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.

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 13-19 are written by Pastor Charles Choe of Tapestry LA.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

2 Samuel 1:11-2

“Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them, and so did all the men who were with him. And they mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and for Jonathan his son and for the people of the LORD and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.”

A few years ago, Meghan Vogel, as junior runner for West Liberty-Salem High School (Ohio), won the 1,600-meter title for her state. While it was an outstanding accomplishment, what she did in her next race was most extraordinary. With about 20 meters to go in that race, a runner in front of Vogel collapsed. Rather than run past her, Vogel, after helping her to get up, carried her across the finish line while keeping that runner ahead of her the whole time. “Any girl on the track would have done the same for me,” Vogel said. But her action resonated with the thousands of onlookers who witnessed it.

When David heard the news of Saul’s death from an Amalekite, David saw that he was an opportunist. By turning in King Saul’s crown and a bracelet, the Amalekite, assuming that he was doing David a favor, expected a great deal in return from him. But to his surprise, the last thing on David’s mind was to celebrate the death of the Lord’s anointed.

From a human perspective, Saul’s death should have been an opportunity for David, but that was not the way he saw it. He neither rejoiced nor celebrated; instead, he grieved over Saul’s death. David was not interested in his own vindication or triumph at the cost of another person’s tragedy. In fact, this is why David was so unique as a king, and the one God honored among all other kings of Israel.

David, then, wrote a beautiful eulogy for Saul in which he encouraged future generations to think of what King Saul had done for Israel (v. 18). He kindly considered Saul as the anointed of God who fought valiantly, swifter than eagles, and stronger than lions (v. 23). He even said that Saul was loved and gracious. Of course, we know Saul was anything but gracious or pleasant to David, but he chose to view Saul’s legacy as a whole and not with a grudge.

Are you kind to your competitors? Do you wish them well or do you secretly seek their demise? How do you treat those who are after the same grade or promotion as you? How about those who try to get ahead of you by soiling your reputation? The Bible tells us that love is kind and does not keep a record of wrong. David was truly a great king. He became a king after God’s heart through his magnanimous heart towards others, especially those who did not deserve it. In that way, he was very much like the One who was his true King, the God of Israel.

Daily Bible Reading: Lamentations 3-4

Reflection:

“Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again.” – Og Mandino

 

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 13-19 are written by Pastor Charles Choe of Tapestry LA.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

1 Samuel 31:6 (ESV)

“Thus Saul died, and his three sons, and his armor-bearer, and all his men, on the same day together.”

Reading about another fallen church leader is never easy to stomach. Even more difficult to bear is reading about how their sin affects those around them. The Bible says that your sin will find you out (Num. 32:23); and when it does, people who sinned are not the only ones who get hurt but also their families, friends and churches as well.

This is clearly demonstrated in Saul’s last battle against the Philistines in 1 Samuel 31.  The battle turned so badly for Israel that they were in full retreat to their own camp.  At this moment, a Philistine archer hit Saul and severely wounded him. Saul, turning to his armor bearer, demanded, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me” (v. 4).  Because his armor bearer, being afraid, wouldn’t do it, Saul took a sword and fell on it, bringing a tragic and inevitable end to his undistinguished life and reign. Sadly, Saul did not die alone that day; that is, his prideful rebellion against God ended up causing the death of countless men, including his three sons (one being Jonathan) and his armor bearer.

What this shows is that you cannot “plant” sin, even if it’s in private, and not expect to reap its consequences that will spill over to those who are in your sphere of influence. The principle is also conversely true. If you make good choices by living in obedience, it will have a way of blessing those who you come to contact with.

As you are reading this, perhaps the Holy Spirit is bringing to your attention how your sins (perhaps habitual) are affecting the people around you—the people whom you love. Whatever the sin may be, the good news is this: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).  It is sobering to see how sin absolutely diminished the life and reign of Saul.  And yet such a fate may befall us, unless we are vigilant about sin, by praying and walking humbly with our God.

Bible Reading for Today: Lamentations 2

Reflection:

“Although God loves us unconditionally, He does get angry at sin, wickedness and evil. But He is not an angry God. God hates sin, but He loves sinners! He will never approve of sin in your life, but He always loves you and wants to work with you to make progress in living a holy life in Christ.” – Joyce Meyer

 

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 13-19 are written by Pastor Charles Choe of Tapestry LA.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

1 Samuel 30:6 (ESV)

And David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.

The showdown between Israel and the Philistines would have to take place without David fighting alongside the Philistines. The Philistine lords sent David and his men back to Ziklag, where upon their return, they discover a terrible tragedy. We’re told the Amalekites had invaded Ziklag while the men were gone; the city was burned to the ground, and everything of value was taken, including the women and children who would likely be sold as slaves.

Consider the utter dismay David and his men must have felt when they came over the hill, expecting their families to come out to greet them, but instead, seeing smoldering ashes with nobody left. We never know when misfortune will come home to us. It can come in the shape of a stray bullet, an incurable disease, or some tragic accident that we just can’t plan for. Since we live in a broken world, there will always be some pain and suffering.

David and his men cried until they could cry no more. But in the midst of that pain and anger, “David encouraged himself in the Lord his God.” David did not always do what was right, but when push came to shove, David knew where to turn to: he turned to the Lord. He encouraged himself in the Lord his God!

I am reminded of two things: First, when all seems lost, all is not necessarily lost; and second, when all seems lost and I don’t know where to turn to, I need to inquire of God. David sought the wisdom of God, and after receiving his counsel from the High Priest, David pursued the Amalekites, and the Lord provided the victory.

In life, there will be pain and suffering—some being bigger tragedies than others. The right way of handling tragedy will not only offer us comfort, but also the guidance that we need. Handling tragedy without God leads to bitterness, failure, and perhaps, more tragedy. We find that as David handled this tragedy wisely, he experienced one of his great tragedies turn to triumph.

Prayer: Dear God, help me never to be too discouraged to seek You out, for You are able to comfort and guide me in the midst of my pain. May I grow through all aspects of life, but especially when pain and suffering come for me. May I confess, along with the Apostle Paul, “your grace is sufficient for me, for your power is made perfect in my weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).

Bible Reading for Today: Lamentations 1

Lunch Break Study

Read Psalm 3:1-6

[1] O LORD, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me;

[2] Many are saying of my soul, there is no salvation for him in God.

[3] But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.

[4] I cried aloud to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy hill.

[5] I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the LORD sustained me.

[6] I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.

Questions to Consider

1. David writes this Psalm in reflection to the grief that his son Absalom is causing him. How can we tell that David is desperate in this Psalm?
2. In spite of his pain, what enables David to sleep peacefully at night?
3. What serves to give you confidence in the Lord today?

Notes

1. We see in the opening lines David’s desperate situation with its repetition of the word many.
2. David calls to mind the many ways in which God has cared for him in the past, and how he was able in faith to sleep peacefully in the face of danger. These past experiences build his confidence for the present, enabling him to walk by faith and not by sight.
3. Personal response.

 Evening Reflection

Before going to bed, reflect on this: “The greatest good suffering can do for me is to increase my capacity for God.” –Joni Eareckson Tada.  So, how was your day?

Editor’s Note: AMI Quiet Times from April 13-19 are written by Pastor Charles Choe of Tapestry LA.

Devotional Thoughts for Today

1 Samuel 29:4-5 (ESV)

[4] But the commanders of the Philistines were angry with him. And the commanders of the Philistines said to him, “Send the man back, that he may return to the place to which you have assigned him. He shall not go down with us to battle, lest in the battle he become an adversary to us. For how could this fellow reconcile himself to his lord? Would it not be with the heads of the men here? [5] Is not this David, of whom they sing to one another in dances, ‘Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?”

The Philistines amassed all their armies at Aphek, and the Israelites were nearby in Jezreel, ready to square off in anticipation of a great battle. The Philistines wanted to deliver a deathblow to Israel and were foaming at the mouth in eagerness. But David is among the Philistines. Because Saul’s relentless attacks against him were unbearable, he and his men left the people of God and the land of Israel, and decided to unite forces with the Philistines instead (1 Sam. 27). Ironically, the one who slayed Goliath, the Philistine giant, found himself in a place he never imagined: among the ungodly, ready to fight to death against God’s people.

But perhaps to David’s ultimate benefit, the leaders among the Philistines looked at David and his men and declared, “They are Hebrews. They are not amongst us. We don’t belong together!” Though David seemed to have forgotten his identity, blinded by his own pride and fear of Saul, the Philistine leaders did not—they knew David’s true identity: that he was a Hebrew, part of the nation of Israel, and among to the people of Yahweh. David would not have found himself in this predicament if he considered who he really was and the calling of God in his life.

What is troubling is how the Philistine ruler Achish defended David so confidently. David behaved so much in accord to with the ungodly that Achish knew he had David in his pocket. To be vouched by the ungodly should have revealed to David just how much he was away from God and His people. The other Philistine leaders did not agree with Achish’s evaluation. They didn’t trust David and feared that he would stab them in the back in battle so to somehow bring himself back into Saul’s favor.

Here’s how David found himself in this plight: David was not content or at peace in the land of Israel (27:1), and now he discovered that his “Philistine friends” wouldn’t receive him either. By trying to live in both worlds, David quickly realized that he was a man without a home.

We, too, find ourselves having to make choices. We are sometimes hesitant to live out our faith for Jesus Christ, because we are afraid of the rejection of the ungodly.  This can be at work or amongst friends. And if we disguise it well enough, some people never come to see that we are Christians. Like David, we may even have the ungodly, perhaps an ungodly coworker, vouch for us because of our lack of distinction from them.

How much better it is to be all out for Jesus and to trust that if the ungodly reject us, God is for us; and that He will eventually use the rejection for our good, as we will see in David’s life. We must not be double-minded—enjoying God and enjoying the world. Rather, we must be single-minded—living as a child of God and for the cause of the Gospel. This is the only way to avoid being in David’s predicament, where he had too much of the world in him to be at peace in the LORD and too much of the LORD in him to be at peace in the world.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to live out my faith boldly today! May I never be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God for salvation.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 52

Lunch Break Study

Read Romans 12:1-2

 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 

Questions to Consider

1. What are we to offer the Lord as our spiritual service of worship?
2. We are called not to be conformed to the world, but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind. What is the result of this?
3. What is an area you need to work on to be godlier and less worldly? (i.e. about the way you view money, sex, relationships, etc.)

Notes

1. We are to present our bodies as a living and holy sacrifice.
2. When we don’t follow the ways of the world, but follow the ways of God, the Lord is pleased with our offering.
3. Personal response.

 Evening Reflection

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:1