Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 27-30 are written by Pastor Intern David Son of Symphony Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 8:3-4; 6b

David also defeated Hadadezer the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to restore his power at the river Euphrates. And David took from him 1,700 horsemen, and 20,000 foot soldiers. And David hamstrung all the chariot horses but left enough for 100 chariots… And the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went.

I love the Golden State Warriors NBA basketball team. One of the most famous Warriors’ coaches named Don Nelson (“Nellie”) changed the game of basketball. In a game where height is tantamount to the team’s success, everyone who has any knowledge about basketball knows that you have to have at least one big tall man at the “center” position if you want to be a winning team (think Shaq)! But Coach Nelson did something unheard-of—he built a team with… no center. The Warriors under Coach Nelson were a bunch of little guys, but to everyone’s surprise, “Nellie-ball” became a huge success! Don Nelson won coach-of-the-year three times and is still to this day the winningest coach in NBA history! Today, many teams have learned from Nelson’s strategy, and his legacy continues on.

Back in the Old Testament times, everyone who knew anything about warfare knew you need chariots to win battles. In fact, in those days a trustworthy measurement of the strength of an army was to count the number of chariots. But David did something unheard-of: He hamstrung nearly all of the chariot horses that he could have added to his army. What was he thinking? But David knew something that no other king or nation at the time knew:  that the battle belongs to the Lord.

What do you rely on to pull you through hard times? King David writes in Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Whatever you are facing in this season of your life, our God can be trusted!

Prayer

Lord, You are the sovereign God. Nothing happens without your knowledge, and none can stand against You. Help us to trust in You with the battles and hardships that we face each day. Let us not trust in the things of this world or even the gifts and abilities you have given us. Instead, we want to put our trust in the Lord of hosts.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 10

Lunch Break Study

Read Deuteronomy 20:1-4

When you go out to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. And when you draw near to the battle, the priest shall come forward and speak to the people and shall say to them, “Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle against your enemies: let not your heart faint. Do not fear or panic or be in dread of them, for the Lord your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.”

Questions to Consider:

1. What is the primary war strategy for God’s people?
2. When facing a powerful enemy, what were the priests instructed to do?
3. Who is our “enemy”?
4. Do you believe that God’s presence with you is enough for you to face the enemy?

Notes:

1. The primary war strategy is the presence of the Lord our God with His people.
2. The priests were instructed to declare and remind the Israelites that God was with them, and that He would give them victory.
3. On one hand, we can apply this passage to the hardships/trials/temptations we go through in life. But also, Paul writes in Ephesians 6 that our enemy is not flesh and blood but the spiritual powers of darkness (aka Satan and his forces).
4. If God is indeed who He says He is, and who we believe Him to be, then yes! Although we cannot see Him, we can trust that His presence is enough to give us victory over our enemy.

 Evening Reflection

Take a moment today and think about your faith. Hebrews 11 teaches us that faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen. Faith is a crucial aspect of our walk with God. Have you been living in faith? Let us spend some time asking God to increase our faith in Him.

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 27-30 are written by Pastor Intern David Son of Symphony Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 7:18-21

Then King David went in and sat before the Lord and said, “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far? And yet this was a small thing in your eyes, O Lord God. You have spoken also of your servant’s house for a great while to come, and this is instruction for mankind, O Lord God! And what more can David say to you? For you know your servant, O Lord God! Because of your promise, and according to your own heart, you have brought about all this greatness, to make your servant know it.”

There once was a church that realized the importance of humility, so it formed a committee to find the most humble person in the church. Many names were submitted and numerous candidates evaluated. Finally, the committee came to a unanimous decision. They selected a quiet, little man who always lived in the background and had never taken credit for anything he had done. They awarded him the “Most Humble” button for his faithful service. However, the next day they had to take it away from him because he pinned it on.

Humility is a bit tricky, because once you know you have it, it’s hard to keep! Has anyone ever come up and told you, “Wow, you are so humble!” How are you supposed to respond to that? Today’s passage sheds some light on what genuine humility can look like. God had just promised to make David’s kingdom an everlasting one, an amazing covenant that would likely prompt many to boast. But David comes before the Lord in an amazing confession of humility, declaring, “Who am I, O Lord God… that you have brought me thus far?” What this passage tells me is that true humility comes from reflecting on our past and recognizing that God is the one who has brought us to where we are.

Where would you be today if it weren’t for God working in your life? Today, let us spend some time sitting before the Lord and making that confession: “Who am I, O Lord God… that you have brought me thus far?

Prayer

Lord, who are we that you pour out your love, mercy, and grace ceaselessly upon us? Thank you for your faithfulness, from the time of Abraham to David, and even to the present—you have always been faithful. We cannot thank you enough.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 9

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Peter 5:5-6

Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.

Questions to Consider:

1. Who is Peter writing to?
2. Why do you think Peter uses the analogy of clothing in his exhortation to be humble?
3. What is God’s stance towards “the proud”?

Notes:

1. In the context of the letter, Peter is writing to Christians in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. But in application, we can say he is writing to all Christians.
2. Clothing comes up in many places in the Bible. Here, Peter is using it to say that humility is not a status that you achieve, but like clothing, we need to put it on every day.
3. “God opposes the proud” (v. 5b). If you think about it, this is scary, because one place you definitely don’t want to be is in opposition to God. Pride is something we need to deal with seriously.

 Evening Reflection

In Deuteronomy 8, Moses repeatedly urges the Israelites to remember the Lord and not forget what He has done for them lest they become proud. Today, spend some time remembering what He has done for you—how He first encountered you, and how He saved you! Reflect on how He has sustained you through difficult times, blessed you with every good thing, and that He is still faithful to you.

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 27-30 are written by Pastor Intern David Son of Symphony Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 6:5-8

And David and all the house of Israel were celebrating before the Lord, with songs and lyres and harps and tambourines and castanets and cymbals. And when they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah, and God struck him down there because of his error, and he died there beside the ark of God. And David was angry because the Lord had broken out against Uzzah. And that place is called Perez-uzzah to this day.

At 5 years old I was a very curious child. One of my earliest memories was when my father was fixing a broken VCR cassette rewinder (yup, VCR) in our house. He strongly warned me not to touch the electrical components. But being quite a smart child, I couldn’t help notice that the cord was unplugged! Even with my little knowledge, I knew that the cord had to be plugged in for the machine to work. And so, while my father was busy working on the machine itself, I went over to the electrical outlet, grabbed the two pronged plug, and confidently inserted it into the socket. WHAM! It all happened so fast, the next thing I knew, I was on the ground, seeing stars and an incredible pain was running from the tips of my fingers all throughout my body. I screamed and cried out in frustration and agony. What happened!? I was only trying to help!

Poor Uzzah. He was only trying to help! If we read this passage from the human perspective, God seems very unjust! How could he kill Uzzah?—his intentions were good! He was trying to prevent the ark from falling into the dirt, and he died for it. From this perspective, we can all understand why King David became angry with God, because of this seemingly unjust punishment.

However, to understand this situation more fully, we must acknowledge that God is supremely holy. So holy that nothing sinful can come into contact with Him and survive. This is not an issue of intentions! The fact is that not even the most well-meaning person can come into contact with the raw holiness of the Almighty God… and expect to live. Uzzah grossly underestimated the holiness of God. Uzzah made the incorrect assumption that he was cleaner than the dirt of the ground!

What is our posture towards the holiness of God? Have you ever been angry at God for something in your life that seems unjust? Often, we need to take a step back and recognize the awesome holiness of God; only then can we act with true wisdom.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” -Proverbs 9:10

Prayer

Lord, you are holy, holy, holy. Help us to meditate on your holiness today. Humble our hearts to see You as You are. If we have become irreverent, wise in our own eyes, or if we have somehow lost the fear of the Lord, we repent. Teach us how to live in the wisdom that comes from the fear of the Lord.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 8

Lunch Break Study

Read Isaiah 6:1-7

In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings:with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!”

 And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. And I said:“Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”

 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth and said:“Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.”

Questions to Consider:

1. What is Isaiah’s initial reaction as he enters the presence of God?
2. Why do you think Isaiah reacted this way (as opposed to running to God and giving him a big hug?)
3. How is Isaiah’s sin dealt with?
4. Verse 6 indicates that there was a burning coal and an altar. What do you think these symbolize?

Notes:

1. Isaiah declares, “Woe is me! For I am lost…” Isaiah is basically saying, “I’m a dead man!”
2. The passage indicates that in light of God’s holiness, Isaiah’s uncleanness certainly guaranteed his death.
3. One of the seraphim touches Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal from the altar and declares, “Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.”
4. Usually, when there is an altar that is on fire, there is also a sacrifice. We know that Jesus Christ is the atoning sacrifice for our sins. We can safely infer that the act of atonement that happens here in Isaiah’s vision is a symbolic gesture of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ!

 Evening Reflection

Today, let us take a moment and reflect on two things: One, the awesome holiness of God whom we must learn to approach with reverence and fear, a God whose holiness leaves no room for compromise and whose justice is beyond appeal. Two, the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who washes away our guilt and shame so completely as to usher us into the breathtaking presence of God. Praise be to God!

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 5:17-20a (ESV):

When the Philistines heard that David had been anointed king over Israel, all the Philistines went up to search for David. But David heard of it and went down to the stronghold. [18] Now the Philistines had come and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. [19] And David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?” And the LORD said to David, “Go up, for I will certainly give the Philistines into your hand.” [20] And David came to Baal-perazim, and David defeated them there.

My first mission trip was quite an experience.  I had witnessed firsthand the power and goodness of God.  I had met believers who endured persecution yet were excited for opportunities to love their unbelieving neighbors.  In the midst of poverty and tragedy, God was doing a mighty work.  I returned home, convinced that our God is mighty to save…and then I immediately forgot.

Once I got back to San Diego, the challenges and struggles of everyday life seemed so much more real than God’s greatness.  Problems in my church and my city appeared far too large for God to do anything about them.  Though I never explicitly thought this (partially because it’s so ridiculous), I felt that God was mighty in other cities or countries but not in mine.

King David proves to have a longer memory than mine.  Immediately following David’s coronation as king of Israel, he faces his first challenge.  To “congratulate” him on his coronation, the Philistines gather to seek him out and kill him.

David knows that the God who had brought him to the throne is still in control.  The God who was powerful and faithful in his early days is ever the same.  David asks for the Lord’s guidance and determines to go to battle only when God has led him into it.  He knows that he needs God’s favor more than an airtight strategy.  The odds are stacked against him, but David waits and listens for the voice of God and then obeys.

Take a moment to remember God’s faithfulness to you over the years.  Recall how He has demonstrated His power in your life.  In what area of life today do you need a God like that?

Prayer

Father, I thank You that You remain the same yesterday, today, and forever.  You are always good, always faithful, always mighty to save.  Lord, I need Your grace and strength more today than when I first met You.  For the sake of Your Son, be my Rock and my Salvation as You have always been.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 7

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 5:1-5 (ESV): Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “Behold, we are your bone and flesh. [2] In times past, when Saul was king over us, it was you who led out and brought in Israel. And the LORD said to you, ‘You shall be shepherd of my people Israel, and you shall be prince over Israel.’” [3] So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the LORD, and they anointed David king over Israel. [4] David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years. [5] At Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and at Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years.

As a sophomore in college, I was already eager to graduate.  This was partially because I was eager to work and make money, and partially because I thought I would then be done with school forever (God is funny in His providence).  In my naiveté, I imagined graduation would be the time when I would have finally “made it,” reaping the benefits of my labor.  It was all very self-centered.

In our passage this morning, David is finally experiencing the fulfillment of God’s promises to him—David is to be king and prince over Israel.  The time of running for his life and living in caves is (presumably) over!  Now David can enjoy a life of power, prestige, and wealth.  But is that all?

See, David is not only called to be a prince but also as a shepherd.  Jesus tells us in John 10:11 that “the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”  David’s blessings are not meant to benefit him alone, but they are given for the sake of the sheep.  David ascends to the throne, he enjoys a lengthy and prosperous reign, and he is favored by God, not for the sake of his own legacy but that he might be a greater blessing to the people of Israel.

Not only does success equip David for his shepherding ministry, but also hardship.  The many years of wandering and waiting gave David a compassionate heart.  He was a man who knew what a shepherd was meant to be – one who would give rest, lead, and comfort the sheep (Psalm 23).

So often we see success and hardship only in regards to how it benefits us.  The noblest way we interpret our circumstances is how they are maturing us or drawing us nearer to God.  Of course, we were made to glorify God and enjoy Him forever, but it rarely occurs to us that God may be shaping and reshaping us so that we might be more effective at loving and caring for others.

Prayer

Father, I thank You for every blessing and every hardship.  May Your blessings draw me into greater thanksgiving and worship.  May I freely give away to others what I have received from You.  May every hardship purify my heart and enable me to sympathize with others so that I may shepherd them into Your presence and likeness.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 5-6

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 4:8b-11 (ESV):

And they said to the king, “Here is the head of Ish-bosheth, the son of Saul, your enemy, who sought your life. The LORD has avenged my lord the king this day on Saul and on his offspring.” [9] But David answered Rechab and Baanah his brother, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, “As the LORD lives, who has redeemed my life out of every adversity, [10] when one told me, ‘Behold, Saul is dead,’ and thought he was bringing good news, I seized him and killed him at Ziklag, which was the reward I gave him for his news. [11] How much more, when wicked men have killed a righteous man in his own house on his bed, shall I not now require his blood at your hand and destroy you from the earth?”

A couple years ago, my motionless car was hit by another car in a parking lot. The other driver apologized profusely, and it was clear to all involved that she was at fault. Later, I was shocked to find out through my insurance agent that she claimed I hit her—I was outraged. How dare she lie so blatantly! Her teenage son was in the car, too: What kind of morals was she teaching him? Oh the injustice! Avenge me, oh God!

Now, I definitely got worked up about the whole situation, but was my passion for justice or for myself? To be honest, I was mostly worried about what this might do to my insurance payments, and how much hassle it would be to lose my car for a couple weeks. The righteous justice of God was not really the fuel to my indignation.

David, on the other hand, had a genuine appreciation for justice. Rechab and Baanah essentially tell him, “You are now the king of Israel!” but David is far more concerned about justice. His personal situation calls for joy and thanksgiving, but David zeroes in on the fact that “wicked men have killed a righteous man.” David must have known that Ish-bosheth’s death or exile was the only way he could become king. Yet he would rather stand on the side of justice than ascend to the throne through injustice.

Are we concerned with justice, whether it benefits us or not? What if justice actually runs counter to our comforts and concerns? As we consider building up our bank accounts, advancing in our careers, or succeeding academically, are we concerned more about justice and fairness, or whether we come out on top?

Prayer

Father, I thank You that You love justice and hate evil. I am often tempted to bend the rules or ignore injustice when it will benefit me; so help me to delight in righteousness and justice. Even if it is costly, my reward is to reflect You well.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 4

Lunch Break Study

Read Luke 19:5-10 (ESV):

[5] And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” [6] So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. [7] And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” [8] And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” [9] And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Question to Consider

1. Why does Jesus stop to speak to Zacchaeus, even though he is a sinner?
2. As one who defrauded others, what did Zacchaeus formerly care most about?
3. When Christ seeks out Zacchaeus, what change of heart takes place in him?

Notes

1. Jesus singles out Zacchaeus because He has come to seek and save the lost.
2. Zacchaeus cared more about his personal wealth than about justice, his social standing, and even God.
3. Zacchaeus becomes radically concerned for the poor and for justice.

 Evening Reflection

Reflect on your day. Were there any times when moral issues were gray? If so, how did you come to a decision? Pray that God would grant you wisdom to know and do what is right rather than what is expedient.

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 3:26-29 (ESV):

When Joab came out from David’s presence, he sent messengers after Abner, and they brought him back from the cistern of Sirah. But David did not know about it. [27] And when Abner returned to Hebron, Joab took him aside into the midst of the gate to speak with him privately, and there he struck him in the stomach, so that he died, for the blood of Asahel his brother. [28] Afterward, when David heard of it, he said, “I and my kingdom are forever guiltless before the LORD for the blood of Abner the son of Ner. [29] May it fall upon the head of Joab and upon all his father’s house, and may the house of Joab never be without one who has a discharge or who is leprous or who holds a spindle or who falls by the sword or who lacks bread!”

During a mission trip, I met a young man who had traveled to Southeast Asia to do humanitarian work.  While he was doing some good, he cut corners, made some immoral decisions, and had a poor working relationship with the local government.  Perhaps, he felt like the ends justified the means.

At times, we all feel like we have to take matters into our own hands.  But when things are up to us and God is not part of the equation, we can find ourselves in a morally questionable position.

In our passage this morning, David is still waiting to take his rightful place as king of Israel.  While David is concerned about his integrity before God, those around him are busy trying to control the unfolding of events.

Abner is the military commander of Ish-bosheth, David’s rival.  He had been taking advantage of the conflict between David and Ish-bosheth and was accumulating power.  When challenged by Ish-bosheth, Abner switches allegiances and supports David.  Motivated by a desire for power and position, Abner gives little thought to the honor of God even when he does the right thing and supports God’s chosen king.

Joab, David’s military commander, is motivated by a more noble cause.  His desire is to avenge the death of his brother Asahel.  Joab feels the need to personally ensure that “justice” is done, and he is willing to commit murder in order to do so.  Neither Abner nor Joab is concerned about holiness.  Sin is justified as long as it serves a “greater purpose.”

As the rightful king, David has the most at stake in how the events unfold.  He must have had many opportunities to involve himself in intrigue and strategies, but instead, contented himself with waiting on the Lord.  This trust in God freed David to focus entirely on honoring and obeying Him.  David knew that when he became king, he wanted to do so with a clear conscience.

While we are wise to plan ahead and to consider the larger goals of our lives, we cannot afford to minimize the importance of honoring the Lord, especially when things appear to be out of control.

Prayer

Lord, help me to honor You today!  My mind so easily dwells on the career I’m establishing or the goals I have for my life.  Don’t let me neglect faithfulness to the people and to the tasks that You have set before me today.  Help me not to give in to fear or a need for control.  May my actions, words, and thoughts be pleasing to You.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 3

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Timothy 3:8-10 (ESV):

Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. [9] They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. [10] And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless.

Question to Consider

1. When the Apostle Paul lists the qualifications for a deacon, which qualities refer to character?
2. Verse 9 refers to having a clear conscience. How does integrity relate to having a clear conscience?
3. According to verse 10, what is the true test of character?

Notes

1. All of them. Above all else, a deacon is to have integrity in word and deed.
2. Someone whose words and actions are consistent has nothing to hide. Thus a Christian leader does not have to be perfect, but they do have to be honest about their faults and consistent in living out their convictions.
3. Time is the true test. One’s character will inevitably be revealed over the course of time.

 Evening Reflection

Take a moment to reflect upon your day.  Was holiness before God a conscious priority?  Were you ever tempted to think that “the ends justify the means”?  Ask the Lord to purify your heart that you might walk in integrity before Him.

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 2:14-17 (ESV):

And Abner said to Joab, “Let the young men arise and compete before us.” And Joab said, “Let them arise.” [15] Then they arose and passed over by number, twelve for Benjamin and Ish-bosheth the son of Saul, and twelve of the servants of David. [16] And each caught his opponent by the head and thrust his sword in his opponent’s side, so they fell down together. Therefore that place was called Helkath-hazzurim, which is at Gibeon. [17] And the battle was very fierce that day. And Abner and the men of Israel were beaten before the servants of David.

This scene seems to describe one part of an ongoing feud between bitter enemies—something akin to the warring families of the Hatfield and McCoy or even an awful ethnic conflict.  Nothing of consequence is decided, yet blood is shed.  The men of Saul and the servants of David engage in a fight to the death, essentially for the sake of pride.

On the one hand, the conflict seems understandable; the ascension to the throne is still being determined.  But on the other hand, this is not just any transition in political power, for Israel is not just any nation: they are the chosen people of God.  The people of Benjamin and the people of Judah are not competing political parties or warring tribes—they are brothers, redeemed by the One True God.  They have a mutual calling to worship and serve Yahweh; yet, brother is killing brother and the fighting is very fierce.

Even today, some of the fiercest “battles” in our lives are with other believers.  The conflicts with the most heated emotions can be among brothers and sisters.  What could cause such hostility between spiritual family members?

In our passage, the people of God are caught up in a battle for power, prestige, and wealth.  I’m sure they would have said something about “justice” or “the will of God.”  Maybe they would have even played the victim card.  But something other than the glory of God has become their highest priority; and the proof is in the fact that they are willing to sin to get what they want, need, or deserve.

As we consider our relationships with others in our local church, what are we motivated by?  What situations tempt us to fall into slander or bitterness?  What priority does the glory of God have?

Prayer

Father, I thank You for sending Your Son that the world might be united in worship of Him.  Yet even when I am among brothers and sisters, I have so many impure motivations and desires.  Purify my heart that I might pursue Your glory and the good of those around me.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 2

Lunch Break Study

Read Genesis 4:3-8 (ESV):

In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, [4] and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, [5] but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. [6] The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? [7] If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.” [8] Cain spoke to Abel his brother. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.

Question to Consider

1. According to vv. 4-5, what caused the conflict between Cain and Abel?
2. How did Cain respond to his disappointment?
3. Throughout the passage, who does Cain care most about?

Notes

1. Cain became angry because the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but He did not for Cain and his offering. The conflict was caused by Cain’s jealousy.  It began in Cain’s heart and not in anything external.
2. Cain murdered his brother Abel. Cain’s desires mattered more than the life of his brother.
3. Cain cares only for himself. He does not care about pleasing or obeying God, nor does he care about Abel or his well-being.

 Evening Reflection

Reflect upon your relationships in the church.  In the more difficult relationships, what priorities are being threatened?  In the easier relationships, what priorities are being achieved?  What things connect or disconnect you from others more than your common relationship with God?

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 2:1-4 (ESV):

After this David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?” And the LORD said to him, “Go up.” David said, “To which shall I go up?” And he said, “To Hebron.” [2] So David went up there, and his two wives also, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail the widow of Nabal of Carmel. [3] And David brought up his men who were with him, everyone with his household, and they lived in the towns of Hebron. [4] And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah.

In an AT&T commercial, a group of kids is asked, “Is it better to be fast or slow?” A little girl proceeds to explain how it’s better to be fast so you can outrun a werewolf and avoid being bitten and turned into a werewolf yourself. It’s hard to disagree with that logic.

We, too, prefer “fast.” We want our promotions fast. We want our kids to become perfect fast. We want our dreams fast. And if we were faced with a werewolf, we also would want to run fast.

After years of waiting to become king, David should have been rearing to go. Saul had finally passed away, and so now was the opportune time for David to take his rightful place. Instead, we find David patiently waiting on the will of God. He asks whether he should go into Judah, and if so, to which city. Once there, David simply waits. It’s the men of Judah who come to him, and not the other way around.

Now David is not lazily waiting for God to do everything for him. In regards to obeying God and following His will, David is very active. But in terms of securing his own future and blessings, David is surprisingly passive. David is content to move at God’s pace.

When something is important to us, we often do our best to rush God. Whether we’re looking forward to a dream job, getting married, or having good health, “wait’ is not what we want to hear.

How did David have such patience? I believe that it was through all those years on the run. In those bleak times, David had learned to trust God. Take a moment to remember God’s faithfulness to you. Is there a time when His sovereign goodness to you was on full display? How can your history with God encourage you to trust Him now?

Prayer

Father, I come to You full of trust but also full of doubts and fears. I thank You that You have proven Yourself faithful over the years. Help me to entrust myself to You and Your sovereignty. Let me not give in to fear or discouragement, but grant me great hope in Your goodness that I might follow and obey You with all that I am.

Bible Reading for Today: Hebrews 1

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Samuel 13:8-12 (ESV):

He waited seven days, the time appointed by Samuel. But Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and the people were scattering from him. [9] So Saul said, “Bring the burnt offering here to me, and the peace offerings.” And he offered the burnt offering. [10] As soon as he had finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came. And Saul went out to meet him and greet him. [11] Samuel said, “What have you done?” And Saul said, “When I saw that the people were scattering from me, and that you did not come within the days appointed, and that the Philistines had mustered at Michmash, [12] I said, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the favor of the LORD.’ So I forced myself, and offered the burnt offering.”

Question to Consider

1. Why did Saul grow impatient?
2. In his impatience, what did Saul do?
3. How should Saul have sought the favor of the Lord?

Notes

1. Samuel had not come by the appointed time; the people were scattering from him, and the Philistines were preparing to attack.
2. Saul offered the burnt offering even though it was unlawful for him to do so. Saul essentially tried to take matters into his own hands.
3. Saul sought God’s favor by unlawfully offering the sacrifices. He should have sought God’s favor by obediently waiting and trusting Him.

 Evening Reflection

Reflect on your day. When was your patience tested? In those moments of testing, were you tempted to sin? How can you seek the favor of the Lord in similar situations?

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 20-26 are written by Pastor Jason Sato of Kairos Church.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 1:23-25 (ESV):

“Saul and Jonathan, beloved and lovely!  In life and in death they were not divided; they were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions. [24] You daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you luxuriously in scarlet, who put ornaments of gold on your apparel.  [25] How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle!”

Before you read: You rarely get to see how two people see the same passage independently of each other.  Today’s QT is your chance because Jason deals with the same passage that P. Charles used for yesterday’s QT.  Notice the differences but pay more attention to what they share in common.  Perhaps, God really wants to stress the meaning of this text to the AMI community.

When a murderous dictator dies, what might be said in his obituary?  What words might be used by an actual victim of his violence, whose very life was threatened multiple times?  We probably wouldn’t hear words like “beloved” or “lovely,” yet this is how David describes Saul as he laments his death.

For years, David lived on the run, fearing for his life even though he had been chosen by the Lord as Israel’s next king.  David had shown only faithfulness and mercy to Saul, yet time and time again, Saul sought his life.  But rather than rejoice in his newfound safety or his impending coronation, David mourns over his enemy’s death and calls the daughters of Israel to weep over Saul.

David not only mourns his enemy, he exalts him.  We are far more likely to remember the faults or the wounds caused by people around us than their good qualities.  Yet David can describe Saul as swift, strong and mighty.  He remembers Saul as the king who brought riches to Israel.

When I’m hurt by another person, it’s not that I wish any kind of violence against him.  But if I’m honest, I would be disappointed if he completely got away with what he’s done.  Many thoughts would run through my mind:  “How would he learn his lesson?”; “Wouldn’t it be an injustice if there were no consequences for sin?”; “What if he sins against more people?”

David has no such thoughts for he is that rare man who is not driven by vengeance, self-righteousness, or even his own well-being.  After many years of following the Lord and finding Him trustworthy, David is free to be moved by love.  He is free from the need to be judge, and he can even mourn the suffering of his enemy.

The example of David challenges us to pursue mercy for those who don’t deserve it, just as the Son of God pursued mercy for us at the cost of His life.

Prayer

Father, we live in a world in which we sin against others and others sin against us.  Give us grace to forgive freely and to bless those who have hurt us.  May we trust you to be the righteous Judge that we might concern ourselves with acting always for the good of those around us, even our enemies?  Help us to reflect your Son in this way.

Bible Reading for Today: Lamentations 5

Lunch Break Study

Read Matthew 23:37-39 (ESV):

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! [38] See, your house is left to you desolate. [39] For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Question to Consider

1. What kind of people is Jesus speaking about?
2. How does Jesus describe Himself in relation to them?
3. Jesus is filled with compassion and even sorrow. According to verse 38, what contributes to this heart Jesus has for them.

Notes

1. People who reject God and murder those sent by Him. Jerusalem is the capital city so these are Israelites, people who should have been very familiar with God’s goodness.
2. Jesus describes Himself as a mother hen. Despite their rebellion, Jesus has a great deal of compassion and affection for the people of Jerusalem.
3. In v. 38, Jesus considers the coming judgment. In light of it, He looks upon the people who would later reject and murder Him with compassion.

 Evening Reflection

Take a moment to think about your day.  Did you have any opportunities to extend blessings to those who mistreat you?  Are you harboring any bitterness from an offense that occurred?  Take some time to bring these things before the Lord and pray that God would extend mercy and blessing to those who you struggle to love.