An American Missionary

You Just Don’t Understand: Women and Men in Conversation, a 2007 book by Deborah Tannen, was a bestseller for several weeks as it described how women and men often talk at each other rather than with each other because of the natural gender differences. Rather than just making fun of the differences the book tries to explain them in a way that leads to better communication. “Men Are Like Waffles--Women Are Like Spaghetti” came out about the same time with the same message. Both followed in the footsteps of the 1992 book “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus”. 
 
Knowing that communication between men and women is difficult, but not impossible, should help us understand that communication with the God of heaven is difficult – but not impossible. Since men and women are human beings the communication gap is two sided in that we’re not always clear in what we say or in how we listen. Since God is the perfect communicator the gap is one sided – we don’t listen and understand. 
 
Just one illustration today. When God told Jeroboam that he would receive ten tribes of Israel the promise was very clear: “If you listen to all that I command you and walk in My ways, and do what is right in My sight by observing My statutes and My commandments…I will be with you and build you an enduring house as I built for David and I will give Israel to you.” (1 Kings 11:38). 
 
How well did Jeroboam listen? Like the rest of us, not very well. Almost immediately after the nation divided and ten of the twelve tribes of Israel made him king, Jeroboam decided he couldn’t trust God. He was worried about the people going to Jerusalem to worship thinking it would draw the people to reunite under Rehoboam. So he talked to human counselors instead of God and set up two places of worship in Israel with golden calves. His actions were pathetically self-centered as “he” set up the calves and “he” designed the worship locations and times. (1 Kings 12:26-33). 
 
Listen to verse 33 in particular. “Then he went up to the altar which he had made in Bethel on the fifteenth day in the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised in his own heart; and he instituted a feast for the sons of Israel and went up to the altar to burn incense.” Notice where all that came from – Jeroboam’s heart. I wonder if he thought about God’s promise and decided “You just don’t understand.” 
 
But let’s not be too harsh on old Jeroboam. As we look around at what passes for worship today ask, “Is this what God said to do, or did it come from the heart of man?” Thinking “God will understand” we still don’t listen. The problem is, He understands all right, and isn’t pleased. Remember, God rejects us when we reject Him.

You Just Don’t Understand: Women and Men in Conversation, a 2007 book by Deborah Tannen, was a bestseller for several weeks as it described how women and men often talk at each other rather than with each other because of the natural gender differences. Rather than just making fun of the differences the book tries to explain them in a way that leads to better communication. “Men Are Like Waffles--Women Are Like Spaghetti” came out about the same time with the same message. Both followed in the footsteps of the 1992 book “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus”.

Knowing that communication between men and women is difficult, but not impossible, should help us understand that communication with the God of heaven is difficult – but not impossible. Since men and women are human beings the communication gap is two sided in that we’re not always clear in what we say or in how we listen. Since God is the perfect communicator the gap is one sided – we don’t listen and understand.

Just one il

Jeroboam Didn’t Listen! 1 Kings 11:38 & 12:26-33

If the two “Anchorman” movies (IFC by the way) are indicative of how Hollywood views news reporters then they believe news reporters are a bunch of idiots. Considering how Hollywood as a whole is filled with people who’ve lost their minds, and the absolute stupidity of those two movies in particular, it is obvious they have a strong sense of kinship. However, with the ridiculous increase in the number of TV news channels they have a point. There’s been a corresponding increase in the number of news reporters asking increasingly ridiculous questions. 
 
“How do you feel?” has to be the worst question possible, but it’s constantly the first question they ask after tragedy has struck. Think about it for a minute. How often have you seen a report of a horrible event and then watch a reporter approach the survivor live on TV and know that the first words out of the reporter’s mouth are going to be: “You’ve just suffered a horrible tragedy, how do you feel?” Are you kidding us, is that your best question? 
 
However, in fairness to reporters, some people are even less intelligent. For example, Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, recently crowned King of Israel in the city of Shechem, could have learned from them and gone out to the people to ask how they felt after his promise to raise their taxes. They had already declared how they felt in a bold rejection of his rule (1 Kings 12:16; 2 Chronicles 10:16). Oblivious to the severity of the matter he sent Hadoram, their work leader, to tell them to get back to work. Hadoram found out how they felt when they stoned him to death (1 Kings 12:18; 2 Chronicles 10:18). Even someone as dense as Rehoboam could figure out how the felt, and, having heard them loud and clear, jumped in his chariot, and fled for his life back to Jerusalem. We know how he felt – frightened. 
 
But are we any smarter? God has spoken to us through His son, but do we listen to Him? Do we even ask how He feels when we refuse to do what He says? Know this, if we don’t listen to God in this life don’t expect Him to ask us how we feel at judgment. He already knows, and we’ll figure it out when He says “Depart, I never knew you.” Don’t wait until it’s too late to find out. The smart question for any who won’t listen to God right now isn’t “How do you feel?”, it’s “What are you thinking?” Well, what are you thinking?

If the two “Anchorman” movies (IFC by the way) are indicative of how Hollywood views news reporters then they believe news reporters are a bunch of idiots. Considering how Hollywood as a whole is filled with people who’ve lost their minds, and the absolute stupidity of those two movies in particular, it is obvious they have a strong sense of kinship. However, with the ridiculous increase in the number of TV news channels they have a point. There’s been a corresponding increase in the number of news reporters asking increasingly ridiculous questions.

“How do you feel?” has to be the worst question possible, but it’s constantly the first question they ask after tragedy has struck. Think about it for a minute. How often have you seen a report of a horrible event and then watch a reporter approach the survivor live on TV and know that the first words out of the reporter’s mouth are going to be: “You’ve just suffered a horrible tragedy, how do you feel?” Are you kidding us, is that your be

What Was Rehoboam Thinking? 1 Kings 12:16-18; 2 Chronicles 10:16-18

“My my, hey hey 
Rock and roll is here to stay 
It's better to burn out 
Than to fade away 
My my, hey hey.” 
 
The opening is from Neil Young’s song "My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)", the lead song on his 1979 album “Rust Never Sleeps”. The album ended with a different version of the song "My My, Hey Hey (Into the Black)" which says “It’s better to burn out ‘cause rust never sleeps.” The album refers to the struggle to remain fresh and new in the music business, a struggle Neil Young was having at the time. 
 
Elvis Presley had died in 1977 just as it seemed Young’s career was fading away so the song also noted that some stars retained their legendary status by dying young and tragically; they burned out instead of fading away. Young was able to hang on without burning out or fading away, and was horrified when grunge rocker Kurt Cobain quoted the line in his 1994 suicide note. In subsequent concerts he emphasized the line “once you’re gone, you can never come back”. 
 
The end of Solomon’s life reads like the fading rock star who shook the world, which is exactly what Solomon did as a young king, but lived long enough to simply fade away. Solomon rose like the sun to cover the whole world and then, because of his sin with multiple wives and idolatry, dipped behind dark clouds and disappeared slowly into the black. His early glory was tarnished by the rust and decay of a dissolute life. One moment we read about his great wealth and wisdom (1 Kings 10:23-24) and then suddenly we read about his distracted heart, disturbances in the kingdom and his death (1 Kings 11:4, 14, 43). Twenty years were covered in just a few verses (1 Kings 11 & 2 Chronicles 9:29-31). 
 
Living life as if the only things that matter are found under the sun (s u n) leads to burning out or fading away in an empty meaningless conclusion to a life that should have had greater value in our eyes, and definitely has greater value in God’s eyes. That’s why living life as if the only things that matter are found in eternity in the presence of God’s Son (s o n) finds true value from Him, regardless of whether our life on earth ends quickly or slowly slips into the dark. So, my my, hey hey, none of us is here to stay, but anyone who is in Jesus will never fade away.

“My my, hey hey
Rock and roll is here to stay
It's better to burn out
Than to fade away
My my, hey hey.”

The opening is from Neil Young’s song "My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)", the lead song on his 1979 album “Rust Never Sleeps”. The album ended with a different version of the song "My My, Hey Hey (Into the Black)" which says “It’s better to burn out ‘cause rust never sleeps.” The album refers to the struggle to remain fresh and new in the music business, a struggle Neil Young was having at the time.

Elvis Presley had died in 1977 just as it seemed Young’s career was fading away so the song also noted that some stars retained their legendary status by dying young and tragically; they burned out instead of fading away. Young was able to hang on without burning out or fading away, and was horrified when grunge rocker Kurt Cobain quoted the line in his 1994 suicide note. In subsequent concerts he emphasized the line “once you’re gone, you can never come back”.

The end of Solomon’s li

No One Fades Away In Jesus 1 Kings 11 & 2 Chronicles 9:29-31

The Tom Cruise movie, Valkyrie, is about an unsuccessful coup attempt in Nazi Germany in 1944. Cruise played the part of Claus von Stauffenberg, a German war hero, who planted a bomb in Hitler’s conference room, and had prepared with others to take over the government. There was one small problem, the bomb exploded but failed to kill Hitler. The coup failed and Stauffenberg was executed the next day. Less than a year later the war had failed and Hitler killed himself. We’ll never know how a successful coup would have changed the history of the world. 
 
The Bible reveals a coup during the days of Solomon and records how it changed the history of the world. Near the end of Solomon’s life, as his heart was turned by his wives to worship other gods, Jehovah selected a rebel to tear apart the kingdom. Jeroboam was a hero of Israel who had been discovered by Solomon and given a place of honor and responsibility in his government (1 Kings 11:26-28). 
 
God had a different purpose for him. One day as Jeroboam was leaving Jerusalem God’s prophet Ahijah met him on the road and told him that Solomon’s kingdom was going to be torn apart and ten of the twelve tribes were going to be given to him to rule over as king. Having put on a new cloak to illustrate God’s message, Ahijah tore it into twelve pieces and gave ten of them to Jeroboam. It symbolized how God was going to tear the nation apart because of Solomon’s idolatry. He was going to give ten tribes to Jeroboam, but keep Judah and Benjamin for the house of David (1 Kings 11:29-36). 
 
We’re not told how, but Solomon found out and attempted to kill Jeroboam. He didn’t succeed in killing Jeroboam or stopping the coup. Jeroboam hid safely in Egypt until Solomon died (1 Kings 11:40) and then came back to fulfill God’s will with a successful coup. 
 
We will never know how world history would have unfolded if Stauffenberg’s coup had succeeded, nor will we ever know how world history would have changed if Solomon had remained faithful. But we can know how our history will change if we will come to God by faith and remain faithful. We can go from enslaved sinners to liberated saints. We can go from aimless wandering to purposeful living. No, we don’t know how each day will unfold, but we can be confident there is a crown of righteousness waiting for us – if we’re faithful (2 Timothy 4:7-8). You can fail outside of Christ or succeed in Him. The choice is yours; which will it be?

The Tom Cruise movie, Valkyrie, is about an unsuccessful coup attempt in Nazi Germany in 1944. Cruise played the part of Claus von Stauffenberg, a German war hero, who planted a bomb in Hitler’s conference room, and had prepared with others to take over the government. There was one small problem, the bomb exploded but failed to kill Hitler. The coup failed and Stauffenberg was executed the next day. Less than a year later the war had failed and Hitler killed himself. We’ll never know how a successful coup would have changed the history of the world.

The Bible reveals a coup during the days of Solomon and records how it changed the history of the world. Near the end of Solomon’s life, as his heart was turned by his wives to worship other gods, Jehovah selected a rebel to tear apart the kingdom. Jeroboam was a hero of Israel who had been discovered by Solomon and given a place of honor and responsibility in his government (1 Kings 11:26-28). 

God had a different purpose for him. One d

Faithfulness Can Change Your World 1 Kings 11:26-40

“And then all the noise. All the noise, noise, noise, NOISE! They’ll bang on tong-tinglers, blow their foo-flounders, they’ll crash on jang-jinglers, and bounce on boing-bounders!” 
 
The approaching holidays mean it will soon be time to watch The Grinch (though some of us are “the Grinch” all year) and see his transformation. Among his many pre-conversion complaints about their Christmas celebration was the noise, noise, noise! 
 
Watching some of the holiday (and every day) religious celebrations makes me wonder if God appreciates the noise, noise, noise, made in the name of “praise music”. So today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday reaches back fifty years to an article that explores that question. 
 
Queries And Answers by Robert F. Turner, from PLAIN TALK Magazine. 
 
Bro. Turner: 
 
In view of 2 Chron. 29:25-36; Psm. 81: 1-5; and Amos 6:5; was instrumental music under the Law of Moses a commandment? If not, was it permissible? Was it condemned? 
 
Reply: 
 
Periodically the question about David and the instruments comes to the surface, to be rehashed. It is an excellent opportunity to show prejudices (as if special opportunity was needed) for there are some aspects of the problem that have no certain answer. It should be noted here that we are not subject to the Law of Moses; our worship must find its authority in the New Testament of Christ. 
 
There is no evidence of mechanical instruments of music related to the Jewish tabernacle, nor to the institution of the various sacrifices or festivals. But some 450 years later it seems instruments were common in certain phases of worship. 
 
With the coming of God’s Glory into the Temple which Solomon built, there was great instrumentation. Adam Clarke, opposed to such music in the church, says, “Cymbals, psalteries, and harps, of any kind, in union with a hundred and twenty trumpets or horns, could not produce much harmony — as to melody, that must have been impossible, as the noise was too great.” (2 Chron. 5:12-f) But even Clarke must admit that instrumental usage was there. 
 
Concerning the authority for such, Clarke cites the Syriac and Arabic texts on 2 Chron. 29:25 and says, "It was by the hand or commandment of the Lord and his prophets that the Levites should praise the Lord for so the Hebrew text may be understood; and it was by the order of David that so many instruments of music should be introduced into the Divine service.” I cannot verify such texts. 
 
The Hardeman-Boswell Debate has an interesting exchange on this. Hardeman did not deny instruments in Solomon's and Zerubbabel’s temple, but argued there was no evidence for such in the temple built by Herod. 
 
Psm. 81: 1-5 says the feast day is a statute for Israel, appointed in Joseph, commemorating deliverance from bondage. (Passover) 
 
Amos 6:5 is not, in my judgement, a woe pronounced on the instruments, per se; nor did David invent the first instrument. (Gen. 4:21, etc.) This passage condemns the “at ease in Zion” attitude that prevailed despite God’s obvious warnings. Note 5:21-f. God hated even their solemn assemblies etc., done without justice and righteousness. 
 
We cannot go to David, or to Jewish worship under Judaism, for authority for N. T. church worship. If Temple worship authorizes harps, it also authorizes animal sacrifice and a priestly system. But both priesthood and law are changed (Heb. 7:12) and we find authority for religious service in the New Covenant. There we are taught by command and example to sing making melody in your heart to the Lord. (Eph. 5:19 1 Cor. 14:15) We have no authority to play. (Period!) 
 
Well, is Robert being the Grinch or drawing a legitimate conclusion with respect to modern worship music? I wouldn’t have quoted him if I didn’t agree, but don’t just take my word (or Robert’s) as the answer. You need to study it out for yourself.

“And then all the noise. All the noise, noise, noise, NOISE! They’ll bang on tong-tinglers, blow their foo-flounders, they’ll crash on jang-jinglers, and bounce on boing-bounders!”

The approaching holidays mean it will soon be time to watch The Grinch (though some of us are “the Grinch” all year) and see his transformation. Among his many pre-conversion complaints about their Christmas celebration was the noise, noise, noise!

Watching some of the holiday (and every day) religious celebrations makes me wonder if God appreciates the noise, noise, noise, made in the name of “praise music”. So today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday reaches back fifty years to an article that explores that question.

Queries And Answers by Robert F. Turner, from PLAIN TALK Magazine.

Bro. Turner:

In view of 2 Chron. 29:25-36; Psm. 81: 1-5; and Amos 6:5; was instrumental music under the Law of Moses a commandment? If not, was it permissible? Was it condemned?

Reply:

Periodically the 

Instrumental Music In Worship? 2 Chronicles 5:12-14, Ephesians 5:19

“Enough. I am a god! You are, all of you are beneath me, you dull creature, and I will not be bullied by...” In one of the funniest scenes in the 2012 movie, The Avengers, Loki’s self-deluded speech was interrupted by the Hulk who grabbed him by the ankles and with one hand bashed him repeatedly to the floor like a rag doll. He then left him crumpled in (yes, in not on) the floor, dazed and stunned. The audience roared with laughter and almost missed the best line as the Hulk walked away mumbling “Puny god.” 
 
If it wasn’t so sad our puny understanding of the nature of God would be funny. When we talk about God do we understand that He is not bound by time, space or matter? Do we realize that, as Einstein’s Theory of Relativity predicts, the fact that time, space and matter are interrelated and came into existence at the same time requires a Creator who is not bound by time, space or matter? Yet we say God does not exist, or if we believe He exists then we make him a puny god like Loki. 
 
3000 years ago Solomon knew that Yaweh (The Great I Am) was nothing like the puny gods of man’s making. When he finished the temple he repeated and expanded on the explanation he had given to Hiram about the fact that God is not contained by a temple made with hands. In his dedication speech Solomon began by praising and thanking God for His great promise to David and then declared for all to hear “O Lord, the God of Israel, there is no God Like You in heaven above or on earth beneath” (1 Kings 8:23; 2 Chronicles 6:14). Then after asking Him to continue His blessings he continued praising God by saying, “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain You, how much less this house which I have built!” (1 Kings 8:27; 2 Chronicles 6:18). Talk about understanding God, and recognizing his own insignificance. Solomon boldly declared to the nation, “Since heaven and earth cannot contain God then neither can this puny temple that I just finished building.” 
 
What about us? Do we recognize the power and majesty of God and bow in humble admission of our own insignificance? Or, are we busy constructing our own temples, churches, and approaches to God under the delusion that we can contain Him? Do we worship Yahweh or some puny cartoon version? Think carefully before answering.

“Enough. I am a god! You are, all of you are beneath me, you dull creature, and I will not be bullied by...” In one of the funniest scenes in the 2012 movie, The Avengers, Loki’s self-deluded speech was interrupted by the Hulk who grabbed him by the ankles and with one hand bashed him repeatedly to the floor like a rag doll. He then left him crumpled in (yes, in not on) the floor, dazed and stunned. The audience roared with laughter and almost missed the best line as the Hulk walked away mumbling “Puny god.”

If it wasn’t so sad our puny understanding of the nature of God would be funny. When we talk about God do we understand that He is not bound by time, space or matter? Do we realize that, as Einstein’s Theory of Relativity predicts, the fact that time, space and matter are interrelated and came into existence at the same time requires a Creator who is not bound by time, space or matter? Yet we say God does not exist, or if we believe He exists then we make him a puny god like Loki.

No Puny God 1 Kings 8:23, 27; 2 Chronicles 6:14, 18

Salvation Is Conditional And Christians Can Fall Away Hebrews 6:4-8 
“More often than Trump tweets”. “More times than Blake Shelton’s won The Voice”. What is the most current phrase for a very large number of something? It used to be “More something than Carter has liver pills”, but that phrase means nothing to most people today, so I’m stuck trying to find a catchy phrase about a large number that makes sense to the most people in 2021. Nearly everyone knows Trump, probably because of the tweets. Many, but not all, will know about Blake Shelton from the TV show The Voice. 
 
All of that was to say this - the Bible has more “if” statements than all the Trump tweets and Blake Shelton wins combined. For the sake of brevity we’ll look at just a couple today, beginning with God’s appearance to Solomon after the completion of the temple. God began with a recognition of Solomon’s prayer of dedication and confirmation that He (God) had made the temple holy. But He immediately followed up with a conditional statement: “As for you, if you will walk before Me…then I will establish the throne of your kingdom over Israel forever” (1 Kings 9:2-5; 2 Chronicles 7:17-18). 
 
Our current religious world, which teaches “unconditional election”, more commonly known as “faith only”, is uncomfortable with that conditional promise. But those who believe “once saved always saved” are even more uncomfortable with God’s next conditional statement. “But if you turn away from following Me…I will cut off Israel…I will cast this house…out of my sight” (1 Kings 9:6-9; 2 Chronicles 7:19-20). 
 
And if that makes people uncomfortable imagine their response to God’s conditional statements in the New Testament. Over and over God warns Christians against the danger of falling away. It is heartbreaking to hear those who believe in “faith only” and “once saved always saved” choke over Hebrews 6:4-8. The text warns of the difficulty of restoring those who have fallen away, so most evangelical preachers assert they were never saved in the first place. But listen to how the text describes them: “once enlightened…tasted of the heavenly gift…partakers of the Holy Spirit...tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come.” Yes, they were Christians. Then listen to their fate, “have fallen away…crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame…whose end is to be burned”. 
 
God has made the reception and retention of salvation conditional and filled the Bible with warnings against ignoring those conditions and losing our salvation. Thankfully He invites us all to meet His conditions: “whosoever will may come” (Revelation 22:17), including the once saved ones who fell away. What about you? The choice to receive it and keep it is yours. Will you come to Jesus by meeting His conditions and receive salvation?

Salvation Is Conditional And Christians Can Fall Away Hebrews 6:4-8
“More often than Trump tweets”. “More times than Blake Shelton’s won The Voice”. What is the most current phrase for a very large number of something? It used to be “More something than Carter has liver pills”, but that phrase means nothing to most people today, so I’m stuck trying to find a catchy phrase about a large number that makes sense to the most people in 2021. Nearly everyone knows Trump, probably because of the tweets. Many, but not all, will know about Blake Shelton from the TV show The Voice.

All of that was to say this - the Bible has more “if” statements than all the Trump tweets and Blake Shelton wins combined. For the sake of brevity we’ll look at just a couple today, beginning with God’s appearance to Solomon after the completion of the temple. God began with a recognition of Solomon’s prayer of dedication and confirmation that He (God) had made the temple holy. But He immediately followed up with a 

Salvation Is Conditional And Christians Can Fall Away Hebrews 6:4-8

“If ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ were candy and nuts, we’d all have a merry Christmas”, was a favorite saying of Monday Night Football announcer Don Meredith. When Howard Cosell would blather on about “if” this and “if” that we could count on Don to puncture Cosell’s balloon with his favorite phrase. One of the problems with football today (besides its sheer brutality) is too many games require too many announcers who use too many meaningless clichés. When they start the “what if” blather I wish ol’ Don would pop up and puncture their balloon. 
 
While it may get monotonous in football there are genuine reasons and appropriate times for “if” statements. It is a simple word used to introduce the idea of a conditional situation. Typically it is used in the form of an “if this then that” sentence. Sometimes it relates to somewhat connected situations such as “If I get in late, then don’t wait up.” They’re only connected if you want them to be. Sometimes it relates to fundamentally connected situations that absolutely depend on one another such as “If you won’t take me, then I can’t go.” 
 
Those “if this then that” situations are insignificant compared to the conditional nature of human salvation. When Solomon built the temple God reminded him that if Solomon continued walking in His law God would keep His promise. “(I)f you will walk in My statutes and execute My ordinances and keep all my commandments by walking in them, then I will carry out My word with you which I spoke to David your father. I will dwell among the sons of Israel, and will not forsake My people Israel.”(1 Kings 6:12-13). Eventually Solomon and the nation failed and God punished them in captivity. 
 
Today God offers salvation as a gift (Ephesians 2:8) to those who will come to Him in obedient faith. The believer becomes an Israelite by spiritual birth and God will dwell with him (or her). However, receiving and holding on to the gift are still conditioned on faith. It is a required response on our part. In Ephesians 2:8 salvation is the gift and faith is the condition. In Hebrews 11:6 God said that without faith “it’s impossible to please Him” and that “He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” 
 
If we refuse to meet God’s conditions and diligently seek Him by faith then we’re treating God Himself with the irreverence of a Don Meredith saying. Dwelling with God depends on your response. The choice is yours. Will you do what God says and seek Him diligently by faith or treat the gift He has offered like a Dandy Don joke?

If 'ifs' and 'buts' were candy and nuts, we'd all have a merry Christmas”, was a favorite saying of Monday Night Football ...

God’s Conditional Offer 1 Kings 6:12-13

Halloween is coming up later this month and the displays have already hit the stores and yards enticing party minded people to dress up their homes or themselves for the occasions. With the low cost of fog machines many set ups include them as a means of creating a creepy atmosphere of mist and fog. The goal is to scare little kids, and some adults, by making them think monsters will jump out of the smoke and grab them. Florida theme parks are filled with them for their big Halloween events. Ooohhh, I’m so scared (yawn). 
 
The Bible records an event involving smoke that was genuinely frightening, and it didn’t require a fog machine or monsters. When God’s temple was finally finished the nation gathered to worship Yahweh and it was a service unlike anything those people had ever seen. When the priests carried the ark and the furnishings from the tabernacle to the temple it was a slow procession led by King Solomon and leaders from all the tribes marked by innumerable sacrifices (1 Kings 8:1-5; 2 Chronicles 5:1-6). They knew that they were honoring the Creator of heaven and earth and took it very seriously. 
 
When they got everything in the Temple and it was set up correctly God sent an overpowering cloud of smoke into the temple that made the priests leave. The cloud was from God to represent His Glory and Power (1 Kings 8:6-11; 2 Chronicles 5:11-14). Make no mistake, the cloud did not contain God. It was simply a visible physical representation for the people that demonstrated His approval of the structure and the people’s worship. 
 
So as the holiday approaches and you see the machines with their little clouds of fog don’t be afraid. The little ghosts and goblins jumping out from the fog aren’t real, nor are the ones conjured up in your imagination. Instead let the fog machines remind you of the power and Glory of God, who is so very real, and be afraid, very afraid of the one who can cover the world in smoke. As King Solomon said near the end of his life “fear God and keep His commandments…For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, wither it is good or evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). If you’re seeking the thrill of being afraid, why not go for the ultimate thrill and be afraid of God. And then do something about it.

Halloween is coming up later this month and the displays have already hit the stores and yards enticing party minded people to dress up their homes or themselves for the occasions. With the low cost of fog machines many set ups include them as a means of creating a creepy atmosphere of mist and fog. The goal is to scare little kids, and some adults, by making them think monsters will jump out of the smoke and grab them. Florida theme parks are filled with them for their big Halloween events. Ooohhh, I’m so scared (yawn).

The Bible records an event involving smoke that was genuinely frightening, and it didn’t require a fog machine or monsters. When God’s temple was finally finished the nation gathered to worship Yahweh and it was a service unlike anything those people had ever seen. When the priests carried the ark and the furnishings from the tabernacle to the temple it was a slow procession led by King Solomon and leaders from all the tribes marked by innumerable sacrifices (1 Kings 

Be Afraid, Very Afraid  1 Kings 8:1-11; 2 Chronicles 5:1-14

“You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, 
Know when to walk away, know when to run. 
You never count your money when you're sittin' at the table, 
There'll be time enough for countin' when the dealin's done.” 
 
Those are the words of advice given by “The Gambler” in the 1978 country song by Kenny Rogers. While a prolific performer, it’s possible he’s known more for this one than any other. He was even portrayed singing it while playing poker in an insurance company’s commercial. The looks on the faces of the other players gave away their frustration at having to hear it – for the bazillionth time. 
 
Successful gamblers mask their own emotions while reading those of their opponents. But, even successful gamblers don’t always succeed at masking their emotions and are likely to have “tells” that the truly observant will pick up and use to their own advantage. On the other hand some people would never succeed because their emotions show too easily and their faces or motions would expose the strength of their poker hand. They would not be able to hide what they were holding and the others would know whether to “hold ‘em” or “fold ‘em”. 
 
This inability to mask our emotions or hide what we’re thinking applies in many areas of life. If you want to know what’s on someone’s mind simply look at what they spend their time and money doing. The record of Solomon’s work in building the Temple of Jehovah in Jerusalem confirms that God was on Solomon’s heart, except the record also confirmed he was thinking of himself even more. At the end of 1 Kings 6 we read that Solomon spent seven years building the Temple. However, the very next sentence gave the game away with the simple statement, “Now Solomon was building his own house thirteen years, and he finished all his house.” (1 Kings 7:1). That tell tells the tale. 
 
That shows why the text would later declare “his heart was not wholly devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.” (1 Kings 11:4). Think about it. David’s realization that the ark was kept in a tent while he lived in a palace embarrassed him and drove him to want to build the temple. When told he wasn’t allowed to build it he poured his time, energy, and money into preparing for his son to build it as God had promised. Solomon built a magnificent temple for God, but was not embarrassed by the magnificence of his own palace. 
 
Are we like David or Solomon? The tell is in what we spend our time, energy and money building: our stuff or the things of God!

“You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away, know when to run.
You never count your money when you're sittin' at the table,
There'll be time enough for countin' when the dealin's done.”

Those are the words of advice given by “The Gambler” in the 1978 country song by Kenny Rogers. While a prolific performer, it’s possible he’s known more for this one than any other. He was even portrayed singing it while playing poker in an insurance company’s commercial. The looks on the faces of the other players gave away their frustration at having to hear it – for the bazillionth time.

Successful gamblers mask their own emotions while reading those of their opponents. But, even successful gamblers don’t always succeed at masking their emotions and are likely to have “tells” that the truly observant will pick up and use to their own advantage. On the other hand some people would never succeed because their emotions show too easily and their faces or motions 

The Tell Tells The Tale 1 Kings 6:38-7:1

Have you ever been to Stone Mountain Georgia? It’s a huge, round, dome-like, rock formation near Atlanta that stands over 800 feet above the surrounding ground and is five miles around. It’s been in the news frequently over the last few years because of the debates over race relations and symbols of America’s less savory past. Primarily because three key Confederate leaders are carved in gigantic figures on the north face of the rock. Setting aside that issue there’s no question that it is a truly amazing formation. 
 
When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem it was designed and built by the skilled hands and minds of men rather than God, but it was still a magnificent structure. Just read the description of its building from when the foundation was laid until the finishing touches were completed seven years later, and it’s easy to see that it was a truly amazing and beautiful formation (1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3 & 4). 
 
But there’s an even more amazing formation that’s built on a better and more permanent foundation than either Mount Moriah or Stone Mountain. That formation is the church of Jesus Christ that’s built on the only perfect foundation stone – Jesus Christ. 
 
We know this because when God rebuked the people of Israel for relying on Egypt instead of Him He revealed His plan to set a foundation stone on Mount Zion that would stand stronger than Stone Mountain, or even Mount Moriah where Solomon’s temple was built. 
 
“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly place. He who believes in it will not be disturbed.” (Isaiah 28:16). 
 
Proving it wasn’t a physical, earthly rock, like Mount Zion in Jerusalem, or Stone Mountain in Georgia, Paul applied the passage to Jesus in Romans 10:11 and called Jesus the only foundation stone in 1 Corinthians 3:11. Peter applied Isaiah’s statement to Jesus, calling Him a Living Stone who fulfilled that promise (1 Peter 2:4-8). Since the stone is living there’s no connection to a physical building in Jerusalem. In Christ we’ve come to spiritual Zion, the city of the Living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to countless angels and the church (Hebrews 12:22-24). 
 
Stone Mountain is just a rock in the ground with a carving that’s a relic of a long dead past. The Living Stone is a mountain covering the whole earth (Daniel 2:34-35, 44-45; Isaiah 2:2). People all across the world have and will continue to come to the Mountain, to the Stone, to Jesus, and submitting to Him become citizens in His kingdom, living stones in His holy temple. Forget about Stone Mountain and Mount Zion in Jerusalem. If you want true immortality come to Jesus. The only life worth living here on earth, and with hope for eternity is built on Him. Please come the Mountain! Let me know if I can help you do so.

Have you ever been to Stone Mountain Georgia? It’s a huge, round, dome-like, rock formation near Atlanta that stands over 800 feet above the surrounding ground and is five miles around. It’s been in the news frequently over the last few years because of the debates over race relations and symbols of America’s less savory past. Primarily because three key Confederate leaders are carved in gigantic figures on the north face of the rock. Setting aside that issue there’s no question that it is a truly amazing formation.

When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem it was designed and built by the skilled hands and minds of men rather than God, but it was still a magnificent structure. Just read the description of its building from when the foundation was laid until the finishing touches were completed seven years later, and it’s easy to see that it was a truly amazing and beautiful formation (1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 3 & 4).

But there’s an even more amazing formation that’s built on a bette

God’s Holy Temple 1 Kings 6; 2 Chronicles 3 & 4; Isaiah 28:16

If you missed the 2014 movie ‘Left Behind’ don’t worry, the producers have been promising ‘Left Behind’ 2 since, well, 2014. The big issue at first was whether or not Nicholas Cage would return in the sequel. But since the first one was a flop (having Cage in it was enough to keep me away) the problem became financing. Few people want to waste their money making it or watching it. As I scroll through movie options trying to find something fit to watch seeing Cage’s face is enough to keep me moving. However, even if he doesn’t make it into the sequel I probably won’t watch it anyway because of the subject. 
 
The movies are based on the ‘Left Behind’ series of books by Tim LaHay, which are a fictionalized account of the fictional theory called dispensational premillennialism. It teaches there will be a time when Christians disappear from earth while non-christians are left behind. The whole theory was popularized in the early 1800’s by a man named John Darby, who taught that God ‘failed’ to convert the Jews with Jesus’ first appearance 2000 years ago. According to the theory Jesus will have to come back to get it right. But if he failed the first time how can we know he won't fail again, and again. That's a puny god. But I’m getting ahead of myself. 
 
This format is too brief for a detailed analysis, but the whole dispensational premillennial theory is false. Let me repeat that – the whole dispensational premillennial theory is false. One of its key elements is that God has yet to fulfill the earthly physical land promise to Israel. However, that theory fails miserably for a whole host of reasons, but let’s focus on one – it rejects the plain scriptural declarations that God fulfilled His promise. Under David and Solomon God kept His earthly nation and land promise to Abraham: “Judah and Israel were as many as the sand of the sea…and Solomon ruled over all the land from the river…unto the border of Egypt” (1 Kings 4:20-21). 
 
Also, the theory fails because it is anchored in a physical, this world, mindset instead of in the spiritual mindset focused on the spiritual realm of heaven, where Jesus cast our anchor (Hebrews 6:19-20). The physical realm is temporary while the spiritual is eternal. From before the beginning God had bigger plans than an earthly nation on a little plot of land in the Middle East. His plan was for a spiritual kingdom of believers spread across the world sharing the gospel with every one and living in anticipation of an eternal dwelling in heaven (Galatians 3:25-29; Colossians 3:1-4). 
 
Why believe in a puny failed god, who couldn’t keep His promise when the Bible reveals a triumphant God who succeeded the first time because He is the great I AM. And when Jesus comes again no one will be left behind, not even Nicolas Cage.

If you missed the 2014 movie ‘Left Behind’ don’t worry, the producers have been promising ‘Left Behind’ 2 since, well, 2014. The big issue at first was whether or not Nicholas Cage would return in the sequel. But since the first one was a flop (having Cage in it was enough to keep me away) the problem became financing. Few people want to waste their money making it or watching it. As I scroll through movie options trying to find something fit to watch seeing Cage’s face is enough to keep me moving. However, even if he doesn’t make it into the sequel I probably won’t watch it anyway because of the subject.

The movies are based on the ‘Left Behind’ series of books by Tim LaHay, which are a fictionalized account of the fictional theory called dispensational premillennialism. It teaches there will be a time when Christians disappear from earth while non-christians are left behind. The whole theory was popularized in the early 1800’s by a man named John Darby, who taught that God ‘failed’ 

A Triumphant God 1 Kings 4:20-21

What would you ask for if you found a genie’s bottle? Everyone is familiar with the story of the genie, primarily through Disney's Aladdin movies. By the way, Robin Williams’ version of the genie is unmatchable, so don’t even try to compare it to any other version. In most versions of the genie story it has almost unlimited power and is obligated to grant three wishes to the person who controls it. However, they seldom turn out as hoped because the genie is not a nice being. Modern cartoon, and cartoonish, versions have softened the story to market it to the parents of young children. An older version describes the genie as a demon imprisoned by Solomon, yes King Solomon of the Bible. In that version the genie is powerful but cruel. Old or new, every version is really a story about human greed because most people immediately ask for riches. 
 
One of the best stories from the Bible is the one that shows how Solomon did not give in to greed and ask for riches when he had the opportunity. Early in his reign, before the Temple was built, Solomon went to worship God in Gibeon. While there God appeared to him in a dream and offered him anything he wanted: “Ask what you wish me to give you” (1 Kings 3:4-5, & 2 Chronicles 1:3-7). What an opportunity to be granted a wish: not by some phony genie in a bottle, but from the Creator of all mankind (Acts 17:24-25)! 
 
Well if he didn’t ask for riches, what did he request? After recognizing the greatness of God and remembering His generosity to his farther David, and now to him, Solomon made this statement: “I am but a little child” who doesn’t know what to do with such a great nation like God’s people, the nation of Israel. Knowing his own limitations Solomon asked for wisdom to properly judge as king. “So give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil.” The request pleased God so much that He granted Solomon wealth and health to go with the wisdom he so wisely requested (1 Kings 3:6-13 & 2 Chronicles1:8-12). 
 
If we live for the things of this world then no genie can give us enough wealth to make us happy. It will never turn out like we hope because this world is a broken bottle. Only God can give us the true riches that will satisfy our soul’s longing. Let me rephrase our opening question: Are you wishing for the riches of this world, or asking God for eternal riches found only with Him in heaven?

What would you ask for if you found a genie’s bottle? Everyone is familiar with the story of the genie, primarily through Disney's Aladdin movies. By the way, Robin Williams’ version of the genie is unmatchable, so don’t even try to compare it to any other version. In most versions of the genie story it has almost unlimited power and is obligated to grant three wishes to the person who controls it. However, they seldom turn out as hoped because the genie is not a nice being. Modern cartoon, and cartoonish, versions have softened the story to market it to the parents of young children. An older version describes the genie as a demon imprisoned by Solomon, yes King Solomon of the Bible. In that version the genie is powerful but cruel. Old or new, every version is really a story about human greed because most people immediately ask for riches.

One of the best stories from the Bible is the one that shows how Solomon did not give in to greed and ask for riches when he had the opportunity. 

Asking For The Right Thing 1 Kings 3:3-5 & 2 Chronicles 1:3-12

“My father taught me many things here — he taught me in this room. He taught me — keep your friends close but your enemies closer.” That quote, often attributed to Sun Tzu and The Art of War, is actually from Michael Corleone in “The Godfather Part II”. That explains why it sounds less like good political and military advice and more like a personal vendetta. Sun Tzu’s book, The Art of War, contains brilliant advice on how to maintain a strong country. The Godfather trilogy is legendary entertainment, but filled with bad advice since it was about how to maintain a criminal enterprise. 
 
At the end of David’s life as he transferred power to his son Solomon it’s interesting how the two accounts focus on different aspects of the process. Chronicles focuses on the political and religious aspect of the transition, particularly on the building of God’s temple (1 Chronicles 28 and 29). That shows how David’s heart was committed to God and the continuation of the kingdom (1 Chronicles 28:9-10). The account in 1 Kings was more personal in how it recorded David instructing Solomon to be faithful to God for the good of the kingdom (1 Kings 2:1-4), but also to take care in handling three men in particular (1 Kings 2:5-9). 
 
On the surface it could appear this was due to David’s petty grudges and desire for personal revenge against his enemies and to provide rewards for his friends. However, it was actually good advice about justice, mercy, and trust. Those who can be trusted should be rewarded, and those who can’t may be granted mercy but not foolishly trusted. David was reminding Solomon no one is above justice and that forgiveness doesn’t make an evil person trustworthy. 
 
In the text David mentioned three people. Barzillai was singled out for praise and Solomon was urged to keep his family close and lavish blessings on them. Joab was singled out for murdering Abner and Amasa, and Solomon was admonished to “not let his grey hair go down to Sheol in peace”. It didn’t take Joab long to warrant execution for plotting with Adonijah against Solomon (1 Kings 2:28-35). Shimei was pointed out for having publicly cursed David, and though forgiven, he was not to be trusted. Solomon warned Shimei to “Stay close!” and not leave Jerusalem. But eventually he ignored that warning, left the city, and was executed (1 Kings 2:36-45). In the end it established God’s kingdom (v 46) so it appears David was above personal grudges after all. 
 
What’s the lesson for us today? Well, as another son of David put it, “judge righteous judgment” (John 7:24) and “be wise as serpents, but harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:46). In other words, rising above petty grudges doesn’t mean we must trust those proven to be untrustworthy. Act kindly, but think carefully.

“My father taught me many things here — he taught me in this room. He taught me — keep your friends close but your enemies closer.” That quote, often attributed to Sun Tzu and The Art of War, is actually from Michael Corleone in “The Godfather Part II”. That explains why it sounds less like good political and military advice and more like a personal vendetta. Sun Tzu’s book, The Art of War, contains brilliant advice on how to maintain a strong country. The Godfather trilogy is legendary entertainment, but filled with bad advice since it was about how to maintain a criminal enterprise.

At the end of David’s life as he transferred power to his son Solomon it’s interesting how the two accounts focus on different aspects of the process. Chronicles focuses on the political and religious aspect of the transition, particularly on the building of God’s temple (1 Chronicles 28 and 29). That shows how David’s heart was committed to God and the continuation of the kingdom (1 Chronicles 28:9-10).

Fatherly Advice 1 Kings 2:1-9; 1 Chronicles 28 & 29

At the end of “Elizabethtown”, a quirky 2005 movie starring Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst, the fictional character Drew took a road trip to spread his father’s ashes. Drew’s father had died suddenly while visiting family in the city of Elizabethtown and the story was largely about Drew dealing with that death as well as the death (and gradual rebirth) of his own hopes and dreams. The scene was well scripted to the Elton John song “My Father’s Gun” as he drove from place to place and through laughter and tears reconnected with the memories of his father. 
 
While in that movie the father wasn’t close to his son at the end, many fathers are much closer and get to say goodbye to their sons. At the end of King David’s life, recorded in 1 Kings 2 and 1 Chronicles 29, David was able to spend his last days setting up the transition of the kingdom to Solomon and saying goodbye with dignity. In 1 Chronicles 29 the text emphasized that David was handing a grand project to Solomon, something far greater than a gun. Solomon was given the task of doing something God would not allow David to do – build God’s Temple. David wasn’t going to be there to help him, but had prepared vast amounts of money and material for the project that was near and dear to his heart. 
 
The meaning of the project was reflected in the last words of David as he praised God for His power, glory and majesty. Instead of boasting on his own accomplishments David humbled himself before Jehovah as the true source of all blessings and asked for a pure heart for his son Solomon before concluding with a call to the whole nation to “bless the Lord your God” (1 Chronicles 29:10-20). 1 Kings 2:1-9 contains a personal appeal to Solomon to be strong and remain faithful to God. 
 
Parents, what kind of legacy and life project are you handing down to your children? Is it a legacy of earthly accomplishments like sports, academics, or economics? Are you giving your children an earthly focused life project that will not last beyond their time on earth? Or do your children see you building yourself into a holy temple for the Lord? Are you giving them a legacy and a life project of eternal, spiritual consequence? We have them for such a short time as parents, and our time on earth is short as well so don’t waste it on trinkets and toys that are just thrown away. Build your legacy, your life project, and theirs too, on things eternal.

At the end of “Elizabethtown”, a quirky 2005 movie starring Orlando Bloom and Kirsten Dunst, the fictional character Drew took a road trip to spread his father’s ashes. Drew’s father had died suddenly while visiting family in the city of Elizabethtown and the story was largely about Drew dealing with that death as well as the death (and gradual rebirth) of his own hopes and dreams. The scene was well scripted to the Elton John song “My Father’s Gun” as he drove from place to place and through laughter and tears reconnected with the memories of his father.

While in that movie the father wasn’t close to his son at the end, many fathers are much closer and get to say goodbye to their sons. At the end of King David’s life, recorded in 1 Kings 2 and 1 Chronicles 29, David was able to spend his last days setting up the transition of the kingdom to Solomon and saying goodbye with dignity. In 1 Chronicles 29 the text emphasized that David was handing a grand project to Solomon, something far 

An Eternal Life Project 1 Chronicles 29:10-20

Way back in 2012 many thought Mitt Romney was the “perfect” presidential candidate; a nice, polite, mild mannered moderate. But he lost the presidential election in 2012, partially because he was too polite to get tough on his opponent in the debates and hit back when attacked personally. Four years later Mitt realized his time had passed and decided not to try again. Wisely so, since Donald Trump took the political world by storm and won, partially due to his willingness to go after his opponents when they went after him. He was not too polite to hit back. It seemed as if Americans wanted Mr. Rogers as their neighbor, but not as president. 
 
One man who clearly didn’t realize his time had passed was David’s son Adonijah. His attempt to declare himself king failed when David gave the throne to Solomon and his crowning party fell flatter than Romney’s November 2012 “victory” celebration (1 Kings 1:49). Adonijah fled to the temple and begged for mercy from Solomon, who granted it on the condition he acted like Mr. Rodgers. “If he will be a worthy man, not one of his hairs will fall to the ground; but if wickedness is found in him, he will die. (1 Kings 1:52). 
 
Like Romney, his time had passed but, unlike Romney, he couldn’t let it go. Shortly after David’s death and Solomon’s more formal coronation Adonijah gave in to the itch for power and asked to marry one of David’s widows. He foolishly thought it would position him as David’s “real” successor and give him power as an opponent and potential rival of Solomon. He attempted to manipulate Solomon by sending the request through Solomon’s mother, Bathsheba. However, mild mannered Solomon recognized it for what it was, a bold power grab, and showed his willingness to strike back by having Adonijah executed (1 Kings 2:13-25). 
 
What’s the lesson for us? Well, it has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with our daily life. Every decision to sin is an attempt to seize power from God. He is not fooled and we will answer for it. Maybe not today or tomorrow, or even in this lifetime, but God’s authority as King will be vindicated at judgment. If only Adonijah had kept the heart that threw him on the altar begging for mercy. And we must keep the heart that sought God’s mercy when we submitted to Him in baptism, and remember that our time as ruler has passed.

Way back in 2012 many thought Mitt Romney was the “perfect” presidential candidate; a nice, polite, mild mannered moderate. But he lost the presidential election in 2012, partially because he was too polite to get tough on his opponent in the debates and hit back when attacked personally. Four years later Mitt realized his time had passed and decided not to try again. Wisely so, since Donald Trump took the political world by storm and won, partially due to his willingness to go after his opponents when they went after him. He was not too polite to hit back. It seemed as if Americans wanted Mr. Rogers as their neighbor, but not as president.

One man who clearly didn’t realize his time had passed was David’s son Adonijah. His attempt to declare himself king failed when David gave the throne to Solomon and his crowning party fell flatter than Romney’s November 2012 “victory” celebration (1 Kings 1:49). Adonijah fled to the temple and begged for mercy from Solomon, who granted it on the c

Our Time As Ruler Has Passed 1 Kings 2:13-25

“A picture is worth a thousand words” is a proverbial saying that has been in use about a hundred years. The earliest confirmed use was in a newspaper editor’s talk to a group of advertisers in 1911. Long before then print media had proven the adage by capturing people’s attention and imagination by using drawings and, once the camera was invented, photos. That power increased exponentially with the explosion of movies and television in the 20th century. That saying is supported by recent photos and videos showing people in Afghanistan desperately seeking to escape the Taliban. 
 
That saying is also supported by the Biblical description of Joab’s murder of Amasa that we briefly mentioned a few days ago in a video called The Christian Revolution. Amasa had been selected by David to replace Joab and command his armies in putting down a second rebellion following the defeat of Absalom (2 Samuel 20:4). But when Amasa took too long getting the army ready David turned to Abishai and Joab (2 Samuel 20:5-7). 
 
When they were heading out with the army they met Amasa on the road, and in a repeat of his elimination of a previous rival, Abner (2 Samuel 3:26-30), Joab embraced Amasa in greeting and then stabbed him with his sword (2 Samuel 20:9-10). 
 
Here’s where “a picture is worth a thousand words” comes into play. At first Amasa’s body was left on the road, and he wasn’t even dead. The text says “Amasa lay wallowing in his blood in the middle of the highway.” So, despite Joab’s supporter calling for the soldiers to follow Joab, they stopped at the scene of the crime and stared. When the supporter realized everyone was stopping to look he callously pulled Amasa’s body off to the side and covered it up (2 Samuel 20:11-13). He may have covered it up so the soldiers couldn’t see what Joab had done (deleted the picture we might say), but God saw it and made sure it was recorded for all to read. 
 
Here’s the lesson for us. We can hide our sin from the world by covering it up in the darkness of our heart where no human can see. We can be filled with lust, greed, envy, hatred, bitterness, faithlessness, etc. and no human camera can capture it. But God sees what’s there. It’s captured forever in the divine camera. We may even speak out or act out the sins that pollute our heart, but “get away with it” because they weren’t captured on camera. But God sees and captures it on His camera. Thankfully the believer can repent and be forgiven. Through the blood of Christ the photo can be deleted. 
 
What picture is God’s camera capturing in your heart?

A picture is worth a thousand words” is a proverbial saying that has been in use about a hundred years. The earliest confirmed ...

The Power Of Pictures 2 Samuel 20:4-13

“An old man turned ninety-eight 
He won the lottery and died the next day 
It's a black fly in your Chardonnay 
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late 
And isn't it ironic... don't you think.” 
 
It could be described as ironic that the 1996 song by Alanis Morissette “Isn’t it Ironic” took a lot of heat for describing situations that were more coincidental than ironic. Irony is the use of words to describe things contrary to how they really are. Add “isn’t it awesome” or “that must have been tasty” or “he must have been thrilled” to the song and you have irony. Regardless the song was filled with anecdotal descriptions of situations that didn’t turn out as expected. 
 
It isn’t ironic that life often fails to turn out as we expect, just disappointing - like David’s outreach to Judah in his return to Jerusalem (see our August 11, 2021 Morning Minutes in the Bible). His call for them to participate in his return backfired. Because they took a prominent lead in the return of the king the other ten tribes saw it as an affront to themselves. The text revealed that all the people of Judah and half the people of Israel participated in returning David to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 19:40). The half that wasn’t involved in the process took it personally and demanded to know why they weren’t invited (2 Sam 19:41). The chorus of the Alanis Morissette song starts with “It’s like rain on your wedding day”, an apt description of the dispute in Jerusalem on David’s big day. 
 
However, the consequences for the nation of Israel were far greater than rain spoiling a wedding. This incident resurrected the division between Judah and the 10 other tribes that had existed for the first seven years of David’s reign (2 Samuel 3:1). Passions were reignited and another rebellion formed that was an even greater threat than Absalom’s (2 Samuel 20:1-6). Since Absalom was killed by Joab when his head got caught in a tree it was an interesting coincidence that the rebellion was ended when the rebel leader’s head was handed over to Joab (2 Samuel 20:22). 
 
David’s effort to include Judah led to others feeling left out. Life may not be ironic, but it sure can be disappointing. Good intentions can backfire. People can misunderstand or even deliberately malign us. Yet we must never give up on reaching out to include when we can. And refuse to assume we were left out on purpose. Don’t hand your head to those who hate you.

“An old man turned ninety-eight
He won the lottery and died the next day
It's a black fly in your Chardonnay
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late
And isn't it ironic... don't you think.”

It could be described as ironic that the 1996 song by Alanis Morissette “Isn’t it Ironic” took a lot of heat for describing situations that were more coincidental than ironic. Irony is the use of words to describe things contrary to how they really are. Add “isn’t it awesome” or “that must have been tasty” or “he must have been thrilled” to the song and you have irony.  Regardless the song was filled with anecdotal descriptions of situations that didn’t turn out as expected.

It isn’t ironic that life often fails to turn out as we expect, just disappointing - like David’s outreach to Judah in his return to Jerusalem (see our August 11, 2021 Morning Minutes in the Bible). His call for them to participate in his return backfired. Because they took a prominent lead in the return of the king the o

Life’s Disappointments 2 Samuel 19:40 – 20:22

Cincinnati is a beautiful city sitting on the banks of the Ohio River in southern Ohio. Founded in 1788 it was named in 1790 after the Roman hero Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus by Arthur St. Clair, a member of the Society of the Cincinnati. Formed at the end of the revolutionary war the members wanted to emulate the great character of its namesake who had been given dictatorial powers to save Rome and then voluntarily surrendered the power and returned to his farm. Naturally George Washington was the first president of the society because of how he emulated the great Cincinnatus when many wanted him to become a king. Instead of another King George, the U.S. ended up with an elected president. 
 
Living in a time when glory hounds are honored and promoted it’s a genuine pleasure to learn about people who refuse to give in to the temptation of self-promotion. As the American presidential race seemingly never ends in our highly politicized society we’re bombarded with self-promoters. May God raise up a genuinely humble leader we can all rally around. 
 
One such person is found in the story of David as he returned to Jerusalem after Absalom’s rebellion. That man, Barzillai, had been instrumental in supporting David and his entourage while in exile east of the Jordan. He continued that support and aided David as he returned and prepared to cross back over the Jordan. David tried to talk him into coming to Jerusalem but Barzillai refused. His response to David was that he was too old to have any interest in all the things involved in hanging out with the king (2 Samuel 19:31-39). 
 
Cincinnatus walked away from glory and power in his prime. He was 62 at the time and lived to reach 89. There’s a lovely statue in his honor in a park on the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati. Barzillai was 80, well past his prime, when he refused to pursue power at the side of the king. The fact that they rejected the opportunity for self-glorification is a great example for us today. 
 
Power hunger rising from arrogance and pride isn’t exclusive to the aged. Plenty of people in their middle years, say 30 – 60, think they have all the answers and could solve all our problems if put in charge. Thank God we’re not, I mean, they’re not. But wouldn’t it be nice if the self-promoters who have been polluted by decades of political power would step down and voluntarily relinquish their accumulated power? What an example they could set. Maybe that would encourage some of us younger folk to become less enamored with seeking power for ourselves and simply seek to serve others instead.

Cincinnati is a beautiful city sitting on the banks of the Ohio River in southern Ohio. Founded in 1788 it was named in 1790 after the Roman hero Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus by Arthur St. Clair, a member of the Society of the Cincinnati. Formed at the end of the revolutionary war the members wanted to emulate the great character of its namesake who had been given dictatorial powers to save Rome and then voluntarily surrendered the power and returned to his farm. Naturally George Washington was the first president of the society because of how he emulated the great Cincinnatus when many wanted him to become a king. Instead of another King George, the U.S. ended up with an elected president.

Living in a time when glory hounds are honored and promoted it’s a genuine pleasure to learn about people who refuse to give in to the temptation of self-promotion. As the American presidential race seemingly never ends in our highly politicized society we’re bombarded with self-promoters. May God 

Choosing Service Over Authority 2 Samuel 19:31-39

“Trust your gut” can be good advice if filtered through your rational mind. When we talk about intuition or gut instinct we’re not talking about just pure guess work, or supernatural revelation. Rather, there’s a specific nerve branch that runs from the intestines and heart to the brain in a way that sends signals to our mind which we interpret without going through a specific detailed thought process. In other words we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to hop in a car and go. 
 
Intuition can be viewed as “condensed reasoning or swift cognition – a person’s ability to exploit the brain’s shortcuts.” Some people are exceptionally good at it because they’re mind has been trained to receive and respond quickly to this source of information. Others lack the disciplined training and are disastrous at making snap decisions. They haven’t learned how to interpret information received through shortcuts. The well trained demonstrate grace under pressure while the untrained, well, don’t. 
 
One of the distinguishing characteristics of David was his demonstration of grace under pressure. From an early age through middle age and into his declining years he usually made good decisions in the most difficult circumstances. After speaking to the elders of Judah with conciliatory words that brought them to his side to return him as king there were a couple of incidents that could have been handled very badly, but weren’t because David’s instinctive response was right on target. 
 
The first was because of the Pete Rose incident of the man who threw dust at David as he fled the city. When David was returning, Shimei came begging David’s forgiveness. David granted it and rebuked one of his soldiers who wanted to execute him. Why not kill him? After all the man had personally insulted the king before everyone. Simple, David instinctively knew better than to spoil his entrance into Jerusalem with petty retribution. “Should any man be put to death in Israel today? For do I not know that I am king over Israel today?” (2 Samuel 19:22). The second was when he met Saul’s grandson and rather than argue over why he remained behind in Jerusalem David just let it go (2 Samuel 19:29). 
 
When it comes to spiritual matters, it’s okay to trust your gut – if, like David, you’ve trained it to follow God. If you’ve saturated your spirit in God’s word. When you hear people make comments or teach ideas that just seem off, even if you can’t immediately say why, in that case trust your gut. Stand back. Be wary and be careful, and be diligent to analyze their teaching in case your gut instinct was right. It might just save your soul.

“Trust your gut” can be good advice if filtered through your rational mind. When we talk about intuition or gut instinct we’re not talking about just pure guess work, or supernatural revelation. Rather, there’s a specific nerve branch that runs from the intestines and heart to the brain in a way that sends signals to our mind which we interpret without going through a specific detailed thought process. In other words we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to hop in a car and go. 

Intuition can be viewed as “condensed reasoning or swift cognition – a person’s ability to exploit the brain’s shortcuts.” Some people are exceptionally good at it because they’re mind has been trained to receive and respond quickly to this source of information. Others lack the disciplined training and are disastrous at making snap decisions. They haven’t learned how to interpret information received through shortcuts. The well trained demonstrate grace under pressure while the untrained, well, don’t.

One of t

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