Today I will comment on the reading from Job 8. So...
Read Job 8
Read 2 Samuel 8
How cruel can Job's "friends" be? Bildad believes the same as Eliphaz, that only the guilty suffer. So, even though Bildad may say some things that we could consider true, his application of those ideas to Job is horrific. Though Job is not perfect, as a man who is righteous before God (because of God's mercy) there is no punishment for his sin. There has to be another explanation for the suffering. Hearing no explanation, Job laments and asks "why" and "how long!"
But his "friends" don't wonder. They think that those who suffer certainly had it coming. Bildad says one of the cruelest things, that Job's children deserved what they got (v. 4). Awful.
Do we fail to have compassion on other brothers and sisters when they suffer? Do we secretly wonder what they did to deserve it? Do we publicly rebuke them or call them to repent? Surely they are sinful, but don't we believe that Christ has taken the punishment for our sin? Yes! So we cannot blame Christians for their suffering. It is much better to understand that they suffer with Christ, not suffer alone in their sin. Yes, we may be left to wonder "why" or "how long," but relying on the forgiveness and strength of Christ, we cannot say cruel things to each other when a brother or sister is suffering. Again, Job's friends did better when they did not try to explain the reason for the suffering. They did well when they just sat with Job in sorrow.
Comments from The Lutheran Study Bible help us even more: "Bildad argues backward: sin produces suffering; therefore, all who suffer must have sinned against God. The Bible does teach that sin brought suffering and death (Rm 5:12), but this does not mean than an individual's suffering is the direct consequence of one particular sin against God. In Christ Jesus, our perfectly righteous Savior, God atoned for all sin (Rm 3:21-26). In the midst of trials, we need constant and regular reassurance of God's love for us, anchored in the cross of Christ. Luther: 'People who have gone through spiritual trials know how necessary it is to support their heart with a sure and strong comfort that will finally bring them back to the hope of grace and help them to forget the wrath. Often a single day or a single month is insufficient for this purpose; but just as the alleviation of sickness requires a long time, so these wounds of the heart are not cured at once or by a single word.'" (TLSB p. 794).
One final comment. Bildad speaks something very true: that if God restores Job, then Job's latter days would be very great, so great that the former days of prosperity would seem small in comparison. Indeed we see this happen in Job's life. And we rejoice to see it! Not that we have confidence in a coming earthly prosperity, but Job's latter prosperity is certainly a picture of what God can (and will) do to restore us forever. We certainly have a heavenly home waiting for us through Christ! - a home with no sickness or death, no lack or want, only provision, abundance, health, and life. Goodbye world of death. Hello New Heavens and New Earth!
Pray:
"Lord, teach me each day to beg your pardon and believe Your promise that even amid suffering, You are working for my good. Amen." (TLSB p. 793)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Offspring of David
Read Job 7
Read 2 Samuel 7
This is a most marvelous chapter of 2 Samuel 7! God promises to build David a house that will last forever, and to place David's offspring on the throne forever. It is an incredible prophecy that is fulfilled in part by Solomon, but is fully fulfilled in the Messiah!
You see, Solomon would certainly inherit the throne and rule in peace. Solomon would certainly build the temple of the Lord. Solomon would prosper and be blessed. But we see that the reign of Solomon does come to an end. Then we see the kingdom gets divided and things get worse from there. Eventually Israel is carried off, Judah is exiled, Jerusalem destroyed and so forth.
It looks as if this promise of God does not come true.
But the promise was deeper and more complex than anyone could have imagined. And it comes to pass that a baby boy is born who is of the royal line of David, who would be established by the Father, who would sit on the throne forever and ever. That heir, that Messiah, is Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ!
Yes, Jesus is the fulfillment of 2 Samuel 7. His house remains forever. His rule extends for all time. His reign is over us now in this age and on into the next.
And what a blessing it is to be in Jesus' gracious rule! He brought us under his gracious reign and benevolent rule through Holy Baptism. He continues to guide and instruct our hearts through his Word. He provides for the needs of this body and life, and he gives us true food for the soul. He grants us everlasting life. We are in his Kingdom now. And then, we will be forever with the Lord, our King, Son of David, Son of God, Jesus.
What cause for rejoicing!
Ask yourself:
Our King has rules. How have I fallen short today? What can I do to better live for my King today?
Our King has grace. How can I better remind myself of the mercy of Christ? How can I drench my speech with it?
Our King has promises. What promises of Christ bring me comfort, hope, and strength today?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Ask God to rule your life with his Word. Rejoice that you are in his gracious Kingdom. Ask for strength to be about the work of bringing others under his gracious rule.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 2 Samuel 7
This is a most marvelous chapter of 2 Samuel 7! God promises to build David a house that will last forever, and to place David's offspring on the throne forever. It is an incredible prophecy that is fulfilled in part by Solomon, but is fully fulfilled in the Messiah!
You see, Solomon would certainly inherit the throne and rule in peace. Solomon would certainly build the temple of the Lord. Solomon would prosper and be blessed. But we see that the reign of Solomon does come to an end. Then we see the kingdom gets divided and things get worse from there. Eventually Israel is carried off, Judah is exiled, Jerusalem destroyed and so forth.
It looks as if this promise of God does not come true.
But the promise was deeper and more complex than anyone could have imagined. And it comes to pass that a baby boy is born who is of the royal line of David, who would be established by the Father, who would sit on the throne forever and ever. That heir, that Messiah, is Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ!
Yes, Jesus is the fulfillment of 2 Samuel 7. His house remains forever. His rule extends for all time. His reign is over us now in this age and on into the next.
And what a blessing it is to be in Jesus' gracious rule! He brought us under his gracious reign and benevolent rule through Holy Baptism. He continues to guide and instruct our hearts through his Word. He provides for the needs of this body and life, and he gives us true food for the soul. He grants us everlasting life. We are in his Kingdom now. And then, we will be forever with the Lord, our King, Son of David, Son of God, Jesus.
What cause for rejoicing!
Ask yourself:
Our King has rules. How have I fallen short today? What can I do to better live for my King today?
Our King has grace. How can I better remind myself of the mercy of Christ? How can I drench my speech with it?
Our King has promises. What promises of Christ bring me comfort, hope, and strength today?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Ask God to rule your life with his Word. Rejoice that you are in his gracious Kingdom. Ask for strength to be about the work of bringing others under his gracious rule.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Suffering Friends
Today I'll comment on our first reading. But before I do...
Read Job 2
Read 2 Samuel 2
Job has lost everything, and now even his health. Whatever we might call the affliction in our modern medical lingo, we can be sure it was a terrible disease. Open oozing sores, pain and probably itching. Job sat in ashes and scraped his body with broken pottery.
Loss of loved ones, loss of earthly wealth, and loss of health. We see it all the time, but hardly ever (if ever) do we see all if it come to one person so suddenly and terribly. And we know from Scripture that it is no fault of Job's.
Now Job has some true friends. They confer together, set a time to meet, and then go to be with Job. These friends are filled with compassion (and here we see the very best of their friendship) they sit and mourn and grieve with Job for 7 days in the dust without saying anything.
And that's the way it should have stayed, at least if they couldn't offer any words of comfort. We are going to see that they end up accusing Job of grievous sins of which he needs to repent. The problem is not that Job had no sin, but the problem was that the friends will draw a direct connection between a particular sin and this particular suffering. In so doing, they offer Job the Law when he needs the comfort of the Gospel concerning God's love and salvation. They rebuke him when he needs encouraging. They try to teach him when he needs to be lifted up.
Soon the friends will go on and on, back and forth with Job, in a heated theological discourse. Sometimes the friends will say true things about God and about Job. Many things they will get wrong. But here in chapter 2 we can learn something from these true friends.
When we see someone hurting and suffering, it is usually not the time to try to teach them, rebuke them, or give them the heavy hammer of the Law. When they are suffering and hurting, that is the time they need us to be with them, to grieve and mourn and suffer with them, to encourage them, and provide whatever comforts we can. Medicine, prayers, helping hands, food, earthly comforts, whatever we can do shows the love of Christ in us and extends that love to them.
Yes there is a time to teach and to call people to repent, but the Book of Job ought to warn us to be very careful in how we do that. When the friends sit and say nothing they get it right. When they start to speak, they only add more suffering to Job.
Let us also remember what Jesus did when he came to earth. He did not come to deal out judgment and punishment. He came to suffer with us, to wrap our broken flesh around his divine glory, and go to the cross. There was no reason for him to suffer - he had done no wrong! There was no reason, other than that he wanted to provide us comfort and peace. Yes Jesus tasted death, and overcame, that we might have ultimate comfort, now and eternally. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
In my circle of influence, who is going through great suffering?
How can I suffer with them? How can I bring comfort?
Is it time to keep my mouth shut? Is it time to open my mouth?
Pray:
Pray for those around you going through a difficult time. Ask for God's wisdom that you might discern correctly when to speak and when to act. Ask for God's strength that you might provide them comfort in their time of need. Thank God for the present and eternal comfort given to you through his Son, Jesus Christ.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Job 2
Read 2 Samuel 2
Job has lost everything, and now even his health. Whatever we might call the affliction in our modern medical lingo, we can be sure it was a terrible disease. Open oozing sores, pain and probably itching. Job sat in ashes and scraped his body with broken pottery.
Loss of loved ones, loss of earthly wealth, and loss of health. We see it all the time, but hardly ever (if ever) do we see all if it come to one person so suddenly and terribly. And we know from Scripture that it is no fault of Job's.
Now Job has some true friends. They confer together, set a time to meet, and then go to be with Job. These friends are filled with compassion (and here we see the very best of their friendship) they sit and mourn and grieve with Job for 7 days in the dust without saying anything.
And that's the way it should have stayed, at least if they couldn't offer any words of comfort. We are going to see that they end up accusing Job of grievous sins of which he needs to repent. The problem is not that Job had no sin, but the problem was that the friends will draw a direct connection between a particular sin and this particular suffering. In so doing, they offer Job the Law when he needs the comfort of the Gospel concerning God's love and salvation. They rebuke him when he needs encouraging. They try to teach him when he needs to be lifted up.
Soon the friends will go on and on, back and forth with Job, in a heated theological discourse. Sometimes the friends will say true things about God and about Job. Many things they will get wrong. But here in chapter 2 we can learn something from these true friends.
When we see someone hurting and suffering, it is usually not the time to try to teach them, rebuke them, or give them the heavy hammer of the Law. When they are suffering and hurting, that is the time they need us to be with them, to grieve and mourn and suffer with them, to encourage them, and provide whatever comforts we can. Medicine, prayers, helping hands, food, earthly comforts, whatever we can do shows the love of Christ in us and extends that love to them.
Yes there is a time to teach and to call people to repent, but the Book of Job ought to warn us to be very careful in how we do that. When the friends sit and say nothing they get it right. When they start to speak, they only add more suffering to Job.
Let us also remember what Jesus did when he came to earth. He did not come to deal out judgment and punishment. He came to suffer with us, to wrap our broken flesh around his divine glory, and go to the cross. There was no reason for him to suffer - he had done no wrong! There was no reason, other than that he wanted to provide us comfort and peace. Yes Jesus tasted death, and overcame, that we might have ultimate comfort, now and eternally. Thanks be to God!
Ask Yourself:
In my circle of influence, who is going through great suffering?
How can I suffer with them? How can I bring comfort?
Is it time to keep my mouth shut? Is it time to open my mouth?
Pray:
Pray for those around you going through a difficult time. Ask for God's wisdom that you might discern correctly when to speak and when to act. Ask for God's strength that you might provide them comfort in their time of need. Thank God for the present and eternal comfort given to you through his Son, Jesus Christ.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Christ-Figures
Having finished 1 Samuel we are going to continue tracking through Israel's history and move right on to 2 Samuel, which is a book entirely about King David, his life and his reign. We'll also take a break from Psalms and read the book of Job. In my notes today we won't have so much of a devotional thought as a few introductory comments to help us understand Job as we go along. So...
Read Job 1
Read 2 Samuel 1
The Lutheran Study Bible provides some notes to help us understand Job as we go through it: "The accusations of Job's friends seem minor when compared with the accusation of Satan, who asks the central question in the Book of Job and sets the theme: 'Does Job fear God for no reason?'...In other words, why should Job or any other person fear, love, and trust in God? Satan wants to show that a person only serves God because He rewards obedience or punishes disobedience. Job's three friends take up this understanding - our relationship to the Almighty is simply a matter of punishment for disobedience or reward for obedience - and they argue with Job about this issue for most of the Book (cf chs 3-31).
"However, Job understands that something greater is at work between God and humanity. Job confesses faith in a redeemer, that the Lord is his Savior...; he has learned true wisdom from the Lord, which comes from 'fear' and repentance." (TLSB p. 779).
There are more helpful comments in the The Lutheran Study Bible, and I highly recommend owning a copy.
But today we see how Job suffers greatly though he had done no wrong. In this way he is very much a Christ figure (though not the Christ himself, obviously). This will be helpful to remember as we read the book.
In our other reading, David (also very much a Christ-figure) mourns the death of Saul and Jonathan. David did not rejoice that Saul was killed. Though Saul was out to kill David, David maintained a pure heart before God and men.
What incredible examples of faith before us today: David with his undeserved love toward Saul, David with his great compassion and love for his friend Jonathan, and Job who would not curse God though everything was taken from him!
May we also live for the Lord in such a way. We can only do this through the forgiveness of Jesus, won on the cross, and by the power of the Spirit, gifted to us through the means of grace. Help us so to live, O Lord!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today regarding all that is weighing on your heart and mind. Then also ask God for strength today to live a holy life, as we see Job and David live today.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Job 1
Read 2 Samuel 1
The Lutheran Study Bible provides some notes to help us understand Job as we go through it: "The accusations of Job's friends seem minor when compared with the accusation of Satan, who asks the central question in the Book of Job and sets the theme: 'Does Job fear God for no reason?'...In other words, why should Job or any other person fear, love, and trust in God? Satan wants to show that a person only serves God because He rewards obedience or punishes disobedience. Job's three friends take up this understanding - our relationship to the Almighty is simply a matter of punishment for disobedience or reward for obedience - and they argue with Job about this issue for most of the Book (cf chs 3-31).
"However, Job understands that something greater is at work between God and humanity. Job confesses faith in a redeemer, that the Lord is his Savior...; he has learned true wisdom from the Lord, which comes from 'fear' and repentance." (TLSB p. 779).
There are more helpful comments in the The Lutheran Study Bible, and I highly recommend owning a copy.
But today we see how Job suffers greatly though he had done no wrong. In this way he is very much a Christ figure (though not the Christ himself, obviously). This will be helpful to remember as we read the book.
In our other reading, David (also very much a Christ-figure) mourns the death of Saul and Jonathan. David did not rejoice that Saul was killed. Though Saul was out to kill David, David maintained a pure heart before God and men.
What incredible examples of faith before us today: David with his undeserved love toward Saul, David with his great compassion and love for his friend Jonathan, and Job who would not curse God though everything was taken from him!
May we also live for the Lord in such a way. We can only do this through the forgiveness of Jesus, won on the cross, and by the power of the Spirit, gifted to us through the means of grace. Help us so to live, O Lord!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today regarding all that is weighing on your heart and mind. Then also ask God for strength today to live a holy life, as we see Job and David live today.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Tragedy and Hope
Read Psalm 129
Read 1 Samuel 31
Our Psalm today is about the Divine justice of God poured out upon the wicked. We see that carried out in a dramatic way in our 1 Samuel 31 reading. Saul, a very tragic figure, comes to a gruesome end.
Along the way Saul and David were strongly contrasted in the narrative. Saul wanted to murder and kill so he could stay in power. David stayed his hand from harming Saul, even though he had the opportunity several times. Saul was filled with hate; David with mercy. Saul took the sinful road; David walked the righteous road.
In this way, David very much foreshadows Christ. David's righteousness and holiness, and his eventual reign over Israel very much foreshadows the kingdom that Jesus proclaimed and then ushered into existence. So hearing about David is very encouraging to us.
But we will also see that David is not perfect. He is a flawed figure. But even David's flaws can give us comfort. Here's why: In David we see that God is merciful to the broken sinner.
Now Saul continued to persist in sin and did not want to walk in God's ways, or repent and turn to him. All Saul wanted was to stay in power. David, on the other hand, had a humble trusting faith in a merciful God. And as long as we do the same, there is hope.
So in Saul we see tragedy. But in David we see there is hope - hope because of the Messiah that David foreshadowed, hope because even David's sins could be forgiven, hope because David found strength in Almighty God to be a powerful, wise, just, and Godly king!
So, as we continue on to reading 2 Samuel, we look forward to learning more about David, his faith, his foreshadowing of Christ, and even of his failures. Thanks be to God that there is forgiveness and strength for us as well because of our merciful Savior, Jesus Christ, who died and rose for us!
Pray:
Pray from your hearts today. Pray for the lost, that they do not face the same tragic end that Saul faced. Pray for yourself, that God would continue to forgive and strengthen you. Pray that he would use you to exhort and encourage others with the Word of God.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 31
Our Psalm today is about the Divine justice of God poured out upon the wicked. We see that carried out in a dramatic way in our 1 Samuel 31 reading. Saul, a very tragic figure, comes to a gruesome end.
Along the way Saul and David were strongly contrasted in the narrative. Saul wanted to murder and kill so he could stay in power. David stayed his hand from harming Saul, even though he had the opportunity several times. Saul was filled with hate; David with mercy. Saul took the sinful road; David walked the righteous road.
In this way, David very much foreshadows Christ. David's righteousness and holiness, and his eventual reign over Israel very much foreshadows the kingdom that Jesus proclaimed and then ushered into existence. So hearing about David is very encouraging to us.
But we will also see that David is not perfect. He is a flawed figure. But even David's flaws can give us comfort. Here's why: In David we see that God is merciful to the broken sinner.
Now Saul continued to persist in sin and did not want to walk in God's ways, or repent and turn to him. All Saul wanted was to stay in power. David, on the other hand, had a humble trusting faith in a merciful God. And as long as we do the same, there is hope.
So in Saul we see tragedy. But in David we see there is hope - hope because of the Messiah that David foreshadowed, hope because even David's sins could be forgiven, hope because David found strength in Almighty God to be a powerful, wise, just, and Godly king!
So, as we continue on to reading 2 Samuel, we look forward to learning more about David, his faith, his foreshadowing of Christ, and even of his failures. Thanks be to God that there is forgiveness and strength for us as well because of our merciful Savior, Jesus Christ, who died and rose for us!
Pray:
Pray from your hearts today. Pray for the lost, that they do not face the same tragic end that Saul faced. Pray for yourself, that God would continue to forgive and strengthen you. Pray that he would use you to exhort and encourage others with the Word of God.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Revelation
Read Psalm 126
Read 1 Samuel 28
I cannot really explain this reading from 1 Samuel today. It is a bizarre story to say the least. God spoke through a dead prophet conjured up by an exiled medium? Wow!
I supposed we might argue about whether it was really Samuel or not...his soul was with his God in heaven, right? We might argue about what the medium did or did not do. We could squabble over details of the story.
But we can be sure of a few things. We know God does not condone the consulting of mediums and spirits and the souls of the dead (if indeed the latter is even possible). That would be wickedness and idolatry. We are to consult the Word of God, and God-fearing people who can teach it and explain it.
Now, you might point out that Saul tried to consult God in the proper way, through means that God had set up in Old Testament times. Saul prayed, but received no dreams, no revelations. The prophets were not given an answer by God. Neither did Urim (Urim and Thummim were stones attached to the prophets garments. A strange system for us, but one that God chose to use to communicate). Here's the problem: Saul was looking for a different answer than the one already given.
Saul had already been told by God that the Lord had left him and was taking the kingdom away from him. Yet Saul did not repent and did not relinquish his kingdom. I would imagine things would have turned out much better for Saul if he would have accepted the consequences, turned his kingdom over to David and sought the Lord's mercy. But he didn't. I imagine the situation is much more like a person who refuses to give up wicked sinfulness, yet continues to search the Scriptures for a different answer. No, the answer has been given. The person gives up and seeks his own preservation from other sources, evil ones at that.
Saul's doom is almost upon him. But we can learn from him. We don't need to consult mediums, spirits, things contrary to God. We shouldn't follow our wicked hearts or listen to unruly and disobedient friends. The source of accurate and true Revelation is the Bible. Plain and simple.
And the Bible proclaims to us the truth: the truth about what God demands and the truth about God's mercy. God could have put all kinds of things in the Bible, but he put the news about our sinfallen condition and then the news about our Savior in his Word that we might die to sin and rise to newness of life. "These things are written that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31). Thanks be to God!
Pray:
"Lord, keep us close through Your means of grace, by which we are spared the desperation and darkness so tragically evident in Saul's life. When we are uncertain, grant us patience and comfort through Your Holy Word and the consolation of true brothers and sisters in the faith. Amen." (TLSB p. 482)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 28
I cannot really explain this reading from 1 Samuel today. It is a bizarre story to say the least. God spoke through a dead prophet conjured up by an exiled medium? Wow!
I supposed we might argue about whether it was really Samuel or not...his soul was with his God in heaven, right? We might argue about what the medium did or did not do. We could squabble over details of the story.
But we can be sure of a few things. We know God does not condone the consulting of mediums and spirits and the souls of the dead (if indeed the latter is even possible). That would be wickedness and idolatry. We are to consult the Word of God, and God-fearing people who can teach it and explain it.
Now, you might point out that Saul tried to consult God in the proper way, through means that God had set up in Old Testament times. Saul prayed, but received no dreams, no revelations. The prophets were not given an answer by God. Neither did Urim (Urim and Thummim were stones attached to the prophets garments. A strange system for us, but one that God chose to use to communicate). Here's the problem: Saul was looking for a different answer than the one already given.
Saul had already been told by God that the Lord had left him and was taking the kingdom away from him. Yet Saul did not repent and did not relinquish his kingdom. I would imagine things would have turned out much better for Saul if he would have accepted the consequences, turned his kingdom over to David and sought the Lord's mercy. But he didn't. I imagine the situation is much more like a person who refuses to give up wicked sinfulness, yet continues to search the Scriptures for a different answer. No, the answer has been given. The person gives up and seeks his own preservation from other sources, evil ones at that.
Saul's doom is almost upon him. But we can learn from him. We don't need to consult mediums, spirits, things contrary to God. We shouldn't follow our wicked hearts or listen to unruly and disobedient friends. The source of accurate and true Revelation is the Bible. Plain and simple.
And the Bible proclaims to us the truth: the truth about what God demands and the truth about God's mercy. God could have put all kinds of things in the Bible, but he put the news about our sinfallen condition and then the news about our Savior in his Word that we might die to sin and rise to newness of life. "These things are written that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31). Thanks be to God!
Pray:
"Lord, keep us close through Your means of grace, by which we are spared the desperation and darkness so tragically evident in Saul's life. When we are uncertain, grant us patience and comfort through Your Holy Word and the consolation of true brothers and sisters in the faith. Amen." (TLSB p. 482)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
On Our Side
Read Psalm 124
Read 1 Samuel 26
Our two readings go together today. Saul is still pursuing David. In human terms, David is no match for the fearsome king and his host. But David has something that Saul does not: the LORD. Yes, as the Psalm says, if the Lord had not been on David's side, he would certainly be in danger of great harm and even destruction. Saul would certainly vanquish. But David has the Lord's protection, and so David was able to defy a host.
He snuck up to Saul, that is, he crept quietly through sleeping armies, right up to Saul's personal protecting officer, and right up to the King himself, and snuck out the way he came in. David did not allow Saul to be killed (he took the high road, as we saw a couple chapters earlier). But David once again called the king out. Saul was wickedly pursuing, and David was pointing it out, while at the same time maintaining his righteousness and right standing before God.
David is a great example for us. And this story along with Psalm 124 gives us great assurance that the Lord is our helper and our protection. God is on our side. Not that we were so holy and righteous and perfect that God had to be on our side, but in his merciful goodness and undeserved love God chose to make us sinners (who are naturally his enemies) his friends. We were rescued from our sin through the cross of Jesus and were put on God's army. Now that we are by grace through faith in God's army, we can be sure that God is "on our side." We have his angels watching over us. No harm can come near us if God does not allow it. No enemy can captures us. We too can defy a host.
Which reminds me of a good Paul Gerhardt hymn...
If God Himself be for me,
I may a host defy;
For when I pray, before me
My foes, confounded, fly.
If Christ, my head and master,
Befriend me from above,
What foe or what disaster
Can drive me from His love?
He canceled my offenses,
Delivered me from death;
He is the Lord who cleanses
My soul from sin through faith.
In Him I can be cheerful,
Courageous on my way;
In Him I am not fearful
Of God's great Judgment Day.
(LSB 724:1, 4)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 26
Our two readings go together today. Saul is still pursuing David. In human terms, David is no match for the fearsome king and his host. But David has something that Saul does not: the LORD. Yes, as the Psalm says, if the Lord had not been on David's side, he would certainly be in danger of great harm and even destruction. Saul would certainly vanquish. But David has the Lord's protection, and so David was able to defy a host.
He snuck up to Saul, that is, he crept quietly through sleeping armies, right up to Saul's personal protecting officer, and right up to the King himself, and snuck out the way he came in. David did not allow Saul to be killed (he took the high road, as we saw a couple chapters earlier). But David once again called the king out. Saul was wickedly pursuing, and David was pointing it out, while at the same time maintaining his righteousness and right standing before God.
David is a great example for us. And this story along with Psalm 124 gives us great assurance that the Lord is our helper and our protection. God is on our side. Not that we were so holy and righteous and perfect that God had to be on our side, but in his merciful goodness and undeserved love God chose to make us sinners (who are naturally his enemies) his friends. We were rescued from our sin through the cross of Jesus and were put on God's army. Now that we are by grace through faith in God's army, we can be sure that God is "on our side." We have his angels watching over us. No harm can come near us if God does not allow it. No enemy can captures us. We too can defy a host.
Which reminds me of a good Paul Gerhardt hymn...
If God Himself be for me,
I may a host defy;
For when I pray, before me
My foes, confounded, fly.
If Christ, my head and master,
Befriend me from above,
What foe or what disaster
Can drive me from His love?
He canceled my offenses,
Delivered me from death;
He is the Lord who cleanses
My soul from sin through faith.
In Him I can be cheerful,
Courageous on my way;
In Him I am not fearful
Of God's great Judgment Day.
(LSB 724:1, 4)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Vengeance and Mediation
Read Psalm 123
Read 1 Samuel 25
David and his men had protected Nabal from great harm. Yet Nabal, a foolish drunkard of a man, insulted David by not thanking him, not providing any sort of payment or gift of appreciation, and by pretending that he didn't even know who David was.
David's anger got the better of him and he decided to take revenge. Certainly in his wrath David would have gone to far - he was determined to wipe out every male! Soon the fool Nabal would die and his men with him, and David would be guilty of great bloodshed. It was going to be a bad situation all around.
Until a woman steps in. She was beautiful, but more importantly, she was discerning. She knew Nabal was insulting David, and she knew David could easily wipe them all out. She provides David what he earned, a thank offering of sorts. She persuades him not to be violent. She tells Nabal what she had done, and the Lord struck him right then and there with some sort of debilitating affliction that took his life 10 days later.
We are reminded that vengeance is the Lord's. We are naturally prone to overreact to insult. Like David we strap on a sword and go to war. Maybe the person deserves our wrath, but still vengeance belongs to God. And maybe the person might not even deserve our wrath. We may mis-characterize, misconstrue, or misunderstand the other person. We often go to war against someone on the same team (that is, the Lord's team).
We also learn the importance of mediation. Abigail is a wonderful example. She risks the wrath of her husband. She risks danger from the soon-to-be king, a man currently incited to wrath against Nabal. There was a lot at stake, but her wisdom prevails.
In this way, she points us to Christ. Jesus refused to take revenge on his enemies. In fact, he came into this world to save his enemies and make them his friends. And in order to mediate for them (really, for us) he had to face the wrath of his Father. This he did willingly.
In the end, his shed blood prevents our deserved bloodshed. His life given prevents our execution. And of course I'm talking spiritually, that is, we do not suffer the death and destruction of the eternal hellfire.
What a Savior! What a mediator, who pleads on our behalf! Maybe, just maybe, by his strength we can show mercy too, and leave vengeance up to him...
You think? Lord help us!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Ask God for help in turning the other cheek and overlooking offenses. Ask God to help you show mercy and leave vengeance up to him. Thank God that he has shown you mercy instead of punishment. Amen!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Read 1 Samuel 25
David and his men had protected Nabal from great harm. Yet Nabal, a foolish drunkard of a man, insulted David by not thanking him, not providing any sort of payment or gift of appreciation, and by pretending that he didn't even know who David was.
David's anger got the better of him and he decided to take revenge. Certainly in his wrath David would have gone to far - he was determined to wipe out every male! Soon the fool Nabal would die and his men with him, and David would be guilty of great bloodshed. It was going to be a bad situation all around.
Until a woman steps in. She was beautiful, but more importantly, she was discerning. She knew Nabal was insulting David, and she knew David could easily wipe them all out. She provides David what he earned, a thank offering of sorts. She persuades him not to be violent. She tells Nabal what she had done, and the Lord struck him right then and there with some sort of debilitating affliction that took his life 10 days later.
We are reminded that vengeance is the Lord's. We are naturally prone to overreact to insult. Like David we strap on a sword and go to war. Maybe the person deserves our wrath, but still vengeance belongs to God. And maybe the person might not even deserve our wrath. We may mis-characterize, misconstrue, or misunderstand the other person. We often go to war against someone on the same team (that is, the Lord's team).
We also learn the importance of mediation. Abigail is a wonderful example. She risks the wrath of her husband. She risks danger from the soon-to-be king, a man currently incited to wrath against Nabal. There was a lot at stake, but her wisdom prevails.
In this way, she points us to Christ. Jesus refused to take revenge on his enemies. In fact, he came into this world to save his enemies and make them his friends. And in order to mediate for them (really, for us) he had to face the wrath of his Father. This he did willingly.
In the end, his shed blood prevents our deserved bloodshed. His life given prevents our execution. And of course I'm talking spiritually, that is, we do not suffer the death and destruction of the eternal hellfire.
What a Savior! What a mediator, who pleads on our behalf! Maybe, just maybe, by his strength we can show mercy too, and leave vengeance up to him...
You think? Lord help us!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today. Ask God for help in turning the other cheek and overlooking offenses. Ask God to help you show mercy and leave vengeance up to him. Thank God that he has shown you mercy instead of punishment. Amen!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Monday, September 13, 2010
High Road
Read Psalm 122
Read 1 Samuel 24
The kingdom will soon be taken from Saul and given to David. Though it was Saul's own fault, and though David had done nothing deserving of death, Saul was hellbent on killing him.
David has an opportunity to kill Saul. David and his men are hiding in a cave, and Saul comes in to "relieve himself," that is, to go to the bathroom, so to speak. The desire for privacy left Saul completely unprotected. I guess he didn't expect that the man he was hunting was right under his nose, even in the very cave.
David sneaks up and cuts the corner of Saul's robe. (Had Saul taken the robe off and laid it aside?) You might guess that David's men urged him to kill Saul, but of course he doesn't.
Later David would quote a proverb of the day, "Out of the wicked comes wickedness." He knew it was not for him to kill the one the Lord had established as King. It was the Lord who established him and it would be the Lord who would remove him. David knew that to kill Saul would be a wicked thing, and it was not for a righteous man (David) to do wicked.
We have a proverb in our day too, a saying that helps remind us how to act. It's, "Take the high road." It is easy to retaliate. It is easy to take advantage. It is easy to act in one's own best interest. It is easy to climb on the backs of the weak in order to reach the top. It is easy to act wickedly, but it is hard to take the high road.
Today we are encouraged to take the high road like David, who was a righteous man, a man after God's own heart. So by the strength of the Spirit, let us do what is right, turn the other cheek, serve others, turn away wrath with a kind word, and take the high road.
And let us remember that David foreshadows the One who would take the ultimate high road: Jesus. Yes, Jesus always took the high road and acted always for others, in their best interest, with true, genuine love for them. Even a rebuke from Jesus was meant for their good. And his Good News heals all wounds! Jesus took the high road, always doing what was right, even walking the high road up Mount Calvary. There he allowed himself to be crucified that we might have life. The sinless one dies for the sinners. Now that's the high road!
There you have it: forgiveness for the times you took the low road, strength for taking the high road today, and the promise that because Jesus took the high road, we who are in him will also make it to heaven. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
You know your struggles, and how difficult it is to take the high road in whatever your life situation might be. Pray about that today. Ask God for strength, wisdom, courage, and the ability to live a God pleasing life.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 24
The kingdom will soon be taken from Saul and given to David. Though it was Saul's own fault, and though David had done nothing deserving of death, Saul was hellbent on killing him.
David has an opportunity to kill Saul. David and his men are hiding in a cave, and Saul comes in to "relieve himself," that is, to go to the bathroom, so to speak. The desire for privacy left Saul completely unprotected. I guess he didn't expect that the man he was hunting was right under his nose, even in the very cave.
David sneaks up and cuts the corner of Saul's robe. (Had Saul taken the robe off and laid it aside?) You might guess that David's men urged him to kill Saul, but of course he doesn't.
Later David would quote a proverb of the day, "Out of the wicked comes wickedness." He knew it was not for him to kill the one the Lord had established as King. It was the Lord who established him and it would be the Lord who would remove him. David knew that to kill Saul would be a wicked thing, and it was not for a righteous man (David) to do wicked.
We have a proverb in our day too, a saying that helps remind us how to act. It's, "Take the high road." It is easy to retaliate. It is easy to take advantage. It is easy to act in one's own best interest. It is easy to climb on the backs of the weak in order to reach the top. It is easy to act wickedly, but it is hard to take the high road.
Today we are encouraged to take the high road like David, who was a righteous man, a man after God's own heart. So by the strength of the Spirit, let us do what is right, turn the other cheek, serve others, turn away wrath with a kind word, and take the high road.
And let us remember that David foreshadows the One who would take the ultimate high road: Jesus. Yes, Jesus always took the high road and acted always for others, in their best interest, with true, genuine love for them. Even a rebuke from Jesus was meant for their good. And his Good News heals all wounds! Jesus took the high road, always doing what was right, even walking the high road up Mount Calvary. There he allowed himself to be crucified that we might have life. The sinless one dies for the sinners. Now that's the high road!
There you have it: forgiveness for the times you took the low road, strength for taking the high road today, and the promise that because Jesus took the high road, we who are in him will also make it to heaven. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
You know your struggles, and how difficult it is to take the high road in whatever your life situation might be. Pray about that today. Ask God for strength, wisdom, courage, and the ability to live a God pleasing life.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Can you tell I've been busy? I'll try to have some more comments next week. But the most important part of this study is that we read God's Word and apply it to our lives. So with that in mind...
Read Psalm 121
Read 1 Samuel 23
Read Psalm 121
Read 1 Samuel 23
Friday, September 10, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Loyalty
Read Psalm 119:161-168 (Sin and Shin)
Read 1 Samuel 20
Jonathan was heir to the throne. Yet Jonathan knowingly helps his best friend, David, who was being given the throne. Jonathan could have been tempted by the power and prestige of the throne. But Jonathan acts only in David's best interest.
Even if it meant going against his father, King Saul. Jonathan will not help Saul in his murderous pursuits. Saul even reminds his son that he (Jonathan) will never have the throne or the kingdom as long as David is a live. You can almost see the Devil speaking through Saul to try and tempt Jonathan to sin.
But Jonathan doesn't do what is wrong, selfish, or sinful. He only acts in a truly, Godly, selfless love. Jonathan is loyal to his friend, David. He is loyal to him because he is loyal to the Lord, the One True God, and King over Israel.
Jonathan is willing to risk it all to do what is right.
That is hard for us to do sometimes. Only by the strength of the Spirit can we succeed. Let us pray we will do what is right, even when we are caught in the middle of a loyalty conflict. Sometimes our Godly actions will be unappreciated by those around us, even beloved family members. But following Jonathan's example, we can act in selfless love, even if it means spears thrown at us.
I pray no javelins fly at you today. But I do pray that if you are in a loyalty battle, that by God's strength you will do what is good and right. No backstabbing, no selfish sell-outs, no slander, no thievery, no greed, pride, or covetousness. Just love. Christlike, selfless love. So help us God!
And let us always remember that Jesus was loyal to us! He came to seek and save the lost (us), and he stuck to his course, said "no" to all the various temptations of the devil, went obediently to the cross, and rose victorious from the dead. His loyalty forgives us for all the times we made the wrong choice and had mixed up priorities. Think about that: forgiven. Sins truly removed. A new life graciously given. Now that makes us want to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, doesn't it!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning the loyalty conflicts in your life. Ask God to guide you in all wisdom and holiness, and by the strength of his Spirit to empower you to do what is right.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read 1 Samuel 20
Jonathan was heir to the throne. Yet Jonathan knowingly helps his best friend, David, who was being given the throne. Jonathan could have been tempted by the power and prestige of the throne. But Jonathan acts only in David's best interest.
Even if it meant going against his father, King Saul. Jonathan will not help Saul in his murderous pursuits. Saul even reminds his son that he (Jonathan) will never have the throne or the kingdom as long as David is a live. You can almost see the Devil speaking through Saul to try and tempt Jonathan to sin.
But Jonathan doesn't do what is wrong, selfish, or sinful. He only acts in a truly, Godly, selfless love. Jonathan is loyal to his friend, David. He is loyal to him because he is loyal to the Lord, the One True God, and King over Israel.
Jonathan is willing to risk it all to do what is right.
That is hard for us to do sometimes. Only by the strength of the Spirit can we succeed. Let us pray we will do what is right, even when we are caught in the middle of a loyalty conflict. Sometimes our Godly actions will be unappreciated by those around us, even beloved family members. But following Jonathan's example, we can act in selfless love, even if it means spears thrown at us.
I pray no javelins fly at you today. But I do pray that if you are in a loyalty battle, that by God's strength you will do what is good and right. No backstabbing, no selfish sell-outs, no slander, no thievery, no greed, pride, or covetousness. Just love. Christlike, selfless love. So help us God!
And let us always remember that Jesus was loyal to us! He came to seek and save the lost (us), and he stuck to his course, said "no" to all the various temptations of the devil, went obediently to the cross, and rose victorious from the dead. His loyalty forgives us for all the times we made the wrong choice and had mixed up priorities. Think about that: forgiven. Sins truly removed. A new life graciously given. Now that makes us want to be loyal to our Lord and Savior, doesn't it!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning the loyalty conflicts in your life. Ask God to guide you in all wisdom and holiness, and by the strength of his Spirit to empower you to do what is right.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Monday, September 6, 2010
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Friday, September 3, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
To Obey
Read Psalm 119:121-128 (Ayin)
Read 1 Samuel 15
In the last few chapters we have seen Saul begin to follow a pattern of taking matters into his own hands and not seeking the favor and direction of the Lord. He offered unauthorized sacrifices and was rebuked for it in Chapter 13. He makes a very rash and foolish vow in Chapter 14 that almost cost the life of his son, Jonathan. The vow was also harmful to the people as they got weaker and weaker while pursuing the Philistines. Now in Chapter 15 he goes against a direct order of God to completely wipe out the Amalekites. He tries to convince Samuel that he has followed all the orders of God, but Samuel asks, "What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears and the lowing of the oxen that I hear?" (v. 14).
The answer given him was that the people wanted to give the best of the spoils to God. I have serious doubts whether this was true or not. Saul may have been trying to pull one over on Samuel. They may have fully intended to keep it (maybe offering some of it to God). But even if they were going to sacrifice all of it to God, it is not an excusable offense. God does not permit worship that is against God's Word.
We cannot go directly against what God says and then proclaim, "It is for the Lord! It is for the Lord!" Yet, this is a trap that is always waiting for us. Luther pointed out many ways the Church was doing this in his day. They were going against a clear Word of Scripture, "worshipping" in sinful ways, and declaring "It is for the Lord!" Unfortunately, many of these practices are still around today.
But to make it more personal, it doesn't just happen in churches. It can happen in our life. We declare that we are Christians and that we want to glorify God in all that we think, say, and do, yet we know we fall far short of that time and time again. This is sin. We can talk about "pouring out our hearts" and "just glorifying God," but if our deeds are sinful, then we act as Saul has acted. And we see the horrible, tragic end of this chapter. The Lord has left Saul. Now, that's a loaded statement. It means that God no longer approves of him, God will no longer help and deliver him, God no longer validates his rule. Though Saul clings to the throne for a while, his rule is as good as gone.
O Lord, never leave us! Friends, we have sin, but we can rejoice that God is gracious and merciful. God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all iniquity. Let us confess our sin freely before him.
And then let us remember that "to obey is better than sacrifice" (v. 22). Rather than all sorts of false worship and lip service, God wants us to hear his Word and walk in his ways. Then things will go well for us.
We have the full and free forgiveness of Jesus, won on the cross and validated in his empty grave. He freely gives us his Spirit that we might walk in his ways. Then, let us do as our Psalm today says, and love his commandments and consider his precepts to be right. (Psalm 119:127-128).
Pray:
"Heavenly Father, forgive us for the many times we have not followed Your Word completely. We can never thank You enough for Jesus' sacrifice for our sins. Renew in us daily the will and ability to live for Him who died for us. Amen." (TLSB p. 460).
Read 1 Samuel 15
In the last few chapters we have seen Saul begin to follow a pattern of taking matters into his own hands and not seeking the favor and direction of the Lord. He offered unauthorized sacrifices and was rebuked for it in Chapter 13. He makes a very rash and foolish vow in Chapter 14 that almost cost the life of his son, Jonathan. The vow was also harmful to the people as they got weaker and weaker while pursuing the Philistines. Now in Chapter 15 he goes against a direct order of God to completely wipe out the Amalekites. He tries to convince Samuel that he has followed all the orders of God, but Samuel asks, "What then is this bleating of the sheep in my ears and the lowing of the oxen that I hear?" (v. 14).
The answer given him was that the people wanted to give the best of the spoils to God. I have serious doubts whether this was true or not. Saul may have been trying to pull one over on Samuel. They may have fully intended to keep it (maybe offering some of it to God). But even if they were going to sacrifice all of it to God, it is not an excusable offense. God does not permit worship that is against God's Word.
We cannot go directly against what God says and then proclaim, "It is for the Lord! It is for the Lord!" Yet, this is a trap that is always waiting for us. Luther pointed out many ways the Church was doing this in his day. They were going against a clear Word of Scripture, "worshipping" in sinful ways, and declaring "It is for the Lord!" Unfortunately, many of these practices are still around today.
But to make it more personal, it doesn't just happen in churches. It can happen in our life. We declare that we are Christians and that we want to glorify God in all that we think, say, and do, yet we know we fall far short of that time and time again. This is sin. We can talk about "pouring out our hearts" and "just glorifying God," but if our deeds are sinful, then we act as Saul has acted. And we see the horrible, tragic end of this chapter. The Lord has left Saul. Now, that's a loaded statement. It means that God no longer approves of him, God will no longer help and deliver him, God no longer validates his rule. Though Saul clings to the throne for a while, his rule is as good as gone.
O Lord, never leave us! Friends, we have sin, but we can rejoice that God is gracious and merciful. God is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all iniquity. Let us confess our sin freely before him.
And then let us remember that "to obey is better than sacrifice" (v. 22). Rather than all sorts of false worship and lip service, God wants us to hear his Word and walk in his ways. Then things will go well for us.
We have the full and free forgiveness of Jesus, won on the cross and validated in his empty grave. He freely gives us his Spirit that we might walk in his ways. Then, let us do as our Psalm today says, and love his commandments and consider his precepts to be right. (Psalm 119:127-128).
Pray:
"Heavenly Father, forgive us for the many times we have not followed Your Word completely. We can never thank You enough for Jesus' sacrifice for our sins. Renew in us daily the will and ability to live for Him who died for us. Amen." (TLSB p. 460).
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
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