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aspiritual Bible Study: Listen For God - Subscribe

Listen For God 04.01.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday Aproil 1, 2008 and today we are begining our study on the book of I Samuel. The book of Samuel is the 9th book of the Old Testament and contains 31 Chapters. The author of the book was Israel and the purpose was to show the continued record of God's dealing with His people. In this book we learn the principle of obedience to God is more important than sacrifice. Please read Samuel 1-3 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about Samuel, the last judge; his mother, her sorrow, and her song; Samuel hearing the voice of God; and all of Israel knows Samuel as a prophet. Today's message focuses on the importance of listening for God when He speaks and the blessings received when putting Him above all things.

Near the end of the period of the Judges, we are introduced to Hannah, a godly woman who had lived many years in deep sorrow and humiliation because she could not have children. In the Hebrew culture it was considered a disgrace to not have children so each year she went up to the House of the Lord and prayed for a child. "But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb. And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb. And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat.....And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head." (I Samuel 1:5-7,11).

A year later Hannah was blessed with Samuel and she honored the Lord and took him to Eli, the priest, "Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD.....And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child was young. And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD. For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there." (1:20,24-2

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Now, Samuel grew up in the House of the Lord with Eli's two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. These two brothers were indifferent to the honor of representing the Almighty God and refused to live by His commands. Samuel grew spiritually because he listened to the word of God. God first spoke to Samuel one night when he was asleep, he thought Eli had called and he ran to Eli. "That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again. Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him. And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child. Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth." (3:4-10). Samuel was quick to respond when others would have turned over and gone back to sleep. This means that he didn't put it off to a "more convenient" time or respond in a shoddy, halfhearted way. He recognized the high honor of serving God.

The Ark of the Covenant represented the power of God, His Word, and His presence among them. It had been at Shiloh since Joshua placed it there about 400 years earlier (Joshua 18:1). But general indifference to the Word of God prevailed among the priests and the people. The reason the Word of the Lord was not clearly understood is the same reason it is not clearly understood today. We cannot understand God's Word or His will for our lives if we never read all the Bible. We will desire to keep His Commandments if we are concerned about pleasing the Lord. Jesus said that the Old Testament is of utmost importance in fully recognizing Him as Savior and Lord. "And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself." (Luke 24:27). From Genesis to Revelation, the history of God's people illustrates spiritual truth for Christians today. "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4), "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (II Timothy 3:16-17)

In today's study Jesus Christ is reveal through Samuel who grew in favor with God and men (I Samuel 2:26). "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:52).

Today's Psalm: 119:58
"I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: be merciful unto me according to thy word."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon You, Jesus. When I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. Be with me, abide in me and lead me to victory. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a great Tuesday and God Bless you,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Victory From Battles Apr 2nd, 2008 1:48:49 pm - Subscribe

Victory From Battles 04.02.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday April 2, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read Chapters 4-7 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. Today we will read and learn about the Philistine's battle with Israel, the death of Eli; Israel is defeated and the Ark of the Covenant is taken then returned. Today's message focuses on the importance of learning that God is always with us and lead us to victory over our battles.

The hostile Philistines who lived on the coastal plains of the Mediterranean Sea, on the southwestern border of Israel, often declared war on God's people. They went to battle with Israel and Isreal had lost 4000 men. "And the word of Samuel came to all Israel. Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Ebenezer: and the Philistines pitched in Aphek. And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in the field about four thousand men." (I Samuel 4:1-2).

Because they are losing the battle the Israelites decide they needed God in their midst so they foolishly take the most sacred Ark of the Covenant into battle and are not only defeated by the Philistines, Eli's sons die and the Ark is taken by the Phillstines. "And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies...And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and they fled every man into his tent: and there was a very great slaughter; for there fell of Israel thirty thousand footmen. And the ark of God was taken; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were slain." (4:3,10-11). Because of their lack of spiritual insight, the Israelites' hopes were on the Ark, not on God who dwelt above the Mercy Seat and who alone has power to save.

Eli, who was old and blind, sat near the Tabernacle anxious to hear the outcome of the battle, but when he heard of their defeat ans that the Ark had been taken he fell backward and died. "Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his eyes were dim, that he could not see. And the man said unto Eli, I am he that came out of the army, and I fled to day out of the army. And he said, What is there done, my son? And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God is taken. And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years." (4:15-1

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During the time of Eli and his two sons, Israel once again drifted far from the Lord and for many years they had been under control of the Philistines. However, when the Ark was in the hands of Philistine's destruction came where ever the ark went. The Philistine's finally realized that unless they gave the Ark back everyone who came in contact with it would be destroyed. "And the Philistines called for the priests and the diviners, saying, What shall we do to the ark of the LORD? tell us wherewith we shall send it to his place. And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise return him a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is not removed from you." (6:2-3).

Now, Samuel became judge and spoke to Israel, "And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only." (7:3-4). They also fasted on that day as well as confessed to God their sins. "And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh." (7:6). Their confession of sin was followed by a desire to be obedient to the Word of God. Our sinful ways also must be confessed and forsaken. There must be a determination to put away sins. For Israel this meant putting away the false gods and putting their trust and faith in God. Following their confession of sin and the desire to look to the Lord for guidance, Samuel prepared and offered a burnt offering sacrifice, symbolic of entire consecration to God.

While they were fasting and spending time with God the Philistines assumed it was an opportune time to attack only to be defeated. "And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel. And the men of Israel went out of Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, until they came under Bethcar. Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us. So the Philistines were subdued, and they came no more into the coast of Israel: and the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel." (7:10-13).

The many years of domination by the Philistines over Israel could not be overthrown either by the supernatural strength of Samson or by the leadership of the other eleven judges, but it was terminated by the prayers of Samuel who was faithful to God. Samson, who represented the best of human strength, (See Judges 13:5) only began to deliver Israel, but through Samuel, who represented the power of prayer and obedience to His Word, the hand of the Lord was against the Philtinises.

The satisfying truth is that God works through men and women of faith, like Samuel, who display their trust in Him by their obedience to His Word. He will always protect us and deliver us from any battle that we face.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the rock called Ebenezer, which means The Stone of Help (I Samuel 7:12). Jesus is the Rock of our salvation; our help comes from Him. "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Phillipians 4:13).

Today's Psalm: 18:2
"The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Although I am called to go through many hardships, there isn't one that I face alone. Through my weakness You give me the strength to endure, in my folly You are the God of infinite wisdom, and in my fear I take hold of the hope You offer to me which is firm and secure. You will not abandon the work of Your hands, but fulfill Your purpose for me as You strengthen, sustain, and instruct me during my battles. In Jesus' name, I pray....Amen.

Have a wonderful day and God Bless you,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Abide in Christ Apr 3rd, 2008 1:44:26 pm - Subscribe

Abide in Christ 04.03.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday March 3, 2008 and today we are coninuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read Chapters 8-11 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them. Today we will read and learn about Samuel's evil sons; Israel's demands for a king; God chooses Saul to be their king; Saul's beginning as a humble ruler, defeating the Ammonites, and delivering Jabesh-gilead. Today's message focuses on the importance of abiding in Chirst no matter how successful we become.

During the history of the judges, Samuel accomplished more as a spiritual leader than any other judge. In Israel's 400 years in the promised land, no one had served as judge, priest, and prophet, but Samuel faithfully served God in all three positions. His sons, however had no desire to fulfill the will of God. "And it came to pass, when Samuel was old, that he made his sons judges over Israel. Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: they were judges in Beersheba. And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment." (I Samuel 8:1-3).

Like Samuel, Christian parents have a responsibility to teach, guide, and discipline their children, and pray that they will have a sincere desire to be obedient to the Lord. But some godly parents have suffered great heartbreak every day because their children chose not to live for Christ according to the Word of God. Each person must decide who will be master of their lives.

Eventually, all the elders of Israel came to Samuel and said make us a king to reign over us. "And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations." (8:5). Then Samuel anointed Saul king in Ramah as the Lord had directed him. "Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying, To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be captain over my people Israel, that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me. And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people" (9:15-17).

The first test of the new king came when Saul was told that Nahash, the Ammonite king, had put his army in position to attack. The Ammonites had not attacked the Israelites since Jephthah had defeated them many years before (See Judges 11:5). Responding to this current threat, Saul called together men from all the tribes of Israel to be his soldiers. Saul led the Israelites in a spectacular victory. "Therefore the men of Jabesh said, To morrow we will come out unto you, and ye shall do with us all that seemeth good unto you. And it was so on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three companies; and they came into the midst of the host in the morning watch, and slew the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came to pass, that they which remained were scattered, so that two of them were not left together. And the people said unto Samuel, Who is he that said, Shall Saul reign over us? bring the men, that we may put them to death. And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel." (11:10-13).

Saul had a good beginning, but pride and self-will soon become his way of life resulting in a succession of failures. This illustrates the temptation that often follows success, the deception of pride that inevitably leads to a self-centered life where Christ is no longer Lord of their lives. "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works." (Matthew 16:24-27).

The assumption that we have the ability to independently make decisions as to what is best for our lives and no longer need to pray for guidance is a reminder that Jesus said without Him we are nothing and can not bear fruit. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:1-7). When we abide in Christ we are blessed and remain successful in all that we do. Even in times of difficulty we are blessed as Jesus guides us through them into greater success.

In today's message Jesus Christ is reveal through Samuel who faithfully served Israel as judge, prophet and priest. Jesus was the Prophet promised through Moses, He is our High Priest, and one day He will judge all mankind.

Today's Psalm: 91:1
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We want to be your faithful follower as You fulfill Your purpose in our lives. You have ordained the trials, the victories, the losses, the gains and all the paths laid out for us even before we were conceived in our mother’s womb. We put our trust in You for the days ahead and what lies before us that You will supply the needed wisdom and staying power for the challenges that are certain to come as they did for Samuel and Saul and for other believers throughout the centuries and for those in our present day. We will not fear or dread the future as we look ahead through eyes of faith. We will abide in You, putting all our trust and faith in You to see us through success in all that we do. In Jesus' name, I pray....Amen.

Have a great Thursday!
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Obedience to God's Will Apr 5th, 2008 1:46:17 am - Subscribe

Obedience to God's Will 03.04.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday April 4, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 12-14:23 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Today we will read and learn about the people receiving their king; other battles with the Philistines; and the office of the priesthood is seized by Saul.Today's message focuses on the importance of being obedient to God's Will.

Saul, became the first king of Israel, "And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that ye said unto me, and have made a king over you."(I Samuel 12:1). Samuel warned the people, "If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God: But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers. Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes." (12:14-16).

Saul had been commanded to remain in Gilgal until Samuel arrived, and he was warned not to offer sacrifices until Samuel returned. These sacrifices were to be offered before the beginning of a battle. God's purpose in delaying Samuel until the last day of the appointed time was to test Saul's faith in God's Word, as well as to test his character and humility in waiting for God's appointed man to perform the sacrifice. But Saul feared being defeated by the Philistines, and he knew a burnt offering should be performed before the battle; therefore, he justified his actions since war appeared imminent and his army was fearful and many were deserting him. Saul presumed that, under the circumstances, by violating one spiritual principle and performing another he would bring success to the nation of Israel. He thought that obedience was less important than sacrifices. "When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits. And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling. And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him. And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering." (13:6-9)

Obedience to God's will is giving up one's will to the will of another, it is therefore the sacrifice of the whole man. Even in Israel there were many people who were too poor to bring the least costly offering to the altar of the Lord, but no one is ever too poor to tithe in recognition that we are not our own. Our utmost desire should be to do the will of God, to seek His guidance and submit wholly to His commands. It is this principle of faith which alone can make a sacrifice acceptable. "Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him." (Hebrews 10:3

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"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen....But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." (Hebrews 11:1,6).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through Samuel the intercessor (I Samuel 12:23). Right now Jesus is interceding for believers. "Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." (Romans 8:34)

Today's Psalm: 31:23
"O love the LORD, all ye his saints: for the LORD preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon You, Jesus. Because I take refuge in You my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. In Your mighty name, Jesus, I pray.....Amen.

Have a fantastic Friday! TGIF! HAve a great weekend also.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Using God to Impress Others Apr 6th, 2008 10:39:50 am - Subscribe

Using God to Impress Others 04.05.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday April 5, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 14:24-16 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about Saul's foolish oath; Saul commanded to destroy all Amalekites, but sins by sparing the enemy king; David is anointed Israel's next king; and Saul is rejected by God as king. Today's message focuses on the importance of pleasing God before the world and following Him whole heartedly.

Few kings in biblical history were blessed with as many advantages as Saul. But he soon forgot the source of his success. He became more concerned with impressing the people than with pleasing the Lord. It was not long before Saul exposed his true character. "Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD.....Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass....But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they destroyed utterly." (I Samuel 15:1,3,9). Then after Saul defeated the Amalekites he erected a memorial to himself at Carmel to commemorate his victory. "And when Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning, it was told Samuel, saying, Saul came to Carmel, and, behold, he set him up a place, and is gone about, and passed on, and gone down to Gilgal." (15:12).

Although there had been a great victory, Saul had disobeyed the command of God by sparing the Amalekite king. He tried to shift the blame by saying that the people robbed them in order to give as a sacrifice unto the Lord. "And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal." (15:20-21). Saul seemed blind to his own disobedience. To utterly destroy would have been a true burned offering to God. But, when people kept the best, it probably was for themselves to eat as a peace offering.

Saul was more concerned about his public image before the elders of Israel than with his right relationship with God. "And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king." (15:22-23). Saul finally confessed his disobedience and worshipped the Lord. "And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD.....Then he said, I have sinned: yet honour me now, I pray thee, before the elders of my people, and before Israel, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD thy God. So Samuel turned again after Saul; and Saul worshipped the LORD." (15:24-25, 30-31). However, God stripped Saul of his reign and sent Samuel in search of a new king for Israel, "Then Samuel went to Ramah; and Saul went up to his house to Gibeah of Saul. And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel....And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons." (15:34-35,16:1)

There is nothing so self-deceiving as professing Christ as Savior and Lord when the real motive is to gain personal recognition and praise from others. "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:31-32). When we choose to follow Jesus, we must do so whole heartedly. God rather you not follow Him at all then to do it under false pretenses and all it really does is create problems for you just as it did for Saul. He lost his reign because he was more worried about impressing others than pleasing God. "And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question." (Mark 12:32-34).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through David's name (I Samuel 16:13), which means beloved. David is a type of Jesus, whom the Heavenly Father called: My beloved Son. "And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:17).

Today's Psalm: 9:1
"I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works."

Today's Prayer: From Psalm 111
Dear Lord,
Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion. He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant. He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness. He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.

Have a wonderful Saturday and get out there and enjoy the day that the Lord has made, there are blessings in everything.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Defeat You Goliath Apr 6th, 2008 7:04:40 pm - Subscribe

Defeat Your Goliath 04.06.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday April 6, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 17-18 in your Bible or Click Here to read.
www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Samuel%2017%20--%2018&version=9

In today's study we will read and learn about David and Goliath, David killing Goliath and brining his head ti Saul; Saul appointing David captain of his guard; Jonathan's loyalty to David, Saul's jealousy, and David marrying Saul's daughter Michal. Today's message focuses on the power of God to help defeat our own Goliath's and our need to control jealousy before it gets out of hand.

Goliath, the giant warrior challenged the Israelite army to send a man to fight him and let the outcome of their fight decide who won the war. "And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span (Over 7 ft. tall)....And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us." (17:3-4,8-9). Apparently Saul was unwilling to accept his challenge.

However, when young David came into the camp and heard Goliath's taunts, he agreed to fight him. "Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give you into our hands." (17:45-47).

David's popularity with the people began immediately following his victory over Goliath. David was welcomed into the palace of King Saul, was made his trusted captain of the guard, loved and admired by everyone, and soon became his son-in-law by marrying the king's daughter Michal. David's advancement and King Saul's decline appear to simply be the outcome of human events, yet it is the hand of God working through the normal, everyday experiences of life. The basic differences between the two men are obvious. Saul allowed his own self-interest to destroy him, but David was concerned with glorifying the Lord. Jesus reminds us that this basic principle is still true today, "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:5-7).

David's victories were too much for the jealous, pride-filled heart of Saul. The deadly demon of jealousy had a firm grip on Saul. He was consumed with a bitter spirit as he recognized that this young shepherd boy was gradually displacing him from a position of influence and honor which was once exclusively his. Jealousy so ruled him that he even determined to murder David, although he knew David was honored and approved by God.

King Saul could have been the first to challenge and defeat Goliath, instead he is an example of failure to surrender to the will of God. In contrast, young David considered the giant insignificant compared to the ability of the living God to protect His people. Faith is developed one day at a time as we continue to read all of His Word in order to obey the Lord and honor Him regardless of how it may affect our own interests or how powerful our opposing "giants" may appear.

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Jonathan, who knew the will of God was to make David king and stripped himself of his royal robes and made a covenant promising all that he had to David (I Samuel 18:3-4). Jesus, knowing the will of God, loved us so much that He cast off His heavenly robes and made a new covenant with man which He sealed in His own blood. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Phillipians 2:5-

.

Today's Psalm: 18:32
"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We rest in what you have done for us in the past. We trust You for what You are doing presently in our lives and for what You are going to do in the future as we place our confidence in You. We have no confidence in the flesh because our weaknesses quickly overtake our good intentions. Our confidence is based solely upon the redemptive work of salvation imparted to us when we received Christ as our personal Savior. It is not by our intellect or will power that we remain steadfast, but it is through the reliance of Your Holy Spirit that we walk in confidence and bring pleasure to You. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day.
God bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Remain Faithful to Commitments Apr 7th, 2008 2:11:52 pm - Subscribe

Remain Faithrul to Commitments 04.07.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday April 7, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 19-21 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Samuel%2019%20--%2021&version=9

In today's study we will read and learn about Saul's attempts to kill David; Jonathan's covenant with David; David's flight to Nob; and David fleeing for his life to Gath in Philistine territory. Today's message focuses on the importance of remaining faithful to our commitment to God and to always do what is right regardless of opposition from others.

David became a national hero and, as time passed, King Saul became increasingly jealous of his popularity. Prince Jonathan, a prominent warrior and the oldest son of Saul, seemed destined to be Israel's next king. In every respect, Jonathan demonstrated his leadership and ability to be a great king. Being the second king to rule Israel would have been a great honor. But Jonathan recognized that David, not himself was the man whom God had chosen to rule Israel. "And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David. But Jonathan Saul's son delighted much in David: and Jonathan told David, saying, Saul my father seeketh to kill thee: now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself until the morning, and abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: And I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my father of thee; and what I see, that I will tell thee." (I Samuel 19:1-3).

Jonathan voluntarily surrendered to David all his rights as king. He took off his rob a symbol of his authority as Israel's prince and gave it, as well as his sword, bow, and belt, to David. "And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good: For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the LORD wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?" (19:4-5). Jonathan is a precious example of self-denial and willingness to accept the will of God in promoting someone else above himself.

No joy or personal ambition can compare with the importance of remaining faithful to our commitment to God. We should ask ourselves: "Have I fully surrendered to Christ the things that I enjoy most in order to fulfill the will of God in my life?" Am I willing to be stripped of my "rights" in order that someone else is honored instead of me. It could mean that in doing these things, unknown to us, someone may come to know Christ as their Savior and Lord.

Saul had become violent with an uncontrolled temper. He considered any opposition as treason. Jonathan revealed remarkable spiritual insight and courage when he confronted his father the king in defense of David. The risk was very real for, in a fit of rage, Saul denounced his son and, on one occasion, he even attempted to kill him. "Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness?For as long as the son of Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt not be established, nor thy kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely die. And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done? And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David." (20:30-33). Jonathan could have avoided any risk to himself if he had decided not to get involved in defending David. However, his defense to keep an innocent person from slander or harm's way, whatever it cost, showed that he remained faithful to the biblical principles and did what was morally right.

We too may find ourselves in situations where people are being threatened, accused, maligned, intimidated, or taken advantage of. We are then faced with the decision of whether or not to get involved. We should not be an accomplice to evil by remaining silent but should respond as Jonathan did. There is a direct connection between what we truly believe and how we behave. The Apostle James urged believers, "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." (James 1:22-25)

God's greatness can only be shown through the person that is willing to be submissive to His authority. Jesus declared, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:44-45).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through David, who, as a servant of Saul, suffered at the hands of the one whom he chose to serve (I Samuel 19:1,10-11). Jesus suffered at the hands of the ones He came to serve and to save. "From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day." (Matthew 16:21).

Today's Psalm is a being replaced by a Proverb today: 25:21-23
"If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee. The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We are confronted with deception on many fronts every day, so much so, that we can be deceived without even realizing it. Would You help us, Lord, to watch out and be on our guard so that we are not deceived by man’s words, no matter how convincing they are, how charming their personality is, or how cunning their craft. Help us not to fall for Satan’s deceptive tactics that have brought down believers. Lord, give us the strength and courage to endure all things, walk with us and abide in us and enable us to fight the endless tricks that Satan plays on our emotions which cause us to fall into temptation and away from You. We ask this in Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Monday and week, and I apoligize for the delay in messages over the last few days. All things are back to normal and will resume at their normal scheduled time.

God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Call on God Apr 8th, 2008 2:05:03 pm - Subscribe

Call on God 04.08.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday April 8, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 22-24 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read.
www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Samuel%2022%20--%2024&version=9

Today we will read and learn about David's escape; Saul murdering the priests of Nob; David protecting the Israelites in Keilah; and David's opportunity to kill Saul. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God is with you during all struggles and that it is during those struggles we grow in our faith toward Him.

Nob was located just northeast of Jerusalem where the sacred vessels had been kept by the priests since the destruction of Shiloh. Ahimelech, the priest, had given David food and allowed him to take the sword that had belonged to Goliath. This was reported to Saul in Gibeah by Doeg, an Edomite servant. In a rage of anger Saul sought to kill the priest. "Then the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, the priests that were in Nob: and they came all of them to the king. And Saul said, Hear now, thou son of Ahitub. And he answered, Here I am, my lord. And Saul said unto him, Why have ye conspired against me, thou and the son of Jesse, in that thou hast given him bread, and a sword, and hast enquired of God for him, that he should rise against me, to lie in wait, as at this day? Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king's son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honourable in thine house? Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more. And the king said, Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech, thou, and all thy father's house." (I Samuel 22:11-16).

Blinded by jealousy and hatred, Saul ordered the execution of all the priests and their families. Without hesitation, Doeg the Edomite killed 85 people. "And the king said to Doeg, Turn thou, and fall upon the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell upon the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod. And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword." (22:18-19).

Saul's jealousy and hatred for David grew stronger and stronger and he stopped at nothing to seek him and kill him. He attempted numerous times to kill him, but God was with him and promised him that Saul would never lay a hand on him. "And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand." (23:14).

On Saul's last attempt to kill David he sought him in the wilderness of Engedi. "And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi. Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats." (24:1-2). Saul set himself up when he went into a cave alone, this was an opportunity for David to finally confront Saul and kill him. "And he came to the sheepcotes by the way, where was a cave; and Saul went in to cover his feet: and David and his men remained in the sides of the cave. And the men of David said unto him, Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul's robe privily." (24:3-4). However, he knew that God did not want him to kill him as Saul was his king and anointed by the Lord. "And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD's anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD. So David stayed his servants with these words, and suffered them not to rise against Saul. But Saul rose up out of the cave, and went on his way." (24:6-7)

There are times in our lives when everything seems hopeless, as it must have for David who was forced into hiding for many years. In fact, because of our circumstances, we may think that God does not care; but, our all-wise Heavenly Father often allows all of us to experience deep distress in order to develop in us a greater faith in Him. He does care, and He stands ready to answer our call when and if it is His will. Perhaps at that moment you too are discouraged and walking in darkness. Regardless of the circumstances, like David, set your confidence in the unchanging, eternal, Word of God.

Trusting God's Word sets us free from the chains of doubt and fear that keeps us from putting our complete faith in Him. "And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God. Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." (John 20:26-29).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through David's refusal to take the kingdom by force or before the appointed time set by God, "Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and some bade me kill thee: but mine eye spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he is the LORD's anointed. Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it. The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. As saith the proverb of the ancients, Wickedness proceedeth from the wicked: but mine hand shall not be upon thee." (I Samuel 24:10-13). Jesus refused to become King of Israel by force, though the people wanted to make Him an earthly King before His appointed time. "When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone." (John 6:15).

Today's Psalm: 34:6-8
"This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
For many the circumstances in life are so uncertain. The solutions to our problems can be very perplexing and seem beyond our grasp. There are many things about tomorrow that we don't, but we know Who holds tomorrow, and we do know Who holds our hand. Thank you, God, that You don't expect us to have all the right answers or to fully understand all that concerns us. You simply want us to trust You as we hold on to Your unchanging hand while You go before us making our paths straight. Grant us the grace to trust You and to seek you at all times whether good or bad, for you are always with us, bleesing us through all struggles. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a great Tuesday and God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Comfort Through Grieving Apr 9th, 2008 1:48:11 pm - Subscribe

Comfort Through Grieving 04.09.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday March 9, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chapters 25-27 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Samuel%2025%20--%2027&version=9

In today's study we will read and learn about the death of Samuel; Nabal, a wicked landowner, his death and David marrying his widow, Abigail; and Saul's pursuit of David. Today's message focuses on the importance of comfort through grief and knowing that God is with us through all circumstances including the death of loved ones.

Samuel was one of the greatest spiritual giants in Israel's history, but just one sentence records the death of this grand, old prophet. Because of Saul still seeking to kill him, David could not attend the funeral; instead he went down to the wilderness of Paran "And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran." (Samuel 25:1). The Israelites were now without spiritual leadership. But the all-wise God, who controls the universe, knew what was best.

We are tempted at times to think that death has come to the wrong person or has come at the wrong time, especially when a child is left without a mother, or when children die at a young age. Familiar as we are with death, the ways of God regarding it often seem strange to us. But, without a doubt, God never abandons His children. He leads us to look beyond our grief and to trust in His wisdom and in His tender love to comfort our broken spirit. At times we all need comfort. This is especially true during experiences of distress and grief when a loved one dies. Those of us who have lost loved ones know what a word of compassion can mean. As we see others suffering, let us also remember that our Heavenly Father has commanded to comfort His people. The words of our Savior are most comforting, "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:1-3).

David realized he must leave the area and go where Saul could not reach him. "Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph." (I Samuel 26:2). While in the wilderness David discovered Saul asleep. "So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him." (26:7). David's nephew, Abishai, urged him to destroy Saul assuming that God had delivered him into their hands. "Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time." (26:

. However, David knew he was still under Saul's authority. So, David urged Abishai not to kill him as he would not become king by killing a man. "And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD's anointed, and be guiltless? David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish. The LORD forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the LORD's anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go." (26:9-11).

The Church exists as the bodily representative of Christ on earth and its future depends upon its recognition of God's authority over it. Church leaders such as ministers, pastors, or elders are directly responsible to God for what they preach and allow to be taught in their pastoral care. The Church's future depends upon recognition of Christ's authority. There are many "Abishai" Christians today who seize the opportunity to enter into rebellion, backbiting, backstabbing, and literally killing the influence and effect of a man of God in order to justify their own rebellious spirit. The disobedient are traveling in the pathway of Saul and their own spiritual suicide. The Christian's submission to authority is to go beyond the Church, for the Word says: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." (Romans 13:1). Therefore, we are to "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;" (Titus 3:1-6).

In today's message Jesus Christ is reveal through Abigail's efforts to make peace between David and Nabal. (I Samuel 25:21-2

. Jesus made peace for the world as He gave himself for our sins. "To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation." (II Corinthians 5:19).

Today's Psalm: 116:15
"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Bless those who mourn with the comfort of your love that they may face each new day with hope and the certainty that nothing can destroy the good that has been given. May their memories become joyful, their days enriched with friendship,
and their lives encircled by your love. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Wednesday.
God Bless,
Christina

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aspiritual Bible Study: Seek Only God Apr 10th, 2008 8:46:04 am - Subscribe

Seek Only God 04.10.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday April 10, 2008 and today we are completing our study on the book of I Samuel. Please read chpater 28-31 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=I%20Samuel%2028%20--%2031&version=9

Today we will read and learn about David staying in Philistine territory; and Saul consulting a witch who claims to contact the dead in order to easy his troubled mind over the Philistine army. Today's message focuses on the importance of seeking God and only God for guidance and not evil spirits.

After Samuel became judge, the Philistines were so badly defeated because of his prayer meeting at Mizpeh that they stayed away from the territory of Israel, but there was severe war against the Philistines all the days Saul reigned as king. David, the champion against the Philistines whom Saul was attempting to kill, was somewhere hiding from him; and Samuel, the prophet whom Saul had ignored for years, was dead.

In the final year of Saul's reign, the Philistines gathered together for warfare against Israel. "And the Philistines gathered themselves together, and came and pitched in Shunem: and Saul gathered all Israel together, and they pitched in Gilboa." (I Samuel 28:4). Saul panicked when he realized the size and power of the Philistine armies that were ready to attack. Saul offered a hurried prayer to God, who alone controls the destiny of all battles; but he did not receive an answer from God. "And when Saul saw the host of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart greatly trembled. And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets." (28:5-6). In despiration he searched for a witch to help him. "Then said Saul unto his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, and enquire of her. And his servants said to him, Behold, there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at Endor." (28:7). How could he expect an answer from God when he had murdered all the priests? He also knew that mediums, spiritualists, witches, and fortune-tellers are an abomination unto the Lord as he even banned them from the land. "And the woman said unto him, Behold, thou knowest what Saul hath done, how he hath cut off those that have familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land: wherefore then layest thou a snare for my life, to cause me to die?" (28:9).

This witch was no help, instead Saul's fears relieved they were increased even more as he saw the appearance of Samuel. "Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel. And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul. And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth. And he said unto her, What form is he of? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he is covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground, and bowed himself." (28:11-14). The next day Saul, along with most of his sons, including Jonathan, was killed in battle.

Saul was a man to whom God had given great opportunities by raising him to a powerful position of leadership to reign over the Israelite kingdom and endowing him with special prophetic gifts, but his hardness of heart and self-will now had disqualified him as a recipient of God's grace. Because of Saul's history of stubbornly choosing his own way rather than God's way, Saul was disqualified to receive God's blessing. Saul's worst enemy was himself. He had lived a self-serving life.

Power, wealth, popularity, and talents are often great hindrances to a spiritual life. Some still seek guidance from psychics, fortune-tellers, palm readers, and other demon-controlled people, rather than crying out to their Creator in times of great distress and relying upon Him alone.

As we read God's Word, we recognize the evil of seeking guidance from those who use crystal balls, palm-reading, or fortune-telling, in fact, it is an insult to God. "He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Revelations 21:7-

.

True success is the result of seeking the Lord's will through reading His Word while at the same time praying to the Lord for guidance.

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the Urim (I Samuel 28:6), which was used to determine God's will. Today Jesus Christ speaks to us through His Spirit when we read His Word. "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." (John 16:13).

Today's Psalm: 84:11
"For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As You call us to walk the narrow path that the majority rejects, we thank You for the godly examples who have gone before us and shown us the way. Such giants of the faith as Abraham, Moses, Joseph, David, Paul and countless others throughout the generations have shown us the way to be faithful even in the midst of adversity. They made great sacrifices in their lifetime to gain an eternal inheritance in heaven. Their sacrifice was temporal and short in duration compared to the eternal pleasures they now enjoy. Help us not to resent the struggles that lead us to seek You in a deeper more intimate relationship. Help us to seek You in all things and to follow Your will and not the will of our flesh. In Jesus' name, I pray......Amen.

Have a great day, the weekend is almost here, you can do it.
God Bless,
Christina

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