be in awe of God – Be Still…

1 Chronicles 13:1-14 – Moving the Ark

Read 1 Chronicles 13:1-14

Now that David’s kingdom has been established, it seems one of the first items of business are to bring the Ark of God into the City of David. This was a big deal, and it shows us that David was intent on having God’s presence surrounding him in his kingdom.

As you recall, the Ark is the most sacred object in Israel’s ancient traditions. It was an ornately decorated box containing the tablets of the ten commandments, among other holy items. The Ark was revered for what it represented, the presence of God. Exodus 25:10-22 tells us more detail about the construction of the Ark.

1 Chronicles 11:10-47 – David’s Inner Circle

Read 1 Chronicles 11:10-47

A smart leader surrounds themselves with devoted people who do a good job, making them look even better. David is a fine example of a wise leader. What a group of men to have by your side! It’s even more important to have God backing you, and David was also blessed by that.

This text may try to imply that the people of Israel decided David should be king. In truth, it was only because God ordained it. We often do that today when we try to take credit for one of God’s miracles in our life. James 1:17 says it beautifully, “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” How has God surprised you recently with a gift from above?

Ecclesiastes 8:9-17 – Good versus Evil

Read Ecclesiastes 8:9-17

Solomon’s laments are familiar to us. We have more than likely at some time in our life wondered why the people who lie, cheat, and do wicked things are alive and well, and even prosperous. Yet, our reward for doing good and striving to be more like Jesus has left us being abused by society while stretching every cent to pay the bills.

The evil one’s plan is masterful. He’s trying to make the grass look greener over on the other side, the wicked side. If we are experiencing oppression for our faith or just hearing of others going through such ridicule, the lures of the evil one can be enticing. That’s why it’s so important to stand firmly on the truth of God’s word.

Nehemiah 5:14-19 – A Godly Example

Read Nehemiah 5:14-19

From being cup bearer to the king of Persia to being named governor of his homeland, Nehemiah has had quite a life. I don’t remember a passage that officially names Nehemiah governor, but certainly his actions reflect a godly governor to be sure. I assume that King Artaxerxes probably named Nehemiah governor over Judah in one of the letters he sent along with Nehemiah on his journey home.

In today’s passage, we see Nehemiah’s example of putting the work of God ahead of his own personal interest. There aren’t many leaders these days who would do what Nehemiah did to move the project along. Today we see a lot of greed and power-hungry leaders who seem to forget about the “little guy.”

Nehemiah 5:1-13 – Helping the Oppressed

Read Nehemiah 5:1-13

I wondered how the people were surviving financially in the new land. If all their time was spent on the construction project, when did they earn a living? When did they rebuild their own homes? This passage reveals some of the inequality going on in the new land.

Apparently, Nehemiah was not aware of the financial hardships some were facing. Now that he was, he was angry that some of their own people were taking advantage. It breaks my heart that children being be sold into slavery. That was a common practice in those days, too. Today, human trafficking is at an all time high because of greedy people with no regard for human life.