Among the seemingly endless lists of kings in Israel and Judah is the mention of this king who reigned 52 years and mostly pleased the Lord. But even he didn’t finish well. It’s a disturbing litany of failed politicians. It causes one to long for a good king, one that would reign with righteousness and mercy. One that would please God fully.
I wonder what the modern equivalent of “daily discussions at the lecture hall” would be? How can we get the Word out like Paul?
Our children learn worship from us. Teach them to worship in spirit and truth. Tell them what Christ has done and how He has saved and sanctified us! Tell of His mighty acts!
Hmm… I think I’ll keep my commentary to a minimum on this… It speaks for itself.
The answer Paul and Silas gave their jailer when he asked how to be saved. An important principle is implied in this story– that the head of house coming to Christ has a profound impact on the spiritual condition of the whole family. Fathers, your spiritual leadership is critical. As the father goes, so goes the family.
David’s prayer from a cave, while hiding from King Saul. Have you ever been in a “cave,” a place of darkness and despair? You can pray like David. God already knows what you’re thinking, so don’t hold back. Pour out your heart. Then, wait for His grace and mercy to arrive.
In today’s OYB reading Elisha (“El” – God; “sha” – saves/salvation) raised a child from the dead, multiplied a meal with leftovers, healed a leper, and was disappointed by a greedy disciple. Who else in the Bible does this sound like? Elisha is a clear foreshadowing of Christ. God was preparing His people for Jesus (“Je” – Jehovah; “sus” – saves/salvation).
The “worthless things” to which Paul referred was the worship of Zeus and Hermes. He contrasts them with the “living God” who is Creator of all. We are still called to bring this message to the nations until every tribe and tongue has heard.
Elisha requested this of his spiritual father, Elijah. God granted his request. Elijah (“The LORD is God”) foreshadows John the Baptist. Elisha (“God’s salvation”) prefigures Christ (Jesus – “The LORD’s salvation”). I wonder if God still answers prayers like Elisha’s? I hope so. I’m asking.
David wanted God’s plan and trusted Him to work it out. When you pray, do you ask for God’s plan or do you ask Him to help with yours? When we call Christ “Lord,” we are giving up control of our lives and yielding it to Him. He is either Lord of all or not lord at all. Surrender you plans to God. His plans are better than ours.