September 29 - Nehemiah 11-13; Psalm 126: God's Chosen People Live Safe in Their Land; Battle for Holiness

Today’s Reading: Nehemiah 11-13; Psalm 126

The Message

English Standard Version

Today's reading has the names of the families living in Jerusalem. Scan down to 12:27 if you are short on time.

Finishing both Nehemiah and Psalms brings us to 38 books and only one day more in the Old Testament!

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Nehemiah and Ezra work together to make sure Israel does not go against the Law.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Many families resettled in and around Jerusalem. Its walls were dedicated. The singers and guards were supported through donations.
Israel separated from foreigners when they read God prohibited Ammonites and Moabites from the congregation.
Nehemiah cleaned out Tobiah's rented storeroom in the Temple, made sure the Levites and singers were given daily food rations, stopped Jews from breaking the Sabbath while threatening merchants camping at the gates on the Sabbath, and made Jews swear not to marry foreigners in the future since Solomon's wives caused him to sin.
Nehemiah asked God to remember his dedication to setting things right.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 126

The returned exiles cannot believe they are the ones who are happy once gain. They ask God to keep blessing them to lighten their hearts.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God's Chosen People once again lived secure in God's Chosen City.

God's promise through Jeremiah had come true. Judah returned and lived safe within their walls. What a difference in today's psalm and Psalm 137! God wants to set our relationship right and return our place in life.

Nehemiah fought a battle with Israel over their holiness.

Ezra and Nehemiah were holy—they want to obey God fully. Israel had more difficulty obeying God. Nehemiah had to advocate for the Levites, encourage Israel not to marry foreigners, and convince Israel not to work on the Sabbath. Even though Israel had come home, they were not fully willing to obey God.

Do you wish to be remembered for your zeal in obeying God?

September 19 - Ezra 4-6; Psalm 137: Israel Endures Harassment to Rebuild the Temple in Honor of God

Today’s Reading: Ezra 4-6; Psalm 137

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Israel's enemies wanted to stop the Temple's construction. Instead, they condemned themselves.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Israel's enemies heard they were rebuilding the Temple. They harassed the builders 15 years. They wrote accusation letters to Artaxerxes about Judah's rebellious past and warned that the Temple was a ruse to rebel again. Construction was stopped.
Tattenai, the governor, asked Darius to find the order for construction. The decree from Cyrus was found. It warned that if anyone tried to stop Israel, they would be executed. Darius enacted the order fully.
The Temple in Honor of God was rededicated with a large feast. Everyone observed the Passover—exiles and locals alike. They enjoyed a sea of joy.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 137

While the exiles mourn the loss of Zion their captors demand happy songs. How could they sing happy songs at a time like this? They will always remember Jerusalem. They cry for God to repay the Babylonians for what they have done!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Israel had to endure harassment 15 years.

When their first plan of sabotage was foiled, Israel's enemies settled in on the sure-fire way of working against Israel while not being punished—discouragement. This went on for 15 years. This type of psychological warfare may not stop the victim from trying, but it severely weakens their resolve to do something difficult. It is easy, cheap, and less risky than physical warfare. God's Chosen People must endure discouragement from people who do not care to set things right.
One of the hardest obstacles for Christians to overcome is discouragement. We struggle with our own doubts while having to listen to harassment by people who don't understand our faith, our trust, and our willingness to obey God. While some Christians are too quick to claim they are being persecuted, we must admit there are some who do not want to see Christians succeed. Some may have had negative experiences with Christians before. Others may have no reason other than wanting to see Christianity look bad. No matter what type of discouragement comes our way, we, too, should have faith that God will set things right and continue in our obedience.

Half-truths can only win if no one is willing to seek for the whole truth.

Israel's enemies sent a letter to the Persian king Artaxerxes detailing Judah's rebellions. They were historically accurate but telling only half the truth. They either did not know or knowingly omitted Cyrus' decree. The interesting part is that it took Israel at least two years to remind king Darius of Cyrus' decree. They almost allowed the harassment and half-truths to keep the Temple in Honor of God from being rebuilt.
Those who tell half-truths hope no one is willing to do research to question their assertions. We hear half-truths often. It may be difficult to go against them, but we must be willing to demand the whole truth to set things right.
At the same time, half-truths come in handy when they make ourselves look good; however, we cannot succumb to the low road. Beware half-truths and half-truth-tellers. They do not set things right.

God "plunged them into a sea of joy" (6:22, The Message).

At last, God has rebuilt the Temple to His Honor. Israel is now safe in its borders again (though not self-governing). The Levites and priests became ritually clean and everyone observed the Passover together, although the time for God to accept anyone into the Temple is still ahead. Non-Chosen People observing the Passover is nothing new, but a great thing to see—especially after 70 years of no one observing the Passover.

Psalm 137 is an emotional response to a great loss.

Psalm 137 may be the most difficult psalm to read because they cry:

God, remember those Edomites,
   and remember the ruin of Jerusalem,
That day they yelled out,
   “Wreck it, smash it to bits!”
And you, Babylonians—ravagers!
   A reward to whoever gets back at you
   for all you’ve done to us;
Yes, a reward to the one who grabs your babies
   and smashes their heads on the rocks! (vv. 7-9, The Message)

As I wrote earlier, we are not used to such emotional responses. Some take these sections to discredit the entire Bible. What I hope we get from this psalm is a sense that these people were real and were not dispassionate robots doing God's Will. God does not censure emotional responses. Neither should we.

How can we encourage you today?

August 18 - Jeremiah 38-40; Psalms 74 and 79: Babylon Destroys the Temple and Takes Judah into Exile

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 38-40; Psalms 74 and 79

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

These chapters fill in the blanks from the previous chapters.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Zedekiah allowed Jeremiah's enemies to throw him into a cistern. The king rescued Jeremiah to ask for advice, promising not to kill him.
Jeremiah replied, "If you surrender to the king of Babylon you will live."
Nebuchadnezzar's troops broke through the walls. Zedekiah and his men ran. Babylonian troops caught them, killed Zedekiah's family, blinded him, and burned Jerusalem to the ground—including the Temple.
Judah went into exile, except the poor and undesirable. Jeremiah was protected and released. The remnant would live in peace if they were loyal to Babylon.
Many people returned to Judah. God blessed the land.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 74

The exiles cry out to God because their Temple has been desecrated and burned. They ask God how long before the guilty are punished for their crimes. They ask God if He hears what is going on.

Psalm 79

Asaph cries out to God because the Temple and Jerusalem have been destroyed. They ask how long these atrocities will go on. Why has God allowed pagans to punish His Chosen People? God's Reputation is salvation! Why did He let them get away with this? Judah ask for pardon. Then they will return with thanksgiving and tell others what He has done.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Judah's leaders (other than those from yesterday) never listened to Jeremiah.

We do not know the timing of Jeremiah's conversation with King Zedekiah and Jerusalem's downfall, so it is difficult to connect the two closely; however, Jeremiah told Judah not to run. Yet when the time came Zedekiah ran and paid for it dearly. Some people will never learn. They will always go against God even if it means punishment.

The Temple in Honor of God was destroyed.

We read about this earlier, so I will not belabor that point here. The inclusion of these two psalms in the Bible is interesting. God has already told Judah exactly why He is destroying the Temple—they won't listen to Him. What is ironic about these psalms is that they cry out as though it was God's weakness that caused the Temple's destruction. So it seems wrong for them to ask why God allowed these things to happen.
After meditating on these words I believe something deeper is going on. The remnant cried out to God after the destruction of the Temple as an emotional response to a great injustice. I believe these psalms are included because God wants us to see that even when we are in the wrong the proper response is to cry to Him for justice. God has previously told Judah that Babylon would be punished as well for their crimes, which we read today. Emotional responses do not rely on logic or reason. They are raw. They are untamed. This is why I rarely take the responses by the mother of a known criminal serious. It is also why the responses the first two or three days after an emotional event should be held against the person later. They may regret it anyway. God does not censure emotional responses. Neither should we.

God protected Jeremiah.

God promised to protect him at the beginning of the book. Jeremiah was the only person protected. Jerusalem had the opportunity to go peacefully and live but declined. God protects those who obey Him.

Do you trust God to protect you—even in the face of your enemies?

July 28 - 2 Kings 18:9-19:37; Psalms 46, 80, and 135: Hide in God

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 18:9-19:37; Psalms 46, 80, 135

The Message

English Standard Version

Today's reading in 2 Kings repeats the stories of Israel going into exile, Judah under attack by the Assyrians, and God's punishment of Sennachreib. Since it virtually repeats the readings from 2 Chronicles and Isaiah, I will skip the summary and discussion of that text and point you to the other posts.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

God's Chosen People call out to the one they know will save them and He does!

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 46

The god who wrestled Jacob is a safe place to hide because God protects and fights for His Chosen People. War cannot touch them.

Psalm 80

Asaph calls on the tribes related to Joseph to wake up, God is on His way! They call out to God, "How long before you save us? Remember when life was good? We will never turn our backs to you again. Just your smile will be enough!"

Psalm 135

Hallelujah! Praise God, everyone, because God chose Jacob! Look how great God is! He punished Egypt and slew the Canaanite kings. His name is eternal, more than any no-god who is served in the marketplace by buying and selling trinkets. Bless God, the Protector of Jerusalem! Hallelujah!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God is a safe place to hide.

God provides refuge for those who need help. When an entire city obeys God they live safe lives. Everyone sets things right. Then God fights for us and not against us.

God will protect us when we repent because of our common history.

Asaph reminds God of the good-ole days when God brought Israel out of Egypt. By that point (if this is a correct placement in the timetable) both Israel and God needed to remember these days because Israel and Judah were punished for serving other gods. However, if they remembered the time when God protected Israel maybe they would repent and return to God. Then God would spare their nation.

Family of God, bless Him! Hallelujah!

July 25 - Isaiah 37-39; Psalm 76: God Answers Hezekiah's Prayers

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 37-39; Psalm 76

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Hezekiah prays to God for protection and a longer life. God listens and grants both.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Hezekiah, distressed, appealed to Isaiah. He replied, "God will protect you and King Sennachreib will die."
The Sennachreib mocked God, "No god can protect you. Surrender!"
Hezekiah prayed, "You are the True God! Save us!"
God retorted, "Sennacherib, I will ride you like a horse back home. Hezekiah, in three years life will return to normal."
God killed 185,000 Assyrians. Sennacherib ran home and was quickly assassinated.
Later, Hezekiah prayed for health from a deadly illness and received 15 extra years. Hezekiah praised God greatly.
Babylon spied Hezekiah's treasures. Isaiah told Hezekiah someday his children would be exiled to Babylon.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 76

Asaph praises God, the famous peacemaker. God brings warriors to their knees—who could survive His wrath? Asaph calls on Judah to sacrifice to God, the justice-bringer.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Hezekiah makes the right decision—relying on God.

We cannot read the story of Hezekiah without understanding his context. His father, Ahaz, ransacked the Temple to placate Assyria and then worshiped Damascene gods thinking they would protect Judah. Israel has been taken into captivity because they would not obey God. Hezekiah must rely on only one thing—faith. His faith would provide the impetus for his actions. So he relied on God in every case. When we rely on God, He helps us make the right decision.

Hezekiah diagnosed the other nations' problem—relying on "no-gods".

Hezekiah understood why the myriad of other nations had been destroyed by Assyria. They worshiped works of their hands, not the Creator. Hezekiah will not make that mistake. He will rely on God, the One, True God. When we rely on no-gods, we get no-help.

Hezekiah's friendliness would spell disaster on Judah.

Unfortunately, Hezekiah was all too trusting with the Babylonian messengers. He allowed them to see everything he had. Part of me wants to think Hezekiah became old and a little senile, since his answer to Isaiah does not sound the same as his previous answers. However, he also may have seen his sons and knew what would happen in the next few years. Either way, his willingness to reveal all he owned brought Babylon calling in the next few generations. Beware of spies who come dressed as messengers of good news.

God brings peace by crushing those who wage war.

Sometimes, God's only way of showing someone they should stop doing what they want to do is by doing it to them. Sennachreib would only cease occupying Judah when his army was decimated. Let us hope and pray we do not need our sins pointed out to us in that way!

Trust in God—He will give you wisdom.

July 19 - 2 Kings 18:1-8; 2 Chronicles 29-31; Psalm 48: Hezekiah Reinstates God's Reign over Judah

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 18:1-8; 2 Chronicles 29-31; Psalm 48

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Hezekiah removed most (but not all) of the things Judah used to worship other gods.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Unlike his predecessors, King Hezekiah removed the Asherah shrines. He destroyed Moses' bronze serpent. Hezekiah trusted God and was greatly blessed.
First, he restored the Temple in Honor of God. He knew God's wrath came because they worshiped foreign gods. Hezekiah wanted to set right their relationship with God.
The Levites and priests carried out Hezekiah's orders. They rededicated the Temple with sacrifices and music. Everything returned to normal!
For the first time since Solomon's rule the Passover was celebrated fully. Hezekiah asked God to accept those who had clean hearts. Out of joy, they extended Passover for a week.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 48

The sons of Korah praise God because He has made Jerusalem safe. God protected it from many kings. They call Judah to dance because God would protect them long enough to tell the next generation the story of God.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Hezekiah removed the shrines that had become part of their culture.

I love Hezekiah. He is a man I can respect and appreciate. He reinitiates God's reign over Judah. His willingness to remove not only his father's idols but also the shrines laid by Jehoram and Ahaziah centuries earlier shows moral courage. Then he did the unthinkable, he removed Moses' bronze serpent
more than a thousand years old! These shrines had become normal to Judah and taking them out may have caused quite a stir within the country. "We've always worshiped this way! Why are you changing it?" However, Hezekiah was not willing to let this stop him from obeying God. He knew these foreign gods caused God to punish Judah and Israel. He saw them take something from their past (Moses' bronze snake) and worship it instead of the God who healed Israel. He had seen with his eyes what happened when God's Chosen People do not worship Him. We must be willing to remove all things which prevent us from setting all things right with God, even if it is centuries-old and the only way we know how to do it.

Hezekiah invites Israel to join in the celebration of the Passover.

Hezekiah does not want Israel to be left out of the reinstitution of the Passover. He wants them to worship God again. Unfortunately, they are too far gone to return to their god. They mock Hezekiah and ignore his requests. We know how that ended.
Unfortunately, not all people will join in worshiping God, especially some of His Chosen People.

Hezekiah prays for the ritually unprepared to be forgiven.

I love that Hezekiah gives mercy to the priests and Levites who are unclean during the Passover. They have been lazy. They procrastinated preparing until it was too late. So Hezekiah prays that God would overlook the literal conditions stated in the Law of Moses. Guess what, God healed the people! Why did God do this? God cares more for the heart-state than the physical-state.
What does that mean for today? We should not worry about crossing every "t" or dotting every "i" when we think to worship. We should first fix our heart, try our best to be acceptable to God, and then ask for forgiveness for anything else. If our hearts are clean, eventually the rest will become clean. Until then, God will overlook our uncleanness.

When God's Chosen People worship God correctly with clean hearts, they do not want to quit.

One more thing I enjoy reading in the life of Hezekiah is their enjoyment of the first Passover. Hezekiah had offered so much food to the celebration (most likely because he expected Israel to join them) they decided to extend it another week. There was so much joy at finally worshiping their god with a clean heart that no one wanted to go home. So they all stayed. When we have clean hearts, we never want to stop praising God! Think about that the next you start looking at your watch when the service is going long. Is it because you have somewhere to be or because you feel exposed before a God who can see your unclean heart?

Are you ready to reinitiate God's reign in your life?

July 1 - Obadiah; Psalms 82-83: God's Punishment is No Laughing Matter

Today’s Reading: Obadiah; Psalms 82-83

The Message

English Standard Version

We read the entirety of Obadiah (17), a short book found in what we call the "Minor Prophets," today. It opens a new section of scripture which will take us until the end of September to finish.

Tomorrow marks the half-way point!

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Obadiah and Asaph warn against gloating when the wicked are being punished.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Obadiah tells Edom a message from God.
"Doom and destruction coming to get you! You think you can hide in your strength. Wrong! God will find you wherever you are.
"You will be picked clean. Your whole world will fall apart. Because you fought against Israel, God will fight against you.
"Foreigners came and destroyed Jerusalem and you acted blasé. You stood by and suggested they received what they deserved. You punished the deserters and took advantage of the refugees.
"God's Judgment Day comes for you. Israel will have their land returned. The exiles will return and honor God's kingdom."

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 82

Asaph describes a scene where God grills judges for perverting justice. It is their fault that their world is coming apart. They were commissioned for a task and failed. Now they are relieved of duty.

Psalm 83

Asaph calls for God to save him! God's enemies are plotting to defeat Him. They gang up against him and Asaph calls them by name and calls God to get rid of them. This way they will realize God is the real god.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Obadiah's message: Do not join when God punishes others.

God punished Israel for their sin by sending in foreign invaders. Instead of learning from Israel's mistakes or trying to help them through the siege, Edom sat back and laughed at Israel's punishment. They killed the deserters and punished the refugees. They thought, "Israel sinned against God. They deserved it. No one was innocent." However, what Edom did not understand and what would eventually condemn them is that God has exclusive authority to punish. We cannot join or add to the punishment.
What does this mean for today? We should not revel in other people's punishments. When people have sinned against God and receive their punishment, God's People should not laugh at, mock, or remind them that they caused their own punishment. God always wants everyone to repent and return and will protect them from anyone who adds to his punishment. Christians should not look down on non-Christians when they are punished with the fruits of their lifestyles. We should help set things right between in all of their relationships.

Judges have an obligation not to pervert justice.

Their job is simple,

You're here to defend the defenseless,
   to make sure that underdogs get a fair break;
Your job is to stand up for the powerless,
   and prosecute all those who exploit them. (Psalm 82, 3-4, The Message)

Judges are not to pervert justice, no matter how difficult the decision may be.

Calling for punishment is not the same as enjoying someone's punishment.

In the same day's reading we have good and bad attitudes towards God's punishment. The difference is in the purpose of the response. Edom didn't care about God and laughed at Israel for being wrong. Asaph wants his enemies to be punished because they were God's enemies. He wanted them to see God's Power. When we call out for God to punish our enemies, make sure they are His enemies.

Do you call for God to bring justice or do you laugh at the problems of others?

Hallelujah! June 15 - Psalms 134, 146-150: Praise God, Everyone! Hallelujah!

Today’s Reading: Psalms 134, 146-150

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Notice all of the instruments used to praise God.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 134

Come bless God, everyone! May God bless us in turn!

Psalm 146

Hallelujah! Praise God! Do not trust in humans who are limited. Trust in the trustworthy, generous, gracious God who defends orphans and widows. God is in charge! Hallelujah!

Psalm 147

Hallelujah! Praise to our God is beautiful and fits Him perfectly! God put Israel back together from captivity! So we thank the God who controls the earth! Praise God! He has defended Jerusalem and helps them through the winter like no other nation on earth. Hallelujah!

Psalm 148

Hallelujah! Praise God, earth! Animals, elements, plants, weather, people old and young! Let them praise God because He is the only one worthy of praise! Hallelujah!

Psalm 149

Hallelujah! Praise God with dancing, instruments, and new songs because He arrays us in salvation! Lovers, warriors, praise God for defeating your enemies! Hallelujah!

Psalm 150

Hallelujah! Praise God everywhere for He is great! Get all of the instruments together; it's time to praise God! Hallelujah!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Hallelujah! God is worthy of praise! Hallelujah!

Every psalm today has the same theme. It isn't new and I've commented on it several times, so there is not much to add other than seconding their statements and going back to read them again. Praise God! Hallelujah!

Hallelujah! Praise God! Hallelujah!

June 14 - 2 Chronicles 6-7; Psalm 136: The Hesed of the Lord Never Quits!

Today’s Reading: 2 Chronicles 6-7; Psalm 136

The Message

English Standard Version

Today's reading from 2 Chronicles mirrors almost exactly the reading from yesterday. Because of that I will summarize and comment only on what was added at the end of chapter seven.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

The Hesed of God never fails!

Summary in 100 Words or Less

After Solomon dedicated the Temple to the Honor of God, God appeared to Solomon and accepted his prayer. He promised to stop any plague in Israel if they would only return to Him and pray. God's name would be stamped on the Temple forever; however, that would not prevent God from destroying His own Temple stone by stone if they would not listen to Him. This also applied to David's promise—if Solomon's sons obeyed God they would stay on the throne. Disobedience meant destruction. God would use them as an example to the nations, this time as a warning.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 136

This call-and-answer psalm praises God, the real god in a sea of fake gods, who created everything and took care of His Chosen People. The psalmist ends by reminding the responders how God took care of Israel when they were down and in need. The response after each line is exactly the same each time: "His Hesed (lovingkindness) never quits!"

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God would not spare his own Temple built by the chosen king in the chosen land He gave to His Chosen People.

Reminiscent to Moses' words to Israel prior to entering Canaan, God presents both sides of the coin to being His Chosen People. There are great and wondrous promises—land, peace, prosperity, grace, mercy, and forgiveness. They would become an example to the nations, a testament to their god's Awesome Blessings. There are also equally great and wondrous punishments—persecution, captivity, destruction, and ruin. They would become an example to the nations, a testament to their god's Awesome Judgment. Even the Temple that Solomon built would not stand if they did not obey God. Warning: Those who take up with God will be greatly blessed. Those who later take up with other gods will be equally punished. Remember this the next time you consider choosing to be God's Chosen Person on this earth and warn others before becoming a Chosen Person on this earth. It is for anyone; but it is not for everyone.

God's Hesed Endures Forever!

This word has many translations. In the New American Standard Bible it has 19 different renderings! Unfortunately, the richness of this word is completely lost and often flattened to the highly-overused word "love." We could be grateful, since we would not like to read or repeat "For His devout, faithful, good, kind, loyal, merciful, righteous, and unchanging love endures forever." Yet that is what is being presented here. God's [insert wonderful, amazing and long list of exclamations of greatness] never quits! That is also something to weigh before becoming a Chosen Person of God.

Have you decided to become a Chosen Person of God?

June 1 - Psalm 119:89-176: Ode to God's Way Found in God's Word - Part 2

Today’s Reading: Psalm 119:89-176

The Message

English Standard Version

Today we finish the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119. Because the psalm is so long it was split it up into two days' worth of reading. This is the only chapter that is split because of sheer length.
In a technical detail, the psalm is arranged as a grand alphabetic acrostic, meaning the sections follow the Hebrew alphabet and within each section the first letter of every line begins with that letter. There is no easy-to-find English equivalent to this setup; however, there are about a dozen of these versions found in the Bible.
In addition, today's reading marks the end of the concentrated psalms readings. There are 18 psalms remaining (we have read 132!), but they will be spread out from now until the end of September.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Notice how the psalmist's attitude toward the wicked is indifference rather than anger.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 119

(From Wednesday's reading) In this ode to God's way, the writer continuously praises God for His Way that protects His People who study them in His Word.
(From today's reading) God's Way never goes out of fashion. The psalmist loves God's Way and that has made all the difference. All that God has written will help us survive—if God helps us learn. May God's Word always stay with us.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God's Way is always up-to-date.

As a person who loves technology I am amazed at how fast it becomes antiquated. My phone I bought in 2009—four years ago—now lies in the dinosaur tech pile. Philosophies also become dated. How many of us subscribe to the philosophy of "technology will make all things better?" Although there are grains of truth within these philosophies which last, none of them have had the staying power of God's Way. Think about it, I am a man living three to four thousand years after the Bible was written and I have found hundreds of ideas for my life today. That's staying power! God's Word and God's Truth are as dependable as ever.

When the wicked lined up for battle, the psalmist focused on God's plans.

What dedication! I love the reason behind it as well, "I see the limits to everything human, / but the horizons can’t contain your commands!" (v. 96) "As those out to get me come closer and closer, / they go farther and farther from the truth you reveal", (v. 150,The Message). Even teachers' wisdom became too superficial. When we focus on God's Commands, the world's ways will seem shallow and unworthy of our time. In the end you realize the world doesn't understand God's Ways or how God sets things right because they have never looked in God's Word to see how He sets all things right.

Focusing on the Word of God leads to action.

I grew up thinking this psalm was an ode to God's Word. What a limited view of this psalm! God's Word was not intended to guide study. It was intended to guide action! It is in action that God's Way is found—by setting things right.

God is right and God does right!

May 31 - 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; Psalm 72: Solomon Asks for God's Wisdom to Set All Things Right

Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 3-4; 2 Chronicles 1; Psalm 72

The Message

English Standard Version

Today marks five months and 150 days of reading the Bible through in a year! Keep going, you're almost halfway.

Today we begin reading 2 Chronicles. It will lead us through the life of Solomon, the split kingdom, Israel's downfall, and Jerusalem's eventual destruction. Since it chronicles similar events to the books of 1 and 2 Kings (along with several of the prophets) it will take almost three months to finish it.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

God blesses Solomon with all of the perks of setting things right because he asked for the wisdom to set all things right.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Solomon arranged peace with Pharaoh. He sacrificed 1000 animals to God. That night, God informed Solomon he would receive anything he asked. Humbled by his position, he asked for God's wisdom. God granted it.
Two prostitutes fought over a child. Solomon suggested splitting the child in half. The real mother willingly gave up her claim to save him, so Solomon gave the boy to her. Everyone in Israel stood in amazement at Solomon's wisdom.
Solomon's house and city were filled with people and great riches. Solomon's wisdom surpassed that of any sage from any place in the world. Trade flourished.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 72

In this Solomon psalm, he writes in honor of his request given to God. He asks for wisdom, protection for the poor, and justice to tyrants. The enemies of God will fall because God will help all people. May God live and never be forgotten! Blessed is God! Yes!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God chose the best son of David.

David's sons are not known for being very moral people. One son raped his sister and two sons stole his throne before he died. Solomon, however, is completely different. He is so humbled by his position of authority that he wants God's help to rule. When God chooses a leader, He has chosen the best.

Solomon asked for the wisdom to set all things right. So God gave him the perks of setting things right.

Solomon's request was for a higher blessing because the other blessings would have set some things right but only for a short time. Instead, Solomon wanted to set all things right:

Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil. For who on their own is capable of leading your glorious people? (1 Kings 3:9, The Message)

Ask God for blessings that will set all things right.
All of the other blessings of money, wealth, fame, the doom of his enemies, and long life were given to Solomon because they are the result of setting things right. They may not be universal or the only things you receive when you set things right; nonetheless, the troubles that you receive when you set things right pale in comparison in the end. When we set things right, we will receive fame, fortune, long life, and the downfall of our enemies.

Solomon's decision in the dispute between the two prostitutes set things right.

What at first may seem a barbarous act, cutting a child in half, in reality was the decision that set things right. The true mother was willing to give up her claim on the boy to save his life. Because of her willingness to sacrifice herself instead of her son, Solomon settled the dispute in the right way—reuniting mother and son. In any dispute, seek the decision that will set things right—even if it may be strange or counterintuitive.

Solomon was greatly blessed by God.

God promised Israel that if they gave to the poor He would bless them to the point that

there would be no poor among them. Because of Solomon's great wisdom and humility God's blessing came true—the city became so blessed by God that there were virtually no poor people in the city. When God's People seek God's wisdom and act upon it, there will be no needy people among them.

All of the world will fall down and worship God because of His greatness.

Kings far and famous, rich and powerful, polytheists and atheists will worship because they see God's great works,

Because he rescues the poor at the first sign of need,
   the destitute who have run out of luck.
He opens a place in his heart for the down-and-out,
   he restores the wretched of the earth.
He frees them from tyranny and torture—
   when they bleed, he bleeds;
   when they die, he dies. (72:12-14, The Message) 

The greatest part is that this god is our god! How blessed is God, our god! All earth shows His Glory! Yes!

What would you ask for if God were willing to grant anything you asked?

May 30 - Psalm 119:1-88: Ode to God's Way Found in God's Word - Part 1

Today’s Reading: Psalm 119:1-88

The Message

English Standard Version

Today's reading is the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119. Because the psalm is so long we will split it up into two days' worth of reading. This is the only chapter that is split because of length.


In a technical detail, the psalm is arranged as a grand alphabetic acrostic, meaning the sections follow the Hebrew alphabet and the first word of every line within that section begins with that letter. There is no easy-to-find English equivalent to this setup; however, there are about a dozen of these types of psalms found in the Bible.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Consider what God's way will do for you.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 119

In this ode to God's way, the writer continuously praises God for His Way that protects His People who study them in His Word.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

We are blessed when we stay on God's Course.

That is the first way the writer begins praising God's Way. When we stay on the straight road that may seem boring to some, we prevent a life worth regretting. Want to live a life free of regret? Stay on God's course!

While people around you waste time talking about others, be absorbed in God's counsel.

One of the main reasons misunderstandings and problems happen between individuals, groups, and whole cultures centers on the fact that they spend a large amount of time telling each other about that person or those people. These actions cause two issues: 1) they have no time for building relationships with the people they are discussing; and 2) they are bound to get facts mixed with opinion and vice versa. Instead of listening to blabbering about people who are not there (because who would gossip about a person standing right in front of you listening?) do something worthwhile—learn God's path! When this happens, you will find yourself happier, less stressed, and a better person.

Ask God for eyes to see His ways.

This psalmist writes "Open my eyes so I can see / what you show me of your miracle-wonders" (v. 18, The Message). We ask that God provide us the ability to see Him working. We do not call God to work around us because God is already at work around us!

Do you have a bend for God's words of wisdom or of piling up loot?

May 29 - 1 Kings 1-2; Psalms 37, 71, 94: Solomon Carries Out David's Last Wishes

Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 1-2; Psalm 37, 71, 94

The Message

English Standard Version

We begin 1 Kings. It records the death of David and the life of Solomon. It continues on through the divided kingdom up until the death of Ahab. Today we say goodbye to the greatest king of Israel, David.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

David uses Solomon to bring judgment on his old enemies.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

David's servants brought the virgin Abishag to keep him warm.
Adonijah, spoiled by David, called himself king with Joab's and Abiathar's approval. David repeated his promise to make Solomon king with a parade in Solomon's honor to proclaim his legitimacy.
Adonijah begged for his life. Solomon granted it.
As David lay dying, he made Solomon promise to uphold God's commands and avenge those who hurt him in the past.
Adonijah was executed while asking for Abishag's hand in marriage. Abiathar was exiled. Joab was executed. Shimei violated the terms of his house arrest and was executed.
Solomon reigned in peace.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 37

David warns against envying wicked people. If you bring yourself before God humble, open, and righteous your enemies will soon be gone. The wicked are obsessed with hurting the righteous, but in the end they become comical farces. God never abandons His People when they obey Him. God grants a protected, safe life.

Psalm 71

The author runs to God for salvation from the wicked, bad bullies. Since childhood God has never abandoned His People. Don’t start now! The author wants to sing a song of praise to God while those who oppose God are ashamed.

Psalm 94

God, how long will you sit idly by while the wicked get away with murder? You idiots, you think God doesn't know what you do? Blessed are those who are trained by God. He was on my side when I needed Him. Nothing can defeat or trick God.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Once again, David's sons cause him problems.

Once again, David's lack of disciplining his children hurts his kingdom. David already had one son rape his sister and another son take his throne. Now Adonijah has disregarded his father's wishes and made himself king. Parents, discipline your children to prevent headaches in the future.

Joab has turned against David.

You might feel sorry for Joab because he fought for David for so long. He even followed David's orders to take a census of Israel's fighting men. Then Joab was embarrassingly demoted when he killed the traitor Absalom. One cannot help but think that all of these issues led to Joab siding with Adonijah. However, Joab was not a great man. He murdered Abner when he came to discuss peace with David. He killed Amasa as they went to war against Sheba the traitor. Joab was a complex man, but David's and Joab's disdain for each other prevented good communication. Treat your greatest friends with care, they can become your greatest enemies. In Joab and David's case, this enmity caused the death of the former because of the promise made to the latter by his son.

David's last words to Solomon are similar to God's justice.

David's last will and testament to Solomon isn't for the weak. David wants to punish Joab and Shimei because they sinned. Joab murdered two men in cold blood. Shimei cursed David. However, he also blessed the sons of Barzillai. This mirror's God's setting things right because the ones who were guilty were punished but the sons of the righteous were blessed. God will punish all of those who are guilty but bless the offspring of those who are righteous. Before we focus on God's punishment let's consider God's blessings on those who have not earned their blessings.

Solomon carries out justice with mercy.

He does not execute Abiathar because he was God's man even though Abiathar sided with Adonijah. This also fulfilled God's prophecy to Eli that his family would no longer serve as priests. Joab, however, would not be spared. He had killed during peacetime, so he must be punished,

Absolve me and my father’s family of the guilt from Joab’s senseless murders. God is avenging those bloody murders on Joab’s head. Two men he murdered, men better by far than he ever was …. Responsibility for their murders is forever fixed on Joab and his descendants; but for David and his descendants, his family and kingdom, the final verdict is God’s peace. (2:31-33, The Message)

Shimei is allowed to live but is under city arrest. When he violated his terms of arrestment he is punished. Setting things right does not always lead to the absolution of punishment; however, punishments can be lessened.

Envy what is God's and try to succeed by His ways.

If you want to succeed, follow the actions of those who have a long reputation of success. God has an eternity of success. The wicked have a short-spanned success story that ends badly. Don't succeed like them! Envy God's success and emulate His actions to succeed.

God's People will never be in the streets.

This may sound like an overstatement. It also smacks of the Prosperity Gospel that is going throughout the world. However, we must read this as it is meant, as a comparison of God's ways to the wicked's ways. No person that obeys God goes hungry, not because they will always have high-paying jobs that give them lots of disposable income. God's People will never go hungry and live in the street because they are part of a community that sets things right through sharing God's blessings with each other. When we see people who want to go at life alone they may find themselves alone and unable to provide for themselves. When this happens, the best course of action is to surround them with a community. I am a living testament that God's people will never be in the street. When I needed help surviving I have always had a group of God's people willing to help us through. Someday I hope to do the same.

God will never abandon His People!

May 28 - Psalms 111-118: God's Love and His People's Trust - The Formula for Salvation

Today’s Reading: Psalms 111-118

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

These psalms hinge on trust and faith in God.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 111

God's works are so great that they deserve a lifetime of study! Thank you, God! What He gives never goes out of style. The good life begins with respecting God.

Psalm 112

Those who fear God are blessed with healthy children and wealthy homes. Good people have good reputations with honored and beautiful lives. The wicked try to fight but cannot.

Psalm 113

Those who serve God should rejoice! God is a blessing that never ends. Nothing compares to Him and His Works. Hallelujah!

Psalm 114

After Israel left Egypt the earth went out of its way to not hurt them because God was in their presence.

Psalm 115

It is not for our sake we call on God to show His Glory!

Psalm 116

God is worthy of love because He saves us. What can we give back to God? Prayer and obedience. I'll do what I promised God I would do.

Psalm 117

God's Love has taken over! Hallelujah!

Psalm 118

Thanks be to God because His Love never ends! Everyone, join in. God saved us when we needed refuge.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God's works are worth a lifetime of study.

These psalms all show wonderful aspects of God's love for His People. What is wonderful about God is that His Works are worthy of endless praise. God's Works are worth studying because they are pure love. The fact that thousands and thousands of people have dedicated their lives to studying God's Ways and have not exhausted its description proves the psalmist correct: God's works are worthy of a lifetime of study.

Blessed are people who fear God.

Psalm 112 provides several reasons why God's People are blessed. They may not have easy lives, but their lives are not tossed to and fro because of rumors or gossip. They know that God will protect them in the end if they continue to respect Him. To ease troubles, honor and respect God.

We ask God to save us, not for our sake but for God's sake.

What an interesting description. His People do not ask that God save them to make them great. They ask for salvation for God's name to be great. If God's People are ruined, God looks bad among the nations. If God's People are protected, God looks good among the nations. This was Moses' argument when he asked God not to punish Israel. We want the world to compare their gods to our God. If they see God as superior, they will convert. Ask for protection and help from your troubles because of how the world will see God, not how the world will see you.

God's People shout: God's Love never quits!

Psalm 118 provides a great template for God's People to tell the world about God's Love. God responded to our cries and saved us from death! Blessed are those who trust in God! Tell the world—God's Love never quits!

Has God's Love taken over your life?

May 27 - 1 Chronicles 26-29; Psalm 127: David Passes the Crown to Solomon

Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 26-29; Psalm 127

The Message

English Standard Version

1 Chronicles (book 12) ends today. As often in 1 Chronicles, skip chapters 26 and 27 if you are short on time. They list the Tabernacle's security guards, accountants, tribal administrators, and supply officers.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Compare Solomon's coronation to David's first coronation.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

David, unable to build God's Temple because he was a violent man, made Israel's leaders promise to help Solomon build it. He gave Solomon the plans.
David later repeated to all Israel his wishes for Solomon to build a place to meet God. The Israelites gave jewels and precious metals to build the temple. Everyone blessed God. The next day they offered thousands of animals as offerings. Then they ceremonially made Solomon king. Israel unanimously promised loyalty to Solomon. God blessed Solomon greater than his predecessors.
David's reign lasted forty years. He died peacefully as an old man.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 127

Solomon warns that unless God is the builder of a house or city, there can be no adequate protection. Children are the best gift from God.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

David never officially sealed the census numbers.

After being punished for taking a census, David abandoned his plan and never followed through. David learns from God—when God doesn't want you to do something, stop.

David is building consensus of support for Solomon to build the Temple.

The Temple will be a large project that will take decades to complete. David realizes Solomon is too young and inexperienced to lead the people through this tough task. So he makes them promise to help Solomon complete this large endeavor. Leaders, help build consensus among the group for your successors to lead in peace.

David publically hands the baton to Solomon.

To help Israel know Solomon is God's and David's choice for the next king, David charges Solomon with his task in front of all the people. Now no one could claim Solomon was the illegitimate king of Israel. Leaders, transfer power publically to help smoothen transitions.

The Temple was a place for community-building—with people and with God.

The Temple was meant for the nation of Israel to meet and sacrifice to God. It was meant to unify the people around one common objective—worshiping God. In an added benefit, this would also become the place for God to be with His People. This dual function is essential to the legitimacy of the building. Without community-building it becomes a shrine that the people fight over. Without community-building with God it is a ritual place that had no real purpose.
Churches today should also serve both functions—places to meet God and other people. Churches should not be a place only for social gatherings where we sing old songs like dead people and offer up prayers to the ceiling. However, churches should not become so sacred that any notion of community-building brings on accusations of lowering the sanctity of the building. We need to do both.
However, churches are not God's Temple today. Our bodies are (we'll read that in the New Testament). So our bodies should also take on that dual function as well. Treat your body as a place to meet God and meet others.

God wants our true selves.

As David praises God for the Israelites' willingness to give so that the Temple could be made, he includes this great saying,

I know, dear God, that you care nothing for the surface - you want us, our true selves - and so I have given from the heart, honestly and happily. And now see all these people doing the same, giving freely, willingly - what a joy! (29:17, The Message)

When God's people give willingly and freely, God can set things right.

All of Israel swore allegiance to Solomon.

Compare Solomon's coronation to Saul's coronation and David's coronation. It's no coincidence that Solomon was blessed by God more than Saul or David. He had Israel's complete loyalty before taking office. When God's Chosen People follow God's Chosen Leaders, God blesses both greatly.

Do the leaders of your group have your complete loyalty?

May 26 - Psalms 131, 138-139, 143-145: Limitless Praise to a Limitless God

Today’s Reading: Psalms 131, 138-139, 143-145

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Sit back and let David's praise wash over you.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 131

The writer humbly submitted to God and reminds Israel to wait on God with hope.

Psalm 138

David thanks God for all God is. All the earth gives thanks to God for what He has to say. David asks that God strike his foes and save him during times of trouble.

Psalm 139

David believes God is everywhere. How wonderful to have a God who is limitless! God shaped David in every intimate detail and from the very moment he existed in the womb. God's thoughts are beyond comprehension. David tells the wicked to leave—he hates them with the hatred of God. He calls on God to investigate his life so he can be guided to eternal life.

Psalm 143

David wants God to answer his prayer. His enemy has hurt him badly and David wants an answer quickly. He is ready and willing to listen for God's justice to lead him the right way.

Psalm 144

Blessed is God who has helped these puffs of air called humans. David calls for God to come and show His power while he sings a new song to the God of his salvation. He calls for blessings on his children and fields. How blessed are God's People!

Psalm 145

David praises God unceasingly because God is infinitely praiseworthy! Everything about God is amazing and marvelous. God is the eternal benevolent dictator who everyone trusts because He is pure right. God does what is best for everyone! Praise God!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

When the earth hears what God has done, they will sing of God's glory.

Christians for years have struggled to find some way to tell the world about God. Books have been written in every decade giving new approaches to Bible study. However, they fall flat unless they include David's words,

When they hear what you have to say, God,
   all earth’s kings will say “Thank you.”
They’ll sing of what you’ve done:
   “How great the glory of God!” (138:4-5, The Message)

When you do not know how to evangelize, tell the world about what God has done.

God is everywhere. God has a hand in everything. God's thoughts are incomprehensibly good.

Psalm 139 is long because David details all of the areas in which God has been with him or has had a hand in his development. This is why he ends the psalm by telling God to investigate his life. He knows that he will be set on the right path. Submit to God's investigation of your life—He will set you down the right path.

God's reputation is salvation.

David asks that God help him through his troubles in many of his psalms (so much so that I have tried different ways to write the same thing to prevent boredom). In every one David knows God will save him—sometimes more certain than others. Why does David know God will save him? Because God has a reputation of saving David and his ancestors. He saved Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, the children of Israel, and Ruth—just to name a few.
Today, we also have lists of people for whom God has proven trustworthy. This is God's reputation—salvation!

God will never get voted out of office.

God may be a benevolent dictator, but He allows everyone in the world to choose to obey Him or not. Once people understand what God has done and how magnificent His Way is, no one (in their righteous mind) would vote against God! This is why God can be both a dictator and still be voted in. When people learn how wonderful God's Ways are, they will always vote for God.

How blessed are the people who have God as their god!

May 24: Psalms 108-110: David in Battle with a Bitter Enemy

Today’s Reading: Psalms 108-110

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Today's reading takes us through a battle: before, during, and after.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 108

David is ready to sing God's praises. God, full of joy, makes use of Israel for His purposes. David wants to know when he will get to fight again—with God nothing is impossible.

Psalm 109

David is in the middle of a huge problem—he asks that God not ignore his cries for help. He wants God to punish his enemies with curses or death. David is almost unable to continue. He wants God to help him through these issues so He can praise God!

Psalm 110

God asks David's Lord to sit while God destroys His enemies. God's People join Him in His Quest. David's Lord is a permanent priest. God makes His King rule with confidence.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

When God's People serve Him, they become His instruments.

Israel becomes God's way of punishing those who do not obey Him—Moab, Edom, Philistia. Each tribe plays a different role but they all contribute to God setting things right on earth. God can use His People to set things right on this earth when they obey Him.

David is very angry at his enemy.

Psalm 109 is disturbing. You leave wondering how an enemy could be so hated. However, even when David is this disturbed with his enemy he will not exact revenge. He calls on God to do that for him. Never let a person drive you to seek your own revenge.

Remember Psalm 110.

It will be quoted at an important place in the New Testament. Whether David understands all of what he is saying or not is interesting but digresses from the main point. What is important is what he said.

Lord, make us instruments for you to set things right!

May 23 - 2 Samuel 24; 1 Chronicles 21-22; Psalm 30: David's Census Gone Bad; Preparations for the Temple

Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 24; 1 Chronicles 21-22; Psalm 30

The Message

English Standard Version

After a month of skipping around between three books, you have finished 2 Samuel! That makes 11 books read. Only 55 to go.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Consider how David responds when he sees God's punishment.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

David wanted a census of fighting men. Joab and his officials obeyed under protest.
God, angered by David, spoke through Gad and forced David to choose his punishment: three years of famine, three months of fleeing before his enemies, or three days of an epidemic. David chose the epidemic. Seventy thousand people died. God protected Jerusalem. David cried out in repentance.
God's angel told David to build an altar at Araunah's threshing floor. David insisted on buying it when Araunah offered it for free.
In order to facilitate Solomon's building of the temple, David collected all of the raw materials.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 30

David gives God credit for getting him through his mess. David called out and warned God that he would be very difficult to sell if destroyed first. So God saved David and because of it he cannot stop thanking God.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

David wanted a census because he wants to know his strength apart from God.

This section is difficult to read for several reasons, the first being that David is punished for doing something God required Israel to do twice. Why would God punish David for doing a census? The reason is simple—God wanted Israel to realize God alone could protect Israel from their enemies whereas David's census was intended to help him see what king(s) he could defeat apart from God's help. Joab understood this when he told David,

May your God multiply people by the hundreds right before the eyes of my master the king, but why on earth would you do a thing like this? 2 Samuel 24:3, The Message

This is why David is punished—he thought he could do everything alone.
Today, we should caution against participating in church censuses or discussing church sizes. **Note: State censuses are different than church censuses.** A census automatically puts people in the mindset of "look what we built" or "look what is falling apart—what can we do to save it." Discussing church sizes is widely known among pastors and preachers as a topic of much consternation and anxiety. If our goal is to have God grow a community through which he can set all things right, censuses and church sizes are tangential at best and counterproductive at worst. You didn't build that! Don't do a census! (Or spend time looking at blog statistics.) If people see God setting things right through you, they will want to join and God will bring them to you.

The people of Israel are punished because David sinned.

I believe this is why David cries when he sees the angel of God outside the city. He realizes his people have been punished because of his sin and his unwillingness to run from his enemies. When God's Chosen Leaders sin, the people perish.
At the same time, this episode shows David's love for his people. I love his prayer to God,

Please! I’m the one who sinned; I’m the one at fault. But these sheep, what did they do wrong? Punish me, not them, me and my family; don’t take it out on them. (1 Chronicles 21:17, The Message)

Leaders, love your people enough to ask God to punish you instead.

David wants to set things right by sacrificing to God—not going through the motions of an offering.

Araunah understands what is going on and trusts that David's offering would set things right. To facilitate it and honor David, Araunah wants to give him everything. However, David understands that blood is not what God wants. God wants our sacrifices to show our humility before Him. David could not offer a free sacrifice on free wood set on an altar erected on free ground. He had to pay for all of it—not even at a discount.

David finishes well.

In leadership studies, "finishing well" means that you not only finish your own work strong but you set your predecessor up to succeed. David does just this when he arranges to have all of the materials to make the Temple quarried and set aside for his son. Leaders, set your predecessors up to succeed. Challenge everyone to follow their lead.

God gets angry once in a while, but across / a lifetime there is only love (Psalm 30:5).

What an interesting way of putting it. God does get angry from time to time but even his anger is couched in love. God gets angry because He loves us and does not want to see us punished!

Has God turned your mourning into dancing?

May 22 - Psalms 95, 97-99: Psalms in Times of Peace

Today’s Reading: Psalms 95, 97-99

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

These psalms are peaceful psalms.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 95

Come, let us praise God through worship and bowing down because He made us and called us His Chosen People! He tells Israel not to make the same mistakes they made in the wilderness.

Psalm 97

God reigns! The entire earth shows God's power and majesty. All other gods must bow to Him. So His Chosen People should praise God!

Psalm 98

Sing to God because He sets things right! He remembers His Chosen People. They praise him with orchestras and bands—a great tribute to the one who sets things right!

Psalm 99

God rules from heaven! God's great beauty is evident. He is holy! He loves justice and sets a firm foundation for His Chosen People. He is holy! He spoke to us through His priests. He is holy!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

God reigns!

What a refreshing thought after the emotional week last week!

God sets everything right!

David learned this from his trials during his life. God loves justice. All who follow God know this. God sets everything right! Praise God!

God is holy!

May 21 - 2 Samuel 22-23; Psalm 57: David's Final Words of Praise

Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 22-23; Psalm 57

The Message

English Standard Version

Thought to Guide Your Reading

Read 2 Samuel 22 with the mindset of a polytheist learning about Israel's god.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

David finally had peace from all of his enemies. He praised God for being his rock, his refuge, his salvation. God protected him from his enemies through awe-inspiring, grand spectacles of power. He reached down and pulled David out of his troubles.
David's last words gave honor to God as the impetus behind his psalms. He warns to stay away from evil ones for they will seek to destroy God's People.
David's top men included three elites—Josheb-Basshebeth, Eleazar, and Shammah—and thirty second-tier fighters, all capable of great deeds on the battlefield.

Psalm (P)Synopsis

Psalm 57

David, hiding in a cave from Saul, calls out to God to shelter him from the hurricane and protect him from the lions and trappers. David is ready to sing praises to God for his salvation. David begins his praise!

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

David's praises would resonate with polytheist of his day.

We read through some of these lines and think they are uncommon—at least not the way we speak of God today. However, we must see David's words in light of their cultural surroundings. Israel's neighbors on all sides were polytheists. Their gods had impressive stories of great power. However, no matter how great their stories may have been, David's god was greater than any god. This is why he uses such vivid language:

Earth wobbled and lurched;
   the very heavens shook like leaves,
Quaked like aspen leaves
   because of his rage.
His nostrils flared, billowing smoke;
   his mouth spit fire.
Tongues of fire darted in and out;
   he lowered the sky. (22:8-9, The Message)

We might consider this a missionary psalm for David. He is calling to people who live elsewhere to consider the God of Israel. Sing God's praises to people who do not know God as their god with hopes that they come to know Him.

David's praises also show the timelessness of his other psalms.

As antiquated as this version of David's words may be, it highlights how well his other psalms have aged. Consider the 23^rd Psalm's imagery of a lamb protected by a shepherd. Although most Americans do not own sheep, we still understand what a shepherd does. How wonderful that God passed down such a great number of poems that help describe the life of a person dedicated to setting things right for God.

All of David's psalms were written through God's Spirit.

At the end of his life, David gives honor and credit to God for all he has done. His words were from God. He uses his last words to warn against those who are "the devil's henchmen" (23:6, The Message).

May we use our final words to give honor to God for all we have done in our lives!