Empathy of David

Nahash was king of the Ammonites and friend of David’s when he was fleeing Saul. As recorded in 1 Chronicles 19, David considered him an ally and friend and sent a delegation to morn his death. His son Hanum assumed they were spies. Instead of treating David’s men with thankfulness, he embarrasses them by shaving them, cutting off their garments in the middle at the buttocks, and sending them away (v.4).

What is it today that would cause an embarrassing moment? Say you were told by your boss to attend the funeral of the CEO of a competitor company and the new CEO caused something embarrassing to happen to you. What might your boss do? Well, they might take some advice from what David did. He shows consideration for his people by being sensitive to their feelings of embarrassment and telling them to stay low in Jericho for a while until they could get their confidence built up.

David seems to know how to be sensitive but yet tough on those deserving it. Things only got worse for the sons of Ammon. Since they knew David was fuming, they hired a private army to join in on an attack of Israel (v. 6). The well organized and skilled army of David was ready for battle. With great strategy, they completely obliterate the Ammonites.

We have friends and adversaries in life and the best way is to show respect and consideration for both. As people of this world, we have enough common enemies to face like poverty, disease, earthquakes, and storms. We don’t need to waste our time being cruel to each other. 

Encouragement can make all the difference. What we make happen for others will be given back to us so give a smile and a smile will be given back. Act kind and receive kindness from others. Encourage those around you and step ahead with confidence together.

Be kind under all circumstances and build others up instead of embarrassing them. Let God handle those that are cruel because if we are with God, we are on the side of victory. This day with God will be amazing if we encourage, build up, and humbly pray for others. Try to get across to those around you that no matter what happens in life, God loves them and that is all that matters.

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Give God Glory for Spiritual Victories

The Lord gave David victory everywhere he went and David gave God all the Glory. Because of Christ, we have spiritual victories today. I found this video that inspires this thought. Simply click this link: Give You Glory – Jeremy Camp or the video below. 

This day with God will be amazing because our faith can grow each day and He can bless us with more victories than all the grains of sand on earth. Give God all the glory! 

For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. – 1 Peter 1:18-19

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The Sure Victory

Who is responsible for David’s military victories in 1 Chronicles 18? The Lord gave David victory everywhere he went and David gave God all the credit. He did what was just and right for his people. 

The victories came as a part of God’s promise to David to help defeat the opposing nations. Small kingdoms that surrounded Israel were conquered like the Philistines, the Moabites, the king of Zobah, and the Syrians.

The Lord gave David victory everywhere he went (v.6). All the gold, silver and bronze collected from the spoils of war were dedicated to the Lord. He reigned over Israel doing what was just and right for his people (v. 14).

God helped David defeat his physical enemies and we can take this history lesson to build our faith in being able to defeat our spiritual enemies through our Redeemer. David was able to drop the idea that he was Atlas carrying the world on his shoulder. He was never too proud to get down on his knees and pray.

Scripture and prayer are weapons to win spiritual battles. Today we even have the added weapon of Christ our Redeemer. We can claim the sure victory He gave on the cross and share it with others.

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Unstoppable Purpose

The-Original-Teachings-of-Jesus-ChristThe 3rd message of the series called “Unstoppable” at First United Methodist Church Waco was presented yesterday. It is titled “Unstoppable Purpose” and can be watched at this link.  God became flesh and came to earth with a purpose. He was a wonderful teacher who attracted large crowds; giving wisdom and truth to all. After listening to the message, I wrote the poem below to sum up some of the main points.

Jesus was a great teacher
Crowds were amazed
He taught with authority
Attentions were raised

The reason Jesus taught
Giving wisdom to all
Listen and obey
And find your call

Whom Jesus taught
To all who would listen
Baptizing followers
We now call Christian

When Jesus taught
All fully understood
Arguing led nowhere
But unity would

What Jesus taught
Will set all free
He brought the truth
For you and for me

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Steps to Take

In my study of applying our faith, I wrote the poem below.

Steps to Take

Start each day out right
Each morning see the light
Tell God your need
He will help to proceed

Pray with confidence
And expect assistance
Listen for instructions
Then take actions

If plans need adjustment
Pray even more fervent
Know that He is with you
All the way through

This week, I finish my study of applying faith with some ideas at this link: Tools for the Journey.

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