 

I don't know about you, but when I walk away from the Lord's Supper it's an amazing feeling. I want to cry out with Isaiah, "Here I am! Send me! Send me!"

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:
The book of Isaiah is often called the "Gospel according to Isaiah." We often talk about the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), which account the life of Christ. In addition, over one third of the Old Testament lessons during the Festival portions of our Church year (Advent to Pentecost) come from the book of Isaiah. Why would someone who wrote over 600 years before Jesus lived be grouped with those who wrote the histories of Jesus' life after he lived? And why would the book of Isaiah be read so much in our churches? Well after you've read our chapter today, I don't think I need to explain. Do I? Isn't it crazy how specific Isaiah gets in talking about the Savior who was still to come? Through the Holy Spirit, Isaiah's prophecies give details as precise as those who actually walked and talked with Jesus and the apostles. 

It's interesting, from a lower story perspective, the "Savior" that Isaiah pictures. Of all the tools that the people were looking for to solve their problem, is this one they would have reached for? "No beauty...despised and rejected...Like one from whom people hide their faces... stricken and afflicted....cut off from the land of the living...crush him and cause him to suffer." This isn't exactly the "hero" the Israelites were anticipating. Yet as we will find out in coming chapters, he was perfect for the job!

It's also interesting to me, especially as we read the Bible chronologically like we are doing, that Isaiah's words come at the most unexpected time from a lower story perspective. The nation of Israel is on the brink of destruction. Isaiah himself says that they are going to be destroyed! Things look dismal at best. Yet in spite of the dark storm clouds on the horizon for God's chosen nation, the Gospel is shining brighter and clearer than ever. At the most unexpected time, God gives some of the most specific prophesies about the coming Messiah.

Have you had dark days? Does it even seem that darker days lie ahead? From a lower story perspective, we often feel that life is pretty dismal. Yet in the midst of the darkness, the light of the Gospel is shining brightly. God's upper story is still moving along: his plan to rescue us from this world of sin and bring us home to heaven is as certain as ever. When it feels like the Lord may have forgotten you, his words are still true, "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she had borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!" On the last day of this word, Isaiah's prophecy will find its ultimate fulfillment, "Then all mankind will know that I, the LORD, am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob."

Prayer/Hymn:

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee,Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea; Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee, Who was, and is, and evermore shall be.

Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee, Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see; Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee, Perfect in power, in love, and purity.

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty! All Thy works shall praise Thy Name, in earth, and sky, and sea; Holy, holy, holy; merciful and mighty! God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!

Chapter 15 - God's Messengers

Chapter 15 - God's Messengers

1 Kings 17-19

2 Kings 2, 4, 6

Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14

Amos 1, 3-5, 9

Quicky Quiz:
I remember when I was in school how much I hated quizzes, but I knew that material the best in those classes where we had them.  The reason is that quizzes help reinforce what you learned, and also give a good starting point for the next lesson. They set a foundation on which you can build. So let's start with a quiz. Why? Because unless you cement these answers in your brain, you are gonna get quite confused over the next few weeks.

1. How many tribes were in the Northern Kingdom?

2. Jeroboam was the king over ____________.

2. Judah was part of the Northern or Southern Kingdom?

4. Jeroboam/Rehoboam was a grandson of King David.

3. Israel was the name for the Northern or Southern Kingdom?

4. Rehoboam was king over ____________ .

5. _______ built golden calves for the people to worship.

Did you get them all correct? Awesome! I knew you could do it.

Introduction to the Reading:

If you’ve seen the movie Evan Almighty, you know that it's about a modern day Noah. The newly elected Congressman Evan Baxter (Steve Carell) is excited for his new job, but he doesn't realize God has another plan for him: to build an ark. While light on theology, it's definitely full of comedy: animals overtaking congress, Steve Carell growing a beard overnight, and a delivery from 1-800-Go-4-Wood.

While it is humorous to consider what it would be like if you had to build an ark today, it also raised a serious question for me: what would I do if God spoke to me? What would you do? Slap yourself a few times to see if you were dreaming? Quiver in fear? Wonder if someone drugged you? Pass out? All of the above?

Or I guess another question to ask is: When would you start listening? In Evan Almighty, at first Evan blows God off thinking it can't be real. Then, even though he knows it's God, he doesn't fully get that God really wants him to build an ark. Finally, even after he realizes that God is speaking to him and that he is supposed to build an ark, he doesn't follow God's order to build an ark because it doesn't fit into his plans.

In our reading today we see how people reacted when God did speak. So as we read this week, lets ask these two questions: "When God spoke, how did the people respond?" and "Would I have responded the same way?"

Time to Slow it Down - Top of Page 207 "Now they are trying to kill me too."
"In your face prophets of Baal!" Right? What a total mockery Elijah has made of them, hasn't he? He's got to be riding high on emotions - feeling almost invincible, right? Ahh how fickle our emotions can be. Have you felt that way before: everything is going right and yet you feel so down. To borrow the illustration from the old fairy tale: you're sleeping on pillow top mattresses, and focusing on the pea.

Here Elijah is, with God's help having just awed thousands, including the king - having done quite literally a miracle (by the Lord's power of course) - having the backing of the creator and preserver and ruler of the universe - and how does he feel? Answer: depressed and scared. Can you relate?

So what does Elijah need? See if I were God and Elijah was scared of those who were trying to kill him, I would have shown a little muscle, thrown a few lightening bolts, and said to Elijah, "If they come after you, I’ve got your back!"

But what does Elijah really need to know about our God? Read on to see how God wants himself to be known. Does he want to be known as a God of awesome power? Of ultimate justice? Of terrifying wrath?

Top of Page 208
So what did Elijah need to know about God? His LOVE! The Almighty comes to us in gentle whispers! Have you seen pictures with a little baby in the arms of a muscular man? That's how I picture our relationship to God: the almighty holds back his strength for the sake of those he loves. The fire of God consuming an altar didn't give Elijah peace. What Elijah needed to hear was God's promises: you aren't alone...there will be those who will take up the task after you...I will keep my word!

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:
So, let me ask the question again: If God spoke to you, how would you respond? I'm sure after this lesson in HIStory, we're all thinking, "Well I hope I would have believed God and done what he said." I'm pretty sure we all picture ourselves in the Shunammite's house, and not as a prophet of Baal.

In that case, let me ask yet another question: How have you responded since God has spoken to you? Now before you think that you're supposed to be having visions in the middle of the night, that is not what I mean. Did the Shunammite ever talk directly with God? No! She spoke with Elisha. But that doesn't mean that God didn't speak his word to her. He sent the prophet to speak his word on his behalf.

The Lord has given us his Word as well. Pastors and teachers explain why we can trsut God’s Word.  They might not have received visions from God, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t prophets.  A prophet is someone who speaks on God’s behalf.  Every week they share God’s Word with us.  They are God’s representatives to speak his word publicly. 

So let me ask one more time: Since God has spoken to you, how have you responded?

Making it My Own:

In the movie Evan Almighty, the hardest challenge for Evan Baxter isn't building the ark. The elephants carry the logs. The monkeys fetch him nails. God delivers the wood. While it takes time, God sees to it that Evan can finish the ark in time.

What is the hardest challenge for Evan? The hardest challenge is convincing those around him that God is actually speaking to him. At first even he is quite skeptical. Then he has to tell his wife, who thinks he has lost it. Finally, when asked publicly who told him to build the ark, he squeaks out sheepishly, "God."

One of the hardest things for a Christian to do is to tell someone that they are worshiping a false God. In our nation, we are free to worship whomever we choose, but in our culture, we are looked down upon if we tell anyone that what they believe is wrong. Is that much different than Elijah on Mount Carmel? While there was the worship of Baal, the Asherahs, Molech, and countless other gods in Israel, the one thing that could get you killed was saying that there was only one true God. I can't help but connect the parallels to today. I can understand why Elijah was scared!

So what does God want us to do? What did he want Elijah to do? ... Just remember, the God who speaks in whispers has got your back!

Hymn:

God has spoken by His prophets,
Spoken His unchanging Word,
Each from age to age proclaiming
God, the one, the righteous Lord.
Mid the world’s despair and turmoil,
One firm anchor holding fast;
God is King, His throne eternal,
God the first, and God the last.

God has spoken by Christ Jesus,
Christ, the everlasting Son,
Brightness of the Father’s glory,
With the Father ever one;
Spoken by the Word incarnate,
God of God, ere time began,
Light of light, to earth descending,
Man, revealing God to man.

God yet speaks by His own Spirit
Speaking to the hearts of men,
In the age-long Word expounding
God’s own message, now as then;
Through the rise and fall of nations
One sure faith yet standing fast,
God is King, His Word unchanging,
God the first, and God the last.

For further Study:
To see how relevant the message of Amos is to our society today check out this brief Bible study called:

 Is_Prosperity_a_Problem?

Likewise here's a link to a an excellent Bible study on the book of Hosea called How Forgiving Is God?

Chapter 14 - A Kingdom Torn in Two

1 Kings 12-16
Introduction to the Reading: 

I'm sure you have all had to make some tough decisions: what degree to pursue, what job to take, where to live, whether to stay or breakup with that special someone...or get married. Decisions can be even tougher when we realize the impact that they may have on others. Today we hear about some of the decisions that the leaders of God's special nation had to make, how they made those decisions, and God's opinion of their choice. Let's analyze some of those decisions and see if we can't learn from them!

Time to Slow it Down - Page 195:

• What decision did Rehoboam have to make?
• On what did he base his decision?
• Would you have made the same decision if you were in his shoes?
• Was his decision a God pleasing decision (Notice that this is a different question than the one above!)

Top of Page 196:

• What decision does Rehoboam face this time?
• In this instance, what does he base his decision on?
• What do you think his advisers had been telling him to do? What do you think he wanted to do?

Top of Page 197:

• Jeroboam, king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, seeks advice because of what problem?
• What decision does he make? Politically was it a wise decision?
• What is God's verdict of the decision? Why?

Bottom of Page 198:

• What were the consequences for Jeroboam and his family because of his decisions?
• What were the consequences for the people of Israel?

Top of Page 201:

• Do you think Asa gained or lost political popularity because of his reforms? What family troubles do you think resulted when he deposed Maakah?
• Was Asa's life easy or tough because of his decision to follow the Lord as leader?
• Why do you think the book of Kings doesn't record Asa's "achievements, all he did and the cities he built?"

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:
We don't know who the author of the Book of Kings is. We don't know when it was written. The book never states its purpose either. But perhaps we can learn something from what isn't said. What do I mean by that? Well let's take a look at the king of Israel named Omri. Do you remember reading about him? Probably not because he's just briefly mentioned in the commentary in our reading. From a political historian's perspective, however, Omri would have been a world figure. He established a dynasty, made Samaria the capital city of Israel, According to archaeology, he subjugated the Moabites. Even long after his death, Assyrian records refer to him and his reign. Why does our book just mention him in passing? Well because that's what the Scriptures do. In fact, the Bible only spends six verses on his reign and sums it up by saying that he, "did evil in the eyes of the Lord and sinned more than all those before him" (16:25). See, the Scriptures aren't focused on the political achievements of these leaders, their administrative decisions and accomplishments, or their worldly fame and reputation. After reading today, what determined if a king was successful or not? It was whether they followed the Lord or not!

Making it My Own:
So what makes you successful? Have you made the right decisions in life? Have you chosen the right career, right investments, right schools for your kids? How would the world rate your decisions? What do your friends or family think of your accomplishments? How do you analyze your life? It makes us nervous making decisions because we know we haven't always made the right decisions in the past. As we look back, we sometimes are saddened by our decisions. Yet you know what I find comforting, even in these dark days of the Book of Kings? "Nevertheless, for David's sake the LORD his God gave him a lamp in Jerusalem by raising up a son to succeed him and by making Jerusalem strong" (Page 199). In spite of all the bad decisions - no I should say terrible decisions we have read about, God still manages to make sure the Upper Story is still playing out. What do I mean? In spite of the fact that things are falling to pieces, God's plan to bring a Savior through David's descendants is still as strong as ever. Can our failures cause God's promises to fail? Never! When you look back on your life and think, "What if..." As you analyze all the different ways your life could have played out, you may realize that life could have been very different, but the end result is always the same: God sticks with me; God loves me.

Prayer/Hymn:
1789-1855 Text by Josiah Conrad

From:  THE HANDBOOK TO THE LUTHERAN HYMNAL

St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1942)p.32

1. Lord, 'tis not that I did choose Thee;

That, I know, could never be;

For this heart would still refuse Thee

Had Thy grace not chosen me.

Thou hast from the sin that stained me

Washed and cleansed and set me free

And unto this end ordained me,

That I ever live to Thee.

2. 'Twas Thy grace in Christ that called me,

Taught my darkened heart and mind;

Else the world had yet enthralled me,

To Thy heavenly glories blind.

Now my heart owns none above Thee;

For Thy grace alone I thirst,

Knowing well that, if I love Thee,

Thou, O Lord, didst love me first.

Chapter 13 - The King Who Had It All

1 Kings 1-8, 10-11
2 Chronicles 5-7
Proverbs 1-3, 6, 20-21

Introduction to the Reading: When you get to announce to someone that you’ve received a promotion, they may likely ask you, “Are you getting a decent raise?... That’s good!”  But you have to wonder why we always assume that having a raise is a good thing.  It’s not bad to have a raise.  Nor would any of us ask our employer to pay us less.  But why is it pretty much always assumed that a raise is a good thing?

Today we learn about Solomon - arguably the wealthiest person ever. But what made him truly wealthy? What impact did earthly wealth have on him? Solomon is a fascinating case study in what happens when one person "has it all." Of course, just like when you see the billboards with the lottery jackpots along the freeway, you can't help but ask yourself, "What would I do if I were in his shoes?"

Time to Slow it Down - Middle of Page 183
Even today, some 3000 years later, it is still recognized that  Solomon's greatest wealth - what truly made him wealthy beyond just physical riches - is that he was a man full of wisdom and knowledge.

There is a difference between wisdom and knowledge, though. You can be smart, as Solomon was about the animals and birds, reptiles and fish (p.179), and yet not have "street smarts." Then there is wisdom which has been defined as "Knowledge applied." Solomon had both, as it evident in his proverbs. They aren't just facts about the world, but how we are to live and interact with the world. Take a moment and pick three proverbs that you like the most. Then, more importantly, take a minute or two to discuss or think about how they apply to your life....

Now that you've reviewed some of the proverbs, I have one more question: what additional characteristic of his wisdom made it stand out from that of others? I'd say it was the source of his wisdom! He even acknowledges it, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge..." (p. 179). This wasn't just any knowledge, but knowledge applied - and knowledge from God. How do we get such knowledge? If you've been reading The Story with us, you've been looking right at it: God's word, of course! "For the LORD gives wisdom: from his mouth come knowledge and understanding" (p. 179).

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:
"Solomon showed his love for the LORD by walking according to the statutes of his father David, except that..." 1 Kings 3:3

For a while everything went well. If anyone could be said to "have it all" it was Solomon. Not only that...but he used that wealth and prestige to bring glory to God. In one of his proverbs, Solomon wrote, "Honor the Lord with your wealth" (p. 180), and that is exactly what he did. The temple he built was an architectural wonder of the world. People came to see it just because it was so magnificent. While they visited, though, they got to hear for whom it was built. Some may wonder why put so much money into building a church. "It's just a building," they say, "Why not use that money instead to do evangelism." Fair enough, but sometimes people come to see the buildings, and in the process hear the story.

In addition, Solomon's wisdom brought attention to the Lord. Hiram, king of Lebanon, said, "Praise be to the LORD today, for he has given David a wise son to rule over this great nation" (p. 184). The queen of Sheba came to see for herself about what she had heard and said, "The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true...Praise be to the LORD your God!" (p. 190) What a wonderful example for us! When we are blessed...when we get a raise, promotion, an award, recognition...whenever we might consider taking praise...may we direct the praise where it is due. Jerusalem under Solomon's rule was truly a light on a hill: like a lighthouse guiding the way home, all who heard about what was happening there were guided to the Lord.

"Except that..." 
And then we hear those words. You can't help but sigh and shake your head. "He had it all!" you feel like screaming. While outwardly things looked magnificent, inwardly Solomon's faith life was in shambles. The physical structures may have been sound, but his faith was on shaky ground. No longer was he, "Fearing, loving, and trusting in God above all things" as Luther explains the First Commandment. Jesus warned that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.

The problem is, who is a rich man? Am I rich with what I'm making now? How about next year, when I get a 3 percent raise at work? How about the year after that when I get a 5% raise? Or the year after that when I get a 2% raise?  Maybe you've heard the illustration of the frog in the pot. If you drop a frog in hot water, it will hop right out. If you put a frog in cold water, and slowly warm the kettle...it will relax in there until it's boiled. We don't notice it, but when does a gift from God turn into a turning up the heat on the stove? When do we forget that this is all from God's hand, and start to trust in our wages and forget the giver? Can you name some other things in life that also "raise the temperature" so to speak? You see, I think the small changes - the small increases in wealth or prestige or fame - are almost more of a temptation because you don't notice them as much. There are more times along the line in which you're tempted to think, "Yeah, the work of my hand has done this." There are more chances for the blessings themselves to lure us away from the Lord. King Solomon's many wives led him to worship other gods - false gods. What has lured you away from the Lord this last week?

But as Solomon's father David learned, the Lord does not forsake us. He wants to have a relationship with us. He wants us to repent, to turn to him, and to trust in his love and forgiveness. We may not have a church as glorious as Solomon's temple, but when it comes down to it, God has chosen an even greater temple. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:16, "Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you?" God wants to live in you! He has washed you in his blood and made you a fitting home for his Holy Spirit. He doesn't want to be found hidden in a cloud, he wants to be revealed in you. When people see you, he wants them to learn about him. And when this world is destroyed, he wants to live with us forever. "And I heard a loud voice from the throne say, 'Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.' (Rev. 21:3-4)"  Then we can truly say, "We've go it all!"


Prayer/Hymn:
One thing's needful; Lord, this treasure
Teach me highly to regard.
All else, though it first give pleasure,
Is a yoke that presses hard.
Beneath it the heart is still fretting and striving,
No true, lasting happiness ever deriving.
This one thing is needful; all others are vain -
I count all but loss that I Christ may obtain.

Wisdom's highest, noblest treasure,
Jesus, can be found in you.
Let me find in you my pleasure;
Make my will and actions true,
Humility there and simplicity reigning,
In paths of true wisdom my steps ever training.
If I learn from Jesus this knowledge divine,
The blessing of heavenly wisdom is mine.

For those who like more:

• Read Luke 10:38-42. What distracts you, even though well intentioned, from the one thing that is truly needful?
• A fly through of one artist's concept of Solomon's temple: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFnWTz-7I0E

Chapter 12 - The Trials of a King

2 Samuel 11-12, 18-19

1 Chronicles 22, 29

This time let's hear your thoughts.  Part of good Bible Study is asking good questions.  Here are some good ones to consider.  Bring your responses to class on Sunday:

What is God telling me?

What questions come to mind as I read this section?  What would I like to know more about?

How did the characters in this lesson feel? What questions did they have?

How would I tell this story to my children in my own words?

Who is the author of this book of the Bible? What was his purpose?  Who was the audience?  When did he write? What were his main points?

What lesson was the author hoping his original audience would learn by recording these events?

How does this reading connect with the upper story - HIStory - the story of salvation?

What does this tell me about God?  What characteristics of God do I learn more about?

In this reading, how does God get the glory?

Is there any reference to this in the catechism?  Are there any doctrinal truths that I learn here?

What other portions of Scripture does this remind me of?

How am I confronted with my sin?  Of what fault am I convicted and condemned?

How am I humbled by this lesson?

Where does God show me his love? Where does he give his promise and show his forgiveness? HOw am I comforted and encouraged?

What does this reading lead me to give thanks for?

What does this reading direct me to do?

How does this apply to my family? Our congregation? Our soceity?

What does this portion of Scripture teach me to pray for?

Does this portion of Scripture remind me of any hymns or other songs?

Who do I know that really could benefit from hearing this?

Chapter 11 - From Shepherd to King

1 Samuel 16-18, 24, 31,

2 Samuel 6, 22

1 Chronicles 17

Psalm 59

Introduction to the Reading:

This week we watch as David grows up. Like Saul, we don't hear much about his family background. What matters is that the Lord chooses him. And so we first hear about how the Lord sends Samuel to anoint David as the next king of Israel. However, it will be a long time before he is actually king. That doesn't mean they weren't important times for David. In fact, many of the most memorable stories from David's life occur before he is king. Most importantly, in each of the lessons we see how the Lord was with him and working through him.

If you had to pick four or five stories from when you were growing up that were pivotal moments or summed up a period from your youth, what would they be? What stories would you want to tell your grand-kids if they came over for the weekend and you only had a few hours with them? Now in each of the stories, how would you explain the Lord's roll at that point in your life? Let's read and see how the Lord was integral in the maturing David's young life...

Time to Slow it Down - Pages 158 "But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor."

Last week our reading ended with the Lord's words to Saul that the Lord had sought a "man after his own heart" to appoint as ruler of his people. While the people looked for a king that had all the looks of king, the Lord looked where? "At the heart" (p. 145). What do you look for in people? Do you like to follow sports figures with the best throwing percentage? Or celebrities with the best looks? Or politicians with the most popularity? Or, on the other hand, do you vote for those leaders that share Biblical values or follow social figures who use their fame to promote Christ?

While we can't see into David's heart, we can see the fruits of his faith - how he made his faith visible in his life. The first real actions of David that are recorded show how strong his faith is. While everyone else was terrified because they were looking at the physical state of things, David was confident because he was looking to the Lord. But not only did he trust the Lord, he also gave God the credit, "The battle is the Lord's!" (p. 149)

What would you say is worse: not trusting the Lord, or trusting him and not giving him the credit? I guess it's a bit of a silly question, because hopefully we don't fall into either trap. But how often don't we lose sight of who is really in charge? I'll admit, it's all too easy to lose focus. When there is some success with parenting at home or with ministry at Hope it’s easy to say, “Well, we did this and that…” as if that was what gained the success.  There I am forgetting to give credit where it is due.  Then, all of a sudden I realize that I’m neglecting something else big in my life. 

One minute too proud, the next too scared - but the problem was the same! On the other hand, what made David different? I'd summarize it with one word: humility. In the midst of battle, David knew who had what it took to win: the Lord. And when in victory, David knew who deserved the glory: the Lord. Remember how David was the celebrity - parades in his honor, people flocking to see him come back from battle, news about his conquests on everyone's tongues. Yet how did David act? Well not the way that his wife wanted him too! She knew how celebrities should act: they should wear the fancy clothes, work the crowds and the media, walk the red carpet and milk it for all it's worth. What was David doing? Well in her mind, he was acting like a fool. He wore simple clothes and humbled himself before the ark of the Lord. David didn't care, "I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes...I will celebrate before the Lord" (p. 158).

What was this valiant warrior afraid of? "How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me?" (p. 157). David realized that in spite of his high position, he wasn't worthy of the Lord's presence. He was a sinful human. He knew that he wasn't even worthy to be in the presence of the ark of the Lord, the symbol of God's presence among his people. 

Yet did you see God's grace again and again through this chapter? In spite of the fact that David wasn't worthy to come to the Lord, the Lord came to him, chose him, used him, "I took you..." (p. 159) the Lord said through Nathan the prophet. Saul recognized that the Lord was with David, "Go, and the Lord be with you" (p. 149). What made David special wasn't David, it was the Spirit of the Lord that was in him.

What makes you fit to face the battles that you will encounter this week? What makes you special in the eyes of those around you? What gives you beauty or fame or respect? May we always admit like David, "You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely" (p. 152).

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:

When David came home from his work of fighting, he realized that what he really needed was a house. Not a house for himself, he already had that. In fact he had a very nice house - real hardwood floors made of cedar! No, what David wanted was a house for the Lord. While we often put more thought and money and energy into our own homes, once again we see David's faith shining through.

But the Lord wouldn't let David build the temple. The giving would go in the opposite direction: the Lord would give David a house. This wouldn't be a physical house of course. No, the Lord would give David a household of kings. David's family would rule on the throne of Israel for generations to come.

Yet, as you read those words, do you get the sense that the Lord is talking about something bigger than just a physical kingdom? I hope you do. Once again we see the connection between the lower story and the upper story. David was worried about a physical kingdom, the Lord was working on a spiritual kingdom. The Lord promises to David a king who would sit on the throne forever (And notice how many times he repeats that word "forever."). This son of David, the Lord says, would be, "My son." How could this eternal king be both David's son and God's son? I think by now you are putting the pieces together.

While David's thoughts are on earthly houses, the Lord is building a spiritual house. David wanted a place where people could come to worship the Lord. The Lord was promising to David that through his descendants the God-man Jesus would come who would conquer our greatest enemies of sin, death, and the Devil so that we could live in the kingdom of heaven forever. In that kingdom, Jesus will sit on his throne as King of the Universe forever, and we will have an eternal home.

Hymn of Praise:

David was a great warrior, but he also was known for his songs. At least 75 of the 150 Psalms were written by David. David loved music, and he loved giving God glory through music. We read one of David's psalms in our reading today. We too can give God glory through our songs. In fact, some of our hymns are based on the Psalms of David. One of Luther's most popular hymns is based on Psalm 46 and gives glory to God for being our fortress:

A mighty fortress is our God, a trusty shield and weapon;
He helps us free from every need that has us now overtaken.
The old evil foe now means deadly woe; deep guile and great might
Are his dread arms in fight; on Earth is not his equal.

With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected.
You ask, who is this? Jesus Christ it is.
Of Sabbath Lord, and there’s none other God;
He holds the field forever.

Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us.
We tremble not, we fear no ill, they shall not overpower us.
This world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will,
He can harm us none, he’s judged; the deed is done;
One little word can fell him.

The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife,
Let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won;
The Kingdom's ours forever!

For those who like more:

• How much did David know about his Redeemer-son? Read a Forward in Christ article about David's faith in the coming Messiah.
• Whose son is the Christ? A devotion on Matthew 22:41-46.

Chapter 10 - Standing Tall and Falling Hard

1 Samuel 1-4, 8-13, 15

Introduction to the Reading: 

When I was in college I was dog-sitting one weekend for one of our local pastors.  His dog, Winston, was the laziest dog I’ve ever seen.  I would throw the ball and he would sit in the recliner and watch the ball roll across the floor and wait for me to go get it and try again.  The only thing that got him to move was a bacon treat!  Have you ever felt that way in a conversation?

You are probably wondering where I'm going with this. You see, when I was in college my professor for interpersonal communications had us play catch. The deal was that we couldn't speak unless we had the ball, and we couldn't throw the ball to anyone unless we had summarized what they had said to us and asked them a question first or said something that gave them something to respond to. It really visualized for us how a good conversation works.

It's amazing how terrible we can be at communicating when we argue though. Have you gotten in an argument with a spouse, parent, or friend? Pay attention how that communication works. I find it fascinating how people argue on television - they do such a good job. For the most part, characters on television shows take turns speaking. If they didn't, we as the viewers would go crazy trying to listen to both sides of the argument. Yet when we argue in real life, we tend to speak over one another and don't really listen to what the other person has to say. If we were really concerned about resolving the issue we would listen first - and I mean listen to the point of being able to put in our own words what the other person had said - and then respond.

Which finally brings me to our reading today.... When you first read 1 & 2 Samuel (which are actually one book split in two by translators), it seems like the main point of the book is the history of the first two kings of Israel. But what's interesting is that we don't hear about Saul's parents or David's birth. Instead the book of Samuel introduces us first and foremost to Samuel. Samuel was born during the period when the judges ruled Israel. In fact, both Samuel and Eli are referred to as judges themselves. Most likely Eli was priest and judge during the reigns of Jephthah, Ibzan, Elon, Abdon, and Samson. Remember that the period of the judges was the days in which, "Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit" (Judges 21:25).

The name Samuel means "heard of God." As we will read, we'll hear how God heard Hannah's prayer and gave her a son, which is why she called him Samuel. As we read today, beyond just paying attention to the history, let's pay attention to who is asking God for what, how God responded, and how the people reacted to God's response. In other words, beyond just the historical facts, let's pay attention to the communication between God and his people that's also recorded in the book of Samuel.

Time to Slow it Down 

• Bottom of p. 131 -What did Hannah ask for? How did the Lord respond? When the Lord answered Hannah's prayer, how did Hannah react? How would you rate the communication between Hannah and the Lord?
• First Paragraph of p. 133 - When the Lord spoke to Samuel, how did he respond? Would you say that Samuel was able to summarize the Lord's words truthfully or did he listen half-heartedly and only speak what he thought would make people happy? On the other hand, when the Lord's message reached Eli, how did he respond? Would you say that his response was genuine repentance or a half-hearted, "Well if that's the way it's gotta be, then that's the way it's gotta be?" Between Samuel and Eli, who was going beyond just listening and actually reacting appropriately to the Lord's words?
• Middle of p. 136 - What did the people of Israel ask for? How did the Lord respond? Although the Lord said he would give them what they asked for, how did the people react to the warning that was included?
• Middle of p. 142 - What did Saul want from the Lord? Instead of listening to the Lord's response through the prophet Samuel, Saul took things into his own hands - he thought that he had to earn the Lord's favor rather than trusting the Lord's word. What was the result?

When You're Done Reading - Thoughts to Ponder:

So was it wrong for the people to ask for a king? The Lord gave them a king, right? And you remember how terrible things were during the period of the judges, right? Having a king wasn't bad in and of itself. The problem really was what role the king would serve. Now you are saying, "What does he mean by that? A king is a king!" What I mean is this: who was going to be the ultimate ruler of Israel and who was the real leader of the people? Remember where the book of Samuel starts? With Samuel - the Lord's prophet! The Lord wasn't opposed to a king, as long as the king subjected himself to the will and word of the Lord. The Lord, through Samuel, chose who would be king. The king, then, was supposed to listen to the Lord's words and follow his commands. The king's sword was only as powerful as the sword of the Spirit. What upset the Lord is when the people rejected him as the ultimate ruler. They followed the king, but not necessarily the Lord who gave the king power. They listened to the king, but not necessarily the Lord's words through the prophet. The Lord was even with Saul, that is until Saul stopped listening to the commands of the Lord. 

Making it My Own:
How good is your communication with God? How often do you ask something from the Lord, but not necessarily pay attention to his response? For instance, say that you pray fervently to the Lord for a spouse and he blesses you with one.  Everyone’s response is “congratulations” and rightfully so – it’s a blessing from the Lord.  But then again, wasn’t a king a blessing from the Lord as well.  Then, once you are married, perhaps you start to see that just being married didn’t solve all the single-person problems that you thought it would.  Then, God leads you to see that whether you are married or not, you must first seek him.  Even more than seeking his blessings, we need to be seeking him.  When we ask for something from the Lord, we have to pay attention to his WHOLE answer. We are tempted to get distracted by the gifts and ignore the directions that come with those gifts.

Luther, as he explains the Lord's prayer in his Small Catechism, writes, "’Our Father who art in heaven.' Here God tenderly invites us to believe that he is our true Father, and that we are his true children, so that we can ask him confidently with all assurance, as dear children ask their dear father.'" Usually through the first line of the Lord's prayer I'm still pretty focused. But I'll admit that a good portion of the time I'm already off in my own little world by the time I get to the Third Petition "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Luther explains the petition this way, "The good and gracious will of God is certainly done without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it might be done among us also." God's will is certainly done! Who ruled Israel? Well Saul thought he did, but God ultimately decided who would be king, which battles would be won or lost, and who would get the glory. What the Lord asked was that the people followed his will for their lives. The Lord's will was to be done!

The Lord invites us to pray with the full confidence that he is listening, but he also expects us to listen to his response - to listen to his whole response. Once we've prayed to our heavenly Father, we should then follow his will for our lives. I don't know how many times I've asked my wife something, and then responded with, "What did you say?" right after she answered me. I'm terrible like that: I ask a question, but then only hear the part I really want to hear and not the whole answer. God wants us to communicate with him, which means not only throwing the ball in prayer, but also being ready to listen when he is the one speaking.

What do you want from the Lord? Is the request in keeping with the Lord's will? Then ask for it! What warnings may the Lord also give with that request? Also pray that the Lord may keep you focused on his will if he gives you what you asked for. What blessing would you like to ask for your family? For our congregation? For our society? Now what direction does the Lord give us in regard to those requests? Just because we are around God's word, we have to be careful to listen to his word. Hophni and Phinehas were priests in the Lord's house, and yet they failed to listen to God's commands for their lives.

The good news is that the Lord won't forsake his people. Even though we have failed to keep his commands and have done much evil, "For the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own" (p. 141).  We follow the Lord's commands, once again, not out of fear. We follow the Lord's commands because he gives them to us to bless us. He wants us to use the things he gives and the prayers he answers - he wants us to use them according to his will so that they can be the blessings he intends. He gives us directions with his gifts because he loves us.

Prayer/Hymn:
Speak, O Savior I am list'ning,
As a servant to his lord.
Let me show respect and honor
To your holy, precious Word,
That each day, my whole life through,
I may serve and follow you.
Let your Word e'er be my pleasure
And my heart's most precious treasure.

As I pray, dear Jesus, hear me;
Let your words in me take root.
May your Spirit e'er be near me
That I bear abundant fruit.
May I daily sing your praise,
From my heart glad anthems raise.
Till my highest praise is given
In the endless joy of heaven.


For those who like more:


Read James 1:19-25

• What practical advice does James give on communication skills?
• What attitude does the Lord warn against?
• What advice have you heard from God's word this week that you want to hang on to, not just forget about?
• What portion of God's word would you like to look intently into? Read it and then write down how you will apply it in your life. Make a plan of action.