TAKE TIME: October 28-November 2 Reading Schedule

Introduction: This week we will read of David's successes that showcase his use of the sword to triumph over his enemies. Then we will read of the sin that showcases the sword hanging over his family for the rest of his life. It might not seem like it, but in both of these times David was a man living by grace. It is as simple as that.

 Assignment:

• Monday - II Samuel chapter 8
• Tuesday - II Samuel chapter 9
• Wednesday - II Samuel chapter 10
• Thursday - II Samuel chapter 11
• Friday - II Samuel chapter 12
• Saturday - Psalm 51

Memory Verse

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from sin. Psalm 51:1-2


Prayer Journal (ACTS)

• Adoration - This week take time each day to praise God for His mercy!
• Confession - Ask God to reveal hidden sin in your life and then confess it.
• Thanksgiving - Thank God for any answers to your prayers.
• Supplication - What are your prayer requests this week? List them for future reference so that you can see how God answers.

Search the Scriptures

Look for references for each of the following:

• Promises that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?
• References that either refer to or infer something about future events.
• What does this passage teach about Jesus?
• Commandments that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?

Putting the Word into Action

Our reading this week documents the triumphs and defeats of David's physical and spiritual life. Trick or treaters will soon be knocking on the door! Why not give them the treat of a gospel witness along with plenty of goodies (and that does not necessarily mean just candy)?

Read Through the Bible in 2013: October 28-November 2 Schedule

10/28/2013	Ezekiel 36, 37	Psalms 96-98
10/29/2013	Ezekiel 38, 39	Psalms 99-101
10/30/2013	Ezekiel 40-42	Psalms 102, 103
10/31/2013	Ezekiel 43, 44	Psalm 104
11/1/2013	Ezekiel 45, 46	Psalm 105
11/2/2013	Ezekiel 47, 48	Psalm 106

TAKE TIME: October 21-26, 2013 Reading Schedule

Introduction: Saul has died but it takes 7 years before David's coronation over the whole nation. There was quite a bit of bloodshed during the transition from the Saul dynasty to that of David.

 Assignment:

• Monday - II Samuel chapter 2
• Tuesday - II Samuel chapter 3
• Wednesday - II Samuel 4:1-5:12
• Thursday - II Samuel 5:13-6:23
• Friday - II Samuel chapter 7
• Saturday - Psalm 30

Memory Verse

Then went king David in, and sat before the LORD, and he said, Who am I, O Lord GOD? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? And this was yet a small thing in thy sight, O LORD GOD; but thou hast spoken also of thy servant's house for a great while to come. And is this the manner of man, O LORD GOD? II Samuel 7:18-19


Prayer Journal (ACTS)

• Adoration - This week take time each day to praise God for His majesty!
• Confession - Ask God to reveal hidden sin in your life and then confess it.
• Thanksgiving - Thank God for any answers to your prayers.
• Supplication - What are your prayer requests this week? List them for future reference so that you can see how God answers.

Search the Scriptures

Look for references for each of the following:

• Promises that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?
• References that either refer to or infer something about future events.
• What does this passage teach about Jesus?
• Commandments that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?

Putting the Word into Action

Change is in the air! In the case of Israel it was a new king. For us, it is the seasons and the weather. David had a plan to build God a house. Most of us have nice houses where we worship God. Now is a good time to help beautify your local house of God in fall colors if you have not already done so.

Read Through the Bible in 2013: October 21-26 Schedule

10/21/2013	Ezekiel 22, 23	Psalms 85, 86
10/22/2013	Ezekiel 24-26	Psalms 87, 88
10/23/2013	Ezekiel 27, 28	Psalm 89
10/24/2013	Ezekiel 29-31	Psalm 90
10/25/2013	Ezekiel 32, 33	Psalms 91-93
10/26/2013	Ezekiel 34, 35	Psalms 94, 95

Taking A Break

There will be no Bible Journal posts during the next two weeks because I will be away from my computer.  (Far, far away from it!)

The schedules will appear as usual and I hope you will continue to read the assigned portions each day and find the answers to those 4 questions. I will continue to do so even though I will not be able to share my results with you right away. Once my computer and I are reunited I will do my best to get everything caught up as quickly as possible.

Until then, God bless!

Journal Through the Bible: Week 41 Tuesday

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Psalm 63
(I was not sure that this is where to insert this psalm because David was in the wilderness of Judah more than once. I know that there is a reference to the "king" so this might be later in his life. Or perhaps he is acknowledging that he is king just because God had anointed him so and was claiming the promise!)

Does this psalm teach anything about Jesus?

• Jesus used the analogy of gathering and protecting under His wings.

Does this psalm teach anything about yet-future events?

• David sets no limits on when he will worship God. He is now and will be throughout eternity. 
• David also mentions the judgment of the wicked.

I Samuel chapter 27

Even though Saul promised not to harass David again, the promise sounded hollow so David went back to live with the Philistines. This time the king of Gath seems thrilled to have David and his garrison of 600 men present.

Does God issue any commands?

• God does not speak.

Does God make any promises?

• God does not speak.

Are there any references to Jesus?

• David was using the enemy's plans of evil for Israel's good much as God, and therefore Jesus, did in scripture.

Are there any references to yet-future events?

• None that I identified.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 41 Monday

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I Samuel chapter 26

David returned to the wilderness near Ziph which is where Jonathan found him and gave him encouragement in the LORD. Like the men of Keilah, David is betrayed to Saul. And once again, David has an opportunity to take Saul's life but spares him instead. He refused to kill God's anointed.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• The LORD will render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness. David said it. Jesus does it.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• Not that I identified.

TAKE TIME: October 14-19, 2013 Reading Schedule

Introduction: The animosity between Saul and David will conclude in our reading this week. Unfortunately, the earthly friendship between Jonathan and David will also come to an end at the same time.

 Assignment:

• Monday - I Samuel chapter 26
• Tuesday - Psalm 63; I Samuel chapter 27
• Wednesday - I Samuel chapter 28 
• Thursday - I Samuel 29:1-30:8
• Friday - I Samuel 30:9-31:13
• Saturday - II Samuel chapter 1

Memory Verse

O God, thou art my God, early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is. Psalm 63:1


Prayer Journal (ACTS)

• Adoration - This week take time each day to praise God for His sovereignty.
• Confession - Ask God to reveal hidden sin in your life and then confess it.
• Thanksgiving - Thank God for any answers to your prayers.
• Supplication - What are your prayer requests this week? List them for future reference so that you can see how God answers.

Search the Scriptures

Look for references for each of the following:

• Promises that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?
• References that either refer to or infer something about future events.
• What does this passage teach about Jesus?
• Commandments that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?

Putting the Word into Action

The young Amalekite that brought David word of Saul's death thought that David would reward him with worldly riches. He must have been surprised when David had the man put to death! Last week's action was to refrain from character assassination. This week's action is a continuation of that. Let's work on killing ungodly speech again this week. Even if you worked on this last week this trait has an ugly way of resurrecting itself so we need to keep slaying it.

Sunday Psalm: Judge Between the Righteous and the Wicked

Psalm 7

David prays against the malice of his enemies, professing his innocence

Shiggaion of David, which he sang unto the LORD, concerning the words of Cush the Benjamite.

1 O LORD my God, in thee do I put my trust: save me from all them that persecute me, and deliver me: 2 Lest he tear my soul like a lion, rending it in pieces, while there is none to deliver. 3 O LORD my God, if I have done this; if there be iniquity in my hands; 4 If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at peace with me; yea, I have delivered him that without cause is mine enemy: 5 Let the enemy persecute my soul, and take it; yea, let him tread down my life upon the earth, and lay mine honour in the dust. Selah. 6 Arise, O LORD, in thine anger, lift up thyself because of the rage of mine enemies: and awake for me to the judgment that thou hast commanded. 7 So shall the congregation of the people compass thee about: for their sakes therefore return thou on high. 8 The LORD shall judge the people: judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me. 9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins.

10 My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart. 11 God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day. 12 If he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready. 13 He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors. 14 Behold, he travaileth with iniquity, and hath conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood. 15 He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made. 16 His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate. 17 I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.

Psalms 7:1-17 (KJV)

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Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Saturday

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I Samuel chapter 25

In this chapter we say good-by to Samuel, the prophet-judge who began his early ministry in the tabernacle working beside Eli.

We are introduced to Abigail, the wife of Nabal and then David. We also are told that David married Ahinoam and that Saul had taken David's wife, Michal, and married her to another man. Evidently Saul did not care about the laws of marriage or his daughter's purity either. Just like he had usurped God's authority in the rites of worship and sacrifice, so did Saul usurp God's authority over the rites of marriage. (There really is nothing new under the sun, is there?!)

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God does not speak.

Does God make any promises?

• God does not speak but Abigail prophesied of the future that was promised to David.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David is the protector of Nabal's sheepfold. He and his men provided a hedge around the herd and herdsmen. Jesus provides protection around us as we do our labors.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• Abigail prophesied to David that he would ascend the throne of Israel after his enemies were put under subjection. The same can be said for the Son of David who will ascend the throne after He has put all His enemies under His feet.

Read Through the Bible in 2013: October 14-19 Schedule

Take Ten

10/14/2013	Ezekiel 7-9	Psalm 77
10/15/2013	Ezekiel 10-12	Psalm 78
10/16/2013	Ezekiel 13-15	Psalm 79
10/17/2013	Ezekiel 16, 17	Psalm 80
10/18/2013	Ezekiel 18, 19	Psalms 81, 82
10/19/2013	Ezekiel 20. 21	Psalms 83, 84

Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Friday

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Psalm 18

David compared the deliverance that he received from God as magnificent as an earthquake, a hailstorm of fire, and the worldwide flood.

The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted. (verse 46)

Does God issue any commands in this psalm?

• God did not speak.

Does God make any promises?

• David described the promises of God to lead the righteous to safety.
• David was clinging to the promise of the kingdom as God's anointed when he said strangers would serve him and submit to him.

Does this psalm teach anything about Jesus?

• When God answered David's prayer to be delivered from the sorrows of hell and death one of the results was an earthquake and darkness just as it happened when Jesus died and saved all who cry for deliverance from hell and death.
• The description of God's brightness and thundering voice are described further in Revelation as belonging to Jesus. Hebrews 1:3 describes the Son as being the brightness of His [God's] glory and the express image of His person.
• The enemy of our soul is too hard for us but Jesus delivers us.
• David is a type of Christ when he details his righteousness. David had no righteousness of his own so he was claiming the righteousness of his savior as his own. This is sanctification in the sight of God.
• David described God as his Rock. Jesus is the Rock, the stone that the builder rejected.

Does this psalm teach anything about yet-future events?

• Some of the descriptions of God riding on the wings of the wind upon a cherub are similar to descriptions of heavenly servants in the book of Revelation. 
• The description of God Himself cloaking His brightness within the thick clouds and having a thundering voice is reminiscent of the time of the Exodus and that of John seeing God's glory in Revelation.
• God will lead His people safely through the darkness.
• David claimed the promises of God to himself as God's anointed and for his descendants forever.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Thursday

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I Samuel chapter 24

This chapter tells of the first time that David saved Saul's life instead of taking it. After cutting off part of David's garment, David made Saul a promise. And then he fled back into the hills because he didn't trust Saul.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak. But He did say previously that He takes note of any vows that are made. David made a vow to Saul that he would not kill all of his descendants or mar his inheritance within the tribe of Benjamin. God would expect David to keep that promise.

Does God make any promises?

• David's men encouraged him to take Saul's life by pointing out the promises of God to deliver his enemies into his hands. David made it clear that when God wanted Saul out of the way He would remove him without David's help.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• When tempted to sin by taking the kingdom prematurely and in a way not in God's will, David refused and would not sin. Jesus also was tempted by Satan to obtain the kingdom in an ungodly way but remained without sin.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• Not that I identified.

Psalm 57

This psalm was written during the time that David was hiding from Saul in the cave.


Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David stated that God would send deliverance from Heaven. He did. Jesus is the deliverer of all men who will accept His deliverance from the terror of sin. The reproach is taken from us and laid upon Jesus.
• David spoke of the wicked men around him that were seeking his life. It is prophetic of the men alive at the time of Christ that wanted Jesus dead.
• David's testimony will be sung among all nations. The testimony of Jesus is to be taken to all nations also.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• God will one day be exalted in Heaven and above all the earth.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Wednesday

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I Samuel chapter 23

The Philistines attacked Keilah so David rescued them. They had a funny way of showing gratitude.

David then went into hiding in the wilderness. Saul could not find him but Jonathan could!

And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand. And David saw that Saul was come out to seek his life: and David was in the wilderness of Ziph in a wood. And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.  vv.14b-16

The men of Ziph then sold David out to Saul. Every life has its mountaintop and valley experiences and sometimes they come in rapid succession. In this case David and his men came close to being surrounded by Saul's troops. Only a Philistine raid within Israel's borders caused Saul to call off the pursuit. David then fled to Engedi.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God told David to go to fight against the Philistines to save Keilah. David's men were afraid so David asked again. Same answer!
• God told David that Saul would come to Keilah and that the men of the city would deliver him. This was believed to be God's way of telling David and his men to leave.

Does God make any promises?

• Through Jonathan God delivered the message that Saul would not find David and that despite it all David would be the next king of Israel. They made another covenant of peace concerning royal succession.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• Not that I identified.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• Not that I identified.

Psalm 54

Written when the Ziphites betrayed his hiding place to Saul. In the last verse David states that his eye has seen God's judgment upon his enemies. This is probably because of the encouragement and spiritual support he received from Jonathan prior to this event. Never underestimate the power of the support of other believers!

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• He can save and protect by the power of His name!
• He can judge by His strength.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• There is certain judgment coming. He shall reward His enemies with evil and will cut them off.
• When David wrote this psalm he was being pursued by Saul but he spoke as if his deliverance had already happened. He spoke of a future event as being in the present tense. That's because when God makes a promise it is as though it has already happened. It is that assured! God promises deliverance of His people. It will happen just as He promised.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Tuesday

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I Samuel 22:6-23

Saul complained to the tribe of Benjamin hoping that his own tribe would turn back their allegiance to him. He basically called them and his son, Jonathan, traitors. His pitiful speech emboldened Doeg the Edomite (see 21:7) to tell about David's visit to the priests at Nob. This led to 85 priests, as well as all of their family members and their livestock, being brutally murdered or slaughtered by Doeg's own hand. Only Abiathar, the son of Ahimelech, escaped to David.

Does God issue any commands in this passage?

• God does not speak.

Does God make any promises?

• God does not speak.

Does this passage teach anything about Jesus?

• The words that Ahimelech used to describe David, son-in-law of King Saul, accurately describe Jesus, too. He is the most faithful among all of the sovereign's servants, he is by law the ruler's own son, he does the king's bidding, and is the most honorable person in the palace!
• Saul's honorable "son" was hated by those who were jealous of him but loved by those who followed righteousness. The same could be said of Jesus.
• Just as David offered refuge to Abiathar, Jesus offers refuge for all fleeing from sin and death.

Does this passage teach anything about yet-future events?

• Not that I identified.

Psalm 52

This psalm was written by David after the Nob massacre.

Does this passage teach anything about Jesus?

• The evil man described here is the antithesis of Jesus. The evil man boasts of mischief. Jesus boasts in righteousness. The evil man's words are a sharp razor that speaks deceit. Jesus' words are a sharp two-edged sword that speak truth. The evil man rejoices in evil and lying. Jesus rejoices in good and truth. The evil man rejoices in devouring others. Jesus rejoices in rebuilding the lives of fallen men. The evil man is marked for destruction. Jesus is marked to rule for eternity. The evil man receives his strength from the riches and rewards he obtains as bounty from the wicked. Jesus receives His strength from His Father and the Word of Scripture. (See also I Corinthians 13.)
• David is a type of Christ when he says that he is like a green olive tree in the house of God. Such a tree flourishes and prospers. (See also Psalm 1.)

Does this passage teach anything about yet-future events?

• David makes it clear that God's mercies endure forever. As Jesus told His disciples, God's people do not need to be afraid of those who kill the body - like Doeg killed the priests - but they should fear God who has the power of the second death which is eternal. So even though the evil man, Doeg, killed the priests, those who were righteous would experience God's mercies forever. Doeg killed their bodies but could not touch their souls.
• The evil man will one day be destroyed forever and suffer eternal death. This judgment is coming.
• The righteous will see the destruction of the wicked and will laugh at the one that tormented them in their natural lives.
• David states that he will praise God forever. (As will all the saints.) He makes it clear that there is a time of waiting before God reveals His name in all the earth. (We are still waiting patiently!)

Journal Through the Bible: Week 40 Monday

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I Samuel 22:1-5

David continued life on the run. He had previously left Nob and the priests to go to Gath in the land of the Philistines. After a hasty exit from Gath he went into hiding in the cave of Adullam. His father and his family came to him there because they were probably targeted by Saul also. David then moved his parents to Moab where they remained under the protection of that king. One of David's followers was the prophet Gad who told him to leave the hold where he was staying and go back to Judah. David then lived in the forest.

Does God issue any commands in this passage?

• Gad did not say that he had word from God, but he told David to go back to Moab. Whether this word from God or not is not clear.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak.

Does this passage teach anything about Jesus?

• All of the distressed, debtors, and discontented came to David. These were the types that followed Jesus, too, and He welcomed them and became their leader just as David did.
• David was being hunted 

Does this passage teach anything about yet-future events?

• Nothing that I identified.

Psalm 142

Does this passage teach anything about Jesus?

• God is the only refuge that David had. God is the only inheritance he had while on the run as a fugitive from Saul. As God, Jesus was with David. He was David's deliverer.

Does this passage teach anything about yet-future events?

• Just as David held the belief that his future looked bountiful in spite of his current distress, so do we have the same hope for eternal blessings because the same God that had David anointed as future king and promised him all the glory that office brings has promised us that we will rule and reign with him forever.

TAKE TIME: October 7-12, 2013 Schedule

Introduction: Things did not go well with King Saul so God chose another king, David, a man after His own heart. That set up a series of cat-and-mouse hunts between the current king Saul and the future king David.

 Assignment:

• Monday - I Samuel 22:1-5; Psalm 142
• Tuesday - I Samuel 22:6-23; Psalm 52
• Wednesday - I Samuel chapter 23, Psalm 54  
• Thursday - I Samuel chapter 24; Psalm 57
• Friday - Psalm 18
• Saturday - I Samuel chapter 25

Memory Verse

Choose one of the psalms assigned as reading this week. If a psalm is too much try a few verses from one of them.


Prayer Journal (ACTS)

• Adoration - This week take time each day to praise God for being your protection and shield.
• Confession - Ask God to reveal hidden sin in your life and then confess it.
• Thanksgiving - Thank God for any answers to your prayers.
• Supplication - What are your prayer requests this week? List them for future reference so that you can see how God answers.

Search the Scriptures

Look for references for each of the following:

• Promises that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?
• References that either refer to or infer something about future events.
• What does this passage teach about Jesus?
• Commandments that God made and to whom He made them. Do they apply to you?

Putting the Word into Action

Innocent people died when Doeg, who had been worshiping God at Nob, later told Saul that he had seen David there. Doeg then assassinated all of the priests except one that escaped. I find it amazing that a man could go to God's house to worship only to have the experience lead to the assassination of God's servants! Today we tend to go to church and then take part in the character assassination of other Christians after we leave. The action this week is to attend church services and truly worship God. Forget about the other people present except to greet them and be friendly. Avoid gossip and malice afterward. When tempted to complain about a fellow-believer substitute a silent prayer for that person instead. If you practice this and make it a habit your worship experience will automatically get better, your relationship to God will grow stronger, and your relationship to other believers will be sweeter. No one wants a Doeg in their midst. Take my word for it.

Read Through the Bible in 2013: October 7-12 Schedule

Take Ten

10/7/2013	Daniel 5, 6	Psalm 70
10/8/2013	Daniel 7, 8	Psalm 71
10/9/2013	Daniel 9, 10	Psalm 72
10/10/2013	Daniel 11, 12	Psalm 73
10/11/2013	Ezekiel 1-3	Psalm 74
10/12/2013	Ezekiel 4-6	Psalms 75, 76

For more information concerning the Old Testament book of Ezekiel click this link. (Note: last year Daniel was read after Ezekiel as mentioned in the link.)

Journal Through the Bible: Week 39 Saturday

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I Samuel chapter 21

David went to Ahimelech the priest who questioned him about his appearance. David avoided giving a straight answer. Instead he asked for food and a sword. The old showbread had recently been removed and replaced with newly baked loaves so the old bread was given to him. He also obtained Goliath's sword. Saul's head herdsmen, Doeg the Edomite, was there. David left the priest and went into Philistine territory where King Achish's men reminded him of the song the women of Israel sang attributing tens of thousands of Philistines' deaths to him.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• The showbread was a symbol of Jesus, the bread of life. Consecrated loaves were placed in 2 rows upon the table. New bread was set out each Sabbath (Leviticus 24:5-8).

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• Not that I identified.

Psalm 56

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David describes how men twist the words of the righteous. They watch his steps so that they can ambush him. They did this to David and they did this to Jesus. The gospels tell how the religious leaders and lawyers of His day did all they could to trap Him.
• David describes how God keeps track of every tear that we cry. He also says that God is always with Him. Jesus told how God cares for His own, including His Son, and that the Father was always with the Son and with His children.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• David said that the LORD delivered his soul from death and asked if he would not walk before God in the light of the living. Not only was David expecting to be kept alive on the earth but he was expecting to spend eternity with God.

Sunday Psalm: O Magnify the LORD with me!

Psalm 34

A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed.

1 I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. 3 O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. 5 They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. 6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. 7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. 8 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. 9 O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. 10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing.

11 Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? 13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. 14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry. 16 The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. 17 The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all. 20 He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. 21 Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. 22 The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.

Psalms 34:1-22 (KJV)

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Journal Through the Bible: Week 39 Friday

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I Samuel chapter 20

When Saul arrived in Naioth in Ramah David quickly departed. He met with Jonathan who not only upheld David's innocence but also pledged to help David in any way possible. Jonathan showed the seriousness of this vow by praying to God in David's presence calling down a curse upon himself if he did not warn David of trouble.

Jonathan made it clear to David that he understood that David would be the next king of Israel and that he would not stand in his way because it was of the LORD. He did ask to extend their covenant further by seeking David's protection over Jonathan's children.

It was the time of the new moon when ceremonial sacrifices were to be made. When David did not appear at the king's table Saul assumed at first that he was ceremonially unclean. When it became clear that Jonathan had helped David avoid Saul the king became angry at his son and threw his javelin at him just as he had previously done twice to David.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God does not speak in this chapter.

Does God make any promises?

• God does not speak in this chapter.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David is the innocent being unjustly accused. Jesus is the innocent who was unjustly accused.
• Jonathan is also a type of Christ when he beseeches the anointed ruler to accept not only himself but also his offspring. As Christians, we are accepted in the beloved (Ephesians 1:6). Jonathan's descendants were to be accepted by David merely because of their relationship to Jonathan. We will be accepted by God the Father merely because of our relationship to the Son.
• As Saul reminded Jonathan, there is a choice to be made. Either attempt to rule on your own or follow the son of Jesse. Jonathan knew that if God has anointed the son of Jesse as ruler of His people the only thing to do is to submit to His authority.  Jesus is the Son of Jesse that God has anointed to rule His people and the only way to be in God's Will is to submit to Him. It is useless to attempt to be the ruler of our own lives.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• David and Jonathan stated that their covenant of peace was to last forever. This life is temporary. The next one is not. Those who know Jesus will enjoy a covenant of peace with God and each other forever. Someday we will witness this covenant of peace between these two believers and their offspring that also trusted in the finished work of the Messiah.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 39 Thursday

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I Samuel chapter 19

Saul's behavior toward David, now his son-in-law, went from bad to worse. He attempted to kill David again in his house, in David's own bed, and in Samuel's house. The messengers that Saul sent to take David from Samuel suddenly found themselves prophesying. When Saul went to visit Samuel himself he found himself one of the prophets.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David is a type of Christ in this chapter. He was hated by those to whom he ministered and Saul and his followers tried to kill him. Jesus was hated by those to whom He ministered and they tried to kill him numerous times.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet future events?

• None that I identified.

Psalm 59

Does this psalm teach anything about Jesus?

• This is a psalm of the innocent being hounded by the workers of iniquity. It was written by David during the time when Saul sent to take him from his bed but it also describes the life and work of Jesus.
• The psalmist speaks of the day when he will be set over his enemies. He is patiently awaiting that time. This is also a type of Christ who will judge His enemies. He is patiently awaiting that time.
• David asks God to judge his enemies using their own words. Jesus warned His followers to be careful how they judge because those words can be used against them. We will give an account for every word we've spoken.

Does this psalm teach anything about yet-future events?

• The LORD shall one day laugh at the evil doers who have mocked Him since the world began. One day everything will get set right and the wicked will be consumed.
• David speaks of singing of God's power after circumstances have been set straight and the enemies have been vanquished. One day the redeemed of the LORD will come with singing unto Zion and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads (Isaiah 51:11). Revelation tells of the redeemed joyfully singing in Heaven.

Journal Through the Bible: Week 39 Wednesday

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I Samuel chapter 18

The heir-apparent, Jonathan, was immediately drawn to the young David. Jonathan was older than David but that does not seem to have hindered their friendship. From all appearances Jonathan was a godly man who knew that God was with his young friend. He was not jealous over the people's favorite the way his father, Saul, was.

The young ladies sang songs making David the popular hero of their day. Saul asked the prophetic question, "And what can he have more but the kingdom?" That's exactly what God had in mind.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• David did everything wisely and with God's constant presence and blessing. He also was the anointed future king of Israel who was living in modest circumstances. All of these things could be said about Jesus when He resided on earth.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• The story that is unfolding in these chapters is of the humble life of the anointed future king of Israel, David. His kingdom was seen by faith and still to come. Jesus is the anointed future and forever King of Israel but right now we see His kingdom by faith knowing that it is yet to come. We are currently living in the time depicted in this chapter. Even the jealous enemy is throwing javelins!

Another Grandchild T-shirt Project

Little Miss Lili-ladybug loves Lalaloopsy. I confess that until recently I had no idea who or what that might be! However, anything can be found on the Internet so I was soon educated! I used that new knowledge to produce a t-shirt for her that I thought she might like:

I traced a black line drawing picture of a Lalaloopsy girl that I then painted with fabric markers. I embellished this with black buttons for the eyes, a tied red ribbon in the hair, red embroidery floss for the shoe laces, black embroidery thread stitching for the mouth, and gold embroidery thread for textured hair. Then I attached t-shirt material with fusible web to the inside of the shirt to protect Lili's skin from the knotted threads.

Not knowing the story, I had no certain character in mind when choosing the hair or clothing colors. I don't think it was a problem. Since Lili's third birthday was approaching we bought her this doll, one of two blond but non-identical dolls she received.

The t-shirt was finished a couple of weeks before her birthday party where Lili wore the shirt! A friend held her while I snapped this photo:

If you're keeping track you know that I still have one shirt left to make. That would be for Polly. And given that she is a preteen and the weather is cooling off I'm thinking something long sleeves and chic would be in order. Stay tuned.

Journal Through The Bible: Week 39 Tuesday

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I Samuel chapter 17

David had been Saul's armor bearer but David returned home to Bethlehem to his previous job as his father's shepherd prior to this military campaign. After David killed Goliath Saul needed to know the name of David's father so that the king could honor Jesse by making his house free from taxation.

Does God issue any commands in this chapter?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does God make any promises?

• God did not speak in this chapter.

Does this chapter teach anything about Jesus?

• While David, his father's shepherd, was away from the flock interceding for his brothers as his father required he found a temporary shepherd to take his place in his absence. Jesus, the Great Shepherd has left under shepherds (pastors) to care for His flock while He is away being our intercessor as His Father has decreed.
• David was not appreciated by his brothers and was falsely accused by them of being a nuisance when he was sent on a mission by his father. Jesus was not appreciated by His siblings either and was falsely accused of being a nuisance when His Father sent Him to earth on His mission. (Both David and Jesus saw their siblings experience a change of heart after the completion of their missions.)
• The Philistine fought with worldly weapons but David fought with the power of God. Satan fought Jesus with worldly weapons (the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life) when he tempted Him but Jesus fought back with the power of God, specifically God's Word.
• When David fought the battle his father received the honor and the glory as the head of his son. When Jesus fought the battle His Father received all the honor and glory as the head of His Son.

Does this chapter teach anything about yet-future events?

• David told Goliath that in this, Goliath's final battle, David was going to take his head off of his shoulders. First he had to wound the giant in the head with a stone before administering the final blow with a sword. The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 says that the Messiah will bruise the serpent's head but that the serpent would bruise the Messiah's heel. The heel-bruising has already taken place and when it comes to bruising the serpent's head, that also happened with the Resurrection. The serpent's head has been bruised but at the final battle he will receive his mortal wound with the double-edged sword, the Word of God.
• At the end of the battle the Hebrews took the spoil of the enemy's belongings. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said the meek will inherit the earth. After the final battle there will be a new Earth where only believers live. The enemy will no longer have access to anyone or anything on this new Earth.