(Originally Written May 31, 2008 in the Journal)
Praise the Lord for today because this is the day that the Lord has made. May all of heaven and earth proclaim your holy name and may your glory be acknowledged throughout all time! There is no God but the one true God, the God of Jacob! Praise the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Praise you for the beauty of the earth, the birds of the sky and the fish of the deep. Praise you for all things good and praise you for even the troubles that have befallen me because they have drawn me nearer to you.
I was thinking on the words of Rob Bell in Velvet Elvis. He talked of faith like a trampoline vs. faith like a wall. When you have faith like a trampoline then doctrine is the springs that propel you upwards toward God. When you have faith like a wall each doctrine fits in a certain place and if you remove one, the wall starts to crumble. He talked of a man who said if you deny the literal seven day creation you deny the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This seems false and destructive. But, I believe doctrine is vital to Christianity.
To deny the literalism of creation is not to deny the resurrection of Christ. But to deny the validity of any passage of the Bible is to reject the Word of God. You cannot deny any part of the Bible as valid and be Christian. A passage may be taken as poetic or figurative or literal, but it is valid always. You cannot make piecemeal of the Scriptures. Doctrine is man's interpretation of Scriptures and thus, fallible, where the Scriptures are not. But the Lord has endowed us with reason and we must make proper use of it.
Thank you Lord for today! I picked up the Penguin Classics Early Christian Writings today and will be reading it in conjunction with Bible readings.
Notes on Early Christian Writings
Clement of Rome
Clement seems to have been the fourth bishop of Rome, following Peter, Linus and Anencletus. The date of Clement's epistle to the Corinthians seems to have been written around 96 A.D. The letter shows Clement's extensive knowledge of the Scriptures, which as a Gentile, meant the Septuagint. He also shows a strong familiarity of the books that became the New Testament. He writes of harmony and draws also on Stoic Philosophy. While he combines the Hebrew Scriptures with Stoic philosophy, he subordinates Stoic Philosophy to Christian vision. Clement also uses strong Trinitarian language, much stronger than found in the New Testament.
1 Clement
Clement praises the Corinthian church for how they used to act. "Always you were ready for any deed of goodness...whatever you did was done in fear of God" (Early Christian Writings, 24).
The Clement extols them for having fallen back to their evil ways. They have traded folly for wisdom. "All have fallen back into the horrid sin of envy - the sin that brought death into the world" (Early Christian Writings, 24).
He encourages them to turn from envy and follow the examples of Peter and Paul. He reminds them that many of the elect have been tormented by envy and had to fight it unto their very deaths. He warns them that envy has ruined marriages and overthrown cities and nations. He tells them to turn from envy and reflect on the preciousness of the Blood of Christ, which is an outpouring of salvation and has opened grace of repentance to mankind.
The Lord always opens up the chance for man to repent. It is never too late.
The Lord never forsakes those who place their hope in Him, but puts pain and penalty on those who rebel against Him.
He calls on them to be humble and show forgiveness.
"Christ belongs to the lowly of heart" (Early Christian Writings, 29).
He tells them that humility is always found in the great men of God: in Elisha, in Elijah, in Job, in Ezekiel, in David and even in Christ, all of whom had reason to be proud.
He encourages them to aim to achieve the tranquility of which we were made to be in. He states even nature operates in harmony with itself: night and day, the seasons. These fulfill God's plans for them.
He tells them to respect those who God has set over them. He says to teach the children in Christian thought.
He reminds them that mercy will be shown to those who set their hopes on the Lord.
He warns them not to doubt the resurrection because there is evidence of the resurrection all around them.
He tells them that, "untruth is the only thing that is impossible to God" (Early Christian Writings, 34).
He reminds them that there is nothing that the Lord does not see or hear.
He calls on the Corinthians to give up everything that is opposed to God because they are God's chosen portion.
He reminds them that God rewards faith and that they are justified by faith.
He tells us that though we are justified by faith we ought to strive to good works because the Lord himself delights in working.
The Lord has mad man in His own image and blessed him, commanding man to increase and multiply.
We must put forth all our effort into the work of righteousness.
We must wait in patience for the Lord and He will bestow the greatness and beauty of His gifts upon us.
Men who do things that are detestable are held in detestation by the Lord. Not only this, but men who consent to these things are held in detestation.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
Brief Notes on I Kings 1-8
(Originally Written May 30, 2008 in the Journal)
Notes on I Kings
Chapter 1
David was old and his son Adonijah was rallying to be king, but Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and the army did not support him. David announced however that Solomon would be king because he had sworn an oath to make Bathsheba's offspring the king. Adonijah fled in terror, but King Solomon spared him.
Chapter 2
David instructed Solomon in his last words. David died and had reigned 40 years over Israel. Solomon had his brother Adonijah put to death because he asked for one of David's concubines. Solomon then deposed Abiathar the priest for siding with Adonijah, thus fulfilling the prophecy that the house of Eli wo8uld be removed from the priesthood for the wickedness of Eli's sons and Eli's reluctance to admonish them.
Solomon then had Abner killed for the murder of the generals of Israel and Judah. David had promised Abner he would not be punished while he was still alive, but Solomon fulfilled the avengement of innocent blood. Solomon then told Shimei that he must stay in Jerusalem for cursing David. When Shimei left he was put to death.
Chapter 3
Solomon married the daughter of Pharaoh to ally himself with Egypt.
The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream and granted him a request. Solomon asked for an understanding heart to distinguish right from wrong. The Lord gave it to him and also riches and glory and said he would give him long life as well, if Solomon obeyed the Lord.
Two women came before the king arguing over a live child and a dead child. Both said the live one was theirs. Solomon proposed to have the child cut in two and give half to each. The child's real mother begged Solomon to give the child to the other woman to spare its life, but Solomon gave it to her because he knew she was the mother.
Chapter 4
Solomon split the nation into 12 parts for administrative purposes.
Chapter 5
Solomon grew famous and men from all over came to hear him speak. Solomon had lumber imported from Lebanon to build the Temple of the Lord.
Chapter 6
Solomon built the temple and filled it with gold. It took seven years to build the temple.
Chapter 7
It took 13 years to build Solomon's palace. Solomon had the temple's interior decked out in bronze and gold. He also brought in items David had collected for it.
Chapter 8
The temple was consecrated and the ark was brought in. The Lord came to the Temple. Solomon then prayed.
Lord, I ask you to do as Solomon asked. Lord, I have sinned and turned away from you. But I come now before you humble and contrite. I am broken and praise your name for that brokenness. Lord grant my prayer. Do not turn away from me. Save my marriage. Restore my wife to me. I will praise your name forever and forever regardless, but do not let this pain rest permanently on my heart. Do not shame me so severely. Look on me with kindness and restore her to me. Lord I ask for so much and offer so little. I offer you all I have though. Please, I beg of you, answer this prayer.
Notes on I Kings
Chapter 1
David was old and his son Adonijah was rallying to be king, but Zadok the priest, Nathan the prophet, and the army did not support him. David announced however that Solomon would be king because he had sworn an oath to make Bathsheba's offspring the king. Adonijah fled in terror, but King Solomon spared him.
Chapter 2
David instructed Solomon in his last words. David died and had reigned 40 years over Israel. Solomon had his brother Adonijah put to death because he asked for one of David's concubines. Solomon then deposed Abiathar the priest for siding with Adonijah, thus fulfilling the prophecy that the house of Eli wo8uld be removed from the priesthood for the wickedness of Eli's sons and Eli's reluctance to admonish them.
Solomon then had Abner killed for the murder of the generals of Israel and Judah. David had promised Abner he would not be punished while he was still alive, but Solomon fulfilled the avengement of innocent blood. Solomon then told Shimei that he must stay in Jerusalem for cursing David. When Shimei left he was put to death.
Chapter 3
Solomon married the daughter of Pharaoh to ally himself with Egypt.
The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream and granted him a request. Solomon asked for an understanding heart to distinguish right from wrong. The Lord gave it to him and also riches and glory and said he would give him long life as well, if Solomon obeyed the Lord.
Two women came before the king arguing over a live child and a dead child. Both said the live one was theirs. Solomon proposed to have the child cut in two and give half to each. The child's real mother begged Solomon to give the child to the other woman to spare its life, but Solomon gave it to her because he knew she was the mother.
Chapter 4
Solomon split the nation into 12 parts for administrative purposes.
Chapter 5
Solomon grew famous and men from all over came to hear him speak. Solomon had lumber imported from Lebanon to build the Temple of the Lord.
Chapter 6
Solomon built the temple and filled it with gold. It took seven years to build the temple.
Chapter 7
It took 13 years to build Solomon's palace. Solomon had the temple's interior decked out in bronze and gold. He also brought in items David had collected for it.
Chapter 8
The temple was consecrated and the ark was brought in. The Lord came to the Temple. Solomon then prayed.
Lord, I ask you to do as Solomon asked. Lord, I have sinned and turned away from you. But I come now before you humble and contrite. I am broken and praise your name for that brokenness. Lord grant my prayer. Do not turn away from me. Save my marriage. Restore my wife to me. I will praise your name forever and forever regardless, but do not let this pain rest permanently on my heart. Do not shame me so severely. Look on me with kindness and restore her to me. Lord I ask for so much and offer so little. I offer you all I have though. Please, I beg of you, answer this prayer.
Brief Notes on II Samuel 21-24
(Originally Written May 30, 2008 in the Journal)
Notes on II Samuel
Chapter 21
The Gibeonites were given seven of the descendants of Saul to atone for Saul breaking covenant with them. These descendants were dismembered before the Lord by the Gibeonites. David then gathered the bones of Saul and Jonathan and the dismembered descendants of Saul and buried them. God then lifted the famine from the land.
The Philistines did battle again with the Israelites and the Israelites defeated them, killing four of the Rephaim.
Chapter 22
David sings a song of thanksgiving to the Lord.
Chapter 23
A list of David's most acclaimed warriors.
Chapter 24
David took a census. There were 800,000 men in Israel and 500,000 in Judah.
David asked for forgiveness for this act because only God should know the number, not men. The Lord gave David three choices for his consequences through the prophet Gad. 1) Three years of famine. 2) Three months of fleeing from an enemy. 3) Three days of pestilence. David chose the pestilence. 70,000 men died of the pestilence and as it was about to strike Jerusalem, God commanded the angel bringing it to stop. David then went and built an altar to the Lord and offered a holocaust and the Lord removed the plague from Israel.
Notes on II Samuel
Chapter 21
The Gibeonites were given seven of the descendants of Saul to atone for Saul breaking covenant with them. These descendants were dismembered before the Lord by the Gibeonites. David then gathered the bones of Saul and Jonathan and the dismembered descendants of Saul and buried them. God then lifted the famine from the land.
The Philistines did battle again with the Israelites and the Israelites defeated them, killing four of the Rephaim.
Chapter 22
David sings a song of thanksgiving to the Lord.
Chapter 23
A list of David's most acclaimed warriors.
Chapter 24
David took a census. There were 800,000 men in Israel and 500,000 in Judah.
David asked for forgiveness for this act because only God should know the number, not men. The Lord gave David three choices for his consequences through the prophet Gad. 1) Three years of famine. 2) Three months of fleeing from an enemy. 3) Three days of pestilence. David chose the pestilence. 70,000 men died of the pestilence and as it was about to strike Jerusalem, God commanded the angel bringing it to stop. David then went and built an altar to the Lord and offered a holocaust and the Lord removed the plague from Israel.
Brief Notes on Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell
(Originally Written May 30, 2008 in the Journal)
So I purchased Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell to give to her for her birthday am reading it first. In part two he talks about the Bible. He states, "We have to embrace the Bible as the wild, uncensored, passionate account of people experiencing the living God. Doubting the one true God. Wrestling with, arguing with, getting angry with, reconciling with, loving, worshipping, thanking, following the one who gives us everything". That is an amazing description of the Bible.
He talks about how the Bible is open-ended. It is truth, but leads to more questions than answers. The truth leads to ... more truth. We limp in life because we wrestle with God. To wrestle with God is to experience Him. God is always present. We are the ones who need to show up.
Ancient rabbis taught that God first separated the light from the darkness and the rest of Scriptures is God teaching man to separate the light from darkness, the wrong from the right.
No amount of success can heal a person's soul, it makes it worse.
How do I kill this super-husband ego? How do I get back to being the fundamental, plain old Chris? What am I capable of that God has chosen me? I am being remade. How do I bring Heaven here?
Lord show me the path; show me the way. Heal my soul and teach me to serve. Teach me to sacrifice. Let the old die and the new find life in me. I take this suffering and thank you for it. Have mercy on me Lord for I am weak. Show me to be all that you have in store for me. Help me to achieve the goals you have for me. Teach me to be a man of God. Show me the narrow path and I will follow it, straying neither to the left nor the right.
Lord restore her to her self. Restore her to her potential. Do not turn her over to sin or abandon her in her time of need. Stretch out your hand and heal her. Soothe her anger and rage. Soften her heart to you and to me. Do not bring ruin upon this marriage. Do not bring destruction upon us. If I have found favor with the Lord may He bless me with a renewed wife and a restored marriage.
Lord walk me through this hard time. Be gentle with me as I am frail. My flesh is weak and my soul is bruised. Bring peace to me so I may spread the good news. Lord, teach me with your Word. Hear my prayers and do not abandon me.
So I purchased Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell to give to her for her birthday am reading it first. In part two he talks about the Bible. He states, "We have to embrace the Bible as the wild, uncensored, passionate account of people experiencing the living God. Doubting the one true God. Wrestling with, arguing with, getting angry with, reconciling with, loving, worshipping, thanking, following the one who gives us everything". That is an amazing description of the Bible.
He talks about how the Bible is open-ended. It is truth, but leads to more questions than answers. The truth leads to ... more truth. We limp in life because we wrestle with God. To wrestle with God is to experience Him. God is always present. We are the ones who need to show up.
Ancient rabbis taught that God first separated the light from the darkness and the rest of Scriptures is God teaching man to separate the light from darkness, the wrong from the right.
No amount of success can heal a person's soul, it makes it worse.
How do I kill this super-husband ego? How do I get back to being the fundamental, plain old Chris? What am I capable of that God has chosen me? I am being remade. How do I bring Heaven here?
Lord show me the path; show me the way. Heal my soul and teach me to serve. Teach me to sacrifice. Let the old die and the new find life in me. I take this suffering and thank you for it. Have mercy on me Lord for I am weak. Show me to be all that you have in store for me. Help me to achieve the goals you have for me. Teach me to be a man of God. Show me the narrow path and I will follow it, straying neither to the left nor the right.
Lord restore her to her self. Restore her to her potential. Do not turn her over to sin or abandon her in her time of need. Stretch out your hand and heal her. Soothe her anger and rage. Soften her heart to you and to me. Do not bring ruin upon this marriage. Do not bring destruction upon us. If I have found favor with the Lord may He bless me with a renewed wife and a restored marriage.
Lord walk me through this hard time. Be gentle with me as I am frail. My flesh is weak and my soul is bruised. Bring peace to me so I may spread the good news. Lord, teach me with your Word. Hear my prayers and do not abandon me.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Brief Notes on II Samuel 1-20
(Originally Written May 29, 2008 in the Journal)
Notes on II Samuel
Chapter 1
David hears of the death of Saul and Jonathon
Chapter 2
David asked the Lord what to do and the Lord told him to go to Hebron. There, David was anointed as the king of the Judahites. Ishbaal, son of Saul, was made king of the rest of Israel. David went to battle with Ishbaal and Israel.
Chapter 3
A long war took place between the house of David and the house of Saul.
David had six sons.
Abner then made peace with David. Abner was the general of Saul. Abner set up David to become king of all Israel. He also returned David's wife Michal to him.
Joab, a servant of David killed Abner because Abner had killed his brother. David then cursed Joab and his family for this deed.
Chapter 4
Ishbaal was beheaded in bed. David killed the murderers of Ishbaal as he had killed the Amalekite who slew Saul.
Chapter 5
The elders of Israel came to Hebron and anointed David king of all Israel. David then went up and defeated the Jebusites and took Jerusalem. David then defeated the Philistines in many battles.
Chapter 6
David went down and retrieved the Ark of the Lord. On bringing it back to Jerusalem a man named Uzzah steadied the ark with his hand, but the Lord struck him down for touching the ark. David brought the ark of the Lord into Jerusalem and danced for the Lord. Michal saw him dancing and despised him in her heart. She despised him for lowering himself, but the Lord made her barren.
Chapter 7
The Lord told David, through Nathan the prophet, that his heir would build the House of the Lord. David praised God for this.
Chapter 8
David conquered the Philistines, then Moab. He then slew the king of Zobah and the Arameans of Damascus. So too the Edomites became David's subjects.
Chapter 9
David summoned Meribaal, the son of Jonathon, and gave him a place of honor at the king's table. He also restored all of Saul's land to Meribaal.
Chapter 10
David then sent emissaries to the Ammonite King Hanun, when his father died to pay respect. Hanun mistreated the emissaries. Hanun bought soldiers from the Arameans and allied himself with the king of Maacah and Tob. David sent Joab with part of the army to face them. Joab and the Israelites defeated the alliance. David then fully defeated the Arameans and the Arameans were too afraid of David to give further aid to the Ammonites.
Chapter 11
David saw Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, bathing and sent for her. He had relations with her and she became pregnant. David then sent Uriah to the front lines to be killed. When Bathsheba learned of Uriah's death she mourned, but once the mourning was over David took her as his wife.
Chapter 12
Nathan went and admonished David for his evil deed. The Lord struck the child of David and Bathsheba and it died. Then David and Bathsheba had another son who they named Solomon. David finally defeated the Ammonites and removed the crown from their king's head.
Chapter 13
Amnon, the first-born of David, raped his brother's sister Tamar. Absalom hated Amnon for this. Absalom then got Amnon drunk and had him killed.
Chapter 14
Joab tricked David into returning Absalom to Jerusalem. Absalom lived in Jerusalem for two years before David finally pardoned him.
Chapter 15
Absalom began to steal the loyalty of the people from King David. Absalom had himself anointed king in Hebron and David fled Jerusalem. Absalom then took Jerusalem.
Chapter 16
Meribaal, the son of Jonathon turned against David to become king himself. Absalom then slept with all of David's concubines in view of Israel.
Chapter 17
David's friend Hushai convinced Absalom to march out to fight against David. When Antithopel, the advisor to King Absalom learned that his advice was ignored for Hushai's he went home and hanged himself.
Chapter 18
Absalom marched against David, but was heavily defeated. Absalom's hair was caught in a tree as he was retreating and was hung there. Joab stabbed Absalom in the heart.
Chapter 19
Joab admonished David for his mourning of Absalom and told him to go cheer the people for their victory. Judah and Israel quarreled over the restoration of David and who escorted him home.
Chapter 20
Israel left David and followed a rebel named Sheba, but Judah supported David. Joab then pursued Sheba. They caught him at a city and began to attack the city, but the people beheaded Sheba and the attack stopped.
Thank you for this day Lord. Do not forget your servant here and grant me mercy and peace. Restore my wife to me. Do not let me be overcome with grief and misery. Do this for the sake of your name. Do not let a man tear apart what you have joined together. Do not let your enemy rejoice in victory over you. Do not let me fall into dismay. Be near me and quiet my soul.
Notes on II Samuel
Chapter 1
David hears of the death of Saul and Jonathon
Chapter 2
David asked the Lord what to do and the Lord told him to go to Hebron. There, David was anointed as the king of the Judahites. Ishbaal, son of Saul, was made king of the rest of Israel. David went to battle with Ishbaal and Israel.
Chapter 3
A long war took place between the house of David and the house of Saul.
David had six sons.
Abner then made peace with David. Abner was the general of Saul. Abner set up David to become king of all Israel. He also returned David's wife Michal to him.
Joab, a servant of David killed Abner because Abner had killed his brother. David then cursed Joab and his family for this deed.
Chapter 4
Ishbaal was beheaded in bed. David killed the murderers of Ishbaal as he had killed the Amalekite who slew Saul.
Chapter 5
The elders of Israel came to Hebron and anointed David king of all Israel. David then went up and defeated the Jebusites and took Jerusalem. David then defeated the Philistines in many battles.
Chapter 6
David went down and retrieved the Ark of the Lord. On bringing it back to Jerusalem a man named Uzzah steadied the ark with his hand, but the Lord struck him down for touching the ark. David brought the ark of the Lord into Jerusalem and danced for the Lord. Michal saw him dancing and despised him in her heart. She despised him for lowering himself, but the Lord made her barren.
Chapter 7
The Lord told David, through Nathan the prophet, that his heir would build the House of the Lord. David praised God for this.
Chapter 8
David conquered the Philistines, then Moab. He then slew the king of Zobah and the Arameans of Damascus. So too the Edomites became David's subjects.
Chapter 9
David summoned Meribaal, the son of Jonathon, and gave him a place of honor at the king's table. He also restored all of Saul's land to Meribaal.
Chapter 10
David then sent emissaries to the Ammonite King Hanun, when his father died to pay respect. Hanun mistreated the emissaries. Hanun bought soldiers from the Arameans and allied himself with the king of Maacah and Tob. David sent Joab with part of the army to face them. Joab and the Israelites defeated the alliance. David then fully defeated the Arameans and the Arameans were too afraid of David to give further aid to the Ammonites.
Chapter 11
David saw Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, bathing and sent for her. He had relations with her and she became pregnant. David then sent Uriah to the front lines to be killed. When Bathsheba learned of Uriah's death she mourned, but once the mourning was over David took her as his wife.
Chapter 12
Nathan went and admonished David for his evil deed. The Lord struck the child of David and Bathsheba and it died. Then David and Bathsheba had another son who they named Solomon. David finally defeated the Ammonites and removed the crown from their king's head.
Chapter 13
Amnon, the first-born of David, raped his brother's sister Tamar. Absalom hated Amnon for this. Absalom then got Amnon drunk and had him killed.
Chapter 14
Joab tricked David into returning Absalom to Jerusalem. Absalom lived in Jerusalem for two years before David finally pardoned him.
Chapter 15
Absalom began to steal the loyalty of the people from King David. Absalom had himself anointed king in Hebron and David fled Jerusalem. Absalom then took Jerusalem.
Chapter 16
Meribaal, the son of Jonathon turned against David to become king himself. Absalom then slept with all of David's concubines in view of Israel.
Chapter 17
David's friend Hushai convinced Absalom to march out to fight against David. When Antithopel, the advisor to King Absalom learned that his advice was ignored for Hushai's he went home and hanged himself.
Chapter 18
Absalom marched against David, but was heavily defeated. Absalom's hair was caught in a tree as he was retreating and was hung there. Joab stabbed Absalom in the heart.
Chapter 19
Joab admonished David for his mourning of Absalom and told him to go cheer the people for their victory. Judah and Israel quarreled over the restoration of David and who escorted him home.
Chapter 20
Israel left David and followed a rebel named Sheba, but Judah supported David. Joab then pursued Sheba. They caught him at a city and began to attack the city, but the people beheaded Sheba and the attack stopped.
Thank you for this day Lord. Do not forget your servant here and grant me mercy and peace. Restore my wife to me. Do not let me be overcome with grief and misery. Do this for the sake of your name. Do not let a man tear apart what you have joined together. Do not let your enemy rejoice in victory over you. Do not let me fall into dismay. Be near me and quiet my soul.
Brief Notes on 1 Samuel 13-31
(Originally Written May 29, 2008 in the Journal)
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you so much for this beautiful weather. Than you for the chance to serve and worship you. May the whole world sing your praises for the mighty works you have done. Lord forgive me for my sins. I am weak and contemptible. I am a lonely man Lord. I need the touch of my wife. Why have you taken her from me?
Lord look upon me with pity and mercy. Your servant cries out to you. Do not sit silent and allow me to fall into deeper affliction still. I can only bear so much. Lord I try to thank you for these sufferings but my heart and mind are wary from so much turmoil. Still my heart and quiet my mind so I can use these long few months to reflect on you. Lord teach me to be strong in you. There is no strength but that which comes from you.
Awaken the love for me in her heart. Open her eyes to the treasure of you. Do not give her over to temptations, but make her steadfast in you. Draw her to you so that she cannot escape. I beseech you my God and Savior, reach down your hand and bind us together. Show me the path you wish me to travel. I will follow wherever you lead. Be with my grandmother and ease her pain and discomfort. Strengthen her, if only in heart and soul. Pour out your love upon her so she can feel rest in old age.
Lord look upon me with favor for I need your hope and guidance. My strength is failing but yours will never fail. Lord become the Lord of my life. Take me under your wing and guide me to the way you wish. I will follow you until the end of my days.
Notes on I Samuel
Chapter 13
The Philistines rose up against Israel. While waiting for Samuel men began to leave Saul. Saul then offered a holocaust in anxiety and Samuel told him he was foolish and as a result Saul's line would not continue as the kings of Israel. The Philistines destroyed all the blacksmiths so only Saul and his son had swords. Everyone else sharpened farm tools to fight.
Chapter 14
Jonathan went up with his armor bearer and slew 20 Philistines. The Philistines went into panic and were terror-stricken. The earth shook so violently the panic was beyond human endurance. During the panic, Saul took his men and slaughtered the Philistines. Saul fought and won many victories as king of Israel.
Chapter 15
Samuel told Saul to doom all of Amalek for their mistreatment of Israel. However, they doomed only what was worthless and kept what was worthwhile. Samuel reproved Saul for his sin stating that obedience is better than sacrifice. He told Saul that because Saul rejected the command of the Lord, the Lord rejected him as a ruler. Samuel left Saul and never saw him again.
Chapter 16
The Lord spoke to Samuel and asked him why he still grieved for Saul. He told him to get up and go to Bethlehem and anoint one of Jesse's sons as the new king. Samuel anointed David, son of Jesse as the new king in accordance with the will of God. The Lord left Saul and an evil spirit began to torment him. They sent for David because he was a skillful harpist and could soothe the evil spirit. Saul grew fond of David and made him his armor-bearer.
Chapter 17
The Philistines gathered against Saul and sent out their champion, Goliath, who was a giant. Goliath called out for a challenger but all of Saul's men were seized with fear. David went to the battle and saw Goliath and was ready to challenge him. He spoke to Saul and Saul said, may the Lord be with you. Goliath mocked David. David called on the name of the Lord. David then slung a stone and embedded it into Goliath's forehead. He then took Goliath's own sword and chopped off his head. The Judahites chased the fleeing Philistines and cut them down. When they returned they looted the Philistine camp.
Chapter 18
David became a successful soldier, winning every mission he went on and Saul grew jealous of David's success. Saul offered his youngest daughter to David as a wife, but required 100 foreskins of the Philistines as a dowry. This was a trap to kill David. David slew two hundred Philistines and brought back their foreskins. Saul gave his daughter to him but became David's enemy because he feared David.
Chapter 19
Saul told Jonathon of his plan to kill David. Jonathan was fond of David so he warned David of Saul's plot. Jonathon then convinced Saul not to kill David. David defeated the Philistines again and Saul tried to kill David, but David escaped. David went to Ramah and told Samuel all of what had happened.
Chapter 20
Jonathon then saved David again from Saul, sending him away from danger.
Chapter 21
David then met with his men and took Goliath's sword up. David fled to Gath, but they recognized him so he pretended to be mad.
Chapter 22
Four hundred men came to David in hiding. A Benjamite then betrayed David to Saul saying that he had seen David with the Priest of Nob. Saul ordered his men to kill the priests of the Lord who aided David but the refused so he told Doeg, who had betrayed David to do it. Doeg killed 85 priests, but one man escaped and told David of the slaughter.
Chapter 23
David then consulted the Lord and went down to Keilah and defeated the Philistines. When Saul learned that David was in Keilah he went down to capture him, but David and his 600 men escaped. David hid out from Saul, but Jonathon went out to see him and assured him that he would be king and Jonathon would be second to him. Saul pursued David, but left because the Philistines invaded Israel.
Chapter 24
David had the chance to kill Saul, but spared his life. He then bowed before Saul and showed him that he could have killed him but did not. Saul became remorseful and acknowledged that David would become king. Saul made David swear not to blot out his line and they separated.
Chapter 25
Samuel died and was buried in Ramah. David went to ask Nabal for some provisions but Nabal refused so David took up arms. Nabal was cold, but his wife Abigal was generous and sent food to David and his men. When Abigail returned Nabal was very drunk. Abigail told Nabal what happened when Nabal sobered up. He grew ill and died 10 days later. David then married Abigail and also Ahinoam of Jezreel. Saul gave away David's first wife (his daughter) to another man.
Chapter 26
David went down to Saul's camp and stole his spear and water jug. He snuck out of the camp without waking anyone because the Lord had put the men of Saul into a deep sleep. David then taunted Abner and made Saul ashamed for hunting David.
Chapter 27
David then fled to Gath and lived with the Philistines. There, Saul no longer pursued him. The king of Gath gave David a city to live in. While living in the Philistine country David would raid the enemies of Israel and kill all the people, but return the spoils to Achish, the king of Gath.
Chapter 28
The Philistines marched against Israel and Achish took David and his men to fight with them at Jezreel. Saul became dismayed at the sight of the Philistines and called upon the Lord, but the Lord would not answer him. Saul then went to a medium to conjure up Samuel from the dead. Samuel told Saul that the Lord would deliver him into the hands of the Philistines and that he would be dead tomorrow.
Chapter 29
The other lords of the Philistines were angry with Achish for bringing David along. They made Achish send David away.
Chapter 30
While David and his troops were away, the Amalekites raided their city and burned it and carried away all of the inhabitants. David tracked them down and killed all but 400 who escaped and rescued the inhabitants that were stolen. He also recovered the loot. David sent some of the loot to the elders of cities in Judah.
Chapter 31
Saul and his sons were killed by the Philistines
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you so much for this beautiful weather. Than you for the chance to serve and worship you. May the whole world sing your praises for the mighty works you have done. Lord forgive me for my sins. I am weak and contemptible. I am a lonely man Lord. I need the touch of my wife. Why have you taken her from me?
Lord look upon me with pity and mercy. Your servant cries out to you. Do not sit silent and allow me to fall into deeper affliction still. I can only bear so much. Lord I try to thank you for these sufferings but my heart and mind are wary from so much turmoil. Still my heart and quiet my mind so I can use these long few months to reflect on you. Lord teach me to be strong in you. There is no strength but that which comes from you.
Awaken the love for me in her heart. Open her eyes to the treasure of you. Do not give her over to temptations, but make her steadfast in you. Draw her to you so that she cannot escape. I beseech you my God and Savior, reach down your hand and bind us together. Show me the path you wish me to travel. I will follow wherever you lead. Be with my grandmother and ease her pain and discomfort. Strengthen her, if only in heart and soul. Pour out your love upon her so she can feel rest in old age.
Lord look upon me with favor for I need your hope and guidance. My strength is failing but yours will never fail. Lord become the Lord of my life. Take me under your wing and guide me to the way you wish. I will follow you until the end of my days.
Notes on I Samuel
Chapter 13
The Philistines rose up against Israel. While waiting for Samuel men began to leave Saul. Saul then offered a holocaust in anxiety and Samuel told him he was foolish and as a result Saul's line would not continue as the kings of Israel. The Philistines destroyed all the blacksmiths so only Saul and his son had swords. Everyone else sharpened farm tools to fight.
Chapter 14
Jonathan went up with his armor bearer and slew 20 Philistines. The Philistines went into panic and were terror-stricken. The earth shook so violently the panic was beyond human endurance. During the panic, Saul took his men and slaughtered the Philistines. Saul fought and won many victories as king of Israel.
Chapter 15
Samuel told Saul to doom all of Amalek for their mistreatment of Israel. However, they doomed only what was worthless and kept what was worthwhile. Samuel reproved Saul for his sin stating that obedience is better than sacrifice. He told Saul that because Saul rejected the command of the Lord, the Lord rejected him as a ruler. Samuel left Saul and never saw him again.
Chapter 16
The Lord spoke to Samuel and asked him why he still grieved for Saul. He told him to get up and go to Bethlehem and anoint one of Jesse's sons as the new king. Samuel anointed David, son of Jesse as the new king in accordance with the will of God. The Lord left Saul and an evil spirit began to torment him. They sent for David because he was a skillful harpist and could soothe the evil spirit. Saul grew fond of David and made him his armor-bearer.
Chapter 17
The Philistines gathered against Saul and sent out their champion, Goliath, who was a giant. Goliath called out for a challenger but all of Saul's men were seized with fear. David went to the battle and saw Goliath and was ready to challenge him. He spoke to Saul and Saul said, may the Lord be with you. Goliath mocked David. David called on the name of the Lord. David then slung a stone and embedded it into Goliath's forehead. He then took Goliath's own sword and chopped off his head. The Judahites chased the fleeing Philistines and cut them down. When they returned they looted the Philistine camp.
Chapter 18
David became a successful soldier, winning every mission he went on and Saul grew jealous of David's success. Saul offered his youngest daughter to David as a wife, but required 100 foreskins of the Philistines as a dowry. This was a trap to kill David. David slew two hundred Philistines and brought back their foreskins. Saul gave his daughter to him but became David's enemy because he feared David.
Chapter 19
Saul told Jonathon of his plan to kill David. Jonathan was fond of David so he warned David of Saul's plot. Jonathon then convinced Saul not to kill David. David defeated the Philistines again and Saul tried to kill David, but David escaped. David went to Ramah and told Samuel all of what had happened.
Chapter 20
Jonathon then saved David again from Saul, sending him away from danger.
Chapter 21
David then met with his men and took Goliath's sword up. David fled to Gath, but they recognized him so he pretended to be mad.
Chapter 22
Four hundred men came to David in hiding. A Benjamite then betrayed David to Saul saying that he had seen David with the Priest of Nob. Saul ordered his men to kill the priests of the Lord who aided David but the refused so he told Doeg, who had betrayed David to do it. Doeg killed 85 priests, but one man escaped and told David of the slaughter.
Chapter 23
David then consulted the Lord and went down to Keilah and defeated the Philistines. When Saul learned that David was in Keilah he went down to capture him, but David and his 600 men escaped. David hid out from Saul, but Jonathon went out to see him and assured him that he would be king and Jonathon would be second to him. Saul pursued David, but left because the Philistines invaded Israel.
Chapter 24
David had the chance to kill Saul, but spared his life. He then bowed before Saul and showed him that he could have killed him but did not. Saul became remorseful and acknowledged that David would become king. Saul made David swear not to blot out his line and they separated.
Chapter 25
Samuel died and was buried in Ramah. David went to ask Nabal for some provisions but Nabal refused so David took up arms. Nabal was cold, but his wife Abigal was generous and sent food to David and his men. When Abigail returned Nabal was very drunk. Abigail told Nabal what happened when Nabal sobered up. He grew ill and died 10 days later. David then married Abigail and also Ahinoam of Jezreel. Saul gave away David's first wife (his daughter) to another man.
Chapter 26
David went down to Saul's camp and stole his spear and water jug. He snuck out of the camp without waking anyone because the Lord had put the men of Saul into a deep sleep. David then taunted Abner and made Saul ashamed for hunting David.
Chapter 27
David then fled to Gath and lived with the Philistines. There, Saul no longer pursued him. The king of Gath gave David a city to live in. While living in the Philistine country David would raid the enemies of Israel and kill all the people, but return the spoils to Achish, the king of Gath.
Chapter 28
The Philistines marched against Israel and Achish took David and his men to fight with them at Jezreel. Saul became dismayed at the sight of the Philistines and called upon the Lord, but the Lord would not answer him. Saul then went to a medium to conjure up Samuel from the dead. Samuel told Saul that the Lord would deliver him into the hands of the Philistines and that he would be dead tomorrow.
Chapter 29
The other lords of the Philistines were angry with Achish for bringing David along. They made Achish send David away.
Chapter 30
While David and his troops were away, the Amalekites raided their city and burned it and carried away all of the inhabitants. David tracked them down and killed all but 400 who escaped and rescued the inhabitants that were stolen. He also recovered the loot. David sent some of the loot to the elders of cities in Judah.
Chapter 31
Saul and his sons were killed by the Philistines
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Brief Notes on I Samuel 1-12
(Originally written in May 28, 2008 in the Journal)
May the Lord look upon me with favor as I faithfully serve Him, swaying neither to the left nor to the right. Lord I am tempted already! How can I make it through August on just bread and water when I am struggling on day two? Was I rash when I vowed to do this? Did I not hear your voice? No, I did. Lord, help me through these temptations. I will be faithful, swerving neither to the left nor the right.
Notes on I Samuel
Chapter 1
There was a man named Elkanah who had two wives, Hannah and Peninah. Hannah was barren, but Peninah had sons. Elkanah loved Hannah more, but Peninah taunted her for being barren. Hannah wept and prayed to the Lord to give her a son and she vowed to dedicated him to the Lord. Eli, the priest, first thinking that Hannah was drunk admonished her, but learning that her prayers were out of deep sorrow blessed her and sent her home. The Lord answered Hannah's prayers and gave her a son named Samuel. Hannah then gave to Eli the priest her son as she had vowed to the Lord.
Chapter 2
"There is no Holy One like the Lord; there is no rock like our God" (I Samuel 2:2, New American Bible).
The sons of Eli were wicked and respected neither the Lord nor the priesthood. The Lord blessed Hannah with three more sons and two daughters. Eli admonished his own sons for being wicked, but they did not listen. Samuel was growing up strong in the Lord. The angel of the Lord appeared to Eli and told him that his family would be doomed for their wickedness and that his two sons would die on the same day.
Chapter 3
One night Samuel was sleeping and heard a voice calling out to him. He ran to Eli but Eli had not called for him. This happened again a second time. The third time this happened Eli realized that the Lord was calling to Samuel and told Samuel to answer the voice of the Lord. The Lord told Samuel that he was going to doom Eli's family. Eli pressed this from Samuel and then said the Lord will do what he judges best on hearing the vision. Samuel became recognized as a prophet on account of the Lord.
Chapter 4
The Philistines defeated Israel in battle so the Israelites decided to take the Ark of the Covenant up to battle. When the ark reached the camp of Israel the warriors shouted so loudly the earth shook. When the Philistines learned of this they became frightened. But, the Philistines defeated the Israelites and captured the ark and Eli's two sons. When Eli learned that the ark was stolen and his two sons were dead he fell back and broke his neck and died. He was 98 years old.
Chapter 5
The Philistines took the ark back to the Temple of Dagon. The next morning the idol of Dagon was lying prone before the ark. The people picked him up and put him back in his proper place, but the next morning the idol was broken and laying before the ark.
The Lord sent plagues to Ashdod (where the ark was) and the people feared it and sent it to Gath. The Lord sent the plague to Gath. The Philistines then moved the ark to Ekron. The people of Ekron wanted to send the ark back because the Lord had dealt severly with them.
Chapter 6
The Philistines put the ark on a cart and hitched it to two cows. The cows then carried it back to Israel.
Chapter 7
Samuel told Israel that if they wished to be free of the Philistines and to serve the Lord they must turn aside from the Baals. Israel did so. The Israelites defeated the Philistines at Mizpah because of the Lord.
Chapter 8
Samuel appointed his sons Joel and Abijah as judges but they perverted justice so the people asked for a king. Samuel was displeased with this but the Lord told him to grant the Israelite's request. Samuel warned them that the king would enslave them, but the people refused to listen to him.
Chapter 9
Kish had some asses who ran away so he sent his son Saul and a servant to find them. When they could not they went to see a man of God to tell them the way. The Lord told Samuel that a man from Benjamin would seek him and that Samuel should appoint him as king. When Samuel saw Saul the Lord told him Saul was to be king. Samuel invited Saul to dinner. Saul was placed at the seat of honor. After dinner, Saul spent the night.
Chapter 10
Samuel then anointed Saul as king. He told him what was to happen and Saul went on his way. All of what Samuel prophesied came true. Samuel then appointed Saul as king in front of all the people.
Chapter 11
Saul summoned 300,000 Israelites to attack Nahash the Ammonite who was besieging Jabesh-Gilead. Saul and his army slaughtered the Ammonites.
Chapter 12
Samuel warned the people against idolatry and meaningless gods. He told them that the Lord would remember the covenant for the sake of His own great name.
Lord, remember me for your name. Remember the marriage vows we said before you. Honor those vows and strengthen our relationship so that you are credited with the victory over sin. Save this marriage so all who meet us will know of your grace and love. I beseech you, do not forsake this marriage. Make it holy and blameless in your sight. By your power it is easily done. Above all do your will but I will continue to pray until you grant me this request.
May the Lord look upon me with favor as I faithfully serve Him, swaying neither to the left nor to the right. Lord I am tempted already! How can I make it through August on just bread and water when I am struggling on day two? Was I rash when I vowed to do this? Did I not hear your voice? No, I did. Lord, help me through these temptations. I will be faithful, swerving neither to the left nor the right.
Notes on I Samuel
Chapter 1
There was a man named Elkanah who had two wives, Hannah and Peninah. Hannah was barren, but Peninah had sons. Elkanah loved Hannah more, but Peninah taunted her for being barren. Hannah wept and prayed to the Lord to give her a son and she vowed to dedicated him to the Lord. Eli, the priest, first thinking that Hannah was drunk admonished her, but learning that her prayers were out of deep sorrow blessed her and sent her home. The Lord answered Hannah's prayers and gave her a son named Samuel. Hannah then gave to Eli the priest her son as she had vowed to the Lord.
Chapter 2
"There is no Holy One like the Lord; there is no rock like our God" (I Samuel 2:2, New American Bible).
The sons of Eli were wicked and respected neither the Lord nor the priesthood. The Lord blessed Hannah with three more sons and two daughters. Eli admonished his own sons for being wicked, but they did not listen. Samuel was growing up strong in the Lord. The angel of the Lord appeared to Eli and told him that his family would be doomed for their wickedness and that his two sons would die on the same day.
Chapter 3
One night Samuel was sleeping and heard a voice calling out to him. He ran to Eli but Eli had not called for him. This happened again a second time. The third time this happened Eli realized that the Lord was calling to Samuel and told Samuel to answer the voice of the Lord. The Lord told Samuel that he was going to doom Eli's family. Eli pressed this from Samuel and then said the Lord will do what he judges best on hearing the vision. Samuel became recognized as a prophet on account of the Lord.
Chapter 4
The Philistines defeated Israel in battle so the Israelites decided to take the Ark of the Covenant up to battle. When the ark reached the camp of Israel the warriors shouted so loudly the earth shook. When the Philistines learned of this they became frightened. But, the Philistines defeated the Israelites and captured the ark and Eli's two sons. When Eli learned that the ark was stolen and his two sons were dead he fell back and broke his neck and died. He was 98 years old.
Chapter 5
The Philistines took the ark back to the Temple of Dagon. The next morning the idol of Dagon was lying prone before the ark. The people picked him up and put him back in his proper place, but the next morning the idol was broken and laying before the ark.
The Lord sent plagues to Ashdod (where the ark was) and the people feared it and sent it to Gath. The Lord sent the plague to Gath. The Philistines then moved the ark to Ekron. The people of Ekron wanted to send the ark back because the Lord had dealt severly with them.
Chapter 6
The Philistines put the ark on a cart and hitched it to two cows. The cows then carried it back to Israel.
Chapter 7
Samuel told Israel that if they wished to be free of the Philistines and to serve the Lord they must turn aside from the Baals. Israel did so. The Israelites defeated the Philistines at Mizpah because of the Lord.
Chapter 8
Samuel appointed his sons Joel and Abijah as judges but they perverted justice so the people asked for a king. Samuel was displeased with this but the Lord told him to grant the Israelite's request. Samuel warned them that the king would enslave them, but the people refused to listen to him.
Chapter 9
Kish had some asses who ran away so he sent his son Saul and a servant to find them. When they could not they went to see a man of God to tell them the way. The Lord told Samuel that a man from Benjamin would seek him and that Samuel should appoint him as king. When Samuel saw Saul the Lord told him Saul was to be king. Samuel invited Saul to dinner. Saul was placed at the seat of honor. After dinner, Saul spent the night.
Chapter 10
Samuel then anointed Saul as king. He told him what was to happen and Saul went on his way. All of what Samuel prophesied came true. Samuel then appointed Saul as king in front of all the people.
Chapter 11
Saul summoned 300,000 Israelites to attack Nahash the Ammonite who was besieging Jabesh-Gilead. Saul and his army slaughtered the Ammonites.
Chapter 12
Samuel warned the people against idolatry and meaningless gods. He told them that the Lord would remember the covenant for the sake of His own great name.
Lord, remember me for your name. Remember the marriage vows we said before you. Honor those vows and strengthen our relationship so that you are credited with the victory over sin. Save this marriage so all who meet us will know of your grace and love. I beseech you, do not forsake this marriage. Make it holy and blameless in your sight. By your power it is easily done. Above all do your will but I will continue to pray until you grant me this request.
Brief Notes on Ruth
(Originally Written May 28, 2008 in the Journal)
Heavenly Father I am lost in my thoughts. She is leaving in just four days. Lord make this separation temporary. Return her to me after this period renewed in her love for me. While we are separated teach me to be a good husband. Teach me to love her as Christ loves the Church.
I am terrified at the prospect of losing her. I seek refuge in you. Do not cast me away broken hearted. Lord you put us together, why tear us apart? Hear my cry oh Lord and rejoin us as a testimony to your care, love and mercy. Your will be done above all. May you be praised forever and ever.
Lord, I continue on days of only bread and water. Teach me what you will and make it plain for me to know your will. Keep me free of sin and strengthen me not to falter in the face of temptation. Focus my mind on you. I give you my life, my all. Do with me as you will. I am first-born and belong to you. Redeem me in this very hour so I can be with you. I seek only to serve you. Show me how you wish to be served. I will follow you all the days of my life.
Notes on Ruth
Chapter 1
Naomi was widowed and lost both of her sons who had married Moabite women, Oprah and Ruth respectively. She sent Oprah and Ruth away, but Ruth stayed with her. Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem from Moab.
Chapter 2
Ruth found favor with Boaz because what she had done for Naomi.
Chapter 3
Ruth wen to Boaz and asked him to protect her by marrying her. Boaz said he would if a closer relative to her late husband would not.
Chapter 4
Boaz asked the man who had first claim to Ruth and her late husband's field if he would claim his right. The man declined, so Boaz married Ruth.
Chapter 5
Ruth conceived and bore a son to continue the line of her late husband. They named him Obed who became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David.
Heavenly Father I am lost in my thoughts. She is leaving in just four days. Lord make this separation temporary. Return her to me after this period renewed in her love for me. While we are separated teach me to be a good husband. Teach me to love her as Christ loves the Church.
I am terrified at the prospect of losing her. I seek refuge in you. Do not cast me away broken hearted. Lord you put us together, why tear us apart? Hear my cry oh Lord and rejoin us as a testimony to your care, love and mercy. Your will be done above all. May you be praised forever and ever.
Lord, I continue on days of only bread and water. Teach me what you will and make it plain for me to know your will. Keep me free of sin and strengthen me not to falter in the face of temptation. Focus my mind on you. I give you my life, my all. Do with me as you will. I am first-born and belong to you. Redeem me in this very hour so I can be with you. I seek only to serve you. Show me how you wish to be served. I will follow you all the days of my life.
Notes on Ruth
Chapter 1
Naomi was widowed and lost both of her sons who had married Moabite women, Oprah and Ruth respectively. She sent Oprah and Ruth away, but Ruth stayed with her. Naomi and Ruth returned to Bethlehem from Moab.
Chapter 2
Ruth found favor with Boaz because what she had done for Naomi.
Chapter 3
Ruth wen to Boaz and asked him to protect her by marrying her. Boaz said he would if a closer relative to her late husband would not.
Chapter 4
Boaz asked the man who had first claim to Ruth and her late husband's field if he would claim his right. The man declined, so Boaz married Ruth.
Chapter 5
Ruth conceived and bore a son to continue the line of her late husband. They named him Obed who became the father of Jesse, who became the father of David.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Brief Notes on Judges 1-21
(Originally Written May 27, 2008 in the Journal)
Notes on Judges
Chapter 1
Judah and Simeon attacked the Canaanites and Perizzites in Bezek. They caught Adonibezek and cut off his thumbs and big toes. Adonibezek said, 'as I have done to others, God has doen to me'. He was taken and killed at Jerusalem.
The house of Joseph went and took Bethel with the help of the Lord.
Many peoples were not dislodged from their homes, but the Israelites impressed them as laborers.
Chapter 2
Because the Israelites did not remove all the inhabitants from the Promised Land, the Lord sent an angel to tell them that the other gods would now be a snare to them. After Joshua died and his generation passed on, a new generation offended the Lord by worshipping the Baals. The Lord grew angry with Israel for their idolatry and refused to remove any more of the peoples living in the Promised Land.
Chapter 3
The Lord allowed the five lords of the Philistines, the remaining Canaanites, the Sidonians and the Hivites to remain in the land as a test for Israel's fidelity.
The Lord allowed the Israelites to fall under the rule of Cushan-rishathaim, king of Aram Naharaim for eight years. Then they cried out to the Lord and the Lord raised up Othniel, nephew of Caleb. Israel was at peace for 40 years until Othniel died.
The Israelites sinned again and the Lord raised up Eglon, king of Moab who enslaved them for 18 years. The Israelites called out to the Lord and the Lord raised up Ehud, a Benjaminite. Ehud was left-handed. He hid his sword on the right thigh where it would not be checked and stabbed Eglon in the stomach. Eglon was so fat his belly swallowed the sword. The Israelites came down and conquered Moab and reigned over them for 80 years.
Shamgar was raised up by the Lord and rescued the Israelites by killing 600 Philistines with an ox-goad.
Chapter 4
The Israelites abandoned God after the death of Ehud, so the Lord allowed Jabin, king of Hazor to oppress them for 20 years. Debora and Barak gathered 10,000 men from Zebulun and Naphtali and marched to Mt. Trabor where they defeated the chariots of Jabin. Sisera, the general of Jabin fled and was killed by Jael, the wife of Heber, who was allied with Jabin.
Chapter 5
After defeating the chariots there was peace for 40 years.
Chapter 6
The Israelites again offended the Lord. They fell under the reign of Midian. The Lord sent an angel to Gideon and told him to rise up and save Israel. Gideon tore down the altar to Baal and the sacred pole and built an altar to the Lord on its place. Gideon then tested the Lord twice to see if it was really the Lord.
Chapter 7
The Lord told Gideon he had too many soldiers for him to deliver Midian into his hands. Gideon told all who were fearful to leave. 22,000 men left, but 10,000 stayed. The Lord then dwindled the number down to 300 men.
Chapter 8
Gideon then pursued Zebah and Zalmunna with his 300 men and was refused food from the men in Succoth and Penuel. Gideon vowed to crush Succoth and Penuel when he returned victoriously. Gideon caught Zebah and Zalmunna and returned to crush Succoth and Penuel. Gideon told his son to kill Zebah and Zalmunna but he was too afraid to, so Gideo did it himself. After Gideon died the Israelites once again turned to the Baals.
Chapter 9
Abimelech, the son of Gideon through a concubine, went to Schechem and killed all 70 of Gideon's legitimate sons. Only Jotham, Gidoen's youngest son survived. The people of Schechem made Abimelech king. Abimelech made war on cities against him and was killed by a woman who dropped a millstone on his head.
Chapter 10
After the death of Abimelech, the Issacharite Tola rose up to save Israel. After Tola came Jair. After Jair died the Israelites turned away from God and served the Baals once more. They were allowed to be oppressed for eighteen years by the Ammonites in punishment. The Israelites cried out once more but the Lord told them to cry out to the gods they had chosen. When they persisted the Lord grieved over them.
Chapter 11
Jephtah, the son of Gilead by a harlot was driven away for being illegitimate. But, the elders of Gilead called him back to be their leader. Jephtah vowed to the Lord that he would offer up whomever came out of the door to greet him in victory as a holocaust to the Lord if the Lord would grant him victory. When Jephtah returned victoriously his daughter came out to greet him and he tore his clothes in despair. Jephtah then offered her as a holocaust as he had vowed.
Chapter 12
The Ephraimites went to war with Jephtah, but Jephtah defeated them. After Jephtah died, Izban of Bethlehem judged Israel. After Izban, Elon judged Israel. After Elon, Abdon judged Israel.
Chapter 13
After Abdon, the Israelites turned from God so the Lord delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for 40 years. An angel of the Lord appeared to a woman and told her that she would bear a son to be consecrated to the Lord from the womb. No razor was to touch his head. The woman bore a son and called him Samson.
Chapter 14
Samson killed a lion with his bare hands.
Chapter 15
Samson's wife was married to another man. In anger Samson destroyed the Philistine town with foxes and fire. Samson then killed a thousand men with the jawbone of an ass. Samson judged Israel for 20 years.
Chapter 16
Samson fell in love with a woman named Delilah who wished to find out the secret of his strength for money she was offered. Finally she betrayed him and cut off his hair. The Philistines captured Samson and gouged out his eyes. The put him on display as a prisoner in the temple of Dagon. Samson collapsed the temple, killing everyone inside.
Chapter 17
Micah had an image made of the true God and consecrated a Levite as his personal priest.
Chapter 18
A group of Danites stole Micah's image of God and his priest and attacked a town and sacked it. They rebuilt the city and lived there until they were taken captive.
Chapter 19
A Levite from Ephraim went to get his unfaithful concubine. After getting her he stayed in Gibeah where he gave his concubine to the men of the town to save his own skin. When he returned home he cut her into twelve pieces and sent them throughout Israel.
Chapter 20
The men of Israel rose up and went to this Levite's house and he relayed the story of what had happened. The men of Israel rose up against Gibeah but the Benjaminites refused to give over the wicked men. The Benjaminites went to war with Israel. The Benjaminites defeated the Israelites on the first two days but were crushed on the third day.
Chapter 21
The Israelites were distraught over having destroyed their brother Benjamin. They had sworn an oath not to give wives to Benjamin and so the tribe was in danger of dying out. But the Lord provided a way.
Notes on Judges
Chapter 1
Judah and Simeon attacked the Canaanites and Perizzites in Bezek. They caught Adonibezek and cut off his thumbs and big toes. Adonibezek said, 'as I have done to others, God has doen to me'. He was taken and killed at Jerusalem.
The house of Joseph went and took Bethel with the help of the Lord.
Many peoples were not dislodged from their homes, but the Israelites impressed them as laborers.
Chapter 2
Because the Israelites did not remove all the inhabitants from the Promised Land, the Lord sent an angel to tell them that the other gods would now be a snare to them. After Joshua died and his generation passed on, a new generation offended the Lord by worshipping the Baals. The Lord grew angry with Israel for their idolatry and refused to remove any more of the peoples living in the Promised Land.
Chapter 3
The Lord allowed the five lords of the Philistines, the remaining Canaanites, the Sidonians and the Hivites to remain in the land as a test for Israel's fidelity.
The Lord allowed the Israelites to fall under the rule of Cushan-rishathaim, king of Aram Naharaim for eight years. Then they cried out to the Lord and the Lord raised up Othniel, nephew of Caleb. Israel was at peace for 40 years until Othniel died.
The Israelites sinned again and the Lord raised up Eglon, king of Moab who enslaved them for 18 years. The Israelites called out to the Lord and the Lord raised up Ehud, a Benjaminite. Ehud was left-handed. He hid his sword on the right thigh where it would not be checked and stabbed Eglon in the stomach. Eglon was so fat his belly swallowed the sword. The Israelites came down and conquered Moab and reigned over them for 80 years.
Shamgar was raised up by the Lord and rescued the Israelites by killing 600 Philistines with an ox-goad.
Chapter 4
The Israelites abandoned God after the death of Ehud, so the Lord allowed Jabin, king of Hazor to oppress them for 20 years. Debora and Barak gathered 10,000 men from Zebulun and Naphtali and marched to Mt. Trabor where they defeated the chariots of Jabin. Sisera, the general of Jabin fled and was killed by Jael, the wife of Heber, who was allied with Jabin.
Chapter 5
After defeating the chariots there was peace for 40 years.
Chapter 6
The Israelites again offended the Lord. They fell under the reign of Midian. The Lord sent an angel to Gideon and told him to rise up and save Israel. Gideon tore down the altar to Baal and the sacred pole and built an altar to the Lord on its place. Gideon then tested the Lord twice to see if it was really the Lord.
Chapter 7
The Lord told Gideon he had too many soldiers for him to deliver Midian into his hands. Gideon told all who were fearful to leave. 22,000 men left, but 10,000 stayed. The Lord then dwindled the number down to 300 men.
Chapter 8
Gideon then pursued Zebah and Zalmunna with his 300 men and was refused food from the men in Succoth and Penuel. Gideon vowed to crush Succoth and Penuel when he returned victoriously. Gideon caught Zebah and Zalmunna and returned to crush Succoth and Penuel. Gideon told his son to kill Zebah and Zalmunna but he was too afraid to, so Gideo did it himself. After Gideon died the Israelites once again turned to the Baals.
Chapter 9
Abimelech, the son of Gideon through a concubine, went to Schechem and killed all 70 of Gideon's legitimate sons. Only Jotham, Gidoen's youngest son survived. The people of Schechem made Abimelech king. Abimelech made war on cities against him and was killed by a woman who dropped a millstone on his head.
Chapter 10
After the death of Abimelech, the Issacharite Tola rose up to save Israel. After Tola came Jair. After Jair died the Israelites turned away from God and served the Baals once more. They were allowed to be oppressed for eighteen years by the Ammonites in punishment. The Israelites cried out once more but the Lord told them to cry out to the gods they had chosen. When they persisted the Lord grieved over them.
Chapter 11
Jephtah, the son of Gilead by a harlot was driven away for being illegitimate. But, the elders of Gilead called him back to be their leader. Jephtah vowed to the Lord that he would offer up whomever came out of the door to greet him in victory as a holocaust to the Lord if the Lord would grant him victory. When Jephtah returned victoriously his daughter came out to greet him and he tore his clothes in despair. Jephtah then offered her as a holocaust as he had vowed.
Chapter 12
The Ephraimites went to war with Jephtah, but Jephtah defeated them. After Jephtah died, Izban of Bethlehem judged Israel. After Izban, Elon judged Israel. After Elon, Abdon judged Israel.
Chapter 13
After Abdon, the Israelites turned from God so the Lord delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for 40 years. An angel of the Lord appeared to a woman and told her that she would bear a son to be consecrated to the Lord from the womb. No razor was to touch his head. The woman bore a son and called him Samson.
Chapter 14
Samson killed a lion with his bare hands.
Chapter 15
Samson's wife was married to another man. In anger Samson destroyed the Philistine town with foxes and fire. Samson then killed a thousand men with the jawbone of an ass. Samson judged Israel for 20 years.
Chapter 16
Samson fell in love with a woman named Delilah who wished to find out the secret of his strength for money she was offered. Finally she betrayed him and cut off his hair. The Philistines captured Samson and gouged out his eyes. The put him on display as a prisoner in the temple of Dagon. Samson collapsed the temple, killing everyone inside.
Chapter 17
Micah had an image made of the true God and consecrated a Levite as his personal priest.
Chapter 18
A group of Danites stole Micah's image of God and his priest and attacked a town and sacked it. They rebuilt the city and lived there until they were taken captive.
Chapter 19
A Levite from Ephraim went to get his unfaithful concubine. After getting her he stayed in Gibeah where he gave his concubine to the men of the town to save his own skin. When he returned home he cut her into twelve pieces and sent them throughout Israel.
Chapter 20
The men of Israel rose up and went to this Levite's house and he relayed the story of what had happened. The men of Israel rose up against Gibeah but the Benjaminites refused to give over the wicked men. The Benjaminites went to war with Israel. The Benjaminites defeated the Israelites on the first two days but were crushed on the third day.
Chapter 21
The Israelites were distraught over having destroyed their brother Benjamin. They had sworn an oath not to give wives to Benjamin and so the tribe was in danger of dying out. But the Lord provided a way.
Brief Notes on Joshua 11-24
(Originally Written May 27, 2008 in the Journal)
Lord I am weak. She is packing to leave me for good. If this separation must come to pass I pray you make it temporary. Day and night I will worship you and meditate on your Word. I will follow your Law and neither stray to the left nor to the right. Return her to me and you, most importantly to you. Stir in her the love you have for us. I beseech you as my Lord and King, do not forsake me in my time of desperation. You bound us here on earth; strengthen that binding and draw us closer to each other and close to you. This is all so easy in your power, if you would just touch down a finger on her she would be mine again. But your will be done for who am I to question your methods or wisdom? Lord save us, if you will. Give me strength and comfort today.
Last night you spoke to me and for what reasons I do not know. II heard a still, small voice in my heart speaking to me in the same tone as when I was told to fast. I heard "eat bread and water" and I will obey until the end of August. That is my sacred vow to you. I will honor your call.
Notes on Joshua
Chapter 11
The king of Hazor, Jabin, called to other kings to join him against the Israelites. Jobab, king of Madon, the kings of Shimron and Aehshaph and the kings of the northern mountains and the kings in Arabah and those to the west joined with Jabin. The eastern and western Canaanites, the Amorites, Perizzites and Jebusites united against Israel.
Joshua attacked them by surprise and killed all of them. He followed the Lord's instructions and hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots. Joshua doomed all the cities and did not stray from the commands of the Lord through Moses. Joshua exterminated the Anakim in the land. But, some survived in Gaza, Gath and Ashdod.
Chapter 12
A survey of the conquered kings:
- Sihon, king of the Amorites from Heshbon
- Og, king of Bashan
- The kings of Jericho, Ai, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, Eglon, Gezer, Debir, Geder, Hormah, Arad, Libnah, Adullam, Makkedah, Bethel, Tappuah, Hepher, Aphek, Lasharon, Madon, Hazor, Shimron, Aehshaph, Taanach, Megiddo, Kedesh, Jokneam, Dor, Gilgal and Tizrah, 31 in all.
Chapter 13
The Lord told Joshua in old age there was much yet to be conquered but to divide the conquered and unconquered land among the tribes.
The Eastern tribes: Reuben, Gad and the other half of Manasseh
Chapter 14
The Western Tribes: Judah
Chapter 15
Caleb drove from his portion the three sons of Anak (the Anakim) Sheshai, Ahiman and Talmai.
Judah was given a large portion on behalf of the faith of Caleb when he spied on the cities when the Israelites were still in the desert.
Chapter 16
The tribes of Joseph
Chapter 17
The Josephites, Manasseh and Ephraim complained about the size of their share and Joshua told them it would enlarge when they drove the Canaanites out.
Chapter 18
Joshua then divided the land into seven parts for the other seven tribes. He then cast lots to see who would pick first. The Benjaminites drew first.
Chapter 19
The Simeonites received their portion next, which was bound within that of Judah. Next came Zebulun, then Issachar, then Asher, then Naphtali and was finished by Dan. The Israelites gave to Joshua the city he asked for: Timnah-Serah.
Chapter 20
Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in the mountains of Ephraim and Hebron in Judah were set up as asylum cities. Beyond the Jordan River, the cities Bezer in Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan in Bashan were set apart as cities of asylum.
Chapter 21
The Levites were then allotted cities by the other tribes in accordance with the will of God.
All the promises the Lord made to Israel, He fulfilled.
Chapter 22
The half tribe of Manasseh, the Reubenites and the Gadites were blessed and sent back home across the Jordan River. After crossing the Jordan these three tribes built a very large altar to the Lord. When the other tribes heard of this they scrambled to declare war on them. They accused the Gadites, Reubenites and the half tribe of Manasseh of seceding from the Lord. These three tribes explained that it was meant only as a witness to the one true altar of the Lord, not a place for holocausts.
Chapter 23
Joshua warned the community not to stray from the Lord at all because as He fulfilled every promise so too would he fulfill every threat.
Chapter 24
Joshua renewed the covenant with Israel. Joshua died at 110 years old. Eleazar also died. The bones of Joseph were buried in Schechem.
Lord I am weak. She is packing to leave me for good. If this separation must come to pass I pray you make it temporary. Day and night I will worship you and meditate on your Word. I will follow your Law and neither stray to the left nor to the right. Return her to me and you, most importantly to you. Stir in her the love you have for us. I beseech you as my Lord and King, do not forsake me in my time of desperation. You bound us here on earth; strengthen that binding and draw us closer to each other and close to you. This is all so easy in your power, if you would just touch down a finger on her she would be mine again. But your will be done for who am I to question your methods or wisdom? Lord save us, if you will. Give me strength and comfort today.
Last night you spoke to me and for what reasons I do not know. II heard a still, small voice in my heart speaking to me in the same tone as when I was told to fast. I heard "eat bread and water" and I will obey until the end of August. That is my sacred vow to you. I will honor your call.
Notes on Joshua
Chapter 11
The king of Hazor, Jabin, called to other kings to join him against the Israelites. Jobab, king of Madon, the kings of Shimron and Aehshaph and the kings of the northern mountains and the kings in Arabah and those to the west joined with Jabin. The eastern and western Canaanites, the Amorites, Perizzites and Jebusites united against Israel.
Joshua attacked them by surprise and killed all of them. He followed the Lord's instructions and hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots. Joshua doomed all the cities and did not stray from the commands of the Lord through Moses. Joshua exterminated the Anakim in the land. But, some survived in Gaza, Gath and Ashdod.
Chapter 12
A survey of the conquered kings:
- Sihon, king of the Amorites from Heshbon
- Og, king of Bashan
- The kings of Jericho, Ai, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, Eglon, Gezer, Debir, Geder, Hormah, Arad, Libnah, Adullam, Makkedah, Bethel, Tappuah, Hepher, Aphek, Lasharon, Madon, Hazor, Shimron, Aehshaph, Taanach, Megiddo, Kedesh, Jokneam, Dor, Gilgal and Tizrah, 31 in all.
Chapter 13
The Lord told Joshua in old age there was much yet to be conquered but to divide the conquered and unconquered land among the tribes.
The Eastern tribes: Reuben, Gad and the other half of Manasseh
Chapter 14
The Western Tribes: Judah
Chapter 15
Caleb drove from his portion the three sons of Anak (the Anakim) Sheshai, Ahiman and Talmai.
Judah was given a large portion on behalf of the faith of Caleb when he spied on the cities when the Israelites were still in the desert.
Chapter 16
The tribes of Joseph
Chapter 17
The Josephites, Manasseh and Ephraim complained about the size of their share and Joshua told them it would enlarge when they drove the Canaanites out.
Chapter 18
Joshua then divided the land into seven parts for the other seven tribes. He then cast lots to see who would pick first. The Benjaminites drew first.
Chapter 19
The Simeonites received their portion next, which was bound within that of Judah. Next came Zebulun, then Issachar, then Asher, then Naphtali and was finished by Dan. The Israelites gave to Joshua the city he asked for: Timnah-Serah.
Chapter 20
Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in the mountains of Ephraim and Hebron in Judah were set up as asylum cities. Beyond the Jordan River, the cities Bezer in Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan in Bashan were set apart as cities of asylum.
Chapter 21
The Levites were then allotted cities by the other tribes in accordance with the will of God.
All the promises the Lord made to Israel, He fulfilled.
Chapter 22
The half tribe of Manasseh, the Reubenites and the Gadites were blessed and sent back home across the Jordan River. After crossing the Jordan these three tribes built a very large altar to the Lord. When the other tribes heard of this they scrambled to declare war on them. They accused the Gadites, Reubenites and the half tribe of Manasseh of seceding from the Lord. These three tribes explained that it was meant only as a witness to the one true altar of the Lord, not a place for holocausts.
Chapter 23
Joshua warned the community not to stray from the Lord at all because as He fulfilled every promise so too would he fulfill every threat.
Chapter 24
Joshua renewed the covenant with Israel. Joshua died at 110 years old. Eleazar also died. The bones of Joseph were buried in Schechem.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Brief Notes on Joshua 1-10
(Originally Written May 26, 2008 in the Journal)
Notes on Joshua
Chapter 1
The Lord told Joshua to be firm and steadfast and meditate on the Law day and night. He told Joshua not to fear because the Lord was with him.
Chapter 2
Joshua sent two spies and the woman Rahab hid them because she feared the Lord. They returned to Joshua and told them that the people feared the Israelites.
Chapter 3
The Lord stopped the Jordan River flowing and the Israelites crossed it.
Chapter 4
The Israelites erected twelve stones to mark the crossing of the Jordan River, one for each tribe.
The Lord exalted Joshua as He had Moses, and the people respected him as they did Moses.
Chapter 5
The kings of Canaanites and the kings of the Amorites became disheartened when they found that the Israelites had crossed the Jordan River on dry land.
The Israelites were all circumcised at Gilgal because they had not been circumcised in the desert.
Joshua met the captain of the host of the Lord (an angel) on the path to Jericho.
Chapter 6
The Israelites took Jericho by following the orders of the Lord. They marched around the city for seven days and let out a great yell on the seventh. The walls came down and they slaughtered all the men, women, children and animals inside. Rahab and her kin were spared and lived with the Israelites from there on out.
Chapter 7
While in Jericho, Achan took some of the loot that was banned. It was for this reason the Israelites were defeated at the city of Ai. Achan was stoned to death for his sin, with all his family and possessions.
Chapter 8
The Lord trapped Ai. Joshua sent 30,000 men to ambush it in the back and the rest of the force he led to the front. He then retreated and drew all the soldiers from Ai out with pursuit. The ambush squad sacked the city and burned it. The entire population of Ai was killed.
Joshua built an altar to the Lord on Mount Ebal. There he read the Law to the people.
Chapter 9
The Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites formed an alliance against Israel.
The Gibeonites deceived Joshua into making an alliance with them. The Gibeonites were spared their lives but made slaves to the Israelites.
Chapter 10
Adonizedek, king of Jerusalem formed an alliance with the kings of Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish and Eglon against Gibeon. Joshua marched up from Gilgal and slaughtered the five Amorite kings.
Chapter 10:13 - What is the book of Jashar?
The Israelites doomed Makkedhah, Libnah and Lachish, killing everyone. They doomed Eglon, Hebron and Debir. They conquered the mountain regions, the Negeb and the foothills, leaving no survivors. They captured Kadesh-barnea to Gaza, Goshen to Gibeon.
Notes on Joshua
Chapter 1
The Lord told Joshua to be firm and steadfast and meditate on the Law day and night. He told Joshua not to fear because the Lord was with him.
Chapter 2
Joshua sent two spies and the woman Rahab hid them because she feared the Lord. They returned to Joshua and told them that the people feared the Israelites.
Chapter 3
The Lord stopped the Jordan River flowing and the Israelites crossed it.
Chapter 4
The Israelites erected twelve stones to mark the crossing of the Jordan River, one for each tribe.
The Lord exalted Joshua as He had Moses, and the people respected him as they did Moses.
Chapter 5
The kings of Canaanites and the kings of the Amorites became disheartened when they found that the Israelites had crossed the Jordan River on dry land.
The Israelites were all circumcised at Gilgal because they had not been circumcised in the desert.
Joshua met the captain of the host of the Lord (an angel) on the path to Jericho.
Chapter 6
The Israelites took Jericho by following the orders of the Lord. They marched around the city for seven days and let out a great yell on the seventh. The walls came down and they slaughtered all the men, women, children and animals inside. Rahab and her kin were spared and lived with the Israelites from there on out.
Chapter 7
While in Jericho, Achan took some of the loot that was banned. It was for this reason the Israelites were defeated at the city of Ai. Achan was stoned to death for his sin, with all his family and possessions.
Chapter 8
The Lord trapped Ai. Joshua sent 30,000 men to ambush it in the back and the rest of the force he led to the front. He then retreated and drew all the soldiers from Ai out with pursuit. The ambush squad sacked the city and burned it. The entire population of Ai was killed.
Joshua built an altar to the Lord on Mount Ebal. There he read the Law to the people.
Chapter 9
The Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites formed an alliance against Israel.
The Gibeonites deceived Joshua into making an alliance with them. The Gibeonites were spared their lives but made slaves to the Israelites.
Chapter 10
Adonizedek, king of Jerusalem formed an alliance with the kings of Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish and Eglon against Gibeon. Joshua marched up from Gilgal and slaughtered the five Amorite kings.
Chapter 10:13 - What is the book of Jashar?
The Israelites doomed Makkedhah, Libnah and Lachish, killing everyone. They doomed Eglon, Hebron and Debir. They conquered the mountain regions, the Negeb and the foothills, leaving no survivors. They captured Kadesh-barnea to Gaza, Goshen to Gibeon.
Brief Notes on Deuteronomy 20-34
(Originally Written May 26, 2008 in the Journal)
Thank you God for her safe passage home. Thank you for all the blessing you have bestowed upon us. Circumcise our hearts, ears and minds that we may submit to your love and grace. Teach me in your Word. Hear my prayer Heavenly Father.
Deuteronomy
Chapter 20
Instructions for battle, kill all people living in the land of Canaan.
Chapter 21
How to deal with a dead body when found. The purging of sin by washing away the blood.
You may marry a female captive, but if you lose your liking for her you must free her because she was married under compulsion.
You must stone an incorrigible son to death.
Those put to death must be buried the same day.
Chapter 22
When you find something that is lost, take care of it for the owner until he claims it.
Women ought not to wear men's clothing and men are not to wear women's clothing. This is an abomination.
Infidelity is a capital punishment. You must purge evil from your midst.
If a man lies with an unmarried woman he must marry her and cannot divorce her.
Chapter 23
You must keep your camp clean and holy for the Lord dwells with you.
Chapter 24
Take care of the poor, needy and alien.
Chapter 25
Weigh true and just, do not cheat.
Honor your brother and his family.
Chapter 26
You are a people of the Lord. He will bless you if you keep His commandments.
Chapter 27
12 Curses:
1. Cursed is the man who makes an idol.
2. Cursed is the man who dishonors his father and mother.
3. Cursed is the man who moves his neighbor's landmarks.
4. Cursed is the man who misleads the blind man.
5. Cursed is the man who violates the orphan, widow or alien.
6. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his father's wife.
7. Cursed is the man who practices bestiality.
8. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his sister.
9. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his mother-in-law.
10. Cursed is the man who murders his neighbor.
11. Cursed is the hit man.
12. Cursed is the man who does not follow the law.
Chapter 28
Blessed are those who follow the ways of the Lord.
"Though you betroth a wife, another man will have her. Though you build a house, you will not live in it. Though you plant a vineyard, you will not enjoy its fruits" (Deuteronomy 28:29-30, New American Bible). A prophecy of Christ.
Chapter 29
Warnings against idolatry
Chapter 30
The Lord will delight in you if only you keep His commandments.
Chapter 31
The Lord your God will never fail or forsake you.
Moses commissioned Joshua as his successor.
Chapter 32
The Song of Moses.
It is God and God alone who inflicts wounds and heals them.
Moses went to Mount Nebo to view Canaan and die.
Chapter 33
Blessings are bestowed on the tribes through Moses.
Chapter 34
Moses went up to Mount Nebo and viewed the Promised Land. He died and the Israelites mourned him for thirty days.
Thank you God for her safe passage home. Thank you for all the blessing you have bestowed upon us. Circumcise our hearts, ears and minds that we may submit to your love and grace. Teach me in your Word. Hear my prayer Heavenly Father.
Deuteronomy
Chapter 20
Instructions for battle, kill all people living in the land of Canaan.
Chapter 21
How to deal with a dead body when found. The purging of sin by washing away the blood.
You may marry a female captive, but if you lose your liking for her you must free her because she was married under compulsion.
You must stone an incorrigible son to death.
Those put to death must be buried the same day.
Chapter 22
When you find something that is lost, take care of it for the owner until he claims it.
Women ought not to wear men's clothing and men are not to wear women's clothing. This is an abomination.
Infidelity is a capital punishment. You must purge evil from your midst.
If a man lies with an unmarried woman he must marry her and cannot divorce her.
Chapter 23
You must keep your camp clean and holy for the Lord dwells with you.
Chapter 24
Take care of the poor, needy and alien.
Chapter 25
Weigh true and just, do not cheat.
Honor your brother and his family.
Chapter 26
You are a people of the Lord. He will bless you if you keep His commandments.
Chapter 27
12 Curses:
1. Cursed is the man who makes an idol.
2. Cursed is the man who dishonors his father and mother.
3. Cursed is the man who moves his neighbor's landmarks.
4. Cursed is the man who misleads the blind man.
5. Cursed is the man who violates the orphan, widow or alien.
6. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his father's wife.
7. Cursed is the man who practices bestiality.
8. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his sister.
9. Cursed is the man who sleeps with his mother-in-law.
10. Cursed is the man who murders his neighbor.
11. Cursed is the hit man.
12. Cursed is the man who does not follow the law.
Chapter 28
Blessed are those who follow the ways of the Lord.
"Though you betroth a wife, another man will have her. Though you build a house, you will not live in it. Though you plant a vineyard, you will not enjoy its fruits" (Deuteronomy 28:29-30, New American Bible). A prophecy of Christ.
Chapter 29
Warnings against idolatry
Chapter 30
The Lord will delight in you if only you keep His commandments.
Chapter 31
The Lord your God will never fail or forsake you.
Moses commissioned Joshua as his successor.
Chapter 32
The Song of Moses.
It is God and God alone who inflicts wounds and heals them.
Moses went to Mount Nebo to view Canaan and die.
Chapter 33
Blessings are bestowed on the tribes through Moses.
Chapter 34
Moses went up to Mount Nebo and viewed the Promised Land. He died and the Israelites mourned him for thirty days.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Brief Notes on Deuteronomy 18-19
(Originally written on May 25, 2008 in the Journal)
I call upon you Lord to look after her and her family as they travel back from Arizona. Grant them safe passage home. Be with Phillip and my Dad out in Oregon. May the time be precious to them and may they be mindful of you. Watch over Bob in Iraq and keep him safe. Bless all those who serve this country because by serving their country they serve you because you have ordered this nation and this world.
Lord, circumcise my heart and my mind. Remove the stiffness of my neck. Do not let your wrath flare up against me, but look on me with mercy and love. Restore her to you and redeem this morning. Lord it is in your power to mend this torn relationship. I beg of you to sew us back together and hem the seams so they rip no more. Above all else, may your will be done here because it is perfect and wise. Thank you Lord for everything you have bestowed upon me, even these trials. Refine me in the iron smelt. Make me pure and blameless in your sight. I love you Lord, thank you for who you are. May you be praised in every heart and soul.
Deuteronomy 18
The Levites have no physical heritage. Their heritage is the Lord. The Lord alone sustains them.
The Lord will give the Israelites prophets to speak the word of the Lord to the people.
Deuteronomy 19
You must purge evil from your midst.
I call upon you Lord to look after her and her family as they travel back from Arizona. Grant them safe passage home. Be with Phillip and my Dad out in Oregon. May the time be precious to them and may they be mindful of you. Watch over Bob in Iraq and keep him safe. Bless all those who serve this country because by serving their country they serve you because you have ordered this nation and this world.
Lord, circumcise my heart and my mind. Remove the stiffness of my neck. Do not let your wrath flare up against me, but look on me with mercy and love. Restore her to you and redeem this morning. Lord it is in your power to mend this torn relationship. I beg of you to sew us back together and hem the seams so they rip no more. Above all else, may your will be done here because it is perfect and wise. Thank you Lord for everything you have bestowed upon me, even these trials. Refine me in the iron smelt. Make me pure and blameless in your sight. I love you Lord, thank you for who you are. May you be praised in every heart and soul.
Deuteronomy 18
The Levites have no physical heritage. Their heritage is the Lord. The Lord alone sustains them.
The Lord will give the Israelites prophets to speak the word of the Lord to the people.
Deuteronomy 19
You must purge evil from your midst.
Sermon notes on Suffering
(Originally Written May 25, 2008 in the Journal)
Pastor Nace Lanier, Burke Community Church Sermon Notes
Devotion is the Christ-centered life (godliness).
God will give you more than you can handle.
Abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul (I Peter 2:11-12 paraphrase).
Submit in public life.
Christians have a responsibility beyond the church. We ought to work even with non-Christians toward moral goals.
Submit in private life.
Grin and bear your suffering, mindful of God. If you suffer while mindful of God it is great and powerful. If you suffer without being mindful of God, then it is worthless.
We suffer as Christians. Suffering is to be accepted and embraced.
"For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21).
God gives us more than we can handle so that we trust in Him alone.
Thank you Lord for this morning's service at Burke. How coincidental was the sermon subject would be suffering. Obviously, that is a bit sarcastic because with you there is no coincidence, all is ordered.
Lord I submit myself to you. I am your willing servant. I give you all that I have and all that I am. Remember me as you look upon this wreckage of a man. Lord show me how I may follow Christ's footsteps. Show me the continuing path to you. I will walk neither left nor right, but straight and narrow.
Be with my grandmother as she is suffering physical pain with a broken back. Lord heal her wounds and comfort her as she takes the last steps on her journey to you. Be with her in that hospital bed. Send down your angels to minister to her body and soul. I beseech you Lord and call on your good will to hear and answer this prayer.
Lord as always your will be done.
Pastor Nace Lanier, Burke Community Church Sermon Notes
Devotion is the Christ-centered life (godliness).
God will give you more than you can handle.
Abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul (I Peter 2:11-12 paraphrase).
Submit in public life.
Christians have a responsibility beyond the church. We ought to work even with non-Christians toward moral goals.
Submit in private life.
Grin and bear your suffering, mindful of God. If you suffer while mindful of God it is great and powerful. If you suffer without being mindful of God, then it is worthless.
We suffer as Christians. Suffering is to be accepted and embraced.
"For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21).
God gives us more than we can handle so that we trust in Him alone.
Thank you Lord for this morning's service at Burke. How coincidental was the sermon subject would be suffering. Obviously, that is a bit sarcastic because with you there is no coincidence, all is ordered.
Lord I submit myself to you. I am your willing servant. I give you all that I have and all that I am. Remember me as you look upon this wreckage of a man. Lord show me how I may follow Christ's footsteps. Show me the continuing path to you. I will walk neither left nor right, but straight and narrow.
Be with my grandmother as she is suffering physical pain with a broken back. Lord heal her wounds and comfort her as she takes the last steps on her journey to you. Be with her in that hospital bed. Send down your angels to minister to her body and soul. I beseech you Lord and call on your good will to hear and answer this prayer.
Lord as always your will be done.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Brief Notes on Deuteronomy 1 - 17
(Originally written May 23, 2008 in the Journal)
Chapter 1
"Do not fear or lose heart" (Deuteronomy 1:21, New American Bible)
Chapter 2
The Lord would not give the Israelites any land of the Seir or of Moab because they are the descendants of Esau and Lot. He would also not give the land of the Ammonites to the Israelites because they too were the descendants of Lot. The Ammonites, Moabites and the descendants of Esau had all driven out the inhabitants of their land with the help of God. The previous inhabitants were the strong and tall people like the Anakim.
Who are the Anakim? Is there any other reference to them? In mythology? In archeology?
The Lord first delivered Heshbon, the kingdom of the Amorite ruler Sihon to the Israelites. The Israelites doomed them all, man, woman and child.
Chapter 3
The Lord then delivered the Kingdom of Bashan to the Israelites. They defeated King Og and captured over sixty cities. They left no survivors.
Og, the King of Bashan was the last of the Rephaim. His sarcophagus was nine cubits long and four cubits wide.
Moses asked the Lord to allow him to enter the kingdom of the Promised Land, but the Lord refused and showed it to him from a high hill.
Chapter 4
For the Israelites, Egypt was the iron foundry. God allowed the Israelites to be afflicted there for the sake of their spiritual purification. Contrast that with the furnace of affliction in Isaiah 48.
Lord, am I in the iron foundry or the furnace of affliction? I have sinned and deserve the latter. Yet, I am redeemed by the blood of Christ. I am atoned. If this is the foundry then continue the smelting so that I can be pure and strong. If this is the furnace of affliction Lord, cool the fires of your righteous rage and heal me with the balm of your merciful touch. Hear my prayer oh God, for you answer those who call to you. Hear me for the sake of your righteousness and look on me with pity and mercy and love.
Moses warns the Israelites not to be tempted by Idolatry.
"Since the Lord, your God, is a merciful God, He will not abandon and destroy you, nor forget the covenant which under oath he made with your fathers" (Deuteronomy 4:31, New American Bible)
Chapter 5
The retelling of the commandments
Chapter 6
Follow the statutes of the Lord and He will prosper you.
Chapter 7
Do not take mercy or pity on the enemies of God. Loathe and abhor everything that is doomed lest you be doomed by it.
Chapter 8
Do not allow prosperity to make you forget the Lord your God.
Chapter 9
Understand that the Lord gives you good land not because the merits of your heart, but because of the wickedness of others.
Chapter 10
Circumcise your hearts; be receptive to divine grace and guidance.
Chapter 11
You will be blessed and rewarded for obedience to God. You will be cursed for disobedience.
Chapter 12
Destroy all the strongholds and places of idol worship. You will worship the Lord in the place he appoints for you, not wherever you fancy.
Chapter 13
Do not follow a prophet who correctly tells the future but leads you to other gods for the Lord is testing you. Stone to death even your brother, wife or friend if they tempt you to stray to a false god. If a city is led to idolatry, kill all the inhabitants and burn the city. Do not rebuild it.
Chapter 14
Do not follow pagan mourning rituals.
Chapter 15
About the slaves and the poor
Chapter 16
The observation of Passover, Pentecost and the feast of the Booths.
There should be judges in communities whose end should only be justice without partiality.
Do not worship as the pagans do.
Chapter 17
You must stone idol worshippers, but there must be at least two or three witnesses to put a man to death. You must purge evil from the community.
When judges cannot decide they must refer them to the Levitical priests. They will hand down the decision after studying the case.
If you decide to take a king he will be appointed by God. He must not have many wives, horses or silver.
Chapter 1
"Do not fear or lose heart" (Deuteronomy 1:21, New American Bible)
Chapter 2
The Lord would not give the Israelites any land of the Seir or of Moab because they are the descendants of Esau and Lot. He would also not give the land of the Ammonites to the Israelites because they too were the descendants of Lot. The Ammonites, Moabites and the descendants of Esau had all driven out the inhabitants of their land with the help of God. The previous inhabitants were the strong and tall people like the Anakim.
Who are the Anakim? Is there any other reference to them? In mythology? In archeology?
The Lord first delivered Heshbon, the kingdom of the Amorite ruler Sihon to the Israelites. The Israelites doomed them all, man, woman and child.
Chapter 3
The Lord then delivered the Kingdom of Bashan to the Israelites. They defeated King Og and captured over sixty cities. They left no survivors.
Og, the King of Bashan was the last of the Rephaim. His sarcophagus was nine cubits long and four cubits wide.
Moses asked the Lord to allow him to enter the kingdom of the Promised Land, but the Lord refused and showed it to him from a high hill.
Chapter 4
For the Israelites, Egypt was the iron foundry. God allowed the Israelites to be afflicted there for the sake of their spiritual purification. Contrast that with the furnace of affliction in Isaiah 48.
Lord, am I in the iron foundry or the furnace of affliction? I have sinned and deserve the latter. Yet, I am redeemed by the blood of Christ. I am atoned. If this is the foundry then continue the smelting so that I can be pure and strong. If this is the furnace of affliction Lord, cool the fires of your righteous rage and heal me with the balm of your merciful touch. Hear my prayer oh God, for you answer those who call to you. Hear me for the sake of your righteousness and look on me with pity and mercy and love.
Moses warns the Israelites not to be tempted by Idolatry.
"Since the Lord, your God, is a merciful God, He will not abandon and destroy you, nor forget the covenant which under oath he made with your fathers" (Deuteronomy 4:31, New American Bible)
Chapter 5
The retelling of the commandments
Chapter 6
Follow the statutes of the Lord and He will prosper you.
Chapter 7
Do not take mercy or pity on the enemies of God. Loathe and abhor everything that is doomed lest you be doomed by it.
Chapter 8
Do not allow prosperity to make you forget the Lord your God.
Chapter 9
Understand that the Lord gives you good land not because the merits of your heart, but because of the wickedness of others.
Chapter 10
Circumcise your hearts; be receptive to divine grace and guidance.
Chapter 11
You will be blessed and rewarded for obedience to God. You will be cursed for disobedience.
Chapter 12
Destroy all the strongholds and places of idol worship. You will worship the Lord in the place he appoints for you, not wherever you fancy.
Chapter 13
Do not follow a prophet who correctly tells the future but leads you to other gods for the Lord is testing you. Stone to death even your brother, wife or friend if they tempt you to stray to a false god. If a city is led to idolatry, kill all the inhabitants and burn the city. Do not rebuild it.
Chapter 14
Do not follow pagan mourning rituals.
Chapter 15
About the slaves and the poor
Chapter 16
The observation of Passover, Pentecost and the feast of the Booths.
There should be judges in communities whose end should only be justice without partiality.
Do not worship as the pagans do.
Chapter 17
You must stone idol worshippers, but there must be at least two or three witnesses to put a man to death. You must purge evil from the community.
When judges cannot decide they must refer them to the Levitical priests. They will hand down the decision after studying the case.
If you decide to take a king he will be appointed by God. He must not have many wives, horses or silver.
Brief Notes on Numbers 35-36
(Originally written May 23, 2008 in the Journal)
Forgive me Father for I have sinned. You know the wickedness in me. Search it out and destroy it. I am weak and I want so badly to follow your every precept and truth, but the sins of the flesh call to me. It is not that I am in need of satisfying this lustful whim, only that I have habituated myself to it. Help me break this habit.
Lord be with her in Arizona. Show her your truth and love. You are pure glory and those who see you can only marvel at your wondrous nature. Your love is irresistible to us. We are programmed to seek it out. But, in our fallen nature we seek it where you are not and find a temporary relief that is followed by a hollow numbing pain. I ask out of your mercy and charity to reconcile her to you and me. Thy will be done though with all your faithful and unfaithful servants.
Numbers 35
The difference between murder and manslaughter: murderers must be put to death. Those guilty of manslaughter are to be put in a city of asylum until the priest who condemned them dies. To put a murderer to death there must be witnesses. One witness is not enough to put a murderer to death.
Numbers 36
The ancestral heritage allotted to each tribe is bound forever. No lands can pass between tribes.
Forgive me Father for I have sinned. You know the wickedness in me. Search it out and destroy it. I am weak and I want so badly to follow your every precept and truth, but the sins of the flesh call to me. It is not that I am in need of satisfying this lustful whim, only that I have habituated myself to it. Help me break this habit.
Lord be with her in Arizona. Show her your truth and love. You are pure glory and those who see you can only marvel at your wondrous nature. Your love is irresistible to us. We are programmed to seek it out. But, in our fallen nature we seek it where you are not and find a temporary relief that is followed by a hollow numbing pain. I ask out of your mercy and charity to reconcile her to you and me. Thy will be done though with all your faithful and unfaithful servants.
Numbers 35
The difference between murder and manslaughter: murderers must be put to death. Those guilty of manslaughter are to be put in a city of asylum until the priest who condemned them dies. To put a murderer to death there must be witnesses. One witness is not enough to put a murderer to death.
Numbers 36
The ancestral heritage allotted to each tribe is bound forever. No lands can pass between tribes.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Brief Notes on Numbers 30-34
(Originally Written May 21, 2008 in the Journal)
Foolishness and lust and sin, that is what I am. Lord have mercy on me, forgive me of my stupidity. Take the desire for my overindulgence away. I need neither food nor drink nor sex nor touch for fulfillment. I know this, now help me put it into practice.
Open my eyes to your wisdom. Open my heart to you. Open her eyes and heart and mind so she can once again be in your care and feel it. I do not know why she has turned her back on you nor why you have given her over to her sin. Redeem her to you as your lost daughter. Only your touch can save her. Do not abandon her as she has abandoned me. If you need atonement then allow me to atone for her. I will bear the punishment. Reconcile her to you and to me. Look upon me with favor for you are a just and merciful God.
Numbers 30 - Vows
Numbers 31
The Lord told the Israelites to exterminate the Midianites and they did so. They killed all the Midianite men, including five kings and Balaam. They took the women and children captive. When Moses saw the women and children he became angry and told them to kill every male child and every woman who was not a virgin. The men purified themselves and their possessions from battle.
Numbers 32
The tribes of Gad and Reuben settled in the land just conquered on the other side of the Jordan river.
Numbers 33
The retelling of the journey from Egypt to Canaan.
Numbers 34
The laying out of the territory and the appointment of the apportions.
Foolishness and lust and sin, that is what I am. Lord have mercy on me, forgive me of my stupidity. Take the desire for my overindulgence away. I need neither food nor drink nor sex nor touch for fulfillment. I know this, now help me put it into practice.
Open my eyes to your wisdom. Open my heart to you. Open her eyes and heart and mind so she can once again be in your care and feel it. I do not know why she has turned her back on you nor why you have given her over to her sin. Redeem her to you as your lost daughter. Only your touch can save her. Do not abandon her as she has abandoned me. If you need atonement then allow me to atone for her. I will bear the punishment. Reconcile her to you and to me. Look upon me with favor for you are a just and merciful God.
Numbers 30 - Vows
Numbers 31
The Lord told the Israelites to exterminate the Midianites and they did so. They killed all the Midianite men, including five kings and Balaam. They took the women and children captive. When Moses saw the women and children he became angry and told them to kill every male child and every woman who was not a virgin. The men purified themselves and their possessions from battle.
Numbers 32
The tribes of Gad and Reuben settled in the land just conquered on the other side of the Jordan river.
Numbers 33
The retelling of the journey from Egypt to Canaan.
Numbers 34
The laying out of the territory and the appointment of the apportions.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Brief Notes on Numbers 18-29
(Originally Written May 16, 2008 in the Journal)
A lot has happened in the last week and a half. She left me on Wednesday May 7th and today she put down her deposit to live in a coed house. Is it not enough to make me suffer the loss of my wife that I must writhe in pain and agony over her unfaithfulness? Why does the Lord hate me so? Why must He put me in such misery? Why do I face such trials and tribulations. I am merely a man. I am a weakling who is going to be crushed by this. Why have I been set upon a path to be destroyed? What sins have I committed to bring so much shame and hurt upon my head? Where is the mercy of the Almighty? Why have you looked upon me with scorn? I am wicked and growing ever more wicked. There is hate and malice in my very breath. This is why the Lord has struck me down. My pride and arrogance are decimated. The glory of the Lord has reduced me to ashes. May He now, if it is His will, resurrect me from this death. It is in your power Lord, if it is in your will.
The Lord is great and good in His dealings with me. He is fair and just. Though I now walk through such pain and strife I know that He has not abandoned me. Draw me closer to your love my sweet God so that I can begin to heal. Restore my faith and my heart for I am weak and faint. Fear has gripped my heart and soul and I long to be free of it. The Lord is my shepherd and I shall not want. Thank you Lord for your tests. May it strengthen my resolve for you. May you be praised for your very Being. You alone are worthy of my praise. Teach me patience and trust here, for I am in failing health and spirit. My mind betrays me and my heart stops. I have sunk beneath all else. I am the lowest of the lows. Restore me to you Lord. I will trust your unfailing judgment in all matters. Amen.
I hurt so bad Lord. Give me some comfort.
Numbers 18 - The priesthood is given to Aaron and his descendants as a gift.
Tithing - only the best portion is acceptable.
Numbers 19 -
The cleansing of the unclean men and women.
The importance of days number three and seven.
Numbers 20
Moses sinned by not trusting God and struck the rock twice.
Aaron passed away and the priesthood went to his son Eleazar.
Numbers 21 -
The Lord led the Israelites to victory over the King of Arad.
The Israelites complained against God and the Lord sent serpents to kill them. They repented and the Lord showed mercy.
What is the Book of the Wars of the Lord?
The Lord led the Israelites into victory over King Sihon and the Amorites.
The Israelites settled in the lands of the Amorites and then captured Jazer.
Numbers 22
Balak, the king of Moab sought out Balaam who feared the Lord. Balak wanted Balaam to curse the Israelites. The Lord told Balaam to go, but to do only as He said. The ass Balaam was riding saw the angel of the Lord and turned back three times and spoke to Balaam.
Numbers 23
Balaam blessed Israel to Balak's consternation.
Numbers 24
Balaam gave the oracle that no descendants of Ishmael shall survive.
Numbers 25
Some Israelites worshiped Baal of Shittim and were executed before the Lord. 24,000 died that day.
The Lord told Israel to crush the Midianites for bringing Baal worship to them.
Numbers 26
Another census of the 20 year old males and older is taken.
From Reuben came the Hanochites, the Pallvites, the Hezronites and the Carmites: 43,730 men.
From Simeon came the Nemuelites, the Jaminites, the Jachinites, the Soharites and the Shaulites: 22,200 men.
From Gad came the Zephonites, Haggites, Shunites, Oznites, the Erites, the Arodites, and the Arelites: 40,500 men.
From Judah came the Shelahites, the Perezites, the Hezronites, the Hamulites: 76,500 men.
From Issachar came the Tolaites, the Puvahites, the Jashubites, the Shimuonites: 64,300 men.
From Zebulun came the Seredites, the Elonites, the Jahleelites: 60,500 men.
From Joseph came the Manassehites, the Machirites, the Gileadites, the Abiezrites, the Helekites, the Asrielites, the Shechemites, the Shemidaites, the Hepherites: 52,700 men.
From Ephraim came the Shuthelahites, the Bechrites, the Tahanites, the Eranites: 32,500 men.
From Dan came the Shuhamites: 64,400 men.
From Asher came the Imnites, Ishvites, Benites, Heberites, Malchielites: 53,400 men.
From Naphtali came the Jahzeelites, Gurites, Jezerites, Shillemites: 45,500 men.
601,730 men were registered.
The Levites were the Gershonites, Kohathites, Merarites, Libnites, Hebronites, Mahlites, Mushites, Korahites: 23,300 men.
Only Joshua and Caleb were counted in both censuses.
Numbers 27 - The Lord showed Moses the Promised Land though he could not enter. He then told Moses to anoint Joshua as his successor.
Numbers 28 & 29
Offerings and festivals.
Thank you for this day. I always feel so much better after reading your Word. You are my strength and solace. May my lips never stop praising your Holy name.
A lot has happened in the last week and a half. She left me on Wednesday May 7th and today she put down her deposit to live in a coed house. Is it not enough to make me suffer the loss of my wife that I must writhe in pain and agony over her unfaithfulness? Why does the Lord hate me so? Why must He put me in such misery? Why do I face such trials and tribulations. I am merely a man. I am a weakling who is going to be crushed by this. Why have I been set upon a path to be destroyed? What sins have I committed to bring so much shame and hurt upon my head? Where is the mercy of the Almighty? Why have you looked upon me with scorn? I am wicked and growing ever more wicked. There is hate and malice in my very breath. This is why the Lord has struck me down. My pride and arrogance are decimated. The glory of the Lord has reduced me to ashes. May He now, if it is His will, resurrect me from this death. It is in your power Lord, if it is in your will.
The Lord is great and good in His dealings with me. He is fair and just. Though I now walk through such pain and strife I know that He has not abandoned me. Draw me closer to your love my sweet God so that I can begin to heal. Restore my faith and my heart for I am weak and faint. Fear has gripped my heart and soul and I long to be free of it. The Lord is my shepherd and I shall not want. Thank you Lord for your tests. May it strengthen my resolve for you. May you be praised for your very Being. You alone are worthy of my praise. Teach me patience and trust here, for I am in failing health and spirit. My mind betrays me and my heart stops. I have sunk beneath all else. I am the lowest of the lows. Restore me to you Lord. I will trust your unfailing judgment in all matters. Amen.
I hurt so bad Lord. Give me some comfort.
Numbers 18 - The priesthood is given to Aaron and his descendants as a gift.
Tithing - only the best portion is acceptable.
Numbers 19 -
The cleansing of the unclean men and women.
The importance of days number three and seven.
Numbers 20
Moses sinned by not trusting God and struck the rock twice.
Aaron passed away and the priesthood went to his son Eleazar.
Numbers 21 -
The Lord led the Israelites to victory over the King of Arad.
The Israelites complained against God and the Lord sent serpents to kill them. They repented and the Lord showed mercy.
What is the Book of the Wars of the Lord?
The Lord led the Israelites into victory over King Sihon and the Amorites.
The Israelites settled in the lands of the Amorites and then captured Jazer.
Numbers 22
Balak, the king of Moab sought out Balaam who feared the Lord. Balak wanted Balaam to curse the Israelites. The Lord told Balaam to go, but to do only as He said. The ass Balaam was riding saw the angel of the Lord and turned back three times and spoke to Balaam.
Numbers 23
Balaam blessed Israel to Balak's consternation.
Numbers 24
Balaam gave the oracle that no descendants of Ishmael shall survive.
Numbers 25
Some Israelites worshiped Baal of Shittim and were executed before the Lord. 24,000 died that day.
The Lord told Israel to crush the Midianites for bringing Baal worship to them.
Numbers 26
Another census of the 20 year old males and older is taken.
From Reuben came the Hanochites, the Pallvites, the Hezronites and the Carmites: 43,730 men.
From Simeon came the Nemuelites, the Jaminites, the Jachinites, the Soharites and the Shaulites: 22,200 men.
From Gad came the Zephonites, Haggites, Shunites, Oznites, the Erites, the Arodites, and the Arelites: 40,500 men.
From Judah came the Shelahites, the Perezites, the Hezronites, the Hamulites: 76,500 men.
From Issachar came the Tolaites, the Puvahites, the Jashubites, the Shimuonites: 64,300 men.
From Zebulun came the Seredites, the Elonites, the Jahleelites: 60,500 men.
From Joseph came the Manassehites, the Machirites, the Gileadites, the Abiezrites, the Helekites, the Asrielites, the Shechemites, the Shemidaites, the Hepherites: 52,700 men.
From Ephraim came the Shuthelahites, the Bechrites, the Tahanites, the Eranites: 32,500 men.
From Dan came the Shuhamites: 64,400 men.
From Asher came the Imnites, Ishvites, Benites, Heberites, Malchielites: 53,400 men.
From Naphtali came the Jahzeelites, Gurites, Jezerites, Shillemites: 45,500 men.
601,730 men were registered.
The Levites were the Gershonites, Kohathites, Merarites, Libnites, Hebronites, Mahlites, Mushites, Korahites: 23,300 men.
Only Joshua and Caleb were counted in both censuses.
Numbers 27 - The Lord showed Moses the Promised Land though he could not enter. He then told Moses to anoint Joshua as his successor.
Numbers 28 & 29
Offerings and festivals.
Thank you for this day. I always feel so much better after reading your Word. You are my strength and solace. May my lips never stop praising your Holy name.
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