Day 243 - 2 Chronicles 7 & Psalm 57

 Julie

"His steadfast love endures forever." God tells Solomon that he has chosen this temple as the place that he will hear the prayers of those who ask for forgiveness from their evil ways. He tells him that if they come here to sacrifice and repent then he will hear them and forgive them. However, if they choose to not follow the commandments of God then he will remove them from the land.

God has glory over all of the earth. This singer is praising God for his faithfulness and mercy, and for saving him. He vows to continue to praise God.

 

Michelle

Here again we see that his steadfast love endures forever.  I wonder how many times we will see this in the bible.  Your synopsis tells it all.  God repeats this over and over again throughout the generations.  Follow my commands and you will prosper and all will be forgiven, serve other gods and I will bring plague or you will not prosper.  It seems pretty clear.  

It's interesting sometimes how you find something different in the reading than I do.  I wonder if it's my mindset while I read.  I sometimes get distracted while reading and my mind goes to things going on in life.  This happened today.  When I read verse 4, I am in the midst of lions; I am forced to dwell among ravenous beasts - men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords.  I have felt this way recently and it took me immediately to a work situation.  In reading verse 10 it brought me back to the words "his steadfast love endures forever", although that is not exactly what it said that is what I thought.  The devotional highlights verses 2-3, "I cry out to God most high, to God, who vindicates me.  He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me - God sends forth his love and his faithfulness".  This sounds like how I have been feeling.  It talks about David in a dark and lonely cave, hiding from King Saul, in fear.  The question asked is "How did David climb out of his soul's dark hiding place?".  This hit me.  I felt this question.  It goes through how David was able to come out of it giving us steps to walk through.  "If you're in the dark, follow David's steps and walk toward the light:  (1) Cry out for mercy.  (2) Remember God's love and faithfulness.  (3) Verbalize your fears.  (4) Pray that God's will be accomplished in your life for his glory.  Then choose to worship God wherever you may be."  These are some solid steps to follow.  Like an instruction for getting yourself out of that dark place.  I will be writing these down to refer to when I am spiraling into the dark abyss.  

Day 242 - 2 Chronicles 5:2 - 6 & Psalm 56

 Julie

"For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever." I love how often this is repeated over and over again. I have marked every time I have read steadfast love since I noticed it and now I wish I had done that from the beginning. I feel like it's an awesome reminder that his love is always there. 

Solomon finishes the temple and places the ark and prays to God asking for him to forgive the sins of anyone that repents in the house of worship. This could be where the Catholics get their practice of going to confession. Although, I did not see whether God has agreed to this yet or not. 

"In God I Trust." These are words that we have seen or heard most of our lives, although it's as we instead of an I. It's interesting that although we have heard this for so long it has not sunk in the way that it should. What I needed to hear this morning was the first 4 verses of this psalm. I do feel like this every day and I need to pray and say, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?" That might need to be part of a daily prayer to help build that confidence and trust.

 

Michelle

His steadfast love stood out to me as well.  It does seem to be repeated quite often.  As we have read, the Ark is brought to the temple, Solomon dedicates it and gives prayer and asks God to forgive those that pray to him in the temple, forgiving their sins.  It does seem relative to the Catholic confession.  Makes sense.  The devotional with this section is pretty powerful.  It's called Loose Ends.  It talks about how God told David that he would not be the one to finish the temple, Abraham was promised descendants but would never see them, the prophets were promised a Messiah, but they didn't live to see him in the flesh.  That we can't always finish what we start and how that idea is counter to our sensibilities as women.  We have lists, planners, and people depending on us and we hate loose ends.  But that sometimes we are supposed to leave those loose ends dangling.  Never thought of this.  It talks about how David started preparing for the temple and that God said it wasn't his to build but that his son would build it.  "Much of the work we do for God is a continuation of what another person began."  Who would have thought that.  "If David had pressed ahead with constructing the temple, not only would he have been disobedient but he also would have deprived his son of a unique opportunity to use his wisdom, gifts and talents to serve God....The simple truth is that loose ends leave room for someone else to come along and continue the work in new and unique ways.  And God may want you to move forward to a different phase of life.  Leaving room for loose ends allows God's kingdom to extend beyond our influence and reach into eternity." I have never thought of it this way.  When it's time to move on from something, I always feel like it needs to be completed first, but this gives a whole other perspective.  That it's not that you are leaving it left unfinished, but allowing another the opportunity to continue and progress in their own God given way.  What a revelation.  This makes me think of things we are going thru now.  It's hard to walk away from things, especially when you have given so much of yourself to something.  But maybe, this is leaving the door open for God to put someone else there to continue what you started.  And while we may have bitter feelings about the way things are getting left and the issues that have arisen that are moving us out, that is for God to handle and whomever he puts in that place, as it may be their talents that need to be used in that situation now, or maybe they are needing what you were given while there and it's their time.  Such a different perspective to be given today. 

I think you are right about the psalm.  Verses 3 and 4 stood out to me as well and yes can be a constant prayer right now.  "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.   In God, whose word I praise--in God I trust and am not afraid.  What can mere mortals do to me?".  Such powerful words.  And relates so heavily to how I am feeling lately.  Stop thinking about those around you that seem to be pushing against you in every way, but focus and put your trust in God to bring you through and past this, knowing he will take care of you.  

Day 241 - 2 Chronicles 3-5:1 & Psalm 55

 Julie

This explained in detail how Solomon built the temple. It described everything that he had made to put in and the exact measurements of everything. 

Cast your burdens on the Lord and trust in him to protect you and work in your life. If you cast your burdens he will take care of your enemies.

 

Michelle

The details of this temple make it sound quite magnificent.  I wish we had an actual pictorial representation of the temple.  It sounds amazing.  

I think your interpretation is correct.  A few parts stand out.  The beginning when it says, "my thoughts trouble me and I am distraught...My heart is in anguish within me....Fear and trembling have beset me...Oh that I had the wings of a dove I would fly away and be at rest...far from the tempest of the storm".  I feel this sometimes.  More often than I would like.  The last line really give you direction though, "But as for me, I trust in you".  That is powerful in that no matter what you are going thru or feeling, continue to trust in the Lord and he will take care of you.

Day 240 - 2 Chronicles 1-2 & Psalm 54

 Julie

God asks Solomon what he can give him, and Solomon asks for wisdom and knowledge where some might have asked for long life or wealth. God actually points out that Solomon basically asked for the right thing and because he did God also granted him wealth. At that time, based on what we have read, people might have asked for those things. Honestly, I think that even now if God were to come down and ask that same question people would say long life or wealth. But the wisdom and knowledge of God will guide us further in our lives and open us up more for the glories of God.

This psalm was a prayer/hymn of David during a time that he was hiding from Saul. He is asking for God to protect him and deliver him from his enemies.

 

Michelle

I think you are correct, in that people now would first turn to life or wealth or popularity.  That seems to be the focus of many.  It makes sense that he would and should ask for wisdom and knowledge to lead the people, considering the vast number and overwhelming responsibility that is.  Asking God for those things would give you far more than asking anything else.  What gave me pause it that after reading that god will be blessing him with what he asked and that he will also provide him wealth, possessions and honor, what is then told about Solomon is how much wealth and possessions he accumulated.  It does this in previous readings as well.  It seems we hear alot about how much each king has even though that is not or should not be people's focus.  It's also interesting that the king of Tyre gives praise to the God of Israel in his response to Solomon.  As we have read there are many whom don't believe in our God yet this king gives him praise anyway.  Just leaves me with questions.  

The preface to this book talks about how Solomon's rule starts out strong because he seeks wisdom from God.  And while he receives that gift, as he gets to the end of his life he often turns his back on it.  It says we will hear about various kings of Judah and how they alternate bad and good until the Law of God is found, suggesting it was lost at some point.  It says that it illustrates that it is possible to start life dedicated to God and end it distracted by false gods and wrong priorities, even the kings of God's own people were not immune to the lure of self-centered desires and false gods.  There is also a devotional to the beginning of chapter 2 that speaks of something beautiful for God.  This devotional moved me to tears actually.  There is a quote from Dorothy Lee Sayers attached that reminded me what my talents are and that I should be using them to benefit God and myself.  It says, "[Work] is, or should be, the full expression of the worker's faculties, the thing in which he finds spiritual, mental and bodily satisfaction, and the medium in which he offers himself to God."  How powerful is that?  The devotional talks about how it is ok to want something for yourself as long as you don't cling too tightly to it.  That as the saying goes, One for you, one for me, that we should be using our gifts, wealth, possessions to help God and others.  The temple that is built is of the finest quality.  And that even though God doesn't need our things, he ordains our work and endows us with creativity and talent.  He designed us to be busy about the business of doing things for him, of making all kinds of things that reflect his regenerating grace and that glorify him.  The question asked at the end is, "In what beautiful enterprise might God be directing you to be involved?".  "Whether it's people, projects, aptitudes, or art, you are given the ability to create something that reveals and reflects some of his greatness.  Ask him to provide the resources...the helpers and materials needed to accomplish the goal.  Just be sure to give fairly and generously to the author of your gifts and talents.  Do a God-sized work for him."

The psalm sounds as if David is needing vindication from his enemies.  He asks God for help to be triumphant.  

Day 239 - Psalm 53

 Julie

This psalm is talking about a time where everyone is corrupt and there seems to be no one calling upon God for help. Even when it all seems hopeless we should continue to call on God. He will answer our call in his time and save us from the evil that surrounds us.

 

Michelle

This passage seems like all have turned from God and this person is questioning if there is anyone left that will call on God.  You are right.  When we feel hopeless we need to first turn to God, it all comes in his timing and we need to leave the punishment or justice to God to handle.   

Day 238 - Psalm 52

 Julie

Believe and trust in the steadfast love of God. Know that he will take care of those that are evil and speak lies. 

 

Michelle

This seems like someone is being chastised for speaking evil.  But the other person is saying he will trust in God's unfailing love.   

Day 237 - 1 Chronicles 29 & Psalm 51

 Julie

I am a little distracted this morning and trying to catch up from yesterday. David sings praises to God and dispels God's blessings on people for willfully tithing. 

This psalm seems to be asking for forgiveness from sin from one who is confessing their sins.

 

Michelle

What stood out to me today was verse 9.  "The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord.  David the king also rejoiced greatly."  David did bless the people for their willing gifts, providing for the temple and following David's generous example.  What caused me to pause at this one is that the people rejoiced because their leaders were so giving, showing that even as they have much to give, it is all because of God and David even eludes to that fact in his prayer that all they have comes from God.  This can be inspiring for people to see their leaders doing what's right in the eyes of the Lord.  It draws them to follow as there is a level of respect that comes with that.  The part about all we have comes from God was a good reminder for me as well.  We do need to be thankful for what we have been given, but I think this stands out because of what we have been discussing regarding changes in our lives.  God provides all we have, so have faith and know that he will give what we need.   It also sounds like we will be reading more about David as we continue in the bible as it referenced others.

I agree.  The psalm sounds like someone confessing their sins and asking for forgiveness.  What stood out to me is verse 10, Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit in me.  I am not sure why this one spoke to me.  But it made me want to pray this. 

I had to come back to this one because there was a devotional attached that I missed.   But it caught me.  "Until we stop making excuses, we aren't ready to be forgiven."  When we blame others, or our circumstances, or justify our actions, we are just making excuses.  We also can't change the name to cover sin, such as gossiping vs sharing, coveting vs admiring, lying vs explaining.  God doesn't buy it.  It tells the story of David having his lover's husband killed to have her trying to redefine adultery.  God doesn't forgive excuses, but he does forgive sin.  We need to take responsibility and confess.  It says, Repentance frees us, honesty renews us, and God's mercy cleanses us.  

Day 236 - 1 Chronicles 27-28 & Psalm 50

 Michelle

The first section of this passage goes through David assigning the Army divisions, leaders of the tribes, and the King's overseers.  Again, these all seems like positions of honor in serving God and David.  The second chapter talks of David's plans for the temple.  He gathers everyone and gives instruction and shares that he has prepared for his son Solomon, assigned by God, to build the temple.  He also instructs Solomon at the end to be careful to follow all the commands of the Lord you God...acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought.  If you seek him he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.  He tells him to be strong and courageous and do the work.   Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, is with you. God knows what is in our hearts, even when we don't.  I have thought about this before.  Especially right now when I feel like I have been wronged and want the other party to suffer, yet I read this and think that my heart is bitter and angry right now toward that person and that I am not thinking the right things in the eyes of God.  I don't want to be, but my mind keeps going back to the anger.  I want to move on from this and am trying to.  The verse that stands out to me most is "be strong and courageous and do the work".  Probably for this reason.

I just read the devotional attached to this after writing the above words.  It also focuses on that same verse, be strong and courageous, and do the work.  It talks of how David told his son to be strong and that as human beings we are easily discouraged.  We encounter a big task and lose courage, lose heart, and sometimes even lose faith.  And while it seems that building a temple for God is a small task compared to that of David slaying giants, there is pressure in every situation and it takes bravery to follow God's commands rather than collapsing under the weight of criticism.  It takes faith and courage to follow the path God has for you.

I have read the psalm 3 times and am still struggling to interpret it.  It seems at the beginning there is praise to God and then telling the people to call on God in the day of trouble, that you will be delivered.  Then it goes into the wicked person and all the things they do that are evil.  If you forget God,  you will be torn to pieces, but for those who honor God, there will be salvation.

Julie

I love what you wrote today. I was focusing on that same verse and the devotional really is convicting today. Thank you for sharing that as I think that is something we needed to hear. I can't really contribute anything more to this.

The explanation I read for this psalm is that the sacrificial system was being used as a way to buy God off. I believe that this psalm is a way of saying this is not enough. You need to also be thankful for all that God does and he will be there for you in times of need. However, if you are always asking for things and forgiveness, but are not ever thankful then you will not be one that he considers righteous. People always think that they can do whatever they want and ask forgiveness, but we also need to thank God for what he does, even when it is something difficult that we have to do.

Day 235 - 1 Chronicles 25-26 & Psalm 49

 Julie

David continues organizing his followers.

This psalm tells us not to fear in times of trouble. We also need to realize that although it looks as if the unrighteous are being blessed because they have more than we do doesn't mean that they will have everlasting life. Don't be jealous of what we don't have, but remember that we have more than others as followers of God's Word.

 

Michelle

This section does go into detail of David's followers, organizing the Musicians and the Gatekeepers for the Lords temple.  I had to look up casting lots again as this is used often in the bible.  It seems to be a lottery system or sorting system like a roll of the dice as it's described.  I was trying to understand it as it is used in this passage.  Also, it is interesting that each son and their line is responsible for something having to do with the temple.  When I read it, it feels like just an honor to be assigned a position to take care of the Lord's temple.  I wonder if the people felt that way in that time.  And as far as prophesying, is it possible to find a prophet in today's time?  One that could help guide you to God's will for you?  It seems like in biblical times that God was speaking thru them or they were relaying the word from God to whomever it was meant for.  Are there prophets today and if so where are they hiding?

Your interpretation of the psalm seems spot on.   

Day 234 - 1 Chronicles 23-24 & Psalm 48

 Michelle

This passage goes thru the Levites, whom were tasked with being in charge of the temple of the Lord.  It also goes thru the descendants of Aaron whom were to be the priests. It seems to just be an accounting of these people and the order in which they were to be in.  

I think I read the wrong one for yesterday.  So it looks like I commented on this psalm on yesterday's posting.  I went back and read 46 cuz I think I missed that one.  Maybe it was supposed to be that way on purpose because the first line of 46 is convicting.  God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  The other that stood out was;  God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.  The Lord Almighty is with us...  These verses made me think of thing we are currently going thru and seem to be a reminder that God will continue to be our strength and that he is with us always and he holds us up when we feel like we are being pushed down.  To have strength thru our challenges. 

Julie

There seemed to be nothing more than what you mentioned within those chapters.

Maybe that is what needed to happen. While I did read that the other day, I see it more now.

Today's psalm sings the praise of God in Zion.

Day 233 - 1 Chronicles 22:2-19 & Psalm 47

 Julie

David chooses a place for the house of God but is told by God that he cannot be one that builds it. David's son Solomon is charged with building the house of God. God sets it up so that Solomon lives a life of peace and is righteousness enough to build it. Although David was considered righteous, his directive from God was to win wars, and because he spilled blood and took the lives of others God tells him that he cannot be the one to build it. David tells Solomon that as long as he stays faithful to God and follows the rules and statutes that God will provide all he needs to be able to do this. What stood out from all of this is when David tells Solomon, "Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed." Words that are very needed right now in my life.

This psalm is praising God for all he does and reminding us that he is King over all of the earth.

 

Michelle

God tells David that his son Solomon will build God's temple and that he will have peace from his enemies while doing it.  But David gets supplies and aids in preparing for him to do it once David is gone.  The passage you listed is very much perfect for current events in our lives.  

The psalm seems to be of praise.  It also talks of their enemies fleeing and that Zion rejoices and that God will be our guide till the end. 

Day 232 - 1 Chronicles 20 - 22:1 & Psalm 47

 Julie

David does a census and brings pestilence among his people because God is displeased with David's action. I don't really understand why this was an issue, but the purpose of the story seems to show that David builds an altar to Lord that shows God's grace and mercy.

This psalm is praising the Lord for all he does.

 

Michelle

I don't understand this either, except that it says at the beginning of 21 that Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census.  I'm not sure why this goes against God either but David's commander does question it and David says do it anyway.  I also found interesting that God gives him a choice of punishment.  But during the plague David asks God not to punish everyone but only himself and his line.  It also seems like they are always building alters everywhere.  I am not sure why this is.  

 The psalm is praise to God and the king.

Day 231 - 1 Chronicles 18-19 & Psalm 45

 Michelle

What stands out in this passage is that an act of kindness and sympathy is interpreted as something else entirely.  Instead the envoys were accused of spying and war ensued.  In the end David's armies defeat the Arameans and Ammonites, and peace is made.  The devotional attached to this chapter speaks of Acts of Kindness.  It references Sept 11, 2001 and how many people showed kindness to each other in the aftermath of all that happened that day.  At the end it says this:  Just as God unreservedly extends kindness to us, we are called to "clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience" (Colossians 3:12).  We are to reflect God's kindness to others regardless o how they choose to respond.  Don't wait for a crisis to extend loving-kindness.  Take the time to ponder who is suffering...Maybe they need to hear an encouraging word.  Perhaps you could pickup the phone to tell them that you care...and then leave the outcome to God.  We don't see alot of kindness these days.  Or it is being covered by all the terrible acts instead and it's hard to see.  We need to strive to show more kindness to others and to be open to those that need it.  

This psalm says it's a wedding song.  Halfway through it seems to be specifically speaking to a daughter saying to pay careful attention and to forget your people and father's house and honor the king.  At the end it seems to be saying that nations will praise her.  I am a bit confused about this one as it seems to be about a woman and not really praising God, even though in the beginning it says God has blessed you forever. 

Julie

Wow! I didn't even consider that direction as I was reading, but it really does talk about that. You are correct...there is definitely not enough kindness right now.

According to the explanation in my Bible God is blessing the line of David and this was written for a king in that line.

Day 230 - 1 Chronicles 17 & Psalm 44

 Julie

This tells in detail of the covenant that God makes with David. David wants to build a house of the Lord for the Ark to sit in, but God tells him that is not what he is meant to do. However, God does tell him that one of his sons will do that and that he will bless his line and bless his house so that his family lives on. 

This psalm is asking for God's help in times of trouble. However, it also seems that those singing this hymn feel that God is not listening and is punishing them for something unknown. I don't think that is the case, but that he is testing their faithfulness and trust in him. 

 

Michelle

This passage is about God's promise to David and David's prayer to God.  As I am a bit distracted today, I had to stop my mind and refocus on reading.  But a few things come to mind.  God is telling David that he does not need to build a house for his ark, but that someone in his line is tasked with that and that he will raise up his offspring and establish his kingdom.  So God has plans for each of us.  We only need to seek them out from him directly.  Which made me wonder, are there still prophets in this time?  It would be really helpful to consult a prophet and have God speak thru them to guide me.  I still seem to have trouble discerning God voice to me.  To know what direction or action I am supposed to take.  Maybe I am not praying enough for that, I don't know.   The passage goes into David's prayer to God.  It says that David went in and sat before God and asked "Who am I and what is my family that you have brought me this far?".  As if he is not worthy of such gifts from God.  I think that sometimes.  That I am not worthy, but I don't think I have ever prayed that to God.  He goes on to give praise and reverence to God throughout this prayer.   It is kind of inspiring to read.  But I could really use a prophet to tell me what God wants me to do.  

I think you are right.  It does seem like they are feeling punished and that God has left them, but that their faithfulness is being tested.  Is that what is happening to me right now?  Is my faithfulness being tested?  I am trying to turn to God and to please guide me, but I can't tell if what is in my heart is just anger or if I am being led to do something about a situation.  In verse 20-21 it says "If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, would not God have discovered it, since he knows the secrets of the heart?". This one hit me as I am certain God knows the secrets of our hearts, but right now I cannot tell if what is in my heart is anger or just hurtfulness or a desire to right the wrongs that people are doing.  And I don't know how to proceed. 

Day 229 - 1 Chronicles 15-16 & Psalm 43

 Julie

So they are bringing the Ark to the city of David, but only the Levites are able to carry the Ark. There is a random remark about Saul's daughter seeing this and have negative feelings toward David. David does give his people a prayer or song of thanks to God that they should say/sing.

This psalm asks God for help with those who make life difficult, but also praises him for his gift of salvation.

 

Michelle

I was curious about the daughter of Saul despising David when she saw him.  This was when David was bringing the ark to the city and he was singing and dancing in praise.  I was a bit confused with the fact that David appears to be ministering to the people, when in the rules from God it was supposed to be specific clans doing that and he gave them a prayer to use, which being blessed by God could have come from that blessing.  It seemed a reminder of where they had come from and the covenant made with God and their ancestors.

The psalms seems a reminder to himself to put his hope in God as he is still downcast. 

Day 228 - 1 Chronicles 13-14 & Psalm 42

Julie

David is trying to bring the Ark back to the people. However, one of the people he sends for it and is killed by God. I didn't really understand the significance of that or what he did that angered God. 

There is a strong need for God in this psalm as this appears to be a time where those around David were wondering why God was letting him suffer. Asking him, "Where is your God?", which is usually the question that is asked because people don't realize that just because we follow God doesn't mean that there are not struggles in our lives. We need to show, as David did, that we have faith and trust in God regardless of our circumstances, and use those moments to try and show the greatness of God.

 

Michelle

I was taken aback by that also.  It says that Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark as the oxen stumbled, meaning I assume that he touched it.  But the reasoning seems sound so why would God be mad about that?  Maybe I am not remembering that it cannot be touched by anyone?  I am not sure, but it seemed a harsh punishment for what was being done.  Although I think I have said that often about how harsh the punishments are for things at times.  

The devotional with this chapter talks about thinking about God and giving yourself reminders to do it daily.  

In the psalm he seems to be reminding himself that God is with him as he starts asking why his soul is downcast.   

Day 227 - 1 Chronicles 11-12 & Psalm 41

 Julie

We have now come to David being named King and these two chapters basically list all of the men who fought on his side.

This psalm brings us to the end of Book One. It is asking for God's grace and for help with his enemies. 

 

Michelle

I found a few things of interest in these chapters.  First, it seems that there are many who are intent on making David king.  They come willingly to fight for him.  Second, as there are so many volunteering, one would assume they also are believers in God at that time, but it doesn't say that specifically.  Just that they are coming to David's aid.  And his army grows.  

There's a devotional with chapter 11.  It talks of Perfect timing and asks do you ever get tired of waiting for God to keep his promises.  As the people watched Saul disobeying God they waited and waited for things to change.  It was many years before David was anointed king.  This part struck me, "The prophets and New Testament writers have promised that the King of kings, Jesus Christ is coming again to establish his perfect kingdom.  So what is he waiting for?  Haven't things gotten bad enough?  Isn't there enough pain, sorrow, corruption and cruelty in the world?"  I think there are many of us that are asking those same questions even now.  It does on to quote Peter, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise...Instead he is patient, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."  He is waiting for everyone who will come to saving faith, then he will keep his promise.  We just need to be patient.

This psalm sounds like he is asking for forgiveness.  But also it feels a bit conceited.  As there is a part when he talks of his integrity and how he knows God is pleased with him.  I'm not sure why it made me feel that way.

 

Day 226 - 1 Chronicles 10 & Psalm 40

 Michelle

In reading about Saul previously, I wasn't sure how to process the fact that he committed suicide after asking his armor bearer to kill him.  Reading this today it seems that his people think that the Philistines killed Saul.  And while what was happening had something to do with it, it was his own doing.  At the end of this chapter it says that Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord and did not keep the word of the Lord and did not inquire of the Lord.  This is really all that is asked of us, turn to God in our time of need, keep his word and remain faithful.

I don't know if I am distracted or what.  The first verse stands out to me, I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and hear my cry.  I read thru the rest but this kept my focus for some reason.  That we need to patiently wait for God to reply to our cries for help and be open to receiving his instruction when it does come. 

Julie

I wasn't sure what to do about that either and I can't remember exactly but I think I wondered originally if that was part of the reason that God treated his family the way he did. It really helps that they talk about the ways in which he broke faith with the Lord. 

Another thing I read in this is that we should openly share the faithfulness that God has for us and the good things that he does for us with others. There is thanks and a request for continued protection, but the promise from our end lies in how we share that information with non-believers.

Day 225 - 1 Chronicles 9 & Psalm 39

 Julie

This chapter talks about the genealogy of those that were exiled. 

They called this a psalm of suffering and I guess that I can see that. It seems like David is wrestling with realizing how short our lives are and asking God to help make sure that we end up with him. David does mention those moments where he might be weak and fall, but again asks God for help.

 

Michelle

This is more genealogy.  But there is a part that stands out to me regarding the gatekeepers.  It tells of how there are gatekeepers for the Lords temple or the tent of meeting and that there was one posted on all directional sides and that there were others that guarded other parts and some that had keys to enter and some that were in charge of the articles used in the temple service and so on.  All these were the Levites and they had been tasked from the beginning with this service.  

I think your explanation covers this psalm well.  The first few verses stand out to me about watching my ways and keeping my tongue from sin, putting a muzzle on my mouth when in the presence of the wicked.  In doing that it sounds like he got angry and then spoke in anger.   

Day 224 - 1 Chronicles 7-8 & Psalms 38

 Julie

There are more genealogies and descendants today. I really don't know what more to say about them than what I have. I am sure that these are important, but I know I won't remember with all the names who belongs to who. 

This psalm sounds like a prayer to ask for forgiveness for his sins. David did sin against God once and maybe it's possible that this was his prayer at this time knowing what he had done. 

 

Michelle

 More genealogy.  I started to wonder a few things while reading this.  First, what is the reason for this listing and accounting of all at this point, I remember there being reference to future events, so it could be to show us how those important later on came from the original group of God's people and the covenants they had.  Second, we still do an accounting of our ancestors on some level.  I like to read about those before us and what our family did before our time.  Third, again there is little mention of females, but there was one that stood out in which it was said that she built some places which makes me wonder the significance.

The psalm does sound like a confession of sin to God.  He is also asking for God's help with those persecuting him.

Day 223 - 1 Chronicles 5-6 & Psalm 37

 Julie

These two chapters were more genealogies and descendants. However, these ones were a little more detailed and included places that they lived and other tribes that they might have been at war with.

The righteous will be saved and the evildoers will get what is coming to them. It's a reminder that even in hard times and when it seems like evil has taken over, that if we stay the course and continue to trust and follow God we will be saved. 

 

Michelle

This seems to be an accounting of what each clan received as far as land and where they lived along with their genealogies.  The devotional attached to chapter 5 talks about the battle from verse 20 in which they called out to God and he answered their prayers.  It talks about how life is more of a battlefield than a playground.  We face enemies constantly, even those we cannot see.  We fight battles against ourselves such as, anxiety, depression, insecurity; and we fight against things of this world such as materialism, greed, addiction, violence, prejudice.  The list goes on.  But is says we are called to do battle with evil by putting on the armor of God in God's army.  Our secret weapon is prayer to God.  Asking for help and trusting him to hear our prayers.  It all goes back to trust and faith in God.  

This psalm is a longer one.  The devotional attached to this one explains it well.  It says that in this psalm he is faced with a situation when he saw his enemies prosper while he suffered.  So he turned his focus to God.  These are the things he did to find peace in the midst of his injustice:  Trust in the Lord, do good, dwell in the land (don't run away), take delight in the Lord, commit your way to the Lord, and Be still before the Lord.   

Day 222 - 1 Chronicles 3-4 & Psalm 36

 Julie

These chapters listed the descendants of David, Judah, and Simeon. Again, a good reference to go back to in order to see where someone belongs.

This psalm explains those that are evil and then praises God for how he provides for the righteous. It ends with a request to protect the righteous from those that have chosen the evil path and to not let evildoers take us away from God. 

 

Michelle

This section is more genealogy.  I noticed today that there are few references to females in the line.  I am assuming the ones listed are significant.  I know this was the way in that time.  Also at the end of chapter 4 it talks of when some of the regions were overtaken and the peoples of those areas were killed so that the new inhabitants could use it.  This also seems to be a theme in the bible of one people destroying another for various reason.

The beginning of this psalm speaks of those that are conceited in nature and that don't see their evil ways.  It then goes on to speak of God's unending love.

Day 221 - 1 Chronicles 1-2 & Psalm 35

 Julie

These first two chapters are genealogies, taking us from Adam to Abraham and then through the line of David. These might be good reference chapters as we continue to read to figure out who belongs where within the genealogies.

David seems to be asking for God's protection during one of the times that he was constantly being treated poorly by others. One thing that stood out to me in this is that he prayed for all of them with love in his heart regardless of how they were treating him. That is something to remember...

 

Michelle

Yes this seems to be a good reference.  It was a little hard to follow toward the end.  The preface to this book I found interesting.  It reads, "The Chronicles were written for a people in the process of rebuilding - rebuilding their walls, their temple, their country, their lives.  Judgement and exile were their most recent memories, and even at this point they were still subject to Persia.  They had once been God's people, but now, with the exile over and the time for rebuilding begun, would he take them back?  Would he even want them back?  Remember, the Chronicler seems to say.  Remember your past.  These people in your family tree are more than just dusty old names.  They are a part of you.  Their choices are what created your history, and it is your history that shapes your present.  You would do well to learn from them.  You would do well to learn all you possible can."  In the side note is says the audience is the people of Judah who had returned from exile in Babylonia.  What I find interesting is the reference to history.  How we must learn from our past, good and bad, to do better in our future.   If only we could see this in action now.  It has made me think though that we might not be in the minority in our thinking, but evil people and actions appear much louder than good most of the time.  If we think about it the negative always stands out more than the positive, no matter how we want it to be.  So we have to work harder to maintain the good and follow God so that it will, at some point in time, be more noticeable and prevalent.  One of the questions in the preface also made me think that God was at the point of deciding if we should continue to be his people, although I don't believe that to be the case as God has shown time and again that he is with you no matter what, we need only turn to him instead of to others or to evil.  The right path is usually the harder one.

There is a part in the psalm where it seems that David is asking God do let bad things happen to his enemies.  He is also praying that God rescues him from these attackers and that David will praise him always.

 

 

Day 220 - Psalm 34

 Michelle

This psalm seems to be speaking of staying away from evil and doing and focusing on good instead.  If we glorify God with our words and actions, he will deliver us from our troubles and protect us.

Julie

Taking refuge in the Lord is what stood out for me today. This is something that I trying very hard to do right now and trusting in his direction in my life.

Day 219 - Psalm 33

 Michelle

This psalm seems to be about trusting in God and keeping him in your heart.  The first verse made me thing of that song about joyfully singing to the Lord and then the one from childhood came to mind about "we've got that joy, joy, joy, joy down in our hearts".  It talks of praising God thru music, how he made us and the world and how God is always with us and that our hope should be always in the Lord. 

Julie

I am not sure that I can say much more than you have at this point. I actually thought of a different song when I read that. It says, "shout to the Lord all the earth let us sing, power and majesty praise to our king, nothing compares to the promise I have in you." Which to me does seem to sum up this psalm nicely as we do have the steadfast love of the Lord watching over us.

Day 218 - 2 Kings 23:36 - 25:30 & Psalm 32

 Michelle

This passage talks of the fall of Jerusalem and king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.  At this point, God is so angry at the people that he scatters them or they are removed from the land and Babylon takes over.  The Babylonians have taken all the things from the temple of the Lord, and the people of Judah are in captivity at this point.  This section is very sad to me.  

The psalm says if you confess your sin to God you will be forgiven.  Be faithful and pray and you will be guided on the right path.  Do not be like the horse or mule that have to be controlled. 

Julie

This just felt like an unceremonial end to this chapter. We continue with kings that don't want to do what God wants so he finally handles it. It is very sad that people can't make good choices and always opt for those of evil.

We are blessed because God will forgive if we confess our sins to him. Acknowledging our sins is important to show that we know that we have done wrong. We should be joyful that we are blessed in this way and that he is gracious enough to forgive us.

Day 217 - 2 Kings 22 - 23:35 & Psalm 31

Julie

This was kind of interesting. Josiah began his reign at the age of 8 and was considered to the most faithful king. He was considered more faithful than even David. He did everything he could to abolish idolatry. Unfortunately, the king that follows him reverts back to the old ways.

This psalm really spoke to me today as I am struggling with things in my life right now. We need to remember in difficult times that God is our rock and his steadfast love will see us through. 

 

 

Michelle

 

I agree, this was interesting.  Once Josiah was presented the Book of the Covenant, he proceeded to rid the people of all the false idols and worship places for them.  Even though he did right in the eyes of the Lord, it seems that God is already so angry that it doesn't change what is coming for the people.  And his son reverts back to evil ways.  The end of this passage made me think of times today and I agree that we are seeing some of these same things happening in today's time and situations.  It's interesting that saying about history repeating itself and we are seeing that in reading the bible and in real life.  It's disappointing to think we cannot come out of this revolving door of evil from those in power.  

 

This passage also has a devotional that I find compelling.  It is titled, "Life Condensed".  It says that Josiah's life is condensed into a single sentence of 31 words.  "He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left."  It says if your life were condensed into a short synopsis, what would be said of you?  I find this interesting also, "As we care for our families and do our work, it's easy to become sidetracked from our primary purpose:  pleasing God."  I think many people, myself included forget this at times.  Our first focus should be God.  

 

The last verse in the psalm really sums it up.  Be Strong and take hear, all you who hope in the Lord.  Throughout this psalm, David is sharing some of the things he has or is going thru, yet he continually turns to the Lord for help and comfort. 

Day 216 - 2 Kings 21 & Psalm 30

 Julie

We read about two more kings that choose to follow the path of idols instead of following God. It is amazing how often corruption takes over they choose to follow that path. It really goes to show just how easily people will live in the flesh. 

This seems to mostly be a psalm of thanks to God for his protection and for what he provides. 

 

Michelle

This is a short passage and speaks of 2 kings that follow many other gods and idols.  It's interesting that Manasseh did not follow God and makes you wonder why he strayed so far since his father, Hezekiah, seemed to be doing right in God's eyes.  Are they not teaching the next generation?  Is that where we are failing as a people?  

The psalm does seem to be thanks to God.  It also feels like a reminder that God will come to you in your time of need.  We just need to be prayerful, faithful, and patient, and open to listen. 

Day 215 - 2 Kings 19-20 & Psalm 29

 Michelle

My mind kept straying while reading this for some reason.  But this passage talks about Jerusalem's deliverance being foretold and Hezekiah praying to God asking to be heard regarding the king of Assyria.  God hears him and tells of the fall of the king.  Then Hezekiah prays to God again regarding his illness and that he will not survive it.  God answers his prayer giving him 15 more years of life.  When reading the prophets responses, I started to wonder if they relay the message received exactly or if they embellish at all.  Some of them seems wordy and embellished a bit.  I can't always tell if they are being truthful in their prophesies.  The devotional attached to this section talks about a never fail disaster plan.  Hezekiah's disaster plan was that he laid out the letter before God and prayed.  The question at the end is, do you lay the situation out before God and trust him to show you what to do.  This is very powerful.  Do we do this every time and then listen?  

I had to look up some words in this psalm.  It talks of the voice of the Lord and relates it to many natural occurrences.  I don't know that I have ever thought of God's voice in this way.

Julie

No, we struggle with laying it at God's feet and trusting him, and with listening to his Word. I am being tested in this right now and I will honestly say that I am trying, but I am struggling. What spoke to me today was 20:6-7, "Isaiah said to them, "Say to your master, 'Thus says the Lord: Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have reviled me. Behold, I will put a spirit in him, so that he shall hear a rumor and return to his own land, and I will make him fall by the sword in his own land." Don't be afraid because of words that you heard, is where I am right now and I do pray that an end will come and these people will get what they deserve. I don't mean that in a harsh way...although I know it sounds that way. 

The voice of the Lord is over all we do and experience, we should stop and listen and revel in the fact that he gives us strength and peace.

Day 214 - 2 Kings 18 & Psalm 28

 Michelle

This chapter tells of Hezekiah and a fight he is having with another king who seems to want to take over or steal his people.  It tells at the beginning that Hezekiah does right in the Lord's eyes and follows the path of David.  There is a part when Hezekiah pays the king of Assyria to leave them alone it seems, yet later he comes back and tries to tell the people not to listen to Hezekiah when he says the Lord is on their side.  I'm not sure where we are going here.  This is a longer story in Kings than we have been reading.  

I had a hard time reading this psalm for some reason.  My mind kept straying after the first few verses, so I kept rereading it.  What I keep coming back to is that we need to turn to God in all situations.  We cannot or should not do things on our own and God will take care of whatever our needs are, but maybe not in the time frame we expect.  That we need to be patient and keep asking God to handle whatever situations arise, even if it means praying about it over and over again. 

Julie

It is said that Hezekiah is the most Davidic king as he follows God's commandments as David did. The Assyrian king is trying to discredit Hezekiah so that people don't follow him or God is what seems to be happening. Hezekiah's faith will be tested in this as it is possible, I would imagine, that people would listen to the Assyrian king.

This psalm also seems to be asking God for help with those that are trouble or causing difficulty or are evil, but then also thanking him for being a gracious God and for taking care of us during difficult times.

Day 213 - 2 Kings 17 & Psalm 27

 Michelle

In this chapter we read that Israel is exiled because of sin against God.  As in these previous chapters we read about the kings leading them in worshiping numerous gods, not just God.  It speaks of the last king of Israel and how even though they brought a priest back to the land to teach people how to worship God, they continued to worship other things as well.  Some of these names sound familiar, like I have read or heard about them before.  There was one in previous chapters,  Baal-Zebub, that sounds like a name for the devil that we see and hear about even now.  Another that sounds familiar is Nergal.  This one I think I have heard about in movies.  It's interesting because I wonder if those that have used these names found them in the bible or from other sources.  Obviously people from biblical times likely had other publications that have been passed down thru the generations.  Whether they are right or not as we have continually read that people follow their own ways and not always what God directs.  I guess this comes with free will.  God wants you to choose him over others and shows us constantly why we should, yet as a free willed people we are weak and keep choosing the wrong path.  You would think that we would have all learned by now.  It also talks about the area that the people came from and how God's people were deported to Assyria and remain to this day.  I wonder how long that lasted and if they are still there.  Makes one think about how there is no peace in the middle east and how there is and has always been continual fighting amongst the people there.  Like they are still wandering this land because they are not following God.  As we have expanded far from there, this pertains to us too.  Do we follow God or are we following the gods of other nations?  We must keep our focus and faithfulness.

Ok, verses 13-14 really stand out to me on this one.  It says, "I remain confident of this:  I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.  Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."  This seems very powerful to me.  That we must seek and stay focused on the goodness God brings in the land of the living, here on earth amongst all those people who serve other gods or no gods at all.  That we need to be faithful and seek only God. 

Julie

I wish I had something more to add on this one, but you covered it really well. I had the same thoughts about some of the names you mentioned. Giving us free-will allows for sinful decisions and it is obvious that people are very weak and have been for all time. 

I think that you chose some good verses that could even carry us right now. I don't know how others feel about things going on in the world right now, but I know that I am struggling with what feels like evil coming from all directions and I think that the words of some of these psalms and from the verses that you picked out can carry us through some difficult times. I know that are difficulties are not necessarily at the level of David, but they could become more of things don't change.