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Be Lifted to New Heights of Accomplishment

Posted on September 30, 2013 by Mark Shields

Photo Credit – masterfile.com

The event recorded in 2 Chronicles 13 is another inspiring occurrence where we see the results of God’s favor at work just like David defeating Goliath, the Red Sea and Moses, or Daniel and the lion’s den. If we can just simplify our life and let God do the amazing part, we can be lifted to new heights of accomplishment. God can expand our thinking and give us confidence to adventure out to explore new opportunities that fulfill the purpose He has for us.

In today’s reading, Jeroboam’s northern kingdom seemed to have the military advantage with an army twice the size as Abijah’s fighting men but God was not on their side because the priests in Jeroboam’s northern kingdom were selected by them and their gods were idols like golden calves. On the other hand, the southern kingdom called Judah led by Abijah worshiped the LORD; Jehovah, the only true God. The priests in Judah were the sons of Aaron and the Levites who assisted them.

Jeroboam had set up an ambush and with the number soldiers in his army, it looked like a sure win but Judah had one big advantage; God was on their side. They ended up routing Jeroboam because they relied on the LORD, the God of their fathers (v. 18).

When the God of the universe intervenes, there is optimism, confidence, and decisiveness. It is like the runner with the wind at their back or the team with momentum. This day, think about what it means to have a God who intervenes. Believe that He will lead you to where you did not expect to go and shape you in ways you had not anticipated.

A Trilogy: Lessons of Right and Wrong (petitebouchee.wordpress.com)
Bones of the Priests part 1 (rebuildtheruins.com)

Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged Aaron, Abijah, God, Jeroboam, Judah, Kingdom of Judah, Moses | 22 Comments

The Bible Invites Freedom

Posted on September 29, 2013 by Mark Shields

Photo Credit – jassaahluwalia.blogspot.com

“What If” never brings victory but “Who Is” does. It is God who brings freedom, confidence, frees our resources, and builds our courage. Here is a short 3 ½ minute video from “The Bible” TV series about David demonstrating these concepts: Video Link.

The Bible as a Banned Book (cnlibraryblog.wordpress.com)
The Bible, Gods Word (thevinevigil.wordpress.com)
An Every Word Bible (thevinevigil.wordpress.com)
Humbled (in a good way!) (andapotofcoffee.wordpress.com)

Posted in Thoughts From Sermon | Tagged Bible, bible tv, Book of Revelation, Christianity, David, God, God’s Word, Jesus, New Testament, Religion and Spirituality, word bible | Leave a comment

Turning Mistakes into Breaks

Posted on September 28, 2013 by Mark Shields

In studying 2 Chronicles 12 and posting about my study yesterday, the lesson learned for me is to know history so we have a better understanding about which direction to take for the future. Rehoboam and his kingdom were at one point strong but he and all of Israel abandoned the law of the Lord

Our direction as we step ahead is to glorify God because even a mistake can turn into a break when we use them as lessons. Through accepting Jesus, the road to victory has been laid and we can trust in the Holy Spirit to be at work setting up success in everything we do. Take inspiration from this video today: Glorify You alone – Gateway Worship.

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? – Romans 8:31

Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged Gateway Worship, God, Holy Spirit, Israel, Jesus, Lord, Rehoboam | Leave a comment

Law of the Lord

Posted on September 27, 2013 by Mark Shields

Photo Credit – sheddinglightonthepath.blogspot.com

Rehoboam and his kingdom were at one point strong but he and all of Israel abandoned the law of the Lord as recorded in 2 Chronicles 12. Keeping God out encourages the enemy and in this reading, we get a good picture of this occurring. Shishak king of Egypt saw Israel’s lack of faithfulness and was encouraged to attack Jerusalem in the fifth year of Rehoboam’s reign.

Rehoboam responded with humility and God did not bring total destruction upon Israel but did make them subject to Shishak. The treasures of the temple and of the royal palace were carried off by Shishak (V. 9). Even the gold shields Solomon had made were taken and there was a general decline of the kingdom as evidenced in verses 10 and 11.

The chronicler’s general verdict concerning Rehoboam’s reign is that he started out demonstrating some good characteristics but did not make seeking God a priority. He then lost strength as a leader because he did not have God’s favor. The kingdom declined under Rehoboam but he did humble himself so God did not bring total destruction.

History has recorded that Rehoboam did not take advantage of God’s power and this resulted in weak leadership and a weakened kingdom. This day with God, let us learn from history and pray for goodness. Let us gain favor by setting our heart on seeking God. Let us remember that it is evil that takes treasure from our soul but being faithful to God, giving Him glory, and worshiping Him alone will build up treasures for the soul.

Questions for Reflection for Study of 2 Chronicles 11-15 (thisdaywithgod.wordpress.com)

Posted in 2 Chronicles | Tagged Church, God, Israel, Jerusalem, Lord, Rehoboam, seeking god, Shishak, Solomon | 1 Comment

Take the Upper Hand

Posted on September 26, 2013 by Mark Shields

Just like a country builds up defenses against their enemies, an individual must guard against evil. The Word of God gives us the upper hand. We can win spiritual battles and as citizens of God’s kingdom use the belt of truth, the armor of His righteousness, and the peace of the Good News to fortify. Praise God for victories when truth, reason, and common sense win the day!

The difference between being of this world and of faith is the perfectly disciplined will. This day with God, be lifted higher by taking inspiration from this video: Stronger – Hillsong.