Bible Study - God's Story - GOD Promises the Messiah - Isaiah 53 - July 28, 2013

Bible Study – God’s Story – GOD Promises the Messiah – July 28, 2013

This is lesson nine in our series entitled “GOD’S Story.”

Our scripture is Isaiah 53:2-12.

We have the opportunity to see the complete plan GOD had for redeeming the people of earth from sin and its consequence, eternal death. We have mentioned the “line of promise” since we began our study in Genesis. In our lesson today, GOD will reveal more about the promised Messiah through HIS prophet Isaiah. The promised Messiah is revealed as the “suffering servant.”

The Book of Isaiah is the most quoted book of the Old Testament in the New Testament.

The ministry of the Prophet Isaiah spanned 40 years from 740 B.C. to 700 B.C. The Northern Kingdom fell to the Assyrians in 721 B.C. GOD’S message for a Messiah was being presented before the Northern Kingdom fell. It was a message of hope for GOD’S ultimate redemptive plan for mankind, which would come through faith in the Messiah. It would still be 700 years before JESUS would be born as a human, live as a human and begin HIS ministry on earth, as 100% human, yet 100% GOD for the redemption of all who accept HIM by faith.

Most people thought The Messiah would come as an earthly king to physically deliver the Israelites from their enemies. Even the disciples of JESUS believed this version. It took the resurrection, ascension and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit before full understanding came to HIS disciples and those who placed their faith in CHRIST. This is true today.

We try to figure out Christianity before we become a Christian. We may try to live as a Christian to test the water and we fail. We may even become discouraged. Then we decide to take that step of faith and instantly darkness is dispelled and the light of truth shines brightly.

As one who tried to figure it out, we cannot. It requires a step of faith. LORD, here I am, as I am, take me as I am and make me into the Christian You want me to be. That comes close to the prayer I prayed after struggling for years to try to figure out Christianity. When I stopped struggling and placed my life into HIS hands only then did I understand and comprehend what it means to be a born-again Christian.

It has been an exciting journey but not without struggles along the way. But GOD is patient, loving and kind. HIS desire is for us to know HIM and the fullness of HIS presence in our lives. The only way to really get to know HIM is through an intimate, loving relationship with HIM. HE needs to be our best friend as we walk together through life. We must be honest with HIM because HE already knows our heart.

The Prophet Isaiah had a special calling from GOD to reveal HIS ultimate plan for the redemption of mankind. Let’s explore!

Let’s read Isaiah 6:1-13:

Isaiah’s Call and Mission

1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, and His robe filled the temple. 2 Seraphim were standing above Him; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one called to another: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of • Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth. 4 The foundations of the doorways shook at the sound of their voices, and the temple was filled with smoke. 5 Then I said: Woe is me for I am ruined because I am a man of • unclean lips and live among a people of unclean lips, and because my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts. 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, and in his hand was a glowing coal that he had taken from the altar with tongs. 7 He touched my mouth with it and said: Now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed and your sin is atoned for. 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: Who should I send? Who will go for Us? I said: Here I am. Send me. 9 And He replied: Go! Say to these people: Keep listening, but do not understand; keep looking, but do not perceive. 10 Dull the minds of these people; deafen their ears and blind their eyes; otherwise they might see with their eyes and hear with their ears, understand with their minds, turn back, and be healed. 11 Then I said, “Until when, Lord?” And He replied: Until cities lie in ruins without inhabitants, houses are without people, the land is ruined and desolate, 12 and the Lord drives the people far away, leaving great emptiness in the land. 13 Though a tenth will remain in the land, it will be burned again. Like the terebinth or the oak that leaves a stump when felled, the holy • seed is the stump.

The prophet Isaiah had a unique experience. GOD called Isaiah in a very graphic way. I think GOD wanted Isaiah to know that what was being revealed to him was truth and vital to those then and throughout the ages. This is the way GOD called Isaiah. It does not mean that GOD calls all HIS servants in the same way. GOD calls those who are to serve HIM anyway HE chooses.

GOD prepared Isaiah for revealing the plan and purpose of the Messiah by touching or anointing his lips, removing his wickedness and atoning for his sin. Before HE revealed the prophesy, HE purified Isaiah. The shackles of sin had to be removed from the mind and heart of Isaiah before HE could reveal the message of truth regarding the Messiah. GOD cleansed him to serve. CHRIST shed blood cleanses every Christian for service, which the Apostle Paul revealed in 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

The shed blood of JESUS atones for the sins of all who place their faith in HIM, so they might be righteous before GOD and can come into HIS very presence. Our faith in CHRIST prepares us for obedient service to our LORD, as the Holy Spirit leads us.

This scripture focuses on the LORD’S servant, who is CHRIST. This was written over 700 years before CHRIST was born. GOD revealed that some bad things were going to happen to Israel before the Messiah would come.

A quick overview of our scripture regarding the Messiah reveals:

-         HE was ignored and rejected – verses 1-3.

-         HE bore our grief and carried our sins – verses 4-6.  

-         HE gave HIS life as a sacrifice for others – verses 7-9.

-         Because of HIS great sacrifice, GOD will exalt HIM – verses 10-12.

Let’s explore!

Let’s read Isaiah 53:1-3:

1 Who has believed what we have heard? And who has the arm of the Lord been revealed to? 2 He grew up before Him like a young plant and like a root out of dry ground. He didn’t have an impressive form or majesty that we should look at Him, no appearance that we should desire Him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of suffering who knew what sickness was. He was like someone people turned away from; He was despised, and we didn’t value Him.

GOD’S revelation of the coming Messiah is astounding. GOD is reaching down to mankind to redeem all who will place their faith in the Messiah after HE completes HIS mission. This revelation, redemption and salvation would come through the lineage of Judah.

GOD revealed the characteristics and attributes of the coming Messiah. HE will be like an unassuming plant growing in a desert. When people look at this lonely plant, they will conclude that the root will never survive. GOD was clear that the Messiah would grow as a human and GOD would be pleased. The Messiah would have a free will to choose but HE would stay focused upon GOD’S mission and plan. As the Messiah grew, HE would not appeal to the people as a rock star or a superhero by world standards. Instead, HE would be a very ordinary, unassuming person because GOD’S desire was for all to come to HIM in faith, recognizing and acknowledging their need for salvation from sin and eternal death. The wisdom of GOD to me is astounding.

The mission of the Messiah was all about redemption, the heart, sacrifice and not hype. GOD looks upon the heart, which is expressed in 1 Samuel 16:7:

7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him. Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.”

The Messiah knew that the consequences of sin would mean eternal doom for those without a Savior and HE voluntarily did something about it. HE knew that sin was the sickness of the heart and that HE was the only cure. HE knew the attraction to HIM had to come from the heart and the need for salvation and not HIS physical appeal. So HE was despised, rejected and society did not value HIM.

This is something we have to be careful about today. Christians can get caught up in the hype of worship, preacher worship and fail to truly worship our living Savior. It is CHRIST in us that make us a Christian and not some emotional feeling that will fade.

I am reminded of a person many years ago who had a beautiful voice and sang at a certain meeting I attended. She did all the spiritual things of praising the LORD and I thought to myself, “Now, this lady has a wonderful relationship with our LORD.” A few months later, our paths crossed and I told her about the time I heard her at this certain meeting and what a wonderful voice she had. We chatted and she asked if she could talk with me. I said, of course. She revealed that she was not sure she was a Christian. Sure she could do the things Christian do and say but she was not sure she was saved. We can get caught up in the hype and miss the blessing. We went through the plan of salvation and the assurance of salvation. This is not to criticize her or pin a rose on me. I rejoice that she had the boldness to make sure of her salvation.    

Let’s read Isaiah 53:4-9:

4 Yet He Himself bore our sicknesses, and He carried our pains; but we in turn regarded Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. 5 But He was pierced because of our transgressions, crushed because of our iniquities; punishment for our peace was on Him, and we are healed by His wounds. 6 We all went astray like sheep; we all have turned to our own way; and the Lord has punished Him for the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth. Like a lamb led to the slaughter and like a sheep silent before her shearers, He did not open His mouth. 8 He was taken away because of oppression and judgment; and who considered His fate? For He was cut off from the land of the living; He was struck because of my people’s rebellion. 9 They made His grave with the wicked and with a rich man at His death, although He had done no violence and had not spoken deceitfully.

Notice the number of times “our” appears in this scripture. The suffering servant, the Messiah, was sinless. HE did not have to suffer for HIS sins. HE suffered for our sins. The Messiah bore our sickness or sin and our pain from the consequence of sin.

According to the worlds’ standards the Messiah was a loser. HE suffered pain, stricken, struck down, afflicted, pierced, crushed, punished and wounded. This not a pretty picture but HE did it because of HIS Love for those who will accept HIM as their Savior. HE suffered where we should have suffered because of our sins toward GOD and our fellow man.

HE did this willingly because from HIS vantage point HE knew the end result was eternal punishment unless mankind had a Savior and redeemer.

In that period of time the rich were looked upon as evil. When we read the prophetic revelation regarding verse 9, we know that JESUS was crucified between two criminals and a rich man, Joseph of Arimathea provided the tomb for JESUS.

CHRIST took our sin upon Himself so that HIS righteousness could be placed upon all who place their faith in HIM. Salvation is a free gift but as with any gift offered, we have to reach out and receive it. Have you received CHRIST as your Savior? If not, why not ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and to come into your heart? Eternity is but a heartbeat away. It is not to frighten you but it is a fact.

Let’s read Isaiah 53: 10-12:

10 Yet the Lord was pleased to crush Him severely. When You make Him a • restitution offering, He will see His • seed, He will prolong His days, and by His hand, the Lord’s pleasure will be accomplished. 11 He will see it out of His anguish, and He will be satisfied with His knowledge. My righteous Servant will justify many, and He will carry their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will give Him the many as a portion, and He will receive the mighty as spoil, because He submitted Himself to death, and was counted among the rebels; yet He bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels.

The Messiah was crushed because of our sin and all have sinned. GOD was not pleased to crush HIM but HE was pleased with HIS obedience to be crushed to pay, in full, the debt for sin. The basic sin of mankind is turning from GOD and following their desires and the will of the flesh.

GOD speaks to every heart to get him/her to turn to HIM. The unpardonable sin happens when a person resists the wooing of GOD so much that he/she hardens his/her heart to block any attempt for GOD to get his/her attention. Sin is missing the mark of perfection according to GOD’S standard. The term “sin” refers to an archer who aims at a target and misses. Every person misses that mark of perfection and righteousness. That is why every person needs CHRIST as his/her Savior. Every person gets to heaven on the credentials of CHRIST through faith in HIM and HIS shed blood. The Bible is clear that without the shedding of blood there is no remission for sins. No human can be good enough to earn his/her way to heaven.

GOD required the sacrifice to be perfect and CHRIST was the sinless Lamb Who gave Himself, freely, to pay in full the debt for sin. Every person has a decision to make - either to accept CHRIST or reject HIM as his/her Savior.

Verse 10 reveals the promise of the resurrection of the Messiah. The disciples of JESUS did not comprehend HIS resurrection because they were looking for a political messiah, as did the Jews. The Jews wanted deliverance from Roman rule, which would have been for a season. Salvation is eternal. Once a person receives CHRIST as his/her Savior, he/she is born into the family of GOD and will never be unborn.

Once the Messiah gave HIS life to atone for sin, as a restitution offering, HE will see HIS seed or offspring. JESUS was the first fruit of those to be physically resurrected from physical death as proof that HE paid the price for sin. HIS resurrection was proof that HE conquered sin and death with the promise of a bodily resurrection for all who place their faith in HIM. HE received HIS glorified body, which is eternal and so will those who place their faith in HIM.

So why don’t Christians receive their glorified bodies the instant they receive CHRIST as their Savior? Why would a person come to CHRIST? It would be for the wrong motive – I want one of these forever bodies, rather than, I want forgiveness for my sins. I want my relationship with GOD to be restored as HE originally intended before sin robbed me of the relationship.

We must see our need for salvation and then the promises of GOD and the spoils of victory over sin and death become ours to enjoy by faith, as assured by the indwelling Holy Spirit. CHRIST defeated Satan, his forces and the rulers of the world. HIS victory over sin and death is imputed to all who place their faith in HIM. It is a mystery.

Some things GOD kept hidden from the world rulers as we read in 1 Corinthians 2:6-8: Spiritual Wisdom

6 However, we do speak a wisdom among the mature, but not a wisdom of this age, or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7 On the contrary, we speak God’s hidden wisdom in a • mystery, a wisdom God predestined before the ages for our glory. 8 None of the rulers of this age knew this wisdom, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

After HIS resurrection over 500 people physically saw JESUS before HE ascended into heaven to take HIS seat at the right hand of The Father. Those who place their faith in HIM are HIS seed or offspring and receive eternal life through the miracle of the rebirth in the Spirit.  

The Messiah intercedes for all of HIS offspring. Christians are at war. It is a Spiritual war. Satan is the great accuser and stands ready to accuse every Christian the instant he/she sins.

CHRIST stands in the presence of GOD interceding for all Christians because their sins are covered, removed and blotted out by HIS shed blood. Christians have a great heritage through their LORD and Savior JESUS CHRIST and their loving FATHER. The victory of CHRIST is for all who will place their faith in HIM. Enjoy the spoils of the greatest Spiritual battle ever to be fought. CHRIST won the victory and in CHRIST so did all who place their faith in HIM because HE was faithful unto death.

Let’s read Second Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Our faith in CHRIST results in salvation from the consequence of sin, which is eternal death. GOD has deemed that the righteousness of CHRIST is imputed to all who place their faith in HIM. CHRIST freely gave HIS life so that all who place their faith in HIM will have life everlasting because of the miracle of rebirth. If you have never asked CHRIST to be your Savior, now is the moment. Blessings!!!  

Bible Study - God's Story - GOD Restores HIS People - Ezra 1, Nehemiah 8, Jeremiah 29 - July 21, 2013

Bible Study – God’s Story – GOD Restores HIS People – July 21, 2013

This is lesson eight in our series entitled “GOD’S Story.”

Our scripture is Ezra 1:1-5; Nehemiah 8:1-6; Jeremiah 29:10-14.

Our last lesson focused on GOD’S discipline. This lesson focuses on GOD’S restoration. GOD is all about restoration. Often, HE has to get our attention before HE can restore. We must keep in mind that HE made us and knows us intimately. HE watched over us as we were being knitted together in our mothers’ wombs. HE knows our DNA and HE knows our hearts. HE has plans for each one of us but each of us has the freedom to choose how we live our lives. HIS desire is for us to choose to live our lives in obedience to HIM through our relationship with CHRIST.

It is interesting to me to look back at the history of Babylon. About 1270 B.C., the Assyrians conquered Babylonia. Assyria was the dominate world power for 700 years. Babylonia was a second rate power but in 626 B.C. Babylonia succeeded in getting out from under Assyrian rule. It took the Babylonian Empire about 44 years to reach their peak as an ancient world power, which would be 582 B.C.

Based upon our last study, we know that the Northern Kingdom was defeated by the Assyrians in 721 B.C. This resulted in the Israelites who lived in the Northern Kingdom either being brutally killed or exiled to other areas in Assyria. Those who were exiled intermarried and did not try to return to Israel to rebuild it. This resulted in the Israelites from the Northern Kingdom Jews losing their identity as a race.

Now, compare that result to what happened to Judah, the Southern Kingdom, when the Babylonians defeated them. GOD had prepared Babylon to conquer the Southern Kingdom, which they did in 586 B.C. History records three deportations of the Jews to Babylon:

-         606 B.C. – Daniel and other youth.

-         597 B.C. – Ezekiel along with King Jehoiachin and 10,000 others.

-         586 B.C. – King Zedekiah and others.

Babylon rose to a world power at just the right time. Assyria declined in its power. We learned about GOD’S plan for Babylon in our study of Habakkuk. The Jews in Judah had an opportunity to repent but they did not. GOD had a plan for Judah because the “the line of promise” was coming through them. GOD knew the hearts of the exiled remnant. They did not intermarry and maintained a pure bloodline. The Prophet Ezekiel was taken to Babylon where he ministered to the exiled Jews. There were false prophets in Babylon telling the exiles that GOD was going to deliver them sooner than what GOD was revealing to Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

The Prophet Jeremiah ministered to the Jews in Judah during that period and wrote to the Jews in Babylon to give them hope in troubling times. Contrary to the fate of the Jews carried off by the Assyrians, the exiled Jews from Judah had the desire to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city, the temple and to build their relationship with GOD. GOD orchestrated the political climate and leaders to produce HIS desired result to restore HIS chosen people back to Judah.

We must keep in mind that GOD makes history according to HIS plan and purpose. HIS plan and purpose was for HIS only Son, JESUS, to come to earth through “the line of promise” and HE would come through the lineage of Judah. JESUS would be born and live as a human. HE would give HIS life to pay, in full, the debt for sin and conquer eternal death for all who would place their faith in HIM.

We have the opportunity to see the hand of GOD working to accomplish HIS plan and purpose which began when Babylon rose to power in 626 B.C. The Assyrians were in a state of decline because of their mighty warriors being killed when they fought battles. This constant state of war eventually left Assyria with weaklings to defend themselves and resulted in their defeat. When Nineveh, the capitol of Assyria, fell in 612 B.C., Assyrian rule, as a world power, ended. With Assyria out of the picture, Babylon swept in to defeat Judah. Judah had risen to a power but it was not sufficient to hold up against the Babylonians. GOD was allowing the Babylonians to discipline HIS chosen people.

But notice that GOD had groomed the events to take care of HIS chosen and accomplish HIS plan and purpose. The Babylonians allowed the Jews to maintain their identity as a race while in exile.

During their exile, the Jews were facing false prophets in Babylon. These false prophets were telling the Jews that GOD would rescue them shortly. Jeremiah wrote to the Jews in Babylon and told them what the LORD GOD had to say about those false prophets. False hope discourages. GOD wanted HIS chosen to know the truth. It would be 70 years before they would be free to return to Judah and in the mean time they should make the best of their situation. The Prophets Ezekiel and Jeremiah spoke truth as revealed by GOD.   

Let’s explore!

Let’s read Jeremiah 29:8-9:

8 For this is what the Lord of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “Don’t let your prophets who are among you and your diviners deceive you, and don’t listen to the dreams you elicit from them, 9 for they are prophesying falsely to you in My name. I have not sent them.” This is the Lord’s declaration.

The Prophet Jeremiah revealed GOD’S Word. There were false prophets telling the exiles that GOD would deliver them soon. GOD wanted HIS chosen to know that they were going to be in exile for an extended period of time. HE wanted them to plan accordingly by building houses, have children and function as a normal family and community. Why? Jeremiah tells them in our next scripture.

Let’s read Jeremiah 29:10-14: (The Promise of GOD)

10 For this is what the Lord says: “When 70 years for Babylon are complete, I will attend to you and will confirm My promise concerning you to restore you to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the Lord’s declaration —“plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 You will call to Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you”—this is the Lord’s declaration—“and I will restore your fortunes and gather you from all the nations and places where I banished you”—this is the Lord’s declaration. “I will restore you to the place I deported you from.”

The Prophet Jeremiah spoke GOD’S word of warning to the Israelites before Babylon captured them and exiled them to Babylon. This gave him credibility with his fellow countrymen when it happened.

Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet. The Israelites refused to heed the message of GOD and repent. His ministry was from 627 B.C. to 586 B.C.

The message from GOD to the Jews was that their time in Babylon would not be short. They should settle down and establish a family life and community in Babylon because they were going to be there for 70 years. GOD wanted to give them the right kind of hope and to let them know that HE was in control and HE would take care of them in exile. After all, HE had a plan for them.

GOD had plans for them and would watch over them. HE made it clear that HE had not abandoned them. HIS desire was for them to build an active relationship with HIM. HE made them a promise. If they returned to HIM, HE would restore them Spiritually, materially and return them to Jerusalem. They had to do their part and HE would do HIS part because HE had a plan for them.

In trying to calculate the 70 years, Bible scholars offer several possibilities:

-         Some say it refers to the time period from 606 to 536 B.C., which is 70 years. This time span is based upon the first deportation to Babylon to the first arrival back to Jerusalem.

-         Another time span is from 586 B.C. the recorded date for the fall of Judah and deportation of the Jews and the destruction of the temple, to the rebuilding of the temple in 516 B.C.

-         Another concept is that 70 years refers to a lifetime.

-         GOD wanted them to know they would be in Babylon for an extended period, so they should settle in.

GOD revealed to them, that HE had NOT abandoned them but HE had disciplined them. HE made it clear that when they chose to seek HIM, they would find HIM. The same is true today. When we seek HIM, we will find HIM through faith in CHRIST. GOD is love and HE cares for HIS children. Never, ever forget that.

So the Jews are in exile in Babylonia. The exiled Jews cannot muster up an army strong enough to overpower the Babylonians but GOD can. Let’s see GOD at work to free HIS chosen.

Let’s read Ezra 1:1-5: (The Return of GOD’S People)

The Decree of Cyrus

1 In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, the word of the Lord spoken through Jeremiah was fulfilled. The Lord put it into the mind of King Cyrus to issue a proclamation throughout his entire kingdom and to put it in writing: 2 This is what King Cyrus of Persia says: “The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and has appointed me to build Him a house at Jerusalem in Judah. 3 Whoever is among His people, may his God be with him, and may he go to Jerusalem in Judah and build the house of the Lord, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem. 4 Let every survivor, wherever he lives, be assisted by the men of that region with silver, gold, goods, and livestock, along with a freewill offering for the house of God in Jerusalem.” Return from Exile 5 So the family leaders of Judah and Benjamin, along with the priests and Levites —everyone God had motivated —prepared to go up and rebuild the Lord ’s house in Jerusalem.

The scribe Ezra taught Jewish law to the exiles. Ezra was not a prophet but he knew the reason for the fall of his countrymen was that they had abandoned the scriptures, which led to unrepentant sin.

GOD had a dynamic duo, Nehemiah and Ezra. Nehemiah had engineering, organizational and statesman skills. GOD called him to rebuild the walls, gates and to become governor. Ezra knew the scriptures and GOD called him to teach the Jews about the scriptures and encourage them to study GOD’S Word and build a relationship with GOD.

The Assyrians had a philosophy of blending their captives into the landscape of Assyria. Dispersing captives was a way to keep them from uniting and rising to be a threat to them. Thus, the captives of the Northern Kingdom never returned to try to rebuild Israel, whereas, the Babylonian captives were allowed to stay together as families and function. GOD gave the Jews in Babylonian 70 years to multiply and have an opportunity to refocus on GOD and HIS Word. In the meantime, GOD raised up the Persians, who defeated the Babylonians. King Cyrus of Persia had a different mind-set regarding those who had been relocated from their native land.

It is exciting to see the hand of GOD at work in the lives of HIS chosen. HE still works that way today. Christians are to stay focused upon HIM and HIS Word. Compromise will lead Christians away from GOD and we see the result in the scriptures we have studied so far, it leads to sin.

When King Cyrus issued the decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem in 538 B.C. there were three returns to Jerusalem:

-         536 B.C. – Zerubbabel, Joshua the Priest and 50,000 of the exiles.

-         458 B.C. – Ezra and 1,800 of the exiles.

-         445 B.C. – Nehemiah and an unknown number of the exiles.

Ezra led a contingent back to Jerusalem 80 years later in 458 B.C. The Prophet Jeremiah was the messenger of GOD in the years leading up to the downfall of Jerusalem. Ezra and Nehemiah were called by GOD to minister during the time of restoration.

GOD still calls HIS chosen to obediently serve HIM. When HE calls we have a choice to accept or reject it.

At one time, the books of Ezra and Nehemiah were one book. There is a dispute over who came to Jerusalem first, Ezra or Nehemiah. The important matter is that both men were called by GOD to serve an important purpose in restoring the Jews back to Jerusalem and Judah. The walls needed to be restored and the gates rebuilt for protection as the physical structures were rebuilt. But equally important was for Jews to rebuild their relationship with GOD and that was Ezra’s role, which leads into our next scripture.

Let’s read Nehemiah 8:1-6: (The Response of GOD’S People)

1 all the people gathered together at the square in front of the Water Gate. They asked Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had given Israel. 2 On the first day of the seventh month, Ezra the priest brought the law before the assembly of men, women, and all who could listen with understanding. 3 While he was facing the square in front of the Water Gate, he read out of it from daybreak until noon before the men, the women, and those who could understand. All the people listened attentively to the book of the law. 4 Ezra the scribe stood on a high wooden platform made for this purpose. Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah stood beside him on his right; to his left were Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hash-baddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam. 5 Ezra opened the book in full view of all the people, since he was elevated above everyone. As he opened it, all the people stood up. 6 Ezra praised the Lord, the great God, and with their hands uplifted all the people said, “ • Amen, Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.

Notice, it was the people who gathered at a certain water gate and asked Ezra, the scribe, to bring the book of the Law of Moses.

It is interesting that GOD had revealed, through the Prophet Amos, that a new kind of famine would come to the land before the fall of the Northern Kingdom. Let’s read Amos 8:11:

11 Hear this! The days are coming— this is the declaration of the Lord God — when I will send a famine through the land: not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.

When we neglect GOD’S Word we starve Spiritually. Wake up America, is a famine coming our way? We either take a stand or we will lose our freedom to read in public, study and apply GOD’S Word. It happened to Israel and Judah and it can happen to us.

The assembly of people was of one accord. They were hungry and eager to hear the Word of GOD. They did not have the scripture in every house. They wanted their children, of suitable age, to not only hear the Word of GOD but to understand it. They were hungry. We can go to church and Bible studies to check off the fact that we have attended but the most important thing is for us to comprehend, understand and apply what we are hearing and studying.  

The first day of the seventh month likely corresponded to our September-October time period. It could have been a festive occasion. They assembled outside. There was a type of dais in the square and Ezra faced the square in front of the water gate. He stood high on a wooden platform so all the people could hear him as he read the scripture.

He was flanked on each side by Levites. It is interesting counting Ezra and to his right there were 6 named Levites for a total of 7, including him and to his left, not counting Ezra, were 7 named Levites. That is all I know about these Levites. The number seven, to the Jews, represents a complete number. This was a serious, holy and life changing occasion and the people needed to be complete in their worship of the true GOD of Israel. It, to me, meant they were serious about their relationship with GOD.

Bible scholars have speculated that the people had been speaking Aramaic and the scripture had been written in Hebrew. The objective was for the people and their families to understand and comprehend what was read. Bible scholars believe that the Levites standing with Ezra went out into the congregation to help those who needed help translating what was being read in Hebrew so they could understand.  

The people listened attentively and were engaged in the worship of GOD, as recorded by their actions. They confirmed GOD’S Word and their understanding of what they were hearing by voicing a hardy AMEN, AMEN (So be it).

When a person is hungry for GOD’S Word he/she cannot get enough. Ezra read for six hours from daybreak to noon. Yet, we have to get a sermon or lesson done in 30-45 minutes. Are we hungry for GOD’S Word?

The people wanted Ezra to read the Law of Moses. The Law of Moses contained the delivery of the Israelites from Egypt and GOD manifesting Himself to them. They agreed to be HIS chosen people and agreed to the covenant HE made with their forefathers.

When we consider the delivery of the Israelites from Egypt, it is a graphic example of our delivery or salvation from sin and death through our faith in CHRIST. The Israelites needed to be reminded of what GOD had done for their forefathers. They needed to be reminded that GOD is real and even they could look back over their history and see the hand of GOD working for their good. They needed to renew their relationship with GOD.  Even today, when we, as Christians, have been out of fellowship with GOD, we need to go back to our salvation experience and remember how HE has delivered us and guided us along the journey of our lives. GOD never moves from us or abandons HIS children. Our part is to confess our sins, repent and come back to HIM. HIS part is to forgive, cleanse and restore.

Have you received CHRIST as your Savior? If not, ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and to come into your heart. Blessings!!!

 

 

 

Bible Study - God's Story - God Disciplines HIS People - 2 Kings 17 - July 14, 2013

Bible Study – God’s Story - GOD Disciplines HIS People – July 14, 2013

This is lesson seven in our series entitled “GOD’S Story.”

Our scripture is 2 Kings 17:7-15, 18-20.

GOD is love and HE loves HIS children but as any loving father, HE disciplines HIS children. HE does not discipline for discipline’s sake but HE disciplines to correct, keep them out of deeper trouble and bring HIS chosen back to HIM. HIS desire is for them to stay focused upon HIM because HE chose them to be HIS chosen people and they accepted. GOD confirmed that relationship making a covenant with them. HE has a plan for HIS chosen and HE cares for them. Humans think they make and are in charge of history but GOD is in charge of history.

If you are interested, look back at our Bible Study – Minor Prophets – Habakkuk: A Message of Faith – January 13, 2012, where GOD makes it clear that HE is in charge of history.

GOD warned HIS chosen to repent and change their ways or else they would end up in trouble as a people and a nation. GOD made it clear that HE would allow the ungodly to capture them and carry them off into exile if they did not repent of their sins. The Israelites did not change and as GOD warned them, through the prophets, HE allowed the Assyrians to defeat the Northern Kingdom and years later for the Babylonians to defeat the Southern Kingdom.

The difference was that when the Northern Kingdom was defeated by the Assyrians, they also destroyed many of the Jews and relocated many into other regions of Assyria. The surviving Jews married with non-Jews, which resulted in them losing the pure Jewish bloodline.

Years later, the Babylonians conquered the Southern Kingdom. The captured Jews were sent into exile. However, they did not inner marry, thus maintaining the bloodline and the race. After years in exile the Jews began to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the temple.

Let’s go back a few years to GOD continuing “the line of promise.” The “line of promise” came through Jacob. GOD established the nation of Israel through Jacob’s ancestry.

GOD changed Jacob’s name to Israel when Jacob wrestled with GOD as recorded in Genesis 32:28-30:

28 “Your name will no longer be Jacob,” He said. “It will be Israel because you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed.” 29 Then Jacob asked Him, “Please tell me Your name.” But He answered, “Why do you ask My name?” And He blessed him there. 30 Jacob then named the place Peniel, “For I have seen God face to face,” he said, “and I have been delivered.”

Jacob’s descendants, now called Israel, were called the children of Israel. When his descendants grew into a kingdom, it was called the kingdom of Israel, which King David and Solomon ruled. The Kingdom of Israel contained all 12 tribes of the Israelites. At the death of King David, Solomon became king of Israel but when King Solomon died, ten of the tribes separated and became the Northern Kingdom. The Northern Kingdom retained the name Israel.

The remaining two tribes Judah and Benjamin formed the Southern Kingdom. The Southern Kingdom is referred to as Judah.

Both kingdoms were defeated by hostile kingdoms. Israel was defeated by the Assyrians in 721 B.C. and Judah was defeated by the Babylonians in 586 B. C.  

Let’s read 2 Kings 17:1-6: (Background, which leads into our focus scripture and deals with the downfall of the Northern Kingdom.)

Israel’s King Hoshea (hoh SHEE uh)

1 In the twelfth year of Judah’s King Ahaz, Hoshea son of Elah (EE la) became king over Israel in Samaria and reigned nine years. 2 He did what was evil in the Lord’s sight, but not like the kings of Israel who preceded him. 3 Shalmaneser (SHAL muh NEE zurh) king of Assyria attacked him, and Hoshea became his vassal and paid him tribute money. 4 But the king of Assyria discovered Hoshea’s conspiracy. He had sent envoys to So king of Egypt and had not paid tribute money to the king of Assyria as in previous years. Therefore the king of Assyria arrested him and put him in prison. 5 Then the king of Assyria invaded the whole land, marched up to Samaria, and besieged it for three years.

The Fall of Samaria

6 In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria. He deported the Israelites to Assyria and settled them in Halah (HAY luh) and by the Habor (HAY bohr), Gozan’s (GOE zan) river, and in the cities of the Medes.

First and Second Kings along with the books of Joshua through Esther are books of history. They were written looking back over 400 years of history in Israel. This provides an opportunity for us to examine Israel’s history from a theological viewpoint. Verse 6 describes the fall of the northern kingdom. Verse 7, in our next scripture reveals why it happened.

In essence, we have the opportunity to view the working of GOD. We see HIS love, grace, mercy, pleading and patience. Then, we get to see that HE does what HE says. GOD keeps HIS word.

We have the opportunity to see GOD deal physically with HIS chosen as a nation and a people to bring them back into fellowship with HIM. HE also deals with Christians individually and collectively to bring about the best for them and where they live. America pay attention while it is still time. Obedient Christians are the most powerful force in a country.

Let’s read 2 King 17:7-11:

Why Israel Fell

7 This disaster happened because the people of Israel had sinned against the Lord their God who had brought them out of the land of Egypt from the power of Pharaoh King of Egypt and because they had worshiped other gods. 8 They had lived according to the customs of the nations that the Lord had dispossessed before the Israelites and the customs the kings of Israel had introduced. 9 The Israelites secretly did what was not right against the Lord their God. They built •high places in all their towns from watchtower to fortified city. 10 They set up for themselves sacred pillars and •Asherah (ash EH rah) poles on every high hill and under every green tree. 11 They burned incense on all the high places just like those nations that the Lord had driven out before them. They did evil things, provoking the Lord.

The One true GOD, Yahweh, had revealed Himself to the Israelites when HE delivered them from Egyptian bondage and slavery. GOD heard their cry for deliverance. HE delivered them, led them to Mount Sinai and revealed Himself to them in very graphic ways. GOD gave them the opportunity to become HIS chosen. They had agreed and GOD established a covenant, which HE presented to them and they agreed to it. The Israelites continued to follow and worship GOD. GOD guided them to the Promised Land, where they thrived. As time passed, they compromised their relationship with GOD. They had abandoned the One true GOD to worship various gods that were nothing but wood, stone and some images humans had created.

The Israelites knew their One true GOD but refused to worship HIM because these false gods offered them things they wanted. Instead of worshipping GOD, they worshipped Asherah (uh SHEE ruh), the female goddess who the Phoenicians and the Canaanites worshipped and her supposedly offspring, Baal.

According to the beliefs of those who worshipped Asherah, she was the wife of El and the mother of 70 gods. Baal was one of her more popular offspring. The Israelites built sacred places in nature to honor of Asherah and to pay homage to this false goddess. Basically, they were worshippers of nature.

Such worship was a clear violation of the first and second commandment GOD gave to the Israelites. GOD is jealous, in a good way, and does not share. Sin blocks our relationship and fellowship with GOD.

Notice, they did this in secret. People often believe that they can sin and hide their sins from GOD.

We see the love of GOD toward HIS chosen because HE gave them ample warning about what would happen if they did not wake up, repent and worship the only true GOD, Yahweh. We have their recorded history to ponder as we see the events unfold.

Today, we can get an idea of where we are headed as a nation and a world. The ideologues want to create utopia upon earth but it will not happen because the One true GOD of all is being diminished and the gods of materialism, fame, government, self-sufficiency and power are being elevated.

Let’s read 2 Kings 17:12-17:

12 They served idols, although the Lord had told them, “You must not do this.” 13 Still, the Lord warned Israel and Judah through every prophet and every seer, saying, “Turn from your evil ways and keep My commands and statutes according to all the law I commanded your ancestors and sent to you through My servants the prophets.” 14 But they would not listen. Instead they became obstinate like their ancestors who did not believe the Lord their God. 15 They rejected His statutes and His covenant He had made with their ancestors and the decrees He had given them. They pursued worthless idols and became worthless themselves, following the surrounding nations the Lord had commanded them not to imitate. 16 They abandoned all the commands of the Lord their God. They made cast images for themselves, two calves, and an Asherah pole. They worshiped the whole heavenly • host and served • Baal. 17 They made their sons and daughters pass through the fire and practiced • divination and interpreted omens. They devoted themselves to do what was evil in the Lord’s sight and provoked Him.

The Israelites rejected GOD’S statutes and covenant. Statutes are GOD’S design for living in harmony with HIM and others. The Israelites broke covenant with GOD. GOD did not break covenant with them. When GOD made humans, HE gave them freewill. HE does all HE can to appeal to every human regarding the decisions they make regarding their relationship with HIM. But the decision is theirs to make whether or not to repent and turn from their evil ways. Repentance involves the heart. It involves conviction, confession and acknowledging the wrong they are doing. GOD’S part is to forgive, cleanse and restore.

GOD’S chosen knew the truth but they chose to embrace their neighbor’s pagan lifestyle. GOD sent prophets to appeal to them to repent, yet they refused. Notice verse 15, they followed worthless idols and as a result they became worthless themselves. True value, in a person’s life, comes from having a personal, obedient relationship with GOD through faith in CHRIST. That relationship sustains true Christians through various circumstances in life upon earth as they journey to the Promised Land.

The very heart of sin is unbelief and it is clear that the Israelites had abandoned GOD but GOD never abandoned them. HE does not abandon HIS children today regardless of what you may think.

Let’s read 2 Kings 17:18-20:

18 Therefore, the Lord was very angry with Israel, and He removed them from His presence. Only the tribe of Judah remained. 19 Even Judah did not keep the commands of the Lord their God but lived according to the customs Israel had introduced. 20 So the Lord rejected all the descendants of Israel, afflicted them, and handed them over to plunderers until He had banished them from His presence.

As stated earlier, the heart of sin is unbelief. The wages of sin is death but the gift of GOD is eternal life through faith in CHRIST. Sin still brings the wrath of GOD into our lives. HE hates sin and death but HE did something about it. HE allowed HIS only Son, JESUS, to come to earth and live as a human and give HIS life for all who will place their faith in HIM, so they may have eternal life.

The wrath of GOD is one thing but the love of GOD is another. The scripture states that “HE removed them from HIS presence.” GOD did not abandon them but HE did lift HIS protective hand and disaster came upon them. Sin is a barrier to fellowshipping with GOD. That is why those who seek HIM must confess their sins and ask HIM to forgive them. GOD does not move but we do and when we do, we will suffer the consequences. Consequences are to get our attention and to bring us back into fellowship with GOD.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

As history reveals, judgment came to the Israelites. In 721 B.C., the Northern Kingdom was defeated by the Assyrians. In 586 B.C., the Southern Kingdom of Judah was defeated by the Babylonians.

The Assyrians were especially brutal and many of those in the Northern Kingdom vanished into the landscape. The survivors intermarried and became the despised Samaritans because they had not maintained a pure bloodline. Fellow Jews considered them “half-breeds.”

The Southern Kingdom (Judah) was defeated but they were exiled to Babylon. Remember “the line of promise.” The promised Messiah (the line of promise) would come through the ancestry of Judah. As a result of their exile in Babylonia, the Jews maintained a pure bloodline and returned to Jerusalem to rebuild it and the temple. GOD’S plans and purpose will be implemented because HE is sovereign. GOD saved a remnant to carry out HIS plan and purpose for the salvation of all who will place their faith in CHRIST.

GOD disciplines HIS chosen but not to be mean. It is to shepherd them into the Promised Land and to experience the joy of salvation through fellowship with HIM. It is for HIS children to experience the abundant life through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

JESUS said it best in John 10:10-11:

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

DO you know JESUS as your Savior? If not, ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life now. Blessings!!!  

Bible Study - God's Story - GOD Establishes a Kingdom for HIS People - 2 Samuel 7:8-24 - July 7, 2013

Bible Study – God’s Story – GOD Establishes a Kingdom for HIS People – July 7, 2013

This is lesson six in our series entitled “GOD’S Story.”

Our scripture is 2 Samuel 7:8-17, 22-24.

GOD is a covenant GOD. It was not that HE needed to make a covenant but those with whom HE was building a relationship with needed assurance that HE was faithful to HIS Word. The pagan gods were fickle and often viewed as tricksters. We know these so-called gods were false gods that were powerless and dumb. They only existed in the minds of those who worshiped them. Mankind reached out to these false gods whereas GOD reached out to mankind and chose the Israelites as HIS people. HE revealed Himself to them, guided them, spoke to them and demonstrated that HE was and is real, all powerful, all knowing and present everywhere.

GOD made covenants with Noah, Abraham, Moses and David. Our study today focuses on the covenant GOD made with King David.

King David had a heart for GOD. David and GOD had built an intimate, loving relationship with each other. In the Psalms that David wrote, we see the interaction between GOD and David. Every Christian has the same opportunity as David to build an intimate relationship with GOD. Salvation is just step one in the journey of getting to know GOD through relationship with CHRIST.

It would be marvelous if GOD would toss magic dust upon us and we would instantly come out as full grown and mature Christians. But growing and maturing in CHRIST does not work that way. It is a journey of trusting and getting to know GOD through our relationship with CHRIST. Why CHRIST? It is because HE came to earth and lived as an example of the interaction between GOD and a born-again Son or Daughter. JESUS was obedient unto death. It is a relationship of complete trust and obedience ensured or insured by the indwelling Holy Spirit. It is a relationship built through interaction. The scripture states that David was a man after GOD’S own heart.  

The scripture reveals that David brought the Ark of GOD to Jerusalem and had it placed into the tabernacle or tent. After achieving this milestone in his life, David paused and took Spiritual inventory of his life and the place GOD had in his life. GOD had given David rest from all his enemies around him. King David told Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a palace of cedar, while the Ark of GOD remains in a tent.” This reveals the heart of David toward GOD. GOD should not be relegated to a tent while David lived in a place. The Prophet Nathan knew that David had something grand on his mind to do for GOD and told him to do it because “GOD is with you.” Nathan had seen GOD work marvelous things in David’s life. Nathan gave a knee jerk respond based upon past history.

The plans of GOD’S people are one thing but more importantly are GOD’S plans for HIS people. David relied upon the counsel of Nathan. GOD came to the prophet Nathan and told him what HIS plans were for David and his lineage.

Notice that GOD’S covenant with David was made before David committed adultery and murder. But the offspring of David and Bathsheba, Solomon, was to be the lineage for CHRIST, the Messiah. GOD knew that David would make some very bad choices but HE would use them for HIS Glory. When GOD’S children make bad choices and repent, as David did after committing adultery and murder, GOD will forgive them completely. Although sin is forgiven it still has consequences.  David was disqualified from building a temple for GOD but the son of David and Bathsheba did. GOD allowed David to begin gathering some of the materials for the temple. GOD’S plans are greater than our sin. Our scripture will give some background, which leads into our focal scripture. Let’s explore!

Let’s read 2 Samuel 7:1-7:

The Lord’s Covenant with David

1 When the king had settled into his palace and the Lord had given him rest on every side from all his enemies, 2 the king said to Nathan the prophet, “Look, I am living in a cedar house while the ark of God sits inside tent curtains.” 3 So Nathan told the king, “Go and do all that is on your heart, for the Lord is with you.”

We get a glimpse of David’s heart toward GOD. David wanted to do something to honor GOD. GOD needed more than a tent to dwell in. He consulted with the Prophet Nathan. What David was proposing was honorable and noble for GOD, so it should be acceptable to GOD, right? Just because we want to do something for GOD does not make it right according to HIS plan and purpose. GOD’S ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Good intentions are fine but are we led by the Holy Spirit? We can accomplish things in our own strength but are they according to will and purpose of GOD? GOD intervened through Nathan to keep David focused on HIS plan. But the important thing is that David’s heart was ready willing and open to GOD’S plans. David would have a choice to obey the message of GOD through Nathan or do it his way; after all he was king.

Nathan was confronted with a decision. King David had told Nathan what he was thinking and Nathan had confirmed it. Now GOD had revealed HIS plan for David. Would Nathan reveal GOD’S plan to David? Let’s read on.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 7:4-7: 

4 But that night the word of the Lord came to Nathan: 5 “Go to My servant David and say, ‘This is what the Lord says: Are you to build a house for Me to live in? 6 From the time I brought the Israelites out of Egypt until today I have not lived in a house; instead, I have been moving around with a tent as My dwelling. 7 In all My journeys with all the Israelites, have I ever asked anyone among the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to shepherd My people Israel: Why haven’t you built Me a house of cedar?’

Nathan had to go to Kind David and give him GOD’S message, which was different. Was Nathan reluctant? When GOD calls those to serve HIM, they must be obedient to HIS message. Notice that GOD referred to David as HIS servant. A servant does the bidding of the Master.

In essence, GOD’S message through Nathan to David was, “David, don’t confine ME to a tent or any dwelling made with human hands. MY plan is to establish MY dwelling place and kingdom in the hearts and lives of those who place their faith in CHRIST. I will not be confined to a fixed location but I will be totally mobile through the miracle of rebirth through MY promised Messiah. I will establish MY tabernacle or dwelling place in the hearts and lives of MY chosen. The indwelling Holy Spirit will be a continuous reminder to them of MY presence. A cloud or tent will no longer be needed as a reminder.”

Let’s read 2 Samuel 7:8-11a: (GOD’S message to David through the prophet Nathan.)

8 “Now this is what you are to say to My servant David: ‘This is what the Lord of • Hosts says: I took you from the pasture and from following the sheep to be ruler over My people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have destroyed all your enemies before you. I will make a name for you like that of the greatest in the land. 10 I will establish a place for My people Israel and plant them, so that they may live there and not be disturbed again. Evildoers will not afflict them as they have done 11 ever since the day I ordered judges to be over My people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies.

GOD often wants HIS chosen to reflect back on where we were, where we are and HIS involvement in our lives. Such reflection gives us assurance of HIS continued involvement in our future. GOD used “Lord of Hosts” to identify HIM. When “hosts” is used in reference to GOD, it means “commander of forces.” HE is over all and in command of all. GOD reminded David that he had come from herding sheep to King and it was through HIS power.

GOD’S message to David goes beyond the physical realm to the Spiritual which would come through CHRIST. Just as GOD conquered those who did evil to David and the Israelites, GOD would ultimately give rest to all who place their faith in CHRIST. GOD’S message is that HE is in control but HE gives the freedom of choice to all people.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 7:11b-17:

“‘The Lord declares to you: The Lord Himself will make a house for you. 12 When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendant, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He will build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he will be a son to Me. When he does wrong, I will discipline him with a human rod and with blows from others. 15 But My faithful love will never leave him as I removed it from Saul; I removed him from your way. 16 Your house and kingdom will endure before Me forever, and your throne will be established forever.’” 17 Nathan spoke all these words and this entire vision to David.

The Prophet Nathan spoke GOD’S message to David, which was GOD’S covenant with David. David had in his mind of building a physical house for GOD but a physical structure would deteriorate and crumble over time. The house that GOD was going to build through David was eternal not because of David but because the promised Messiah would come from his seed. The word “house” means “dynasty.” GOD was focused upon the lineage for CHRIST and even though David had not committed adultery with Bathsheba, CHRIST would come through that physical union. This reveals the forgiveness of GOD and the love of GOD.

GOD told him that HIS promise would be fulfilled after his death. David knew that GOD was eternal and he trusted HIM and was excited that GOD was going to use his lineage as the conduit for the promised Messiah.

King David trusted GOD and what HE had said through Nathan. David confirmed this in a prayer of thanksgiving and praise. GOD’S plan was greater and far more reaching than David had even imagined. David got GOD’S message and plan. David believed and trusted GOD to fulfill HIS promise.

We also need to consider that GOD revealed hundreds of years earlier in Genesis 49:10 – The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between HIS feet, until HE comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is HIS.

David was King of Judah and Israel.

When GOD does not endorse our plans do we kick and scream, or do we trust HIM? Our answer reflects our heart toward GOD and our Spiritual maturity.

Let’s read 2 Samuel 7:22-24:

David’s Prayer of Thanksgiving

18 Then King David went in, sat in the Lord ’s presence, and said, Who am I, Lord God , and what is my house that You have brought me this far? 19 What You have done so far was a little thing to You, Lord God, for You have also spoken about Your servant’s house in the distant future. And this is a revelation for mankind, Lord God. 20 What more can David say to You? You know Your servant, Lord God. 21 Because of Your word and according to Your will, You have revealed all these great things to Your servant. 22 This is why You are great, Lord God. There is no one like You, and there is no God besides You, as all we have heard confirms. 23 And who is like Your people Israel? God came to one nation on earth in order to redeem a people for Himself, to make a name for Himself, and to perform for them great and awesome acts, driving out nations and their gods before Your people You redeemed for Yourself from Egypt. 24 You established Your people Israel to be Your own people forever, and You, Lord, have become their God. 25 Now, Lord God, fulfill the promise forever that You have made to Your servant and his house. Do as You have promised, 26 so that Your name will be exalted forever, when it is said, “The Lord of Hosts is God over Israel.” The house of Your servant David will be established before You 27 since You, Lord of Hosts, God of Israel, have revealed this to Your servant when You said, “I will build a house for you.” Therefore, Your servant has found the courage to pray this prayer to You. 28 Lord God, You are God; Your words are true, and You have promised this grace to Your servant. 29 Now, please bless Your servant’s house so that it will continue before You forever. For You, Lord God, have spoken, and with Your blessing Your servant’s house will be blessed forever.

David went into the tent and talked with GOD. GOD had been an integral part of his life and he had witnessed many things that only GOD could have done. He knew that GOD was trustworthy and what HE had revealed to him would be done, even after his death. David was humbled by this. David knew what GOD had done for him was pale compared to what was yet to come.

David came to the point of saying, in essence, what else can I say to You Lord GOD, except, You are awesome and I trust You completely to fulfill your covenant as You have stated. You will build an eternal house through my lineage, which will glorify You. David’s greatest joy was to glorify GOD. David had an intimate, loving relationship with GOD. David was not perfect but David had a tender heart toward GOD. They were very best friends.

Is GOD your very best friend? If not, HE can be. First, a person must accept CHRIST as his/her Savior before a relationship can begin. You may have accepted CHRIST as your Savior some time ago and drifted away or got angry with GOD. Always keep in mind that GOD will never give HIS children a serpent when they ask for a fish. GOD’S ways are not our ways. We must trust HIM. Confess whatever it might be that prevents you from having an intimate, personal, loving relationship with GOD. HE is ready, willing and able to welcome you back into HIS loving arms; Just as the father of the prodigal son welcomed him home. GOD did not hold David’s adulterous and murderous actions against him, once he confessed them and repented. GOD is a GOD of love and forgiveness. HE stands ready to welcome you back. All you have to do is take the first step toward HIM. When you do the angels in heaven will rejoice. Don’t delay. Do it today! Blessings!!!