Good morning,
Praise the Lord for this fabulous Friday. It is going to be hot and humid. The birds began to sing early this morning praising the Lord of all creation. Praise the Lord that we can, through His grace and mercy, live in victory. In Romans 8 it is written, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us".
David came to a radical place in his life and in his walk with God. He could not be content with anything less than God’s will for his life, the plan God had for Israel, and the subduing of enemies and possessing the promises of God. 2 Samuel Chapter 8 records a series of conquests in the reign of David. The very real wars that David fought resulted in the deaths of thousands of human beings.
There are all kinds of wars: just wars, unjust wars, wars to preserve, wars to protect, wars to expand, wars to settle disputes. For the Christian war becomes a metaphor for our struggles against our very real enemies. There comes a time when we, as Christians, must wage war against the flesh, against the devil, and against the World, and it is imperative that we win the war.
The most important thing about David’s wars are not the details of the wars; but David’s responses to God in the details of his life. God promised David a throne and a dynasty (chapter 7). Kingdoms come and kingdoms go but the promises of God abide forever.
“The Battle Belongs to the Lord.” This life is battle field. The Christian life is an ongoing battle with the forces of darkness, wickedness, our own evil desires, and our own past failures.
It the year 2000 we spent some time in Austria, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy. There we stayed and traveled among the majestic Alps. The Alps are breath-taking. High in the Alps is a monument raised in honor of a faithful guide who perished while ascending a peak to rescue a stranded tourist. Inscribed on that memorial stone are the words, "He Died Climbing". A maturing, growing Christian should have the same kind of attitude right up to the end of life.
David took the initiative by attacking the Philistines. The Philistines were continual enemies. The people of Israel had suffered many defeats and constant cruelty at the hands of the Philistines. David didn't avoid fighting the Philistines because past failures did not hinder David. Sometimes we are reluctant to fight a foe because we have lost so many times in the past. Are you sick and tired of trying to get the victory over a persistent enemy?
David made a name by being skilled in politics and war. His Empire stretched over the area promised by God to Abraham. We also need to remember God's promises so that we may claim them and walk in victory. David burned his enemies gods, and he took his enemies gold, and gave it to the Lord! That’s heaven’s strategy; destroy false strength, dedicate the fruits of victory to the Lord.
Alan Redpath writes: “This is also the strategy of the Holy Spirit in the conquest of a soul saved by grace. Everything in life that stands in opposition to God has to be condemned and put to death. Everything in a man’s life which can be used to glorify God has to be dedicated and come under new ownership. Before God can ever use our lives they have to be brought to Calvary, and there he picks them up and uses them for his glory, because everything in the Temple must proclaim “Glory to God”.
David ruled because God saved him. David possessed all that God promised because David believed God. When David pursued godliness, integrity, and justice and God blessed him.
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhlnProP8o0
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Brown's Daily Word 6-17-10
Good morning,
Praise the Lord for this day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. He blessed us with a wonderful Wednesday Evening gathering for fellowship, study and prayer. It is a great thrill to be together to study the Word of the Lord, to share the meal, and to enjoy the presence of the Lord. We are blessed in these gatherings and the Lord propels and challenges us to love Him and serve Him.
I am reflecting on 2 Samuel 7 this morning. David had come a long way from being a shepherd boy in Bethlehem and the youngest of 8 sons to being the king of Israel, who reunited the northern and southern Kingdoms, established the capitol at Jerusalem, and moved the Ark of the Covenant into the city. He most likely had a great palace, and he certainly was one of the greatest kings in the history of Israel. The Scripture tells us that the Lord gave David rest from all his enemies, so he was at ease.
One day he looked out of his palace onto the tent that housed the Ark of the Covenant, and he thought, “I need to build a temple for the Lord.” He got really excited about his plan, and probably thought he would be doing a great thing (basically, doing the Lord a favor). Of course, he needed the prophet's permission. For this reason he called in the prophet Nathan and asked him what he thought of the temple idea, and Nathan immediately responded, “I think it’s great”. He may have had the attitude, “anything you say David”… I mean who would argue with the king? At any rate, we soon learn that God had other plans.
Have you ever had an idea that made you really excited so you passed that excitement along? Then you found out later that though it sounded great to you, it was not quite what God had in mind for you? That’s what happened here. That night, when Nathan went to sleep, God spoke to Nathan, “Today you acted more like a politician than a prophet. You went along with the kings plan, but you did not take the time to ask me what I thought.”
How often in our lives do we think we "have it all worked out", develop a sure- fire plan for our lives or for our day, or have a great solution to a problem at hand, and then realize we have not even consulted God about it. We have neither asked God's opinion nor listened for what God wanted us to do? Someone once said that many Christians are functional atheists: that is, in spite of believing and worshipping God, they live their every day lives as if God doesn't exist. There may be some truth in that.
David learned a lesson about that. He had, in essence, let Nathan know that he handled the situation as if God didn't exist. God gave Nathan a different answer to give to David than what David or Nathan had in mind. The next morning Nathan told David what God really thought about his idea. I imagine David was a little surprised by the reply because, after all, to David it seemed to be a great idea.
God, however, said, “I’ve never lived in a house. I can’t be contained by any house you build. I am everywhere, and can be anywhere I want when I want to.”
The ark was in a tent, the symbol of nomadic life. Nomads are always on the move, no one controls them, they go where they want when they want. So the question is, why did David want to build a temple? Was it out of love and dedication to God or was it that David felt that building a temple in Jerusalem and putting the ark of the covenant in the temple would mean, or make the statement that God is always in Jerusalem?
Our great temptation is to try to control God. We try to squeeze God into our way of thinking, into our mold. It is our temptation to make the Lord in our own image. Our confused culture has tried to "tame" the Living and Holy God. We have tried to domesticate the God of the Heaven and earth. David wanted to build God a house, but God told David, “I have other plans“. God reminded David that He is in control. God said to David, “I have taken you from being a shepherd boy to being king. You will not build me a house, but rather, I will build your house.”
God asserted this control, not to be controlling, but to be loving. He went on to promise David that not only will He build his “house” or dynasty, but that his kingdom will be established forever. Then he went beyond that to say, “I will never take my steadfast love from you.” What a promise!
We may think one way, but God thinks another. We may have great plans for ourselves, for our family, but His ways are higher than ours. His purposes are higher than ours. He wants us to trust His plan, to trust Him, not try to control God, but to submit our lives to His leadership, His Lordship, and let Him have free reign in our lives. Let us remember that our Lord God sees what we cannot see. As the loving Father He is always working things out for our good. He always has the big picture in mind, and He invites us to trust Him, to follow Him, and to give Him control of our lives. How will you and I respond to that invitation?
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpTjqmjXB9Q
Praise the Lord for this day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. He blessed us with a wonderful Wednesday Evening gathering for fellowship, study and prayer. It is a great thrill to be together to study the Word of the Lord, to share the meal, and to enjoy the presence of the Lord. We are blessed in these gatherings and the Lord propels and challenges us to love Him and serve Him.
I am reflecting on 2 Samuel 7 this morning. David had come a long way from being a shepherd boy in Bethlehem and the youngest of 8 sons to being the king of Israel, who reunited the northern and southern Kingdoms, established the capitol at Jerusalem, and moved the Ark of the Covenant into the city. He most likely had a great palace, and he certainly was one of the greatest kings in the history of Israel. The Scripture tells us that the Lord gave David rest from all his enemies, so he was at ease.
One day he looked out of his palace onto the tent that housed the Ark of the Covenant, and he thought, “I need to build a temple for the Lord.” He got really excited about his plan, and probably thought he would be doing a great thing (basically, doing the Lord a favor). Of course, he needed the prophet's permission. For this reason he called in the prophet Nathan and asked him what he thought of the temple idea, and Nathan immediately responded, “I think it’s great”. He may have had the attitude, “anything you say David”… I mean who would argue with the king? At any rate, we soon learn that God had other plans.
Have you ever had an idea that made you really excited so you passed that excitement along? Then you found out later that though it sounded great to you, it was not quite what God had in mind for you? That’s what happened here. That night, when Nathan went to sleep, God spoke to Nathan, “Today you acted more like a politician than a prophet. You went along with the kings plan, but you did not take the time to ask me what I thought.”
How often in our lives do we think we "have it all worked out", develop a sure- fire plan for our lives or for our day, or have a great solution to a problem at hand, and then realize we have not even consulted God about it. We have neither asked God's opinion nor listened for what God wanted us to do? Someone once said that many Christians are functional atheists: that is, in spite of believing and worshipping God, they live their every day lives as if God doesn't exist. There may be some truth in that.
David learned a lesson about that. He had, in essence, let Nathan know that he handled the situation as if God didn't exist. God gave Nathan a different answer to give to David than what David or Nathan had in mind. The next morning Nathan told David what God really thought about his idea. I imagine David was a little surprised by the reply because, after all, to David it seemed to be a great idea.
God, however, said, “I’ve never lived in a house. I can’t be contained by any house you build. I am everywhere, and can be anywhere I want when I want to.”
The ark was in a tent, the symbol of nomadic life. Nomads are always on the move, no one controls them, they go where they want when they want. So the question is, why did David want to build a temple? Was it out of love and dedication to God or was it that David felt that building a temple in Jerusalem and putting the ark of the covenant in the temple would mean, or make the statement that God is always in Jerusalem?
Our great temptation is to try to control God. We try to squeeze God into our way of thinking, into our mold. It is our temptation to make the Lord in our own image. Our confused culture has tried to "tame" the Living and Holy God. We have tried to domesticate the God of the Heaven and earth. David wanted to build God a house, but God told David, “I have other plans“. God reminded David that He is in control. God said to David, “I have taken you from being a shepherd boy to being king. You will not build me a house, but rather, I will build your house.”
God asserted this control, not to be controlling, but to be loving. He went on to promise David that not only will He build his “house” or dynasty, but that his kingdom will be established forever. Then he went beyond that to say, “I will never take my steadfast love from you.” What a promise!
We may think one way, but God thinks another. We may have great plans for ourselves, for our family, but His ways are higher than ours. His purposes are higher than ours. He wants us to trust His plan, to trust Him, not try to control God, but to submit our lives to His leadership, His Lordship, and let Him have free reign in our lives. Let us remember that our Lord God sees what we cannot see. As the loving Father He is always working things out for our good. He always has the big picture in mind, and He invites us to trust Him, to follow Him, and to give Him control of our lives. How will you and I respond to that invitation?
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpTjqmjXB9Q
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Brown's Daily Word 6-16-10
Good morning,
Praise the Lord for this wonderful Wednesday and for bringing us halfway through another week. We will gather tonight at 6 PM at the church for food and fellowship, followed by Bible study and a time of prayer. As we spend time in the Word, there will be a time for the children to gather as well. Bethany Pullano and company are leading the children each Wednesday evening.
We live in a world of tremendous need, with chaos and confusion all around us, yet it is our joy to know that Christ is upon the throne. Some of the crises the world is facing are beyond human comprehension. Some of the problems are so insurmountable and the needs so great that we need divine intervention and the touch of the Master. May the Lord draw us to Him in prayer, in worship, and in repentance, that He might heal our land.
Praise the Lord for the way in which He is invisible, yet visible to those who believe in Him. In II Samuel 6 we see an amazing scene of celebration in the presence of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant was a tangible evidence of God's presence. In this passage we see that David has brought the Ark to Jerusalem. It is written that David and all the house of Israel played music before the Lord on all kinds of instruments. David and the surrounding company were displaying total freedom as they paraded the Ark in the city. From the Scriptures we find that freedom is a by-product of obedience though, on the surface, it would seem that just the opposite would be true. It would seem that obedience would bind us, make us rigid, and put us in bondage.
One of the hymns that we sing proclaims,
"Make me a captive, Lord, and then I shall be free".
In I John 5:3 we read, "Loving God means obeying His commands, and His commands are not burdensome". Our Lord said, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free". Disobedience, on the other hand, brings bondage. Obedience produces freedom, and freedom produces celebration.
In II Samuel 6 we see David and his company, as they celebrated with a sense of unrestrained freedom. The huge crowd rejoiced with shouts, with the sound of trumpets, and with dance. They celebrated "with all their might before the Lord". That kind of exuberant freedom ought to be evident in our worship of the Lord.
Praise the Lord for the way that, when we come to Christ, trust the Lord, and surrender our lives to him, He gives us freedom to live, freedom to serve, and freedom to worship. Though we live in a world filled with sorrows and sufferings, the Lord gives us reasons to rejoice, and reasons to celebrate. He infuses us with His joy as we abide in Him. In Psalm 30 it is written, "You have turned for me my mourning into dancing. You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. Weeping may tarry for a night, but joy comes in the morning."
In Jesus our Lord,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3w7t9DyGkqg
Praise the Lord for this wonderful Wednesday and for bringing us halfway through another week. We will gather tonight at 6 PM at the church for food and fellowship, followed by Bible study and a time of prayer. As we spend time in the Word, there will be a time for the children to gather as well. Bethany Pullano and company are leading the children each Wednesday evening.
We live in a world of tremendous need, with chaos and confusion all around us, yet it is our joy to know that Christ is upon the throne. Some of the crises the world is facing are beyond human comprehension. Some of the problems are so insurmountable and the needs so great that we need divine intervention and the touch of the Master. May the Lord draw us to Him in prayer, in worship, and in repentance, that He might heal our land.
Praise the Lord for the way in which He is invisible, yet visible to those who believe in Him. In II Samuel 6 we see an amazing scene of celebration in the presence of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant was a tangible evidence of God's presence. In this passage we see that David has brought the Ark to Jerusalem. It is written that David and all the house of Israel played music before the Lord on all kinds of instruments. David and the surrounding company were displaying total freedom as they paraded the Ark in the city. From the Scriptures we find that freedom is a by-product of obedience though, on the surface, it would seem that just the opposite would be true. It would seem that obedience would bind us, make us rigid, and put us in bondage.
One of the hymns that we sing proclaims,
"Make me a captive, Lord, and then I shall be free".
In I John 5:3 we read, "Loving God means obeying His commands, and His commands are not burdensome". Our Lord said, "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free". Disobedience, on the other hand, brings bondage. Obedience produces freedom, and freedom produces celebration.
In II Samuel 6 we see David and his company, as they celebrated with a sense of unrestrained freedom. The huge crowd rejoiced with shouts, with the sound of trumpets, and with dance. They celebrated "with all their might before the Lord". That kind of exuberant freedom ought to be evident in our worship of the Lord.
Praise the Lord for the way that, when we come to Christ, trust the Lord, and surrender our lives to him, He gives us freedom to live, freedom to serve, and freedom to worship. Though we live in a world filled with sorrows and sufferings, the Lord gives us reasons to rejoice, and reasons to celebrate. He infuses us with His joy as we abide in Him. In Psalm 30 it is written, "You have turned for me my mourning into dancing. You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness. Weeping may tarry for a night, but joy comes in the morning."
In Jesus our Lord,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3w7t9DyGkqg
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Brown's Daily Word 6-15-10
Good morning,
It is going to be one of the ten best days. Micah and Simeon called early yesterday morning and talked about their camping trip over the past weekend. It rained during part of their camping and yet they had a grand time. Praise the beautiful out doors.
We will meet for our mid-week service and Bible study tomorrow evening at 6 PM. One of the special blessings of the evening is the children's ministry. We will be preparing and serving a special meal for the needy and the hungry this coming Saturday at noon at the First United Methodist church. The main menu will be home made lasagna, along with the organic salads and desserts.
We will gather on Saturday evening at 5:30 PM for celebration of Fathers' Day. There will be a very special meal prepared by chef Lou Pasquale assisted by Mary Haskel and Rodney Haines. The main menu will be Chicken with white sauce, garden vegetables organic tossed salads, homemade pies and the homemade rolls. Special music will be provided by Aric Phinney, Laureen Naik and Mrs. Mary Addo.
We will be recognizing our college and high school graduates after the morning worship this coming Sunday. Following the service there will be special reception for our Grads and Dads, coordinated by Debbie Haines. It is great thrill to serve the Lord and celebrate His grace and mercy.
Israel is almost every day in the forefront of the world events and world news. This has been their historical role for literally thousands of years. Looking at 2 Samuel 5 we learn that Israel had never yet conquered the city of Jerusalem. A group of people called the Jebusites then occupied the city. When the nation of Israel went in to occupy the land, they expelled several groups of people. We read about that in the book of Joshua. They kicked out the Amalikites and all the other “-ites”. The Jebusites had managed to hold on to the city of Jerusalem.
David made it known that he was going to conquer Jerusalem. The Jebusites were certain that no army could penetrate their fortress, but they failed to comprehend that David’s army had God on their side. The Jebusites taunted David by saying, “the blind and the lame will ward [him] off.”
David was used to impossible challenges. When David had faced the mighty giant Goliath with a sling and some rocks, Goliath had taunted him saying, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” David was also accustomed to being underestimated. He knew one thing, though. God was on his side. God had been with him when he defeated Goliath, and God would be with him when he went to conquer Jerusalem.
The Jebusites were certain that David could not possibly capture the city. Verse 7 tells us, “Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion.” David stepped up and, with the help of God, conquered a stronghold.
We can also CONQUER strongholds with God’s power. What strongholds do we face? What insurmountable obstacles lay in our way to accomplishing the will and call of God on our lives? Have we ever seen our God move in a supernatural way in our lives?
When we are in the center of God’s will, by His grace and mercy he uses his power to propel us overcome strongholds and obstacles. That doesn’t mean that it will always be easy. David still had to take on the Jebusites. They didn’t just lay down their arms and walk away. They put up a fight but, with the power of God behind him, David conquered them. God calls us. Others recognize the call of God on our lives. The call of God has power. What is God calling you to do today? God may be calling you to deepen your relationship with him. He may be calling you to greater service for him. He may be calling you to renew a broken relationship with him. God’s call on our lives is as real today as it ever has been.
We can have the assurance that we are following the call of God in our life. Verse 12 tells us, “And David knew that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel.” We can know that we know that we know that we are doing Christ's will and obeying His call.
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-UDWk6e_aE
It is going to be one of the ten best days. Micah and Simeon called early yesterday morning and talked about their camping trip over the past weekend. It rained during part of their camping and yet they had a grand time. Praise the beautiful out doors.
We will meet for our mid-week service and Bible study tomorrow evening at 6 PM. One of the special blessings of the evening is the children's ministry. We will be preparing and serving a special meal for the needy and the hungry this coming Saturday at noon at the First United Methodist church. The main menu will be home made lasagna, along with the organic salads and desserts.
We will gather on Saturday evening at 5:30 PM for celebration of Fathers' Day. There will be a very special meal prepared by chef Lou Pasquale assisted by Mary Haskel and Rodney Haines. The main menu will be Chicken with white sauce, garden vegetables organic tossed salads, homemade pies and the homemade rolls. Special music will be provided by Aric Phinney, Laureen Naik and Mrs. Mary Addo.
We will be recognizing our college and high school graduates after the morning worship this coming Sunday. Following the service there will be special reception for our Grads and Dads, coordinated by Debbie Haines. It is great thrill to serve the Lord and celebrate His grace and mercy.
Israel is almost every day in the forefront of the world events and world news. This has been their historical role for literally thousands of years. Looking at 2 Samuel 5 we learn that Israel had never yet conquered the city of Jerusalem. A group of people called the Jebusites then occupied the city. When the nation of Israel went in to occupy the land, they expelled several groups of people. We read about that in the book of Joshua. They kicked out the Amalikites and all the other “-ites”. The Jebusites had managed to hold on to the city of Jerusalem.
David made it known that he was going to conquer Jerusalem. The Jebusites were certain that no army could penetrate their fortress, but they failed to comprehend that David’s army had God on their side. The Jebusites taunted David by saying, “the blind and the lame will ward [him] off.”
David was used to impossible challenges. When David had faced the mighty giant Goliath with a sling and some rocks, Goliath had taunted him saying, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” David was also accustomed to being underestimated. He knew one thing, though. God was on his side. God had been with him when he defeated Goliath, and God would be with him when he went to conquer Jerusalem.
The Jebusites were certain that David could not possibly capture the city. Verse 7 tells us, “Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion.” David stepped up and, with the help of God, conquered a stronghold.
We can also CONQUER strongholds with God’s power. What strongholds do we face? What insurmountable obstacles lay in our way to accomplishing the will and call of God on our lives? Have we ever seen our God move in a supernatural way in our lives?
When we are in the center of God’s will, by His grace and mercy he uses his power to propel us overcome strongholds and obstacles. That doesn’t mean that it will always be easy. David still had to take on the Jebusites. They didn’t just lay down their arms and walk away. They put up a fight but, with the power of God behind him, David conquered them. God calls us. Others recognize the call of God on our lives. The call of God has power. What is God calling you to do today? God may be calling you to deepen your relationship with him. He may be calling you to greater service for him. He may be calling you to renew a broken relationship with him. God’s call on our lives is as real today as it ever has been.
We can have the assurance that we are following the call of God in our life. Verse 12 tells us, “And David knew that the Lord had established him king over Israel, and that he had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel.” We can know that we know that we know that we are doing Christ's will and obeying His call.
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-UDWk6e_aE
Monday, June 14, 2010
Brown's Daily Word 6-14-10
Good morning,
Praise the Lord for He is worthy of the praise from His people and creation. We are having summer-like weather here in New York. It is spectacular. We have lots of trees in the church and parsonage grounds. We can see and hear countless birds of diverse colors and shapes making a sweet sounds and music to the Lord God the maker of Heaven and earth. It looks like a bird sanctuary. Our Lord is beautiful beyond description. He makes all things beautiful in His time.
The Lord blessed us in His house yesterday. There are times we go through some awful experiences in this life but our Lord is always awesome in His place amongst His people.
Sunita flew back to Washington after her fruitful trip to Ethiopia. She called us, excited about the World Cup that is played for the first time in Africa. Sunita and Andy were invited to watch the game between USA and UK in one of the African Embassies in Washington. Laureen and I watched it at home. Laureen was shouting for team USA and I was for the UK.
One of the readings for yesterday was taken from 1 Kings 21. This is part of the message I shared yesterday. In this famous text we find that Ahab was like many of us in that he wanted something he couldn’t have. Vs. 1-2, “ Some time later there was an incident involving a vineyard belonging to Naboth the Jezreelite. The vineyard was in Jezreel, close to the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. Ahab said to Naboth, 'Let me have your vineyard to use for a vegetable garden, since it is close to my palace. In exchange I will give you a better vineyard or, if you prefer, I will pay you whatever it is worth.'"
It must have been a beautiful vineyard, and it was right next to the summer home of Ahab. The problem was is that it wasn’t his. Normally that would be really no problem at all, because Ahab was a powerful man, and Ahab always got what Ahab wanted. Ahab was used to saying the word, and people ran to answer his request. Imagine the horror on Ahab’s face when Naboth said, "No, you can’t have it!” In fact, in vs. 3, “But Naboth replied, 'The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.'"
Naboth’s actions were not prompted by monetary considerations, but by biblical principles. When God gave the land of Canaan to Israel, He divided it among the tribes of Israel. Given the nature of men, the land (like money) would have tended to accumulate into the hands of the few, leaving the rich to get richer, and the poor to get poorer. The law, as given in Deuteronomy 25:5-10 prevented the land from permanently changing hands, outside the family or tribe to which it was allotted. Because of these laws, Naboth knew that he could not sell or trade his land. It was not just that Naboth was being unreasonable; this was something he could not do, according to the law, and thus it was something he would not do, even if the king made him a deal that was tempting.
Let’s give Naboth a lot of credit here, not only in refusing a tempting offer, but remember also that this was an offer from a ruthless tyrannical dictator. Yet Naboth was not about to budge because he was a man driven by Principles. You see, no matter how tempting the offer was, Naboth had to refuse because God said so. Naboth had made up in his mind that he would be obedient to God’s law, and everything else would come 2nd.
Wayne Smith once told about a man who was applying for special insurance, and the insurance agent asked him, "How old is your mother?" He said, "She’s dead." "How old was she when she died?" "She was forty-one." "What did she die of?" "Tuberculosis." "How old is your father?" "He’s dead." "How old was he when he died?" "Forty-three." "What did he die of?" "Heart attack." The agent tore up the form and said, "You’re a terrible risk! There’s no way you can get this special insurance; your heredity is not good."
So the man went to another agent, and the agent asked the same questions: "How old is your father?" "He’s dead." "How old was he when he died?" "Ninety-four." "What did he die of?" "He fell off a horse, playing polo." The agent said, "How old is your mother?" "She’s dead." "How old was she when she died?" "Ninety-one." "What did she die of?” "Childbirth."
What wouldn’t we sacrifice just for something as small as a discount? But what if it was more? Would we still keep our integrity for let’s something like 10 million dollars?
In his book, When God Whispers Your Name, Max Lucado told the story of a hypothetical game show. In it, you are on stage, and the spotlight is on you. He writes, “It can be yours. It can be all yours. The choice is up to you. The only question you have to answer is, ‘What is your price?’” Applause rings again, the band plays, and you swallow hard. Behind you a second curtain opens, revealing a large placard. “What are you willing to give?” is written on the top. The host explains the rules. “All you have to do is agree to one condition and you will receive the money.” “Ten million dollars!” you whisper to yourself. Not one million or two, but ten million. No small sum. Nice nest egg. Ten million bucks would go a long way, right? Tuition paid off. Retirement guaranteed. Would open a few doors on a few cars or a new house (or several).
You could be quite the benefactor with such a sum. Help a few orphanages. Feed a few nations. Build some church buildings. Suddenly you understand: This is the opportunity of a lifetime. “Take your pick. Just choose one option and the money is yours.”
A deep voice from another microphone begins reading the list. “Put your children up for adoption.” “Become a prostitute for a week.” “Give up your American citizenship.” “Abandon your church.” “Abandon your family.” “Kill a stranger.” “Have a sex-change operation.” “Leave your spouse.” “Change your race.” “That’s the list,” the host proclaims. “Now make your choice.”
Now what would you pick?
The sad thing is that most people would pick something. In a national survey that asked the same question, many said what they would do. Seven percent of those who answered would murder for the money. Six percent would change their race. Four percent would change their sex. If money is the gauge of the heart, then this study revealed that money is at the heart of most Americans. In exchange for ten million dollars: 25 percent would abandon their family. 25 percent would abandon their church. 23 percent would become a prostitute for a week. 16 percent would give up their American citizenship. 16 percent would leave their spouse. 13 percent would put their children up for adoption. Even more revealing than what Americans would do for ten million dollars is that most would do something. Two-thirds of those polled would agree to at least one—some to several—of the options. The majority, in other words, would not leave the stage empty-handed. They would pay the price.
That’s a sad truth of today’s world. We would throw aside just about anything, all for some money. Yet not Naboth. Naboth could have been offered the world, yet he knew what God said, God said no. Therefore, no matter how pleasing the offer was, Naboth’s answer would be no, and that was his final answer.
Ahab couldn’t understand it because Ahab did not share Naboth's convictions regarding God’s law. Because he did not share those convictions, the he could not understand why Naboth wouldn’t take him up on his offer.
In this world, many us odd if we don’t follow their value system. They think it strange that to family above promotion. They think it odd that any would say no to sinful pleasures because of his or her faith. They cannot understand anyone who would value integrity over profit.
Naboth had integrity, but Ahab persisted in his pursuit. He was going to get what he wanted one way or another. So, after Naboth said no, Ahab did what almost every spoiled person does when they don’t get there way…he pouted. Vs. 4 ,“So Ahab went home, sullen and angry because Naboth the Jezreelite had said, "I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers." He lay on his bed sulking and refused to eat.”
Even though Ahab had almost the entire Kingdom at his disposal, he was throwing a fit because he didn’t have that one vineyard. Matthew Henry wrote that discontentment is a sin that is its own punishment.” If you are discontent you are never satisfied, and you are never happy.
As Ahab pouted, his wife, the evil Jezebel, entered. Jezebel reminded Ahab that he was the king, and as a king he was entitled to get whatever he wanted. Jezebel insisted that Ahab should act like a king and stand up for himself. This woman was evil to the core. No longer was the problem the mere desire for a vineyard; Naboth insulted her husband by having the audacity to say no and Jezebel wanted revenge. She concocted a plan - a trap for Naboth. Vs. , "Jezebel his wife said, 'Is this how you act as king over Israel? Get up and eat! Cheer up. I’ll get you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite.' So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name, placed his seal on them, and sent them to the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city with him. In those letters she wrote: 'Proclaim a day of fasting and seat Naboth in a prominent place among the people. But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them testify that he has cursed both God and the king. Then take him out and stone him to death.'"
The orders were carried out, and Naboth was not only killed, but his reputation was ruined. He was said to be a blasphemer, and Ahab got not only the vineyard he always wanted, but also the integrity of Naboth was now ruined in the people’s minds. Such injustice all over a piece of land.
Jezebel thought that she had gotten away with murder, but God saw it all. One lesson we all need to learn is that a secret sin on earth is an open scandal in heaven. Also, injustice on earth is met with the judgment of God. Vs. 20, “Ahab said to Elijah, "So you have found me, my enemy!" Notice that the king of God’s people called God’s prophet his enemy. Vs. 21-24 “I have found you," he answered, "because you have sold yourself to do evil in the eyes of the LORD. ’I am going to bring disaster on you. I will consume your descendants and cut off from Ahab every last male in Israel--slave or free. I will make your house like that of Jeroboam son of Nebat and that of Baasha son of Ahijah, because you have provoked me to anger and have caused Israel to sin.’ "And also concerning Jezebel the LORD says: ’Dogs will devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.’ "Dogs will eat those belonging to Ahab who die in the city, and the birds of the air will feed on those who die in the country."
The judgment on Jezebel was fulfilled in 2 Kings 9, but something amazing happened with Ahab. When this cold, heartless man was confronted with the judgment of God, he actually humbled himself and, because he did this, God relented on His judgment.
God included, “Thou shalt not Covet” in the Ten commandments, because it is so dangerous. James 4:2 in the Living Bible says, “You want what you don’t have, so you kill to get it. You long for what others have, and can’t afford it, so you start a fight to take it away from them .”
Though we may have a bad past, but it doesn’t matter how rotten we have been, but what matters is who we want to be now. God is not a heartless judge who can’t wait to punish us, but rather He is a compassionate Father who stands eager to forgive.
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVVW5EakyEc
Praise the Lord for He is worthy of the praise from His people and creation. We are having summer-like weather here in New York. It is spectacular. We have lots of trees in the church and parsonage grounds. We can see and hear countless birds of diverse colors and shapes making a sweet sounds and music to the Lord God the maker of Heaven and earth. It looks like a bird sanctuary. Our Lord is beautiful beyond description. He makes all things beautiful in His time.
The Lord blessed us in His house yesterday. There are times we go through some awful experiences in this life but our Lord is always awesome in His place amongst His people.
Sunita flew back to Washington after her fruitful trip to Ethiopia. She called us, excited about the World Cup that is played for the first time in Africa. Sunita and Andy were invited to watch the game between USA and UK in one of the African Embassies in Washington. Laureen and I watched it at home. Laureen was shouting for team USA and I was for the UK.
One of the readings for yesterday was taken from 1 Kings 21. This is part of the message I shared yesterday. In this famous text we find that Ahab was like many of us in that he wanted something he couldn’t have. Vs. 1-2, “ Some time later there was an incident involving a vineyard belonging to Naboth the Jezreelite. The vineyard was in Jezreel, close to the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. Ahab said to Naboth, 'Let me have your vineyard to use for a vegetable garden, since it is close to my palace. In exchange I will give you a better vineyard or, if you prefer, I will pay you whatever it is worth.'"
It must have been a beautiful vineyard, and it was right next to the summer home of Ahab. The problem was is that it wasn’t his. Normally that would be really no problem at all, because Ahab was a powerful man, and Ahab always got what Ahab wanted. Ahab was used to saying the word, and people ran to answer his request. Imagine the horror on Ahab’s face when Naboth said, "No, you can’t have it!” In fact, in vs. 3, “But Naboth replied, 'The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my fathers.'"
Naboth’s actions were not prompted by monetary considerations, but by biblical principles. When God gave the land of Canaan to Israel, He divided it among the tribes of Israel. Given the nature of men, the land (like money) would have tended to accumulate into the hands of the few, leaving the rich to get richer, and the poor to get poorer. The law, as given in Deuteronomy 25:5-10 prevented the land from permanently changing hands, outside the family or tribe to which it was allotted. Because of these laws, Naboth knew that he could not sell or trade his land. It was not just that Naboth was being unreasonable; this was something he could not do, according to the law, and thus it was something he would not do, even if the king made him a deal that was tempting.
Let’s give Naboth a lot of credit here, not only in refusing a tempting offer, but remember also that this was an offer from a ruthless tyrannical dictator. Yet Naboth was not about to budge because he was a man driven by Principles. You see, no matter how tempting the offer was, Naboth had to refuse because God said so. Naboth had made up in his mind that he would be obedient to God’s law, and everything else would come 2nd.
Wayne Smith once told about a man who was applying for special insurance, and the insurance agent asked him, "How old is your mother?" He said, "She’s dead." "How old was she when she died?" "She was forty-one." "What did she die of?" "Tuberculosis." "How old is your father?" "He’s dead." "How old was he when he died?" "Forty-three." "What did he die of?" "Heart attack." The agent tore up the form and said, "You’re a terrible risk! There’s no way you can get this special insurance; your heredity is not good."
So the man went to another agent, and the agent asked the same questions: "How old is your father?" "He’s dead." "How old was he when he died?" "Ninety-four." "What did he die of?" "He fell off a horse, playing polo." The agent said, "How old is your mother?" "She’s dead." "How old was she when she died?" "Ninety-one." "What did she die of?” "Childbirth."
What wouldn’t we sacrifice just for something as small as a discount? But what if it was more? Would we still keep our integrity for let’s something like 10 million dollars?
In his book, When God Whispers Your Name, Max Lucado told the story of a hypothetical game show. In it, you are on stage, and the spotlight is on you. He writes, “It can be yours. It can be all yours. The choice is up to you. The only question you have to answer is, ‘What is your price?’” Applause rings again, the band plays, and you swallow hard. Behind you a second curtain opens, revealing a large placard. “What are you willing to give?” is written on the top. The host explains the rules. “All you have to do is agree to one condition and you will receive the money.” “Ten million dollars!” you whisper to yourself. Not one million or two, but ten million. No small sum. Nice nest egg. Ten million bucks would go a long way, right? Tuition paid off. Retirement guaranteed. Would open a few doors on a few cars or a new house (or several).
You could be quite the benefactor with such a sum. Help a few orphanages. Feed a few nations. Build some church buildings. Suddenly you understand: This is the opportunity of a lifetime. “Take your pick. Just choose one option and the money is yours.”
A deep voice from another microphone begins reading the list. “Put your children up for adoption.” “Become a prostitute for a week.” “Give up your American citizenship.” “Abandon your church.” “Abandon your family.” “Kill a stranger.” “Have a sex-change operation.” “Leave your spouse.” “Change your race.” “That’s the list,” the host proclaims. “Now make your choice.”
Now what would you pick?
The sad thing is that most people would pick something. In a national survey that asked the same question, many said what they would do. Seven percent of those who answered would murder for the money. Six percent would change their race. Four percent would change their sex. If money is the gauge of the heart, then this study revealed that money is at the heart of most Americans. In exchange for ten million dollars: 25 percent would abandon their family. 25 percent would abandon their church. 23 percent would become a prostitute for a week. 16 percent would give up their American citizenship. 16 percent would leave their spouse. 13 percent would put their children up for adoption. Even more revealing than what Americans would do for ten million dollars is that most would do something. Two-thirds of those polled would agree to at least one—some to several—of the options. The majority, in other words, would not leave the stage empty-handed. They would pay the price.
That’s a sad truth of today’s world. We would throw aside just about anything, all for some money. Yet not Naboth. Naboth could have been offered the world, yet he knew what God said, God said no. Therefore, no matter how pleasing the offer was, Naboth’s answer would be no, and that was his final answer.
Ahab couldn’t understand it because Ahab did not share Naboth's convictions regarding God’s law. Because he did not share those convictions, the he could not understand why Naboth wouldn’t take him up on his offer.
In this world, many us odd if we don’t follow their value system. They think it strange that to family above promotion. They think it odd that any would say no to sinful pleasures because of his or her faith. They cannot understand anyone who would value integrity over profit.
Naboth had integrity, but Ahab persisted in his pursuit. He was going to get what he wanted one way or another. So, after Naboth said no, Ahab did what almost every spoiled person does when they don’t get there way…he pouted. Vs. 4 ,“So Ahab went home, sullen and angry because Naboth the Jezreelite had said, "I will not give you the inheritance of my fathers." He lay on his bed sulking and refused to eat.”
Even though Ahab had almost the entire Kingdom at his disposal, he was throwing a fit because he didn’t have that one vineyard. Matthew Henry wrote that discontentment is a sin that is its own punishment.” If you are discontent you are never satisfied, and you are never happy.
As Ahab pouted, his wife, the evil Jezebel, entered. Jezebel reminded Ahab that he was the king, and as a king he was entitled to get whatever he wanted. Jezebel insisted that Ahab should act like a king and stand up for himself. This woman was evil to the core. No longer was the problem the mere desire for a vineyard; Naboth insulted her husband by having the audacity to say no and Jezebel wanted revenge. She concocted a plan - a trap for Naboth. Vs. , "Jezebel his wife said, 'Is this how you act as king over Israel? Get up and eat! Cheer up. I’ll get you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite.' So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name, placed his seal on them, and sent them to the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city with him. In those letters she wrote: 'Proclaim a day of fasting and seat Naboth in a prominent place among the people. But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them testify that he has cursed both God and the king. Then take him out and stone him to death.'"
The orders were carried out, and Naboth was not only killed, but his reputation was ruined. He was said to be a blasphemer, and Ahab got not only the vineyard he always wanted, but also the integrity of Naboth was now ruined in the people’s minds. Such injustice all over a piece of land.
Jezebel thought that she had gotten away with murder, but God saw it all. One lesson we all need to learn is that a secret sin on earth is an open scandal in heaven. Also, injustice on earth is met with the judgment of God. Vs. 20, “Ahab said to Elijah, "So you have found me, my enemy!" Notice that the king of God’s people called God’s prophet his enemy. Vs. 21-24 “I have found you," he answered, "because you have sold yourself to do evil in the eyes of the LORD. ’I am going to bring disaster on you. I will consume your descendants and cut off from Ahab every last male in Israel--slave or free. I will make your house like that of Jeroboam son of Nebat and that of Baasha son of Ahijah, because you have provoked me to anger and have caused Israel to sin.’ "And also concerning Jezebel the LORD says: ’Dogs will devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.’ "Dogs will eat those belonging to Ahab who die in the city, and the birds of the air will feed on those who die in the country."
The judgment on Jezebel was fulfilled in 2 Kings 9, but something amazing happened with Ahab. When this cold, heartless man was confronted with the judgment of God, he actually humbled himself and, because he did this, God relented on His judgment.
God included, “Thou shalt not Covet” in the Ten commandments, because it is so dangerous. James 4:2 in the Living Bible says, “You want what you don’t have, so you kill to get it. You long for what others have, and can’t afford it, so you start a fight to take it away from them .”
Though we may have a bad past, but it doesn’t matter how rotten we have been, but what matters is who we want to be now. God is not a heartless judge who can’t wait to punish us, but rather He is a compassionate Father who stands eager to forgive.
In Christ,
Brown
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVVW5EakyEc
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