An American Missionary

It’s hard to consider “Duck Dynasty” and the Robinson clan a real dynasty since the show has only been on TV since 2012 and the family business just started in 1973. That’s not even the length of one lifetime. Compare that to some of the longest dynasties of history, who, like Bulgaria, Japan, Vietnam and Korea, to name four, lasted over 2000 years. From that perspective Duck Commander is a newborn. If it’s still in business under the Robinson family in 3973 then we can call it a dynasty. 
 
There’s one dynasty that eclipses all of those by over 1000 years. This dynasty goes back 4000 years to the Patriarch Abraham. In Genesis 12 God promised to make Abraham a great name and a great nation. That promise was fulfilled through Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve tribes that became the nation of Israel. More important than their physical descent from Abraham was their relationship to God who repeatedly called them “My people”. 
 
3000 years ago, a mere 1000 years after Abraham, the promise was repeated and expanded when God told David that He would build a house for him. “This is what the LORD of armies says: “I Myself took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be leader over My people Israel. And I have been with you wherever you have gone, and have eliminated all your enemies from you; I will also make a great name for you, like the names of the great men who are on the earth. And I will establish a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place and not be disturbed again, nor will malicious people oppress them anymore as previously, even from the day that I appointed judges over My people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies. The LORD also declares to you that the LORD will make a house for you.” (2 Samuel 7:8-11). It’s clear from the context that He’s not talking about brick and mortar, but about a family; a people. To be even more specific, God is referring to His own chosen people - Israel. 
 
1000 years later Jesus came and was introduced as “the son of David - son of Abraham – the son of God” (Luke 3:23-38). Through Jesus people from all nations are invited to be part of David's house; God’s family, His people – Spiritual Israel, the church. 4000 years after the promise to Abraham that dynasty, which is no longer based on a mere physical relationship, continues to grow as people across the world are joined to Jesus in baptism. You too can be a part of God’s family today, a child of The King. Your physical lineage doesn’t matter one bit. By submitting to Jesus you can be part of a 4000 year old dynasty. 
 
But it gets better, because by being part of the family of God we share in an eternal dynasty. One that will never end! A family that is no longer separated by death for they will dwell with God and be His people where there is no longer any mourning, crying, or pain, where those who overcome will be God’s children (Revelation 21:3-7). Now that’s a real dynasty. And, do you want to know something really good about the good news of eternal salvation in Jesus Christ? Entry into the divine dynasty is open for all who will hear and obey. Anyone can hear and obey and become a member of the divine dynasty. Will you? The choice is yours.

It’s hard to consider “Duck Dynasty” and the Robinson clan a real dynasty since the show has only been on TV since 2012 and the family business just started in 1973. That’s not even the length of one lifetime. Compare that to some of the longest dynasties of history, who, like Bulgaria, Japan, Vietnam and Korea, to name four, lasted over 2000 years. From that perspective Duck Commander is a newborn. If it’s still in business under the Robinson family in 3973 then we can call it a dynasty.

There’s one dynasty that eclipses all of those by over 1000 years.  This dynasty goes back 4000 years to the Patriarch Abraham. In Genesis 12 God promised to make Abraham a great name and a great nation. That promise was fulfilled through Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve tribes that became the nation of Israel. More important than their physical descent from Abraham was their relationship to God who repeatedly called them “My people”.

3000 years ago, a mere 1000 years after Abraham, the promise was repe

The Divine Dynasty 2 Samuel 7:11

Blinded By Crumbs is the title of today’s Throwback Thursday article on Morning Minutes in the Bible. We’re working our way through the Lord’s promise to David found in 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17 and the depth and breadth of this magnificent proclamation demands we slow down and chew on it a bit to get a better understanding. We especially need to understand the spiritual and eternal nature of the promise, including the part about a place of rest found in vv10-11, so we don’t get stuck in “under the sun” thinking. 
 
Blinded By Crumbs by Robert F. Turner. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, February 1973. www.wordsfitlyspoken.org/plain_talk/v9/v9n12p1.html 
 
It’s one thing for first century Jews to be stuck in “under the sun” because the promises were so deeply embedded in their nationalist thinking. It’s easier to understand why they would think the promised place of rest (2 Samuel 7:10-11) was going to be on earth, and stumble over the Lord’s teaching that true rest was only in Him. But there’s no excuse for us in 21st century America, or anywhere else in the world for that matter. Jesus made it clear that our place of rest is in Him, and in Him alone. But we keep looking under the sun, and in the process are blinded by the crumbs. Let’s open our eyes and look above, beyond the sun to heaven where our rest is found in The Son.

Blinded By Crumbs is the title of today’s Throwback Thursday article on Morning Minutes in the Bible. We’re working our way through the Lord’s promise to David found in 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17 and the depth and breadth of this magnificent proclamation demands we slow down and chew on it a bit to get a better understanding. We especially need to understand the spiritual and eternal nature of the promise, including the part about a place of rest found in vv10-11, so we don’t get stuck in “under the sun” thinking.

Blinded By Crumbs by Robert F. Turner.  From PLAIN TALK Magazine, February 1973. www.wordsfitlyspoken.org/plain_talk/v9/v9n12p1.html

It’s one thing for first century Jews to be stuck in “under the sun” because the promises were so deeply embedded in their nationalist thinking. It’s easier to understand why they would think the promised place of rest (2 Samuel 7:10-11) was going to be on earth, and stumble over the Lord’s teaching that true rest was only in Him. But ther

Above The Sun In The Son 1 Samuel 7:10-11

How many of us live in the house where we were born, if not physically born there, at least the one where our parents brought us straight from the hospital? Perhaps some of you currently live in the home you were brought to after birth, but it’s unlikely many of you live in the house where you were actually born. That’s because America is a nation of migrants. From the very first immigrants (Native Americans were just the first wave), to the first colonists, through the great migrations westward, to the upward mobility movements of today, we are constantly on the move. 
 
Actually, that’s the history of the world. The idea that any people or nation has remained unmoved since creation is nonsense. Since the Tower of Babel (Genesis 12) humans have been moving. Pick a continent, any continent, and dig deep enough into the history of the current residents of any area and we’ll find a move event. Often it’s displayed in their history as a boast of the former residents they drove out to take the land. And, if we dig deep enough, we’ll discover that the ones driven out had done the same to another group before them. Any exception is extremely rare. 
 
That’s one of the reasons God’s promise to David was unusual in that He promised to plant Israel in place and not let their enemies move them anymore. “And I will establish a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place and not be disturbed again, nor will malicious people oppress them anymore as previously, even from the day that I appointed judges over My people Israel; and I will give you rest from all your enemies.” (2 Samuel 7:10-11). 
 
But, even that promise was temporary and conditional because they fell into sin and God allowed enemies to rise. Just 400 years later God dispersed Israel throughout the world at the hands of Babylon. That’s because God had a greater plan for His people; a plan for a spiritual nation (His church) living in anticipation of an eternal home in heaven, not here on earth. Let’s not get caught up in this false belief of a permanent earthly existence, or even a 1000 year earthly reign of Christ. If we’re in Christ today, we’re in His Kingdom, we’re subject to King Jesus, we’re headed for Heaven where we will dwell eternally and will finally stop our restless wandering. Are you in Christ? If not the King is calling you to come to Him, to embrace the rest you so desperately need. Please hear His call and come to King Jesus.

How many of us live in the house where we were born, if not physically born there, at least the one where our parents brought us straight from the hospital? Perhaps some of you currently live in the home you were brought to after birth, but it’s unlikely many of you live in the house where you were actually born. That’s because America is a nation of migrants. From the very first immigrants (Native Americans were just the first wave), to the first colonists, through the great migrations westward, to the upward mobility movements of today, we are constantly on the move.

Actually, that’s the history of the world. The idea that any people or nation has remained unmoved since creation is nonsense. Since the Tower of Babel (Genesis 12) humans have been moving. Pick a continent, any continent, and dig deep enough into the history of the current residents of any area and we’ll find a move event. Often it’s displayed in their history as a boast of the former residents they drove out to take t

A Permanent Home! 2 Samuel 7:10-11

If I could just come in, I swear I'll leave 
Won't take nothing but a memory 
From the house that built me” 
 
The moving lyrics of Miranda Lambert’s 2010 hit song “The House that Built Me” gently stroke the memories of our childhood. In the song she seeks renewal by returning to her childhood home where the memories flood back in. The song captures her hope that the memories triggered by the physical house where she grew up would help her find herself. Whether it’s real or metaphorical, we all have those moving memories of the “house” that shaped us into the people we are now. 
 
The idea of being shaped by a house is a Biblical concept. It goes all the way back to God’s promise of the eventual defeat of Satan by Eve’s Son (Genesis 3:15). It was expanded in the promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:2). But it was really brought home in the promise to David recorded in 2 Samuel 7:8-16 & 1 Chronicles 17:7-15. Rather than let David build a house for God – God would build a house for David. But instead of a house of stone it would be a house of people, a living house that would last forever. While the song is richly layered with memory evoking lyrics, it’s nothing compared to the rich layers of God’s promise to David, and by extension to all human beings. 
 
Let’s start peeling back the layers of His promise to David by seeing how God started. Just like the Miranda Lambert song this promise began by pulling up David’s memories of his childhood. His first comment was for Nathan the prophet to remind David of where he started – in the country raising sheep; “I took you from the pasture, from following sheep, to be ruler over My people Israel” (v 8). No matter where David went in life he would always remember his humble beginnings as a little shepherd boy. That memory would remind him of being the youngest son left out in the field with the sheep - where he made a deep connection with God. That was the “house” that built David. 
 
What house built you? Hopefully it was one where you learned humility and protective service like David. Hopefully it was one where you learned to love God and serve Him with all your heart. Because, in the end, all that really matters is whether or not you will love God enough to obey from the heart. 
 
Thankfully, it doesn’t matter whether you came from a big house on a hill, or a poor house on the other side of the tracks, or one where God was dishonored and disobeyed. Regardless of what house built you – God invites you to live in His house. The one built by His Son. There you can be built into a holy temple for the Lord. All are invited, but not all will move in. Will you move into the Lord’s house as one of His faithful children? The invitation remains open even for you now. Won’t you come on in?

If I could just come in, I swear I'll leave
Won't take nothing but a memory
From the house that built me”

The moving lyrics of Miranda Lambert’s 2010 hit song “The House that Built Me” gently stroke the memories of our childhood. In the song she seeks renewal by returning to her childhood home where the memories flood back in. The song captures her hope that the memories triggered by the physical house where she grew up would help her find herself. Whether it’s real or metaphorical, we all have those moving memories of the “house” that shaped us into the people we are now.

The idea of being shaped by a house is a Biblical concept. It goes all the way back to God’s promise of the eventual defeat of Satan by Eve’s Son (Genesis 3:15). It was expanded in the promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:2). But it was really brought home in the promise to David recorded in 2 Samuel 7:8-16 & 1 Chronicles 17:7-15. Rather than let David build a house for God – God would build a house for David. But instea

God’s House For David 2 Samuel 7:8-16

“I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden.” With that opening line to her 1970 hit song Lynn Anderson destroyed the logic behind two of today’s basic principles in religion. Of course that’s not what the song was about. Ms. Anderson was singing about the need to take hold of life and love as it is rather than demanding the paradise we want it to be. Regardless, the logic of the line flawlessly destroys the gospel of prosperity and the idea that we can worship God any way we choose. What the line recognizes is that even the best of promises here on earth have limitations. 
 
God never promised us a rose garden in this life. In fact, His promise of trouble (Lk 12:51-53) necessarily excluded a rose garden. Let’s set aside that specific application and focus on the basic principle that God’s promises and commands necessarily exclude certain things. Another phrase for that is Silence of the Scripture. When God authorizes something, by necessity the authority granted only extends to the things included within what He specified and does not require a declaration of everything that is excluded. This is a constant source of discussion and division among people who are serious about understanding God’s will. Since it isn’t always applied accurately, or consistently, some seek to eliminate it entirely. But they’re not even consistent in their exclusionary application. 
 
However, our inconsistencies aside, it is a foundational principle in the Bible. Just one example in the NT from the book of Hebrews. In chapter 7:14 the writer pointed out that appointment of the tribe of Levi as priests eliminated Jesus, who was from the tribe of Judah, without the need for a “Thou shalt not” select priests from Judah. Jesus could not be a priest under the Law of Moses. God’s NT revelation explicitly endorses the concept of silence of the scripture as a form of prohibition. We cannot escape that conclusion. 
 
Not as well known, but perhaps the best OT example is when King David decided to build God’s Temple and God said "No!" Most people jump to a later expansion by David about the blood on his hands, but both initial accounts of this event recognized that God had authorized a tent (2 Samuel 7 & 1 Chronicles 17). God’s explanation was an explicit endorsement of silence of the scripture as a prohibitionary principle. His word to David was in the form of a negative question, “did I speak a word…saying, ‘Why have you not built Me a house of Cedar?’” (2 Samuel 7:5-7; 1 Chronicles 17:4-6). In Exodus God had given detailed instructions to Moses for the Tabernacle (a tent) and never changed that. Five hundred years later that command still stood with its original exclusivity until God specifically authorized something different. 
 
So, when someone ridicules silence of the scripture or asks “Did God say we couldn’t do x or y?”, remember David and respond with “Did He say we could do x or y?” This usually surfaces in the effort to introduce OT practices into church worship. Here’s where those who want to reject silence of the scripture are inconsistent in their selective application by choosing the things they want and rejecting the things they don’t want. We must learn to trust God and obey Him by doing what He says and not doing what He doesn’t say.

I beg your pardon, I never promised you a rose garden.” With that opening line to her 1970 hit song Lynn Anderson destroyed the ...

God Did Not Say 2 Samuel 7:5-7 &amp; 1 Chronicles 17:4-6

Originally listed for a mere $72,500,000 Celine Dion’s home on Jupiter Island, FL eventually sold for an embarrassingly low $38,500,000. You should have jumped in and got it at that bargain rate. And, since you obviously have that kind of change in your pocket, you could have bought Richard Gere’s home in the Hamptons for well below his original asking price of $65,000,000. Matt Lauer got it for a bargain at $36,500,000. So, for just $75,000,000 you would have the seasons covered: winter in Florida and summer in the Hamptons. 
 
What is it about celebrities and their expensive homes? While those seem a bit excessive they don’t have anything on royalty and the amount of taxpayer’s money that can be spent. The palace of Versailles cost upwards of $500 billion in today’s money. Perhaps a better question would be; what is it about royalty and their expensive homes? 
 
In the middle of the text discussing how God blessed King David with material possessions was one short verse that talked about him building his palace. “Then Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David with cedar trees and carpenters and stonemasons: and they built a house for David.” (2 Samuel 5:11). There’s not enough information in this text, or it’s parallel (1 Chronicles 14:1) to tell how much it cost, but it likely was the most expensive home Jerusalem had ever seen; at least until Solomon built his palace a few decades later. 
 
At some point even the most selfish celebrities become aware of the absurdity of spending so much money on themselves and seek to alleviate their guilt by pouring time and money into charity. For royalty it’s more complicated because as the head of state their home is a reflection of the glory of the country. The foolish ones see it as a reflection of themselves and go overboard. While the smart ones are aware they shouldn’t overdo it, the truly wise ones know it isn’t about themselves at all. 
 
We know David was one of the truly wise ones because of two passages in 2 Samuel. One is his immediate reaction to the completion of his palace. Instead of celebrating himself and his own glory because of the size of his mansion 2 Samuel 5:12 says, “And David realized that the Lord had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel.” To paraphrase the old saying, David remembered it was God who brought him to this dance. Eventually his desire to honor God drove King David to try and build something big for God (2 Samuel 7:1-2). 
 
What about us? Do we remember it’s all about God? Whether we live in a mansion or a cheap box house doesn’t matter as long as we’re building a home for God in our heart. Which building is your focus?

Originally listed for a mere $72,500,000 Celine Dion’s home on Jupiter Island, FL eventually sold for an embarrassingly low $38,500,000. You should have jumped in and got it at that bargain rate. And, since you obviously have that kind of change in your pocket, you could have bought Richard Gere’s home in the Hamptons for well below his original asking price of $65,000,000. Matt Lauer got it for a bargain at $36,500,000. So, for just $75,000,000 you would have the seasons covered: winter in Florida and summer in the Hamptons.

What is it about celebrities and their expensive homes? While those seem a bit excessive they don’t have anything on royalty and the amount of taxpayer’s money that can be spent. The palace of Versailles cost upwards of $500 billion in today’s money. Perhaps a better question would be; what is it about royalty and their expensive homes?

In the middle of the text discussing how God blessed King David with material possessions was one short verse that talked about

David’s Mansion 2 Samuel 5:11-12

“Tis a lesson you should heed, 
Try, try, try again. 
If at first you don’t succeed, 
Try, try, try again.” 
 
This seemingly ancient proverb actually dates back to about 1840 in Thomas Palmer’s book “Teacher’s Manual”. Written to encourage students to not give up just because they failed to succeed on the first try it has been adopted by English speaking people in a shortened form of the last two lines. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, again.” We’ve adopted it because we’ve all been there and needed that encouragement when we failed. 
 
But, is it always true? One of the things about proverbs is that they typically speak of general truths rather than absolutes, because they almost always have exceptions. In this case there are obvious exceptions. If we’re trying to jump over a hurdle and trip we should keep trying – if we want to learn how to jump over hurdles. However, if we jump off a roof and break a leg because it was too high, we shouldn’t try that again. 
 
Early in the reign of King David he fought a pitched battle against the Philistines. When they learned that David had unified Israel they came out against him in the valley of Rephaim. So, at God’s direction, David attacked them head on and delivered a devastating defeat (2 Samuel 5:17-21). However, they must have had their own version of the proverb because their first defeat was not enough to convince them to submit to David. Instead they decided to try again and assembled for battle – at the same place as before. They must have thought they would be ready this time. And in a sense they were, but they were about to learn a lesson about David and Jehovah. No matter how often they tried they could not defeat God’s faithful king. This time God instructed David to slip around and attack from the side; with the same outcome (2 Samuel 5:22-25). 
 
Persistence should be encouraged – except in rebellion against God. Both times the text says “David inquired of the Lord” and both times David did as the Lord commanded. Verse 24 tells us “the Lord will have gone out before them to strike the army of the Philistines.” They were fighting against God. David was fighting for God. If we find ourselves fighting against God, which we all do from time to time, we should stop immediately, repent and seek God’s commands. Repentance and obedience are two things we must try, try, try again. 
 
We will always fail in our attempts to fight God. We won’t even succeed in every attempt to serve God – but we have to keep trying. Even the apostle Paul failed from time to time, but he kept trying and urged believers in Christ to keep trying (Philippians 3:12-16). So don’t give up on serving God, instead, when you fail and fall, get up and “try, try, try, again.”

“Tis a lesson you should heed,
Try, try, try again.
If at first you don’t succeed, 
Try, try, try again.”

This seemingly ancient proverb actually dates back to about 1840 in Thomas Palmer’s book “Teacher’s Manual”. Written to encourage students to not give up just because they failed to succeed on the first try it has been adopted by English speaking people in a shortened form of the last two lines. “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, again.” We’ve adopted it because we’ve all been there and needed that encouragement when we failed.

But, is it always true? One of the things about proverbs is that they typically speak of general truths rather than absolutes, because they almost always have exceptions. In this case there are obvious exceptions. If we’re trying to jump over a hurdle and trip we should keep trying – if we want to learn how to jump over hurdles. However, if we jump off a roof and break a leg because it was too high, we shouldn’t try that again.

Early in the reign o

Try, Try, Try Again 2 Samuel 5:17-25

Back forty decisions often backfire – badly. Yesterday we introduced David’s approach to the back forty of his life. (For our purposes the Back Forty not about the latter years of life. Rather, it is a metaphor for distancing ourselves from God.) One of the bad choices he made during those years was to accumulate many wives and concubines (2 Samuel 5:13-16). Even though God was merciful it was a costly decision, both personally and publicly. It led to rape, rebellion, and death among his own children, and set a pattern that even the wise Solomon foolishly followed. 
 
We may not follow that pattern, but we still make bad back forty decisions. They may not impact a nation, but they will have an impact on us, our family, and our friends. Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday explores the importance of recognizing those impacts and making better choices. 
 
Choice And Consequence by Dan Shipley. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, July 1980. http://www.wordsfitlyspoken.org/plain_talk/v17/v17n5p3.html 
 
Once again Dan has nailed it. This is exactly why 2 Samuel 5:13-16 has great value as an object lesson for us. David made choices that endorsed and encouraged evil conduct among his sons. And, even though he was penitent, and God was merciful, the earthly consequences rocked Israel to its core. 
 
Thankfully God is merciful still. Even though the earthly consequences may remain, we too can be forgiven of our bad back forty decisions – if we will repent like David. And right now is the right time. If you need help understanding and implementing repentance feel free to reach out to me on FB, YouTube, or by email at anamericanmisionarybg.com. I hope to hear from you.

Back forty decisions often backfire – badly. Yesterday we introduced David’s approach to the back forty of his life. (For our purposes the Back Forty not about the latter years of life. Rather, it is a metaphor for distancing ourselves from God.) One of the bad choices he made during those years was to accumulate many wives and concubines (2 Samuel 5:13-16). Even though God was merciful it was a costly decision, both personally and publicly. It led to rape, rebellion, and death among his own children, and set a pattern that even the wise Solomon foolishly followed.

We may not follow that pattern, but we still make bad back forty decisions. They may not impact a nation, but they will have an impact on us, our family, and our friends. Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible on Throwback Thursday explores the importance of recognizing those impacts and making better choices.

Choice And Consequence by Dan Shipley. From PLAIN TALK Magazine, July 1980. http://www.wordsfitlyspoken.org/plain_ta

Choice And Consequence 2 Samuel 5:13-16

“The back forty” is an old expression going back to the 1800’s in America when land was divided up in forty acre sections. Typically it stood for the last part of one’s land that was the hardest to get to, and got the least use, because it backed up to the woods and, quite often, was still covered with woods. Figuratively it can refer to the latter years of life as our bodies slow down with age. Some men just withdraw into themselves, others shed responsibility and societal bounds in a “mid-life crisis”, but others keep plugging along and working to the very end. 
 
Today we’re going to begin looking at “the back forty” of King David. We spent several weeks looking at the front forty as we saw him go from tending sheep into the presence of King Saul as a singer and soldier. We also saw him spend about a dozen years running for his life in the deepest of the back forty; hiding on mountains, in deserts and caves, and finally in the towns of the enemy Philistines. Then, at the age of thirty with the death of Saul he settled in Hebron as king over the tribe of Judah fighting a semi-cold war against the other tribes. Seven years later, with the death of Saul’s last son, David, at the age of 37, was raised up as King of all Israel when the nation was reunited and Jerusalem became his capital. 
 
With the establishment of his kingdom David entered the back forty of his life – literally and figuratively. However, the back forty years of David were anything but boring, partially due to his seizing some of the opportunities presented by his position and power as king. Having spent so many years fighting, and running, and hiding from Saul and the Philistines it seemed David was intent on creating his own stress in a time of life when he was stepping away from leading men into battle. Despite being a man after God’s own heart, David wasn't a perfect man. His failure to stay away from the back forty mentality had severe consequences for his family and the nation of Israel. 
 
The first excursion is mentioned right after the unification of Israel and the capture of Jerusalem. 2 Samuel 5:12 highlights this phase by recording David’s recognition that God had established his kingdom and exalted the nation of Israel. But then verse 13 tells us he took more wives and concubines. “Meanwhile David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, after he came from Hebron; and more sons and daughters were born to David.” Notice how the NASV starts with “meanwhile”. The translators are indicating this was happening over a period of years that coincided with the period of time spent establishing the kingdom as discussed in verses 10-12. 
 
While God was busy establishing David’s kingdom David was busy accumulating wives (despite the prohibition in Deuteronomy 17:17). Verses 14-16 list an additional eleven sons born in Jerusalem to add to the six born in Hebron. This excursion into the back forty came at a great price for David, his family, and Israel. We’re not told how many wives or concubines he accumulated. Nor does the Bible reveal any of the intrigue and infighting among his wives, but it was there because we see it unfold among the sons. But that’s for later studies. 
 
What’s the lesson for us today in the 21st century? It’s simple – stay focused on serving God in every stage of life, especially in our later years. Don’t develop a back forty mentality that thinks serving God is for the young and energetic so we can retire and kick back and relax. Don’t let a lax attitude creep in to distract and draw us away from honoring God to the very end of life.

“The back forty” is an old expression going back to the 1800’s in America when land was divided up in forty acre sections. Typically it stood for the last part of one’s land that was the hardest to get to, and got the least use, because it backed up to the woods and, quite often, was still covered with woods. Figuratively it can refer to the latter years of life as our bodies slow down with age. Some men just withdraw into themselves, others shed responsibility and societal bounds in a “mid-life crisis”, but others keep plugging along and working to the very end.

Today we’re going to begin looking at “the back forty” of King David. We spent several weeks looking at the front forty as we saw him go from tending sheep into the presence of King Saul as a singer and soldier. We also saw him spend about a dozen years running for his life in the deepest of the back forty; hiding on mountains, in deserts and caves, and finally in the towns of the enemy Philistines. Then, at the age of thirty

The Back Forty Of Life 2 Samuel 5:13-16

In “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” the Dwarves wanted to enter their ancient home in the Lonely Mountain to find a precious jewel. There were two problems: it was an impenetrable fortress on an isolated mountain, and it just happened to be occupied by a dragon – Smaug. A frontal assault would be deadly so they hired the Hobbit, Bilbo, to sneak them in the back. Even that wasn’t easy, but eventually they got in and came face to face with the dragon. 
 
They weren’t able to harm him, but his arrogance proved his undoing when he attacked a village at the base of the mountain and was killed while mocking them for weakness. Arrogance, hubris, and a sense of invincibility led to the death of Smaug. Pride has a tremendous sway on people, and apparently dragons aren’t immune to its lure. The story is entertaining, but in the end it’s just fiction. 
 
However, in real life there are many examples of the same attitude leading to the fall of people and cities. One such example followed the reuniting of Israel under the leadership of David. Needing a centrally located city for the capital David chose Jerusalem. However, the ancient city of Jerusalem sat high on a rocky mountain surrounded on three sides by sharp cliffs and high walls. So when David and his men arrived they laughed at them; boasting that their blind and lame could keep David out. “Now the king and his men went to Jerusalem against the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land, and they said to David, “You shall not come in here, but the blind and the lame will turn you away”; thinking, ‘David cannot enter here.’” (2 Samuel 5:6) 
 
They were right in that a frontal assault would have been a deadly disaster for David and his men. But they were very wrong in their thinking that “David cannot enter here.” Verse 8 revealed how David had his men sneak into the city by crawling up the sewer drain, and, according to 1 Chronicles 11:6, Joab led the way. Once they got inside they opened it for his army to enter and David took the city. Despite their prideful boast, the text tells us, “Nevertheless, David captured the stronghold of Zion, that is the city of David.” (2 Samuel 5:7). Their city, which they boasted the lame and blind could protect, became known as “the city of David.” 
 
Have we learned from those examples or do we keep repeating them? If we’re not sure, just watch the news and then look in our own heart. If we find arrogance, hubris and a sense of invincibility have taken root in our heart and think that sin cannot enter in let’s not be surprised when our inevitable fall comes. It will. Unless we cut it out and fall before King Jesus in complete submission. The choice is yours. Will you boast in yourself, or believe in Jesus?

In “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” the Dwarves wanted to enter their ancient home in the Lonely Mountain to find a precious jewel. There were two problems: it was an impenetrable fortress on an isolated mountain, and it just happened to be occupied by a dragon – Smaug. A frontal assault would be deadly so they hired the Hobbit, Bilbo, to sneak them in the back. Even that wasn’t easy, but eventually they got in and came face to face with the dragon.

They weren’t able to harm him, but his arrogance proved his undoing when he attacked a village at the base of the mountain and was killed while mocking them for weakness. Arrogance, hubris, and a sense of invincibility led to the death of Smaug. Pride has a tremendous sway on people, and apparently dragons aren’t immune to its lure. The story is entertaining, but in the end it’s just fiction. 

However, in real life there are many examples of the same attitude leading to the fall of people and cities. One such example followed the reu

Boasting In The Blind And Lame 2 Samuel 5:6-10

“Float like a butterfly, 
sting like a bee. 
The hands can't hit 
what the eyes can't see.” 
 
Heavyweight champion boxer Muhammad Ali had a way with words. He was incredibly articulate and witty, which made him stand out in a sport where most men could barely string three words together. And which is why Ali captured the attention of the sports world, and the world in general, as much with his vocal talent as his boxing skills. But the brutality of the sport caught up with him. Others saw and hit him – hard. He was never knocked out, but the cumulative effect of the punches added up and at the young age of 42 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. 
 
When we’re young we think we’re invincible and, unfortunately, when we’re older and know better we persuade the young that they are so they’ll entertain us in violent sports like boxing and football. It’s a good thing we’ve advanced from the brutality of the Roman Coliseum and death matches, right? What Ali believed, just like everyone who climbs into a ring, was that he was in control of the outcome. What he learned, just like most others, was that he was just fooling himself. 
 
When David was reigning as King in Hebron Saul’s son Ishbosheth was reigning in Northern Israel. Their generals met on neutral ground and, thinking he had the upper hand, Abner (Ishbosheth’s commander) suggested a fight between their young men. He thought he knew how it would turn out, but he was wrong (2 Samuel 2:12-14). All the young men died and Abner ended up running for his life (vv15-19). 
 
While running he was pursued by Asahel (David’s nephew through his sister Zeruiah). Abner begged Asahel to stop chasing him. The text records two times Abner asking him to “Turn aside from following me”, but Asahel wouldn’t listen. He too thought he was in control of the outcome, until Abner stopped suddenly and killed him (vv20-23). Joab, David’s commander, who just happened to be Asahel’s brother, and David’s nephew as well, found his brother lying there dead and continued chasing Abner, until Abner gathered enough of his own men to persuade Joab to stop (vv24-28). What no one could have known was how that event would start a war between the houses that would not end until many sons of Israel were dead, including Abner, who was murdered, stabbed in cold blood, by Joab, and Saul’s son Ishbosheth was murdered in his sleep by his own servants. 
 
Now that may all sound like boring ancient history, but there are two great lessons for us. First is the law of unintended consequences. We need to think carefully before we speak and act because we don’t always control the outcome. Second, the path of violence leads to destruction and death. Jesus, the Son of David, came to free us from both. He calls us to choose the path of peace with Him, which leads to the best possible outcome – eternal life. A consequence we can intentionally seek by choosing to obey Him in faith.

“Float like a butterfly, 
sting like a bee. 
The hands can't hit 
what the eyes can't see.” 

Heavyweight champion boxer Muhammad Ali had a way with words. He was incredibly articulate and witty, which made him stand out in a sport where most men could barely string three words together. And which is why Ali captured the attention of the sports world, and the world in general, as much with his vocal talent as his boxing skills. But the brutality of the sport caught up with him. Others saw and hit him – hard. He was never knocked out, but the cumulative effect of the punches added up and at the young age of 42 he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

When we’re young we think we’re invincible and, unfortunately, when we’re older and know better we persuade the young that they are so they’ll entertain us in violent sports like boxing and football. It’s a good thing we’ve advanced from the brutality of the Roman Coliseum and death matches, right? What Ali believed, just like everyone w

The Law Of Unintended Consequences 2 Samuel 2:12-32

“American Sniper”, starring Bradley Cooper, was an incredibly successful movie in 2015. Its success came in spite of the fact many people were offended by its gritty and gory portrayal of the life of the real American sniper, Chris Kyle. The movie is filled with violence; graphic and gory video presentations of the killing of men, women and children – by Chris Kyle. It didn’t hide the fact that he was addicted to war. Nor did it hide the sexual liberties of his early life or constant stream of profanity that poured from his lips. It was a realistic portrayal of a real human’s life. 
 
At the end of the movie, after it described Chris Kyle’s murder by a fellow war veteran he was trying to help, the audiences were silent. Unable to speak they walked out quietly, reverently considering his death. Instead of the usual ear blasting music during the closing credits it ended silently with scenes of the actual funeral procession that stretched over 200 miles of Texas Highway. All along the way 1000s of people came out, alone or in groups, to honor Chris Kyle. Whatever we may think of Chris Kyle’s life, or its graphic movie presentation, we understand the impact he had on others by how he was honored in death. 
 
In the same way whatever we may think of King Saul we can understand what he meant to the nation of Israel and to his successor, David, by David’s reaction to the news. We think he should be jubilant. His decade long nightmare of running and hiding from Saul was finally over. But no, not David. Instead he honored Saul by tearing his clothes, and then mourning, weeping and fasting for a whole day (2 Samuel 1:11-12). Then Israel’s sweet singer composed a song in honor of Saul and Jonathan (2 Samuel 1:17-27). Despite Saul’s failure to serve God with a pure heart, and everything he had done to him, David called on Israel to weep for its fallen king. 
 
Beginning with, “Your beauty, O Israel, is slain on your high places!” (v19) David praised the good things Saul and Jonathan had done, and then called for weeping, “O daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you luxuriously in scarlet, who put ornaments of gold on your apparel.” (v24) and ended with one more lament “How have the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished.” (v27). 
 
We live in a world filled with death: both physical and spiritual. Do we weep over the spiritual death of souls who turn away from God while they’re still alive physically? If so, is it with the same power and passion we bring to actual funerals? Do we think in terms of the beauty of Israel being slain when precious souls are destroyed by sin? Do we love people enough to be distressed for them when their souls perish? If not, then perhaps David’s lament “How have the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished.” is for us too. Does David lament for you?

“American Sniper”, starring Bradley Cooper, was an incredibly successful movie in 2015. Its success came in spite of the fact many people were offended by its gritty and gory portrayal of the life of the real American sniper, Chris Kyle. The movie is filled with violence; graphic and gory video presentations of the killing of men, women and children – by Chris Kyle. It didn’t hide the fact that he was addicted to war. Nor did it hide the sexual liberties of his early life or constant stream of profanity that poured from his lips. It was a realistic portrayal of a real human’s life.

At the end of the movie, after it described Chris Kyle’s murder by a fellow war veteran he was trying to help, the audiences were silent. Unable to speak they walked out quietly, reverently considering his death. Instead of the usual ear blasting music during the closing credits it ended silently with scenes of the actual funeral procession that stretched over 200 miles of Texas Highway. All along the way 1

Lamenting Saul’s (Souls’) Death 2 Samuel 1:11-12, 17-27

Did Al Gore really claim that he “invented the internet”? Well, he didn’t use the actual word “invented”. Like most politicians, Al suffers from an inflated sense of self and has to make sure others know the vital importance of his contributions to life. That requires an ability to stretch the truth a little, or sometimes a lot. For example, because he has to quote unquote save the planet from us manmade global warming deniers he has to ignore the fact that global cooling has been going on for several years due to diminished solar activity. Yes, global warming is caused by that giant yellow thing that shows up in the sky every day. If you don’t believe me, find a spot in the sun without shade, clouds or wind and tell me what happens – you get warm. Sometimes quite hot; even here in Kentucky. But I digress. What he actually said was: “During my service in the United States Congress, I took the initiative in creating the Internet.” In reality, he had some peripheral connection to government involvement in the early stages of the internet, but he didn’t “create” or “invent” it. 
 
Sometimes taking credit for things we didn’t do can make us the butt of jokes, like Al Gore, but sometimes it can have far worse consequences. For example when a young Amalekite came to David and took credit for killing Saul it seemed like a smart move, but was deadly instead. We’ve already seen how Saul, not wanting to be captured and tortured, took his own life by falling on his sword (1 Samuel 31:4). 2 Samuel 1 tells of a young Amalekite who thought he would gain favor with David by taking personal credit for killing Saul (vv2-10). For all his anger and frustration at Saul, David couldn’t rejoice in his death nor reward anyone who took credit for it. After weeping profusely over Saul’s death David asked “How is it you were not afraid to stretch out your hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed?” and ordered the professed killer to be executed (2 Samuel 1:11-16). 
 
There are two lessons for us. One – don’t falsify the record and take credit for things we did not do. Honesty is more than the best policy – it is the only policy. And two – don’t rejoice when others suffer, even if it is just and right. That is the higher calling for God’s people. Will we hear and obey?

Did Al Gore really claim that he “invented the internet”? Well, he didn’t use the actual word “invented”. Like most politicians, Al suffers from an inflated sense of self and has to make sure others know the vital importance of his contributions to life. That requires an ability to stretch the truth a little, or sometimes a lot. For example, because he has to quote unquote save the planet from us manmade global warming deniers he has to ignore the fact that global cooling has been going on for several years due to diminished solar activity. Yes, global warming is caused by that giant yellow thing that shows up in the sky every day. If you don’t believe me, find a spot in the sun without shade, clouds or wind and tell me what happens – you get warm. Sometimes quite hot; even here in Kentucky. But I digress. What he actually said was: “During my service in the United States Congress, I took the initiative in creating the Internet.” In reality, he had some peripheral connection to governm

Liars Who Lie May Die 2 Samuel 1:13-16

Do you remember how Clarence got his wings? By saving George Bailey of course! In the classic Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” when George Bailey couldn’t find the bank money taken by the evil Mr. Potter, George thought his world was crashing down around him and contemplated suicide. Diverted to rescue Clarence from the river, George was given a glimpse of what life would be like if he hadn’t lived. The shock of realizing how much he meant to so many others shook him out of his self-pity and drove him to return and deal with the problem. 
 
But is that what really saved George? Think about the scene when George rushed back into his home and found dozens of people there to help him. The news of his problem had spread and many of the people who had been helped by George and his bank came to his rescue. Whether large or small their gifts demonstrated their gratitude to him for helping them in their time of need. It didn’t take long for the whole sum to be made up as people generously reminded George that they hadn’t forgotten what he did for them. 
 
Gratitude will make folk do some strange things; wonderful things. At the end of King Saul’s life his body was hung on the side of a Philistine city wall to display their victory over Israel (1 Samuel 31:8-10). Decades earlier, Saul’s first act as king was to rescue the city of Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11). The people of Jabesh-gilead remembered what Saul had done for them and refused to let this dishonor stand. So they marched through the night, took the body down, and disposed of it with dignity. 
 
“Now when the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, all the valiant men got up and walked all night, and they took the body of Saul and the bodies of his sons from the wall of Beth-shan, and they came to Jabesh and burned them there. And they took their bones and buried them under the tamarisk tree in Jabesh, and fasted for seven days.” (1 Sam 31:11-13). In their gratitude they were willing to risk their very lives to honor Saul in his death. 
 
What about us? Jesus left heaven, took on flesh, lived in the stench and squalor of earth, and then marched through death to break down the gates of hell to rescue us from the power of Satan. What will you do in gratitude? Seriously, what are we willing to risk in our gratitude for Jesus giving His life to save us? If we’re honest would we be put to shame by the simple act of honor the men of Jabesh-gilead showed Saul? Are we willing to be honest? Are we willing to act? Do we have an attitude of gratitude?

Do you remember how Clarence got his wings? By saving George Bailey of course! In the classic Christmas movie “It's a ...

Gratitude Is A Glorious Attitude 1 Samuel 31:8-13

“Saving Private Ryan” is an epic movie about WWII and has one of the most realistic battle scenes in cinematic history. The creators tried to make the storming of the beach at Normandy come to life on the screen. They did an excellent job, at least for those of us who never experienced the real thing, because it showed the soldier’s fear as they approached the beach, the suddenness of death for many, and the shock of those who suffered horrific injuries. It was nasty, brutish and painful just to watch. Those of us who haven’t experienced war can only imagine how bad it was. Sadly, most movies and TV shows smooth over battle scenes as if we’re not able to handle the truth. 
 
A strong argument for the accuracy of the Bible is that it treats its readers like adults who can handle the truth. It talks about real events in real terms and doesn’t try to smooth over the rough spots. For example in 1 Samuel 31 we find the record of Saul’s death in battle. The Philistines attacked Israel at Mt. Gilboa and succeeded in defeating Saul’s army and killing him along with his sons (vv 1-2). Well, not exactly. Saul’s sons were killed but Saul was only wounded. To avoid capture he ordered his armor bearer to finish him off, but the man refused so Saul fell on his own sword (vv 3-4). Instead of dying nobly in battle Saul suffered the indignity of a wound that would have let him be captured so he took his own life. That’s reality. That’s how battles went, especially before the mass use of gunpowder. 
 
One of the problems in modern times is that we’ve extended our efforts to protect children from harsh realities to adults as well. We treat other adults as if they’re too fragile to deal with the brutal reality of war, or, for that matter, the reality of death. Dealing with it up close and personal these last few years, as older Christians I knew approached death, taught me that even believers have a hard time dealing with it. Instead of speaking truthfully about our impending death and the inevitability of divine judgment (Hebrews 9:27), we pretend modern medicine will keep us alive – forever. No, it won’t. One day you will be the guest of honor at a funeral. So will I. 
 
Today’s culture has created the 11th commandment – Thou shalt be nice. As a result we’re prohibited from discussing the first 10. They’re too harsh for today’s sensitive ears and egos. We’re not allowed to address sin and death in real terms because, well, “that’s not nice.” But by not speaking of life and death in real terms we allow others to live and die in their sins. Now that’s the ultimate indignity. 
 
Why are we so afraid to tell others the truth in an effort to save them from the harshness of eternal separation from God? Hiding the truth is not nice. It hides a brutality that makes the beach scene in Saving Private Ryan look like a picnic for children. Consider that the next time you get made at someone for speaking the truth.

“Saving Private Ryan” is an epic movie about WWII and has one of the most realistic battle scenes in cinematic history. The creators tried to make the storming of the beach at Normandy come to life on the screen. They did an excellent job, at least for those of us who never experienced the real thing, because it showed the soldier’s fear as they approached the beach, the suddenness of death for many, and the shock of those who suffered horrific injuries. It was nasty, brutish and painful just to watch. Those of us who haven’t experienced war can only imagine how bad it was.  Sadly, most movies and TV shows smooth over battle scenes as if we’re not able to handle the truth.

A strong argument for the accuracy of the Bible is that it treats its readers like adults who can handle the truth. It talks about real events in real terms and doesn’t try to smooth over the rough spots. For example in 1 Samuel 31 we find the record of Saul’s death in battle. The Philistines attacked Israel at Mt. 

Hiding Truth Is True Brutality 1 Samuel 31:1-4

“All I really need to know about how to live and what to do and how to be I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sand pile at school. 
These are the things I learned: 
• Share everything” 
 
So begins the first of fifty essays in the 1988 book by Robert Fulghum, “All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten”. While there is something to be said for the lessons of kindergarten, to say we learned everything we need to know isn’t completely true. Plus it’s actually a little trite. “Share everything”? What about bad attitudes, germs, and lice? However there is some truth, and great value, in learning to share the good things God has given us. 
 
In reality the concept of sharing is Biblical. It comes from God – not kindergarten. In the atheistic world view of survival of the fittest the first principle is “Take what you want. Keep what you can.” But the Bible teaches a different principle by word and example. Look for instance at David who, knowing all was a gift from God, showed us the principle of sharing that gift with all who participated in the accomplishment (1 Samuel 30:23-25). But David’s generosity went beyond just his accomplices to others who had been kind to him before. 
 
David had not forgotten how much help he had along the way and because the plunder from the rescue was so much greater than just their stuff he began a systematic process of sharing it with others (1 Samuel 30:26-31). Saying, “Behold, a gift for you from the spoils of the enemies of the Lord.” (v26), he began with his friends in the tribe of Judah, and going through a list that he had kept, either in writing or in his mind, he started sharing with folks in all the places he had stayed while running from Saul. Vs 31 wraps it up by saying “and to all the places where David himself and his men were accustomed to go.” 
 
Whether he learned it in Kindergarten at Bethlehem, or from his parents, or directly from God’s teaching, David remembered, and practiced, the basic principle of thankfulness and sharing. Do we remember what we learned in Bible class and kindergarten? More importantly, do we practice it? Greed and selfishness are ugly to behold, whether in the kindergarten sandbox, or the mud pit of life. Let us be known as those who remember to share.

“All I really need to know about how to live and what to do and how to be I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there in the sand pile at school.
These are the things I learned:
• Share everything”

So begins the first of fifty essays in the 1988 book by Robert Fulghum, “All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten”. While there is something to be said for the lessons of kindergarten, to say we learned everything we need to know isn’t completely true. Plus it’s actually a little trite. “Share everything”? What about bad attitudes, germs, and lice? However there is some truth, and great value, in learning to share the good things God has given us.

In reality the concept of sharing is Biblical. It comes from God – not kindergarten.  In the atheistic world view of survival of the fittest the first principle is “Take what you want. Keep what you can.” But the Bible teaches a different principle by word and example. Look for instan

Remember To Share 1 Samuel 30:26-31

What would have happened if Billy Mack had caught up with Billy Joe and Bobbie Sue? The Texas detective would have arrested both for murdering a man while robbing his castle. Billy Joe pulled the trigger and Bobbie Sue took the money and ran, but that did not make her any less guilty since she was an accomplice. (Ok don’t roll your eyes at me. I didn’t write the song). An accomplice is someone who aids or assists another person in the commission of a crime. Under law an accomplice faces the same guilt and punishment as the person who commits the crime. 
 
In a similar sense one who provides critical support toward accomplishing something good is also an accomplice and often deserves the same reward and recognition as others whose involvement seems greater. That principle was set up by David as a fair and just treatment of some men who couldn’t finish the run to recover their families from the Amalekite raiders. Because the chase was exhausting about 200 men stopped and watched the baggage while the rest rushed on to rescue their families and property (1 Sam 30:9-10, 23-25). 
 
One of our struggles as humans is with the idea of justice and fairness. If someone offends us we want justice, perhaps even an extra layer of vengeance. But if we offend someone else we think forgiveness or nominal punishment is fair. Or, if we join with someone to accomplish something we tend to think our part was more important so we deserve a greater reward. David ran into this when some of his men didn’t want to share with the ones who stayed behind. The text calls those who didn’t want to share “the wicked and worthless men among those who went with David” (1 Sam 30:22). This is a warning to those of us who believe in capitalism. We must not sound like wicked and worthless men in our defense of the system. The ability to share equally with others reveals a lot about our character. How would you do in that test? 
 
However, this was not a call for societal equity as proposed by the social justice movement wherein everyone gets an equal share, even those who weren’t even involved. It is just as wicked to demand an equal share for those do not participate at all. David’s command was to share equally among all who participated, “For as his share is who goes down to the battle, so shall his share be who stays by the baggage; they shall share alike.” (1 Samuel 30:24). 
 
Anything shared with those who don’t participate is a gift – not equality. And that’s what makes God special – He offers all of us the gift of salvation. None of us participated in paying the price – except that all of us sinned and deserved the punishment Jesus took for us. It isn’t equity because most will reject the gift, but it is equality in that it is offered to all – equally. The question then is this – will you accept the gift God offers? Oh, I hope you will. Reach out to me if you want to know more about God’s offer of salvation.

What would have happened if Billy Mack had caught up with Billy Joe and Bobbie Sue? The Texas detective would have arrested both for murdering a man while robbing his castle. Billy Joe pulled the trigger and Bobbie Sue took the money and ran, but that did not make her any less guilty since she was an accomplice. (Ok don’t roll your eyes at me. I didn’t write the song). An accomplice is someone who aids or assists another person in the commission of a crime. Under law an accomplice faces the same guilt and punishment as the person who commits the crime.

In a similar sense one who provides critical support toward accomplishing something good is also an accomplice and often deserves the same reward and recognition as others whose involvement seems greater. That principle was set up by David as a fair and just treatment of some men who couldn’t finish the run to recover their families from the Amalekite raiders. Because the chase was exhausting about 200 men stopped and watched the baggag

Equality Or A Gift? 1 Samuel 30:21-25

“Ease his pain.” In the fictional movie “Field of Dreams” Ray, played by Kevin Costner, hears a voice telling him “Ease his pain” and “If you build it…He will come.” Since it’s a movie Ray instinctively realizes the mystical voice is telling him to build a baseball field in the middle of his Iowa cornfield so Shoeless Joe Jackson can come back from the dead to play baseball. It’s obvious, right? Anyway, there’s a powerful twist to the ending when Shoeless Joe’s ghost reveals that it was about Ray’s pain, not Joe’s. That revelation leads to an even bigger revelation for Ray. One he did not see coming. 
 
In the story of Nabal and Abigail it would seem that the big reveal/twist ending was Nabal’s shocking death after hearing what his wife had done (or perhaps how close he came to bringing disaster on himself). Either way, it caught everyone by surprise. But if you thought that was the end of the story then you would be wrong. 
 
In “Field of Dreams” the big reveal was the easing of Ray’s decades of pain because of conflict with his father that had never been resolved – until then. Suddenly the movie reveals that “He will come” wasn’t referring to Shoeless Joe Jackson, but Ray’s long dead dad. Ray’s pain was eased by reconnecting with his father. Well, in the real story of Nabal, Abigail, and David, there’s an even bigger twist to the end of the story than the “old fool’s” sudden and unexpected death. 
 
If you will recall David had shown great bravery and complete loyalty to King Saul, even when fleeing for his life. Before going insane with jealousy, Saul had given his daughter Michal to be David’s wife, but to add to David’s pain of having to flee for his life, Saul took Michal away and gave her to another man (1 Samuel 25:44). David’s great pain from the fear and anxiety caused by Saul’s constant pursuit was compounded by the loss of his loving wife who had defied her father to protect David (1 Samuel 19:11). 
 
To ease his pain David reached out to and married Abigail. David had been protected from evil by Abigail who was married to an evil man. When that “old fool” Nabal’s evil turned on him David and Abigail both benefited (1 Samuel 25:39-42). Who could have seen that coming? 
 
The lesson for us is simple. Our future is unfolding one day at a time, so do not despair or become foolish. Live every day by faith (which by the way may require painful changes), and even if our pain is not eased in this life – the Lord is waiting for His faithful ones to join Him where there are no tears, sorrow, or pain. That ending has been promised to the faithful. Is it the one you’re seeking?

“Ease his pain.” In the fictional movie “Field of Dreams” Ray, played by Kevin Costner, hears a voice telling him “Ease his pain” and “If you build it…He will come.” Since it’s a movie Ray instinctively realizes the mystical voice is telling him to build a baseball field in the middle of his Iowa cornfield so Shoeless Joe Jackson can come back from the dead to play baseball. It’s obvious, right? Anyway, there’s a powerful twist to the ending when Shoeless Joe’s ghost reveals that it was about Ray’s pain, not Joe’s. That revelation leads to an even bigger revelation for Ray. One he did not see coming.

In the story of Nabal and Abigail it would seem that the big reveal/twist ending was Nabal’s shocking death after hearing what his wife had done (or perhaps how close he came to bringing disaster on himself). Either way, it caught everyone by surprise. But if you thought that was the end of the story then you would be wrong.

In “Field of Dreams” the big reveal was the easing of Ray’s dec

David And Abigail 1 Samuel 25:39-42

"This is The Big One, Elizabeth! I'm comin’ to join ya honey." If you grew up watching Sanford and Son, or have seen it on one of the dozens of channels running old TV shows, you’ll recognize that as Fred Sanford’s line. In times of distress he would place his hand on his chest as if having a heart attack, look to heaven, and speak to his long dead wife. For the length of the show there was a running gag of insults between the cantankerous Fred and his good-natured son Lamont. Fred constantly called Lamont “dummy” and Lamont would call his dad “old fool”. 
 
In Yesterday’s Morning Minutes in the Bible we saw how another wife (Abigail) saved an “old fool” (Nabal) from a terrible death at the hands of an angry mob led by David. When David’s men had approached Nabal to ask for some food because of their work protecting his sheep he responded by insulting David and his men, and then proceeded to celebrate by getting drunk. Meanwhile, his wife, having learned of the doom about to descend on her husband and family, raced to meet David. Thankfully her wise words and deeds prevented the disaster from unfolding (1 Samuel 25:32-35). David listened to her, let go of his rage, and sent her back home in peace. 
 
When she returned Nabal was busy celebrating and getting drunk. As a wise woman she didn’t waste her time arguing with a drunk. “Then Abigail came to Nabal, and behold, he was holding a feast in his house, like the feast of a king. And Nabal’s heart was merry within him, for he was very drunk; so she did not tell him anything at all until the morning light.” (1 Samuel 25:36). 
 
The next day Abigail came to tell Nabal how she had saved him. In a word play on his name the text said “when the wine had gone out of Nabal” (the Hebrew word for “gone out” rhymes with Nabal) Abigail told him what had happened. What happened next was a shock to everyone because apparently the shock was too great for Nabal, “and his heart died within him, so that he became as a stone” (1 Samuel 25:37). Whether it was anger at her or fear at his response to David we will never know because he died ten days later. The hard-hearted “old fool” had “the big one” and met his maker. 
 
Since we’re talking about a man being a fool there are three simple lessons for us men. First and foremost – marry a wise woman. Second, stay away from wine. And third, don’t be a fool. Of course we men will be fools from time to time, so hopefully we married a wise woman who can save us from our own stupidity.

"This is The Big One, Elizabeth! I'm comin’ to join ya honey." If you grew up watching Sanford and Son, or have seen it on one of the dozens of channels running old TV shows, you’ll recognize that as Fred Sanford’s line. In times of distress he would place his hand on his chest as if having a heart attack, look to heaven, and speak to his long dead wife. For the length of the show there was a running gag of insults between the cantankerous Fred and his good-natured son Lamont. Fred constantly called Lamont “dummy” and Lamont would call his dad “old fool”.

In Yesterday’s Morning Minutes in the Bible we saw how another wife (Abigail) saved an “old fool” (Nabal) from a terrible death at the hands of an angry mob led by David. When David’s men had approached Nabal to ask for some food because of their work protecting his sheep he responded by insulting David and his men, and then proceeded to celebrate by getting drunk. Meanwhile, his wife, having learned of the doom about to descend on h

An Old Fool 1 Samuel 25:36-38

“Sometimes it's hard to be a woman 
Giving all your love to just one man 
You'll have bad times 
And he'll have good times, 
Doin' things that you don't understand” 
 
“Stand By Your Man” is by far Tammy Wynette’s greatest hit. Released in 1968 it seemed to be just a simple condescending song about women being forced to stay with a bad husband. But, in reality it’s a complex anthem to the difficulties women face in remaining committed to their husbands when, “after all he’s just a man”. It’s a call for a woman to stand by her man, not crawl under his foot, or be crushed under his thumb. That’s not some wilting flower – that’s a woman that any man would be lucky to have as his wife. 
 
Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible finds us looking at Abigail, Nabal’s wife, who was just such a woman. Previously we looked at David’s angry response to Nabal that was leading to disaster for Nabal and David (1 Samuel 25:2-13). David was headed to Nabal’s house with murderous rage in his heart. Thankfully disaster was averted by a woman who stood by her man (1 Samuel 25:14-35). When Abigail found out what her husband had done, and the doom that was coming, she quickly prepared supplies and hurried to meet David. Reaching him in time she begged for her husband’s life, and successfully saved him and his family from death, and David from a great sin. 
 
Even though Abigail knew her husband was a foolish man, and could have stood back and let him be killed, she stood up for him. Normally a wife should build up rather than tear down her husband when talking to others, but in this case she had to be brutally honest to save his life. The text records her saying, “Please do not let my lord pay attention to this worthless man, Nabal, for as his name is, so is he. Nabal is his name and folly is with him.” (1 Samuel 25:25). Ouch! That had to hurt, but it was better than hiding the truth and risking disaster. 
 
Most of the time women are able to lovingly overlook spousal failures without having to openly declare it to the world, but sometimes only the cold hard truth can save their lives. Thank God for Abigail, and may He give us more like her; wise women who know when to just smile and when to speak up. Yes indeed, “Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman!”

“Sometimes it's hard to be a woman
Giving all your love to just one man
You'll have bad times
And he'll have good times,
Doin' things that you don't understand”

“Stand By Your Man” is by far Tammy Wynette’s greatest hit. Released in 1968 it seemed to be just a simple condescending song about women being forced to stay with a bad husband. But, in reality it’s a complex anthem to the difficulties women face in remaining committed to their husbands when, “after all he’s just a man”. It’s a call for a woman to stand by her man, not crawl under his foot, or be crushed under his thumb. That’s not some wilting flower – that’s a woman that any man would be lucky to have as his wife.

Today’s Morning Minutes in the Bible finds us looking at Abigail, Nabal’s wife, who was just such a woman. Previously we looked at David’s angry response to Nabal that was leading to disaster for Nabal and David (1 Samuel 25:2-13). David was headed to Nabal’s house with murderous rage in his heart.  Thankfully di

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