Job 1-4

What does it say?

Job was a wealthy man who feared God. Satan accused that Job honored God only because God made him wealthy. The Lord God gave Satan the power to strike all that Job had, so he took away all that Job owned, as well as his sons and daughters. Job did not curse God but worshiped the Lord. Satan accused that if Job’s life is touched he will curse the Lord. The Lord allowed Satan to give Job boils, yet when his wife told him to curse God he blessed the Lord. Job’s three friends Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar came to Job to sympathize and comfort him. These friends sat with him for a week. Job laments his life, stating that it would have been better if he had never been born. Eliphaz believes that the innocent do not suffer as Job has; therefore, implying that Job must have sinned against the Lord. 

What does it mean?

Having wealth and fearing God seem to go hand in hand. Are not the wealthy and healthy the blessed ones? Satan’s accusation is that Job fears God and turns away from evil only because God prospers him. However, Job’s love for God proved to not be based in health, wealth and prosperity but in righteousness. We should not love the Lord for the things that he gives us. We should love the Lord because he is holy. The three friends Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar did what friends should do, they supported their friend in his time of grief. However, Eliphaz reveals that they believed that health, wealth and prosperity are based in personal righteousness. If a man lives uprightly, fearing God and turning away from evil, God well bless him with health, wealth and make his going prosperous. However, if he sins, God will curse him with poverty and sickness. Are the wealthy and healthy blessed of the Lord? Are the poor and sick cursed of the Lord? 

What shall I do?

This really causes me to think deeply about how and why I should praise God. Do I praise him because of the things that he has given me or because he is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet, will by no means leave the guilty unpunished? In other words, do I love God for who he is or for what he gives me? The COVID-19 crisis is proving that health and wealth can disappear in an instant. I know that the Lord is sovereign; therefore, this crisis is happening because God is allowing it to happen. Should I curse the Lord if I or my love ones become sick? Should I look on those who have lost wealth or jobs as being greater sinners than those who have not? Should I look on those who are sick as being greater sinners than those who are not? If so, I would have to think that the healthy and wealthy are righteous; yet, the scriptures declare that none are righteous. (Rom 3:10) The answer to all of these questions is no, I should not. I shall worship the Lord because he is God and I shall not have an attitude of personal favoritism. (Jam 2:1)  I shall love the Lord my God with all of my heart, soul and mind; and I shall love my neighbor as myself. (Mt 22:37-39) 

Esther 6-10

What does it say?

It was in Haman’s heart to hang Mordecai on the gallows but it was in the kings heart to honor him; therefore, Haman’s own pride became his dishonor as he was charged with leading Mordecai throughout the city on horseback. At Esther’s banquet she revealed that she is a Jew and Haman had contrived to have her and all the Jewish people destroyed. The knowledge that he had been tricked by Haman angered the king, so the king ordered Haman hung on the very gallows that he built to hang Mordecai. Mordecai was promoted to the place of Haman and Esther the Queen put him in charge of the house of Haman. The king put on Mordecai’s finger the signet ring of the king to make law. Mordecai made it lawful for the Jews to assemble and defend themselves from their enemies on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month and the people throughout the kingdom rejoiced when they heard the news. On the thirteenth day of the twelfth month the Jewish people throughout the kingdom rose up and defeated their enemies but did not take the plunder. In Susa, it was given to them to do the same on the fourteenth day, when they hung the sons of Haman on the gallows. The Jewish people celebrated a feast on the fourteenth day of the month but in Susa they celebrated on the fifteenth day of the month. Therefore, Mordecai the Jew commanded that the Jews remember these events annually with a two day feast on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the twelfth month. What their enemies meant for evil was turned.

What does it mean?

Jesus said, “You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” (Jn 8:44) The fifth commandment: You shall not murder. The ninth commandment: You shall not testify falsely against your neighbor. Lying against your neighbor because you hate him and want to see him destroyed is particularly devilish. Haman hated Mordecai and his people the Jews; therefore, he testified falsely against the Jews to King Ahasuerus, so that Mordecai with the Jews might be destroyed. For this reason Queen Esther called Haman a foe and a wicked enemy. (Est 7:6) The serpent lied to the woman in the garden because he saw an opportunity to destroy the image of God; however, God prophesied that the seed of the woman would bruise his head and he would only bruise the seeds heel. (Gen 3:15) The story of Esther and Mordecai the Jew is a picture of the gospel. The enemy of the people of God defeated and the people of God living and rejoicing.

What shall I do?

I shall believe in the Lord our God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The serpent has been defeated with the life, sacrificial death, and resurrection of the Son of God Jesus Christ. What an amazing twist of fate. Unbeknownst to Haman a Jew was made Queen; therefore, his evil plot was turned. Unbeknownst to Satan the Son of God would become flesh, born of a woman, dwell amongst us, die in our place and rise from the dead, forever defeating sin and death for his sheep. I shall sing praises to my Lord. He is worthy of all honor, glory and praise.

Esther 1-5

What does it say?

King Ahasuerus displayed his riches for 180 days, then he gave a seven day banquet for his invited guests while Queen Vashti entertained the women. The king wanted the Queen to come into his banquet, so that he could parade her beauty before his guest but she refused; therefore, the king asked his advisors and Memucan a prince suggested divorce and to send out word that the every man should be master in the home. The kings advisors suggested that beautiful young virgins be brought to the king and the one who pleases him should become queen. Mordecai was raising his uncle’s daughter (Esther) Hadassah. She was taken to the kings palace, given cosmetics,  and brought into see the king in the tenth month. The king married Esther, made her queen and served a royal banquet in her honor. Mordecai heard two men plotting against the king, he told Esther and she related to the king; therefore, the two men were hanged. The king promoted Haman as head prince; therefore, all the kings servants who gathered at the gate bowed to Haman but Mordecai refused. When Haman heard that Mordecai was a Jew, he sought to destroy his entire race. Haman spoke against the Jews to the king and suggested that they be destroyed. The king gave him the authority to make into law his suggestion. On the thirteenth day of the first month, Haman sent the kings couriers throughout the kingdom to deliver the message to annihilate all of the Jews on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month and seize their positions. Mordecai and all of the Jews went into mourning because of this news. When Esther heard that Mordecai was mourning she sent the kings eunuch Hathach to learn the reason. Mordecai requested that she go to the king about the matter but she knew that doing so may mean death; therefore, she told Mordecai through Hathach. Mordecai sent word back that she should go because she may have received royalty for the preservation of the Jews. Esther replied to Mordecai to have the people fast for three days and she will go to the king. When the king saw Esther, he extended the scepter of mercy to her. Esther requested that the king and Haman join her in a banquet at which time she will reveal her petition. Haman pridefully spoke to his wife of his riches and honor, also of his hatred for Mordecai. His wife suggested that Haman prepare gallows to hang Mordecai the Jew.

What does it mean?

The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 8:28 that all things work together for good. Even what may seem evil has a purpose and God’s purpose is always good. Men are going to act wickedly but God will use their evil intentions for his good purpose. Esther was put in place to deliver the Jews from Haman’s intention of destroying them. God has raised up Jesus Christ to deliver his elect from the evil intentions of the Satan. 

What shall I do?

God in Jesus Christ has promised eternal life to all who trust in him. I work at the beside as a registered nurse in an intensive care unit seeing great illness. The entire world and the community that I live in is in disorder because of the Corona virus. The Father God has sent a deliver in the Son of God Jesus Christ the Lord. I cannot see eternity now amid the fear, illness and death that abounds in this present world. However, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead and he will raise all who believe in him to eternal life in the new heaven and the new earth on the last day as he promised. Our deliverer is on the thrown of God! Therefore, I shall trust in the Lord!

Nehemiah 12-13

What does it say?

The priests and the Levites who returned to Jerusalem with the governor Zerubbabel are listed. The chief priestes and Levites who had come up with Zerubbabel during the reign of Darius as well as those who served in the days Nehmiah the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe. The Levites from all the land were sought out for the dedication of the the wall of Jerusalem. Choirs were appointed to sections of the wall. Great sacrifices were offered and they rejoiced and their joy was heard from afar. The people gave to the priests and the Levites their dues as was required by the law. On that day, the book of the law was read allowed and it was heard that Moses said, “No Ammonite or Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God,” so, they applied this to all foreigners. During Nehemiah’s absence, Tobiah the Ammonite official had been given a room in the temple; this displeased Nehemiah, so he cleaned Tobiah’s things out of the room and restored its proper use. Also, the Levites had abandoned the house of God because the people had not given them the tithe of grain, wine and oil; Nehemiah restored the Levites to their post and the people gave as required by the law. The sabbath day had become like any other day of the week, goods were being brought into Jerusalem and sold to the people; therefore, Nehemiah rebuked Israel. Nehemiah commanded that the gates of Jerusalem be shut on the sabbath (sun down to sun up) and he appointed Levites as guards; for a while, merchants came and camped outside of the gate but after being threatened by Nehemiah they came no more. Nehemiah found that all Israel and even the priest were intermarrying with the people of the land, women of Ashdod, Ammon and Moab; Nehemiah rebuked them, speaking of to the people about how Solomon was lead astray by foreign women. So, Nehemiah once again purified Israel of everything foreign and appointed tasks for the priests and the Levites and appointed times for supplies to be brought into the house of God.

What does it mean?

It did not take long for Israel to revert to everyman doing as he saw fit. The leaders had agreed in writing to keep the covenant, and all of Israel rejoiced at the dedication of the wall. During Nehemiah’s absence, reporting to king Artaxerxes, the agreement was abandoned. Nehemiah resorted to making laws to enforce the covenantal commandments. This shows that man left to himself will always revert to his sin nature. All of mankind is by nature sinful. Unless the natural man is under threat of loss in the natural realm he will not keep the moral law of God. This set up the situation of Jesus day, the Pharisees burdened the people with commandments and traditions; therefore, Jesus called them hypocrites, quoting Isaiah: Matthew 15:8-9 (NASB)

‘THIS PEOPLE HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS,

BUT THEIR HEART IS FAR AWAY FROM ME.

‘BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME,

TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN.’”

A situation was being set up at the end of Nehemiah; if a man and or laws were not in place to force obedience to God’s law, the people would not keep God’s law because it was not in their heart to do so. People do not need legalism. They need a new heart. They need to be born again.

What shall I do?

I shall preach law to the proud and gospel to the humble. Legalism is a great deal of work because someone has to be in place to enforce the law. The only means that we are given to convert people is the gospel. The gospel is the power of God for salvation. (Rom. 1:16) It isn’t that law should not be preached because it is the law which brings the knowledge of sin. (Rom 3:19-20) However, the answer isn’t more law but the gospel. The law cannot save anyone but is solely the tutor to bring men to Christ. (Gal 3:24) 

Nehemiah 10-11

What does it say?

Nehemiah the governor and leaders signed the document. They vowed (knowing the curse) to walk in God’s law as was given through Moses, to keep all of the commandments and statues of the law; they also vowed not to intermarry with the people of the land and to keep the Sabbath. They also vowed to give a temple tax, one third of a shekel. They cast lots for who would bring up wood to burn in the temple at appointed times; and vowed to bring in the first born, the first fruits, and give one-tenth of what up from the ground to the Levites. Lots were cast for one-tenth of the people to live in Jerusalem, while nine-tenths lived in the other cities of Judah; those who lived in Jerusalem were blessed by the people. The people who did not live in Jerusalem lived on their own property. The sons of Judah, the sons of Benjamin, the priests, and Levites who lived in Jerusalem are listed and numbered according to their patriarchal names. The Levites who were in charge of singing kept the commandment of David concerning music day by day in the temple. The people who lived in the other cities of Judah and Benjamin are not listed but the cities were. 

What does it mean?

For the retuned exiles the law given through Moses, the Temple and the city of Jerusalem became central and the outlying communities less important. For the returned exiles community meant Jerusalem, worship meant the Temple and obedience the law. However, can any man perfectly keep the law? If the works that they vowed to do are not done with a whole heart they would be guilty of violating the law. “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Heb 4:12) When the community does these things what will be the intentions of the heart?

What shall I do?

Jesus said to not make vows because we do not have the power to make things happen but let your yes be yes and your no be no. (Mt 5:33-37) Theonomy is a hypothetical form of government ruled by God’s law. I do not believe that theonomy is possible in this fallen world. Men have rebellious hearts. Under threat, men will outwardly observe the law but not from the bottom of the heart. I shall not place a yoke on my brother which no man is able to bear but I shall point all men to Christ alone for salvation from the curse of the law. (cf. Acts 15:10-11) 

Nehemiah 8-9

What does it say?

Ezra the priest and scribe brought out the book of the law of Moses, he stood up on a platform, opened the book the people stood up, he blessed the Lord, he read the word from early morning to midday and the Levites explained the law to the people. The people began to cry but Nehemiah, Ezra and the Levites told the people to rejoice and they did celebrating a festival to the Lord because they understood the word. The leaders gathered in a council regarding the words of the law and proclaimed a proclamation that the feast of booths should be observed, so the people made booths of olive branches and lived in them for seven days; during the feast Ezra read from the book of the law of God daily and on the eight day they had a solemn assembly. The people confessed their sins and they wore sackcloth with dirt upon them. The Levites commanded the people to arise and recounted the entire history of the Old Testament before the assembly in prayer to the Lord; blessing the Lord for his lovingkindness, confessing the sins of Israel and confessing that the leaders are agreeing in writing to keep the covenant. 

What does it mean?

The Scriptures must be translated into the language of the people so that the people may understand the word of God. Trained men are to explain the text to the people. Once the word is understood, the response of the hearer should be rejoicing, confession of sin, repentance and observance of the word of God.

What shall I do?

Learned men have translated the Scriptures from the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek, so that I can read the word in my own language. I have studied in a seminary, so that I might explain the text to others. I shall continue to read the word and explain the word to others. I know that understanding in the hearer should cause rejoicing, confession of sin, repentance and observance of the word of God.

Nehemiah 7

What does it say?

Nehemiah appointed two men in charge of Jerusalem; Hanani his brother and Hananiah the commander of the fortress to bar the gates during the night and post guards; he consider them honorable men. Than it was put into Nehemiah’s heart to enroll everyone by their genealogy; however, the genealogical book of those who came up first was found. These are remembered by their patriarchal names along with the priests, the Levites, the temple servants and the sons of Solomon’s servants. Those who came up previously who could not prove their genealogy to a son of Israel, a son of Aaron, or a son of Levi were also remembered but restricted from temple service. The entire assembly that previously came up was 42,360 persons, 7,337 servants (245 of the people were singers), 736 horses, 245 mules, 435 camels and 6,720 donkeys. The treasury that was given by these who first returned was remembered. Lastly, it was remembered that the people settled into the land and lived in each their genealogical city.

What does it mean?

We have a tendency to forget that there was a history and people who came to Christ before us. Studying those who came before us is a very good thing to do. When we study church history we become connected to the church as a whole. The situations that we now face may have been faced by Christians in the past. How did they respond? Did their response prove to be something we should model or did it prove to be something that we should avoid? We should know our history.

What shall I do?

I shall study church history, thereby becoming connected with the people who preceded me in coming to our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. Today, the churches faces a crisis. We are restricted from meeting together as a large group. What did Christians do in the past who were not able to meet in large congregations. Did they splinter into small house churches? I have seen this in the present. In Cuba it is ilegal to have a large meeting of believers come together in a building that was not established as a church before the Cuban revolution. However, many who have come to the Lord in Cuba gather in small house churches. Churches in East Texas are attempting to continue what we have been doing by videoing a service that can be watched on a computer. I think that we should look to the past for the answer because the church has faced crisis in meeting before. The church has also survived plagues. I shall consider our past for the present.

Nehemiah 4-6

What does it say?

Sanballat the Samaritan and Tobiah the Ammonite became angry; therefore, they mocked the Jews who were rebuilding the wall. Nehemiah prayed to the Lord because the people were demoralized, they continued to rebuild and the wall was joined together to half its height. Sanballat, Tobiah and the other people of the land conspired to come and fight against Jerusalem; therefore, they prayed to the Lord for protection, stationed guards night and day, and Nehemiah spoke encouraging words to the Jews in the Lord. The Jews continued the rebuilding project and each man had his sword at his side ready to rally together at the sound of the trumpet. Day and night each man remained in Jerusalem, didn’t remove his clothing, and kept his sword with him at all times. Some of the people cried out because their Jewish brothers were taking advantage of them, taking their property and putting them in bondage for food. Nehemiah scolded those who were charging interest to his brother and requested that they give the people back their fields, each man promised to return each his field, requiring nothing for them. Nehemiah was appointed governor of Judah but did not tax the people as previous governors had done but feed the people who gathered at his table at his own cost. Sanballat with the other governors of the land accused the Jews of planning to rebel against the king and accused Nehemiah of planning to become king of Judah, but Nehemiah told them that this was not true; therefore, he prayed to the Lord to strengthen his hand. Tobiah the Ammonite and Sanballat the Samaritan hired a false prophet Shemaiah to trick him into sheltering in the temple which would give the appearance that he was exalting himself as king. It took only 52 days to complete the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem, this discouraged the other peoples of the land; therefore, Tobiah the Ammonite sent letters to frighten Nehemiah. 

What does it mean?

Threats and discouraging words abound in this world. We must trust in the promises of God in Jesus Christ and observe all that he commanded. Jesus Christ has all authority in heaven and on earth. He has commissioned the church to go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the triune God and teaching them to observe all that he commanded. (Mt. 28:18-20) The enemy does not like this and will use fear to discourage and will also try and discredit our intentions. We must not become discourage or be tricked into unrighteous actions out of fear. 

What shall I do?

I confess that I have been discouraged. Nearly one year ago I graduated with a Master’s degree in Theological Studies and felt a desire to teach; particularly, pastors who do not have access to formal theological education. I began looking into theological education in the mission field. Eventually I became a partner with Biblical Training Center for Pastors and was set to begin training pastors with another man who had been doing theological education in Cuba for twenty years. I went there for a 1 week seminar in September of 2019 and was very encouraged. I then rearranged my life and work so that I could go to Cuba and teach 3-4 times a year. We were to return to Cuba in December but were denied visas by the Cuban government. We were to return again in April but the man who had been doing this ministry developed an inner ear problem which gave him vertigo. Then this corona virus came about shutting down all international travel. I shall not be discourage but will continue reaching people with the gospel of Jesus Christ and teaching them his word while praying that the Lord opens up opportunities. 

Nehemiah 1-3

What does it say?

Nehemiah inquired about the Jews and the condition of Jerusalem. Nehemiah lamented the condition of Jerusalem and confessed that it was right for the Lord to punish Israel for their sin; he then reminds the Lord of his promise of restoration if they repent. Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king. Artaxerxes the king saw that he was sad and asked the reason; therefore, Nehemiah confessed it was because of the condition in Jerusalem and requested that the king allow him to go repair the city and the wall of the city for which the king granted him the request. Nehemiah arrived with a letter from the king to the governors of the provinces but Sanballat was displeased. Nehemiah came to Jerusalem and was there three days before he arose at night, riding on a donkey, surveying the condition of the wall. When he returned, Nehemiah revealed to the Jewish officials his plan to rebuild the wall, but when Sandballat and Tobiah heard that the Jews were rebuilding the wall they accused them of rebelling. So, the rebuilding began, first with the Sheep Gate and the high priest hung its doors. Then the Fish gate and all around the wall. Then the Old gate and the wall was being repaired by each his brother. The Valley gate and the wall. The Refuse gate and wall. The Fountain gate and each man repaired a section of the wall. And the Horse God and each repaired the section of the wall in front of his house all the way around back to the Sheep gate.

What does it mean?

The Lord God is abounding in lovingkindness and truth. Whatever he has promised will be carried out despite evil. The Lord put it in Nehemiah’s heart to repair the wall, softened the heart of king Artaxerxes and used Nehemiah to inspire the Jews. When a body of believers are united as one, a seemingly impossible task can be accomplished.

What shall I do?

I hear reports that the world is in a terrible condition. At this time, the Corona virus is said to be a global pandemic. The panic over this disease is causing economic strain. My home church (Sylvania) is not meeting on Sunday mornings but our pastor is preaching his sermon on the internet. I also know that death by war, famine, pestilence and wild beast are a result of sin.(Rev 6:7-8) So, what can I do? I can repair the wall in front of my house; preaching the law and gospel to my neighbors while taking care of my sickest neighbors in the intensive care unit.

Ezra 8-10

What does it say?

The men who came to Jerusalem were numbered and named according to their patriarch. Ezra did not see any Levites camped with him so, he sent for them to come. Ezra had not asked for troops to protect them as they journeyed to Jerusalem but asked through fasting and prayer for the Lord might protect them along the way. Ezra gave the treasure to 12 priests and 10 Levites to hold on to until the treasure could be brought to the house of God. The Lord protected them from thieves along the way; three days after arriving in Jerusalem the treasure was weighed out in the house of God into the hands of the high priests. The exiles that arrived with Ezra offered burnt offerings to God and delivered the kings edicts to the governors. Ezra found that the exiles who returned ahead of him had intermarried with the people of the land and he lamented their action. Ezra makes a prayer of confession regarding the rebellion of Israel and the grace of the Lord. Ezra sees the intermarriages with the people of the land as breaking the commandment to not worship other god’s. (cf. Ex. 34:11-17) As Ezra prayed and prostrated himself, a large assembly gathered to him and Shecaniah suggested making a covenant to put away the wives from the people of the land and their children. Ezra made the priests and Levites take an oath to do what Shecaniah suggested, so they took an oath and called for all of Judah to assemble and warned that he who does not come will forfeit his property and be excluded. The assembly agreed to put away the wives and children from the land but asked for time to handle the matter. Ezra selected men to visit the exiles to investigate who had married foreign wives. They pledged to put away their wives and offered a ram of their flock for their offense. 

What does it mean?

The people of God are to be one in obedience before the Lord. The first commandment: You shall have no other gods before me means that the Lord is to be first in everything. When Ezra arrived in Jerusalem he found that the people were not putting the Lord first but were putting their own desires ahead of the Lord; therefore, they were also putting their own desires ahead of the assembly. Ezra and those who came with him had journeyed a long ways trusting the Lord to protect them. Ezra was appalled over this intermarrying because doing so would lead to Idolatry, the breaking of the second commandment. Idolatry and selfishness were the reasons that Israel and Judah were exiled. God had been gracious in allowing these exiles to return. Intermarrying would cause them to return to breaking the commandments. 

What shall I do?

When I realize that I have sinned; I shall repent, confessing my sin to the Father God and trust in the cross, the perfect sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ to save me from hell. For God is just to forgive us of all our sins in Jesus Christ. 

Ezra 4-7

What does it say?

The people who had been placed in the land by Esarhaddon king of Assyria requested to take part in the building of the temple but where rejected by the people of Judah. Therefore, the people of the land discouraged the people of Judah. They also wrote a letter to king Ahasuerus accusing the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem saying, if they are allowed to rebuild the walls of the city they will revolt. The king wrote a decree to stop the work because it was found in the records that the city had a history of rebellion. The work was stopped until the second year of Darius king of Persia. During the days of the prophets Haggai and Zechariah the building project resumed. The adversaries wrote to Darius requesting that he look into his records to see if Cyrus had in fact written a decree for the Jews to rebuild the temple. It was found in the records that a decree had been issued for rebuilding the temple as well as the cost. Darius, therefore, issued a decree for the Jews to be left alone in the rebuilding of the temple and that the priest be paid from the taxes of the people, so that the priests may make acceptable sacrifices to God and pray for him and his sons; he also warned of death to anyone who hindered the rebuilding of the temple. The temple was completed during the sixth year of the reign of Darius. Israel, the priests, the Levites and the rest of the exiles celebrated the dedication of the temple, they offered many sacrifices to the Lord and reinstitution of regular sacrificial service. The exiles observed the Passover on the fourteenth of the first month, followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days with joy, glorifying God for putting it into the hearts of the king to encourage them. During the seventh year of king Artaxerxes, Ezra came to Jerusalem with others, the journey from Babylon took four months; Ezra was a teacher of the law. Ezra arrived in Jerusalem with much silver, gold and a decree from Artaxerxes to use them in temple service as they see fit. The decree also gave an allotment from the governs of the land to give whatever Ezra needs and a statement that the those who serve in the temple are not to be taxed. Artaxerxes also gave Ezra the power to appoint judges in the land and teach the law of the Lord. Ezra wrote a note of thanksgiving to the Lord, the God of the fathers of Israel.

What does it mean?

The will of the Lord cannot be stopped. God can and will use evil for good. No matter how difficult it may seem or how many obstacles might be put in the way. If God wills it, it will be done. Gamaliel gave council regarding this fact to the leaders in Jerusalem regarding the Christians. He said, “stay away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or action is of men, it will be overthrown; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God.” (Acts 5:38-39) Do not be found on the side fighting against God because you will loose.

What shall I do?

I shall read and study the word of the Lord. I shall pray for the Spirit of truth that he may give me understanding, so that I may know the truth. I know that Jesus has defeated sin and death. He has been given all authority in heaven and on earth. He has commissioned the church to make disciples, baptize the new disciples and teach them to observe all that he commanded. (Mt. 28:18-20) This will continue to the end of the age and no force will stop it. Therefore, I shall go and make disciples; baptizing and teaching them as the Lord has commanded without fearing evil men. 

Ezra 1-3

What does it say?

Cyrus king of Persia made a proclamation during which he gave credit to the Lord God for his kingdom and encouraged the survivors to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of God. Every man that was stirred of heart returned to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem and Cyrus returned the articles of gold and silver numbering 5,400. The leaders returning were Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum and Baanah; also the people returning were numbered by their patriarchal name. Then the priests where numbered by their patriarchal name, as well as the Levites. There were also 652 who returned but were not able to give evidence of their patriarch, those priest who could not give evidence were excluded from priesthood. The entire congregation was 42,360, plus the servants were 7,337, and they had many animals that they brought with them. Those who returned gave willingly to rebuild the house of the Lord and they all lived in the cities of Israel. Before the first brick was laid for the foundation of the house, the leaders built the altar and offered burnt offerings from the first day of the seventh month continually. The leaders, the priest, and the Levites over saw the building project. When the foundation for temple was laid, the congregation came together as one, singing praises and giving thanks to the Lord; many of them were emotional when they saw that the foundation had been laid.

What does it mean?

Deuteronomy 30:1-6 promises restoration from captivity when the people return to the Lord God and obey him with all their heart and soul. God’s promises are always yes and amen. God will always act in accordance with his divine nature and his word is always truth. God is not like man who tells lies nor does he need to repent. Whatever God has promised he will do. If he has made a promise we can be assured that he will make all of his promises good. (Num 23:19) 

What shall I do?

I shall trust in the word of the Lord. Nearly two-thousand years have passed since Jesus bodily rose from the dead, commissioned the church and was taken up into heaven. (Acts 1:1-11) The apostle Paul preached at the Areopagus, “Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead.” (Acts 17:30-31, NASB) Jesus will return as he has promised but no man knows the day or the hour of his return; however, we can trust that he will return to raise us from the dead because God has promised in Jesus Christ that he will. Therefore, I shall trust the word of the Lord and not loose heart.

2 Chronicles 35-36

What does it say?

Josiah reinstated the passover celebration and set the priests in their offices and encouraged them and the Levites in the service of the house of the Lord. Josiah and the officers contributed for the people, the passover sacrifices. The Priest sacrificed the animals, sprinkling the blood, the Levites skinned and roasted them for the people. They celebrated the passover, then the feast of unleavened bread for seven days in the 18th year of Josiah’s reign. After setting the house of the Lord in order, Josiah went up against the king of Egypt in battle and died; the people lamented at his death and burial. Joahaz became king but was displaced to Egypt and Eliakim (Jehoiakim) his brother became king in his place. Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon captured Jehoiakim and took him to Babylon; therefore, Jehoiachin his son became king in Jerusalem. After a brief reign, he too was taken to Babylon. Zedekiah was made king by Nebuchadnezzar but he rebelled against the Lord, ignoring the prophet Jeremiah. God had sent many prophets but they mocked the word of God and scoffed at the prophets; therefore, God gave them into the hands of the Chaldeans who killed the majority, deported those who were not killed to Babylon until the kingdom of Persia. Cyrus king of Persia made a proclamation for the people to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of the Lord.

What does it mean?

 Wisdom shouts in the street (Pr 1:20) and this is what the prophets did in Judah and Jerusalem but the people had a rebellious heart. There were brief appearances of repentance but these soon devolved into rebellion. Through Moses and the prophets the Lord God warned of blessing for keeping the law and curse for breaking the law. He also promised that after banishing them, when they turned to the Lord and obeyed him with all their heart and soul, he would have compassion on them and gather them again from where the Lord has scattered them. (Dt 30:1-5) The Lord God told Moses that he is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness and truth. That he keeps lovingkindness for thousands. He forgives iniquity, transgression and sin but will not leave the guilty unpunished. He will pore out his wrath on the guilty which will inflict their children and grandchildren for several generations. (Ex 34:6-7) The Lord God always acts in accordance with his glory.

What shall I do?

The Lord God has promised eternal life in Jesus Christ for all who repent and believe in him. I shall publicly preach the word of the Lord as the prophets did in Israel. Jesus has commissioned the church to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. (Mk 16:15) I shall do as the Lord has commanded, knowing that I may be mocked and the message that I love may be despised by those whom I am seeking to reach. I shall do so until the Lord returns or takes me home.

2 Chronicles 32-34

What does it say?

Assyria invaded Judah coming up against the cities in Judah, so Hezekiah prepared for defense and encouraged the people to be strong and courageous trusting in the Lord God. Sennacherib sent his servants to speak to the people of Jerusalem who were on the wall to frighten and terrify them, speaking of the Lord as if he were like the gods of other nations (idols) that were made with human hands. Hezekiah and Isaiah the prophet called out to the Lord in prayer and the Lord delivered Judah from Sennacherib. Hezekiah became prideful though all that he accomplished and had was given to him by the Lord; Hezekiah became ill and his heart was humbled, so the Lord did not pore out wrath on Judah during his days. His son Manasseh became king in Judah at the age of twelve, his reign was 55 years, during which he reversed all of the changes his father made in Judah, acting more abominably than the inhabitants of that the Lord sent Israel to remove from the land. Manasseh was captured by Assyria and brought to Babylon in chains, so he humbled himself and called out to the Lord who brought him back to Jerusalem and sat him on the thrown; therefore, Manasseh repented, realized that the Lord is God, he removed the foreign gods and the idol that he had made. Amon became king and did all the evil that his father did but he did not repent. Josiah became king at the age of 8 and began following the word of the Lord at the age of 16; therefore, he purged Judah of the high places, the Asherim and idols. Josiah ordered that the house of the Lord be repaired and appointed skilled men to accomplish the task. During the rebuilding project, Hilkiah the priest found the book of the law which was read to the king who then realized the sin of Judah when he heard the law. The king inquired of the Lord, through Huldah the prophetess, the Lord God told of his plan to carry out against Judah the curses found in the book of the law, but not during the days of Josiah because he and the leaders of Judah humbled themselves when they heard the law. Josiah covenanted to perform the word of the Lord before God all of his days.

What does it mean?

“GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” (Jam 4:6) When the kings of Israel humbled themselves, the Lord delivered them but when they were proud, acting wickedly, he sent their enemies against them. Psalms 19:7 says, “The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” Josiah heard the word of the Lord written in the book of the Law; this closed his mouth, made him realize his guilt because the law brings the knowledge of sin. (cf. Rom 3:19-20) We should not send wrath upon the sinner, that is for the Lord but we should give the proud heart the law of the Lord that he may repent.

What shall I do?

I shall preach law to the proud and the gospel to the humble. I shall preach the law and the gospel to myself daily. I shall preach the law to put to death my proud heart and the gospel to bring life. When someone I am talking with thinks that they deserve heaven, I shall give them law to close their mouth. When I am talking with someone who confesses sin, I shall give them the good news that God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (Jn 3:16) 

2 Chronicles 28-31

What does it say?

Ahaz became king in Judah and acted wickedly in many ways. The Lord God used the king of Aram and Israel to punish Judah for the wicked acts under the leadership of Ahaz. However, the Lord did not allow Israel to make slaves of Judah as they had it in their mind to do, for he rose up Obed as a prophet to preach against enslaving their brothers and warned of the wrath of God against Israel if they did not repent, so they clothed them and let them go free. King Ahaz asked Assyria to help against his enemies and Assyria took the wealth of Judah. After this Ahaz fell further into idolatry, sacrificing to the gods of Damascus and closing the doors to the house of the Lord, making alters for himself in Jerusalem. Hezekiah became king in Judah. He opened the doors to the house of the Lord and repaired them, bringing in the priests and the Levites, and he instructed them to cleanse the house of Idolatry and be ministers. It took a total of sixteen days to cleanse the whole house of the Lord from the unclean things and put the house in order for consecrated worship of the Lord. The princes assembled and burnt offerings and sin offerings were made for Israel. While the offering was burning the congregation worshiped the Lord in song. Then at the completion the burning they all bowed down to worship the Lord. Then the service for the house of the Lord was open again and the people came and offered sacrifices and thank offerings to the Lord. Then he invited all of Israel to return to following the Lord and worship him together as one at the the temple. Most of Israel laughed at the messengers, but some of them humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem.  In the second month they celebrated the passover as one congregation and celebrated the feast of unleavened bread for 7 days. They were so full of joy that they decided to continue the feast for another 7 days.  These went out and broke down the pillars and Asherim. The house of the Lord was again open for worship and the law of the Lord regarding ritual worship, tithe and sacrifice was being followed. The priests and the Levites were numbered and assigned their duties in worship. Hezekiah is credited with bringing about these reforms in Israel.

What does it mean?

No matter how bad it seems the Lord can bring about revival. One person whose heart is for the Lord can be used by God for revival. Even during revival there will be those who mock and laugh at the evangelist, but there will be many who turn to the Lord through the preaching of his word. In order for people to come to the Lord Jesus Christ they must believe in him. However, they cannot believe in him unless they hear about him. They cannot hear about him without a preacher and the preacher must be sent. When the preacher goes into the world with the good news he should not lose heart when all do not believe. Many will mock and scorn and laugh at the preaching, but some will repent and believe. (Rom 10:14-17) 

What shall I do?

The Lord Jesus Christ has sent his sheep out to invite people from all nations to the feast of the Lord; therefore, I must be obedient to the word of the Lord and preach the gospel to all people. (Mk 16:15) 

2 Chronicles 25-27

What does it say?

Amaziah became king and followed the word of the Lord but not with a whole heart. He followed the word of the Lord regarding those who killed his father; therefore, as the word said, he did not kill there sons. Amaziah hired 100,000 troops from Israel to go into battle against the Edomites. A man of God came and told him that if he went into battle with these men God would defeat him but without them he would give him victory; so he dismissed the men but while the army of Judah was fighting the edomites these men attacked the cities of Judah. Amaziah bowed down to idols, the gods of Edom; therefore, God sent him a prophet to rebuke him but he refused to listen. After defeating Edom Amaziah became proud and challenged Joash king of Israel and Joash defeated Judah and took the treasury out of the house of God. Amaziah’s reign would end buy fleeing to Lachish and dying there but he would be buried in Judah. Uzziah became king, like Amaziah, at the beginning he followed the word of the Lord and God prospered him. During his reign, Judah became a war machine and all the surrounding countries feared the army of Judah. He defeated both Philistines and Arabians and built cities of Judah expanding Judah’s borders. Uzziah became proud and took it upon himself to burn incense to the Lord which was only for the sons of Aaron to do; God struck him with leprosy for this, and he lived out his remaining days in isolation. Jotham became king in Judah and he followed the word of the Lord but the people continued in corruption; however, he prospered and built cities in the hill country and defeated the Ammonites who paid him tribute.

What does it mean?

God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble. (Jam 4:6) Amaziah, Uzziah and Jotham, though they were kings of Israel they should have understood their place before the Lord. They should have understood that they were lowly servants of the Lord. All that they had and accomplished came from the Lord. He made them kings of Judah and gave to them victory and spoil. When they humbled themselves before the Lord he prospered them but when they became proud of heart he humbled them.

What shall I do?

I shall realize that I did not create myself but God created me, he knitted me together in my mothers womb and what amazing lovingkindness it was to bring me into this world. He gave me parents to raise me despite my youthful lusts. He has given me a beautiful wife with whom we raised to wonderful children. He has given me a career in nursing to support our household. He has given my an education in theology and his word to study, that I may know and seek him. I shall realize that I am nothing, the Lord is God. He is worthy of all honor, glory and praise. I shall walk humbly before the Lord. When I feel discontentment, may I repent and thank God for all that he has given me. When I feel proud, may I repent and thank the Lord for what he has given me. All belongs to the Lord and I am his servant. I shall be thankful for all that the Lord chooses to do for me and not have expectations beyond what he has promised in his word. He has promised us eternal life in Jesus Christ the Lord.

2 Chronicles 21-24

What does it say?

Jehoram succeeded Jehoshaphat as king in Judah. The relationship with the unrighteous that the Lord warned against came to Jerusalem. Jehoram married Ahab’s daughter and did evil in the sight of the Lord. Edom revolted and set up a king over themselves. God inflicted the house of Jehoram with the Philistines and Arabs who carried away his possessions and sons, except for the youngest because the Lord was unwilling to destroy completely the house of David his servant. Ahaziah succeeded Jehoram as king in Judah. Ahaziah slew his brothers at the direction of his mother Athaliah. His manner of leading was just like that of Ahab, king of Israel; therefore, he allied with Jehoram king of Israel. The Lord used Jehu to destroy the house of Ahab and the house of Ahaziah was inflicted in the wake. When Ahaziah died, Athaliah killed his sons but her daughter Jehoshabeath hid Joash from her and took him to Jehoiada the priest who cared for him and rallied the priests and Levites around him. At the age of 7 Joash was made king and his grandmother Athaliah was put to death. At the direction of Jehoiada, Judah followed the word of the Lord until Jehoiada died at the age of one hundred and thirty years. The king turned away from following the Lord and served the Asherim and the idols. He also murdered the son of Jehoiada for preaching against these things. The Lord sent the Arameans who defeated Judah. Then the servants of Joash turned against him and murdered him, so Amaziah his son became king in Judah.

What does it mean?

Though the prophets the Lord had warned Jehoshaphat of allying with Ahab. Ahab’s influence had devastating effects on the sons who would follow Jehoshaphat in leadership. The marriage between Jehoram and Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab had devastating effects. Like the line of Ahab was destroyed, the line of Jehoram should have been destroyed but because of the Davidic covenant (cf. 1 Ch. 17:1-15) it was not. In fact, the line was protected against destruct as God used a woman to protect the line who brought him into the sanctuary of the house of God. When Joash was crowned king by Jehoiada, he placed the testimony (The Ten Commandments) in his hand. The Ten Commandments are the revealed righteous standard of God. The testimony declared cursed are those who do not observe the commandments and blessed are those who do. (cf. Dt. 27-29)

What shall I do?

I have a gold coin that I keep in my pocket. I take it out and look at it often. On one side is written the Ten Commandments and on the other side the gospel. The Ten are the revealed righteous standard of God. The gospel is the revealed way for law breakers to be made right with God. How can God be just and justify law breakers? God displayed Jesus Christ publicly as a propitiation in his blood through faith. I shall continue to meditate daily on the revealed righteous standard of God and on the revealed way for law breakers like myself to be made right with God. I shall follow the word of God and learn to observe all that he commanded and not the council of the world. 

2 Chronicles 18-20

What does it say?

Jehoshaphat king of Judah allied with Ahab king of Israel by marriage. Ahab talked Jehoshaphat into going up against the city of Ramoth-gilead which was under the control of the king of Aram. Jehoshaphat requested to hear the word of the Lord regarding the matter. There was a lying spirit in the tongues of the prophets in Israel but Micaiah spoke truth about what would happen in the battle. He prophesying the death of Ahab. The Lord saved Jehoshaphat but let him know through the seer Hanani  that he was not pleased with the alliance he had made with Ahab saying,

“Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD and so bring wrath on yourself from the LORD? But there is some good in you, for you have removed the Asheroth from the land and you have set your heart to seek God.” (vs. 19:2-3)

Jehoshaphat made reforms in the land, appointing judges who would hear cases, directing them to judge righteously and not with partiality or the taking a bribe. They were to judge in accordance with the law and commandment of the Lord, his statutes and ordinances. Judah was invaded by the peoples that they were reframed from destroying when they entered the land: the sons of Moab, the sons of Ammon, with some of the people inhabitants of Mount Seir. Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah and Jerusalem sought the Lord for help. The Lord answered them through Jahaziel saying, “Do not fear.” The Lord turned these attackers against one another and they destroyed one another. After this, Jehoshaphat allied with Ahab’s son Ahaziah king of Israel. As he had warned previously through the seer Hanani that alliances with the unrighteous displeased him, the Lord destroyed the ships that Jehoshaphat built with the help of Ahaziah. Elizer prophesied their destruction. 

What does it mean?

The Lord God is the sovereign ruler of the universe. He has all authority in heaven and on earth. Whatever he allows will be and whatever he disallows will not. God was against Ahab and used a deceiving spirit in the mouths of the prophets and the king of Aram to destroy him. God was with Jehoshaphat, he even sent him council regarding alliances with the unrighteous. The Ammonites,  moabites, and inhabitants of Mount Seir could not do what they wanted to do (destroy Judah and Jerusalem) because the Lord did not allow it. Jehoshaphat could not be successful in alliances with the unrighteous because God did not allow it.

What shall I do?

I shall trust in the sovereignty of the Lord, his word is truth. In whatever plans I am making, I shall consult the word of God before and while making them. I shall know that whatever occurs on the earth that may seem good or bad at the time, God has either allowed or caused for good. 

2 Chronicles 13-17

What does it say?

Abijah succeeded Rehoboam as king over Judah. His reign was for three years. Abijah took the forces of Judah and Benjamin up against Jeroboam and the northern tribes of Israel. Jeroboam had caused Israel to sin by making two golden calves, drove out the priests of the Lord and made priests of whoever comes to consecrate himself. Abijah’s forces were 400,000 and Jeroboam’s were 800,000. Abijab called on the name of the Lord and God gave Jeroboam into his hand and 500,000 of Israel fell. After this, Jeroboam slept with his fathers and his son, Asa became king of Judah and Benjamin. Asa removed the foreign altars and high places, tore down the sacred pillars, cut down the Asherim, and commanded Judah to seek the Lord God and observe the law and the commandment. By invoking the name of the Lord, Asa defeated the Ethiopians who came up against Judah and Benjamin. Asa’s reforms where a result of Azariah’s warning that the Lord is with you when you are with him. He told him that God will allow whoever seeks him to find him; but warns that if you forsake him, God will forsake you. For this reason Asa made the reforms that he did. However, this did not last, because when Baasha king of Israel came up against him, Asa trusted in the king of Aram whom he paid from the Lord’s treasury. Asa was rebuked through the prophet Hanani whom Asa put in prison for the rebuke. Asa became diseased in his feet and did not seek the Lord. He died after reigning for forty one years and Jehoshaphat became king in Judah. Jehoshaphat sought the Lord, so the Lord established his kingdom. He also sent priests throughout the land to teach the book of the law. 

What does it mean?

Though the happenings and text are lengthy, the meaning is brief. Trust in the Lord and not in the flesh; whether that be ones own flesh or the flesh of another man. Abijah sought the Lord, therefore he gave him victory over Jeroboam. When Asa sought the Lord and observed the law and commandment, he gave him victory over the Ethiopians; but when he forsook the Lord and trusted in the flesh, he became diseased in his feet. Jehoshaphat’s reign was good, not because Jehoshaphat was good but because he sought the Lord, he took pride in the ways of the Lord and demonstrated this through his acts of taking away the high places and the Asherim from Judah. He also sent men to teach the people the book of the law of the Lord. God is with those who seek him and observe all that he commands, but he opposes those who forsake him.

What shall I do?

I shall trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and observe all that he commanded. Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God. Jesus said:

For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day. (Jn. 6:40, NASB)

Sin and death is the great enemy of man. Jesus Christ has promised to return and raise those who believe in him from the dead and grant us eternal life in the new heaven and the new earth in the presence of God. Jesus commissioned the church to make disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father and Son and Holy spirit, and teach them to observe all that he commanded. Therefore, I shall trust in him and do what he has commanded.

2 Chronicles 9-12

What does it say?

The queen of Sheba came to visit Solomon because she heard the fame of his words and wisdom. Once she came and heard Solomon she was amazed and said that his wisdom surpassed what she had heard. She gave Solomon as a tribute gold, spices, and precious stones. Solomon’s wealth and power was eminence. Solomon received 666 talents of gold in one year. Everything in his kingdom was ornate. Even the shields were made of gold. Solomon’s reign was forty years, then he died and his son Rehoboam became king. The kingdom was split between Rehoboam in the south and Jeroboam in the north. The priests and Levites forsook their cities in the north and came to Judah. Jeroboam appointed priests of his own for the high places in the north; however, there were people in the northern tribes who continued to come to Jerusalem and offer sacrifices at the temple. Rehoboam had many wives and concubines and fathered many children. Rehoboam forsook the law of the Lord and God punished him with Shishak the king of Egypt. Rehoboam was repentant; therefore, the kingdom was not destroyed. Rehoboam’s reign was 17 years and Abijah his son took his place.

What does it mean?

Solomon’s reign portrays the hight to which man can attain but this is nothing when you consider that the Lord God made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them, who rested on the seventh day. Solomon received 666 talents of gold in one year. The number 666 is used in another place in scripture. Revelation 13:18 (NASB Strong’s (Lockman))

Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for the number is that of a man; and his number is six hundred and sixty-six.

Like he did with David, the chronicler does not mention the sin of Solomon that the writer of Kings did. The kingdom was split as a result of Solomon’s sin. For some reason, the chronicler is putting the kingdom as it was under Solomon as the ideal for Israel but does not mention the idolatry that Solomon fell into because of his many wives and sinful heart. He does, however show this in Rehoboam the son of Solomon. John 5:19 (NASB Strong’s (Lockman))

Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

Sons act just like their fathers and the sins that the fathers commit will likely be the sins that the sons commit. The son is truly like the father. The son is a representation of the father. Rehoboam and all of Israel with him forsook the law of the LORD. For this reason God punished them but because they were humbled he did not destroy them.

What shall I do?

I shall realize that whatever I accomplish is nothing when compared with God. Man was created on the sixth day but God rested on the seventh day. Man is the highest creature in God’s creation but we are not god, the Lord is God. Like our father Adam, we his sons have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Jesus Christ is the exact representation of the Father, he is God in human flesh. (Heb. 1:3) There is only one God, the Father, and one Lord, Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 8:6) 

2 Chronicles 6-8

What does it say?

Solomon spoke to assembly of Israel regarding the temple. He told them that it was in David’s heart to build a house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel, but it was David’s son who would build the Lord a house. Solomon then prays to the Lord in the presence of the assembly. Solomon ask’s that whenever the people turn and pray towards this house that he (Solomon) built, that the Lord would hear from heaven and act. When the people sin and fall into pestilence, war, or famine because of their sin; if they repent and pray toward the house that he (Solomon) built, he ask’s that the Lord hear from heaven and acts. The Shekinah glory filled the house and sacrifices were offered: 22,000 oxen and 120,000 sheep. This is how the the temple was dedicated. The priest stood on their posts and the Levites played instruments of Music. The assembly then enjoyed a feast together after which Solomon sent them away to their own tents. The Lord answers Solomon’s prayer and promised to act as Solomon requested but warns him that forsaking his statutes and commandments and serving other gods will result in being uprooted from the land and the house will be cast out of his sight. Then a list of Solomon’s activities and accomplishments as king are given.

What does it mean?

Solomon, like his father David, assumed that one of his descendants meant Solomon. Therefore, Solomon claims authoritative rights for building a house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel. Solomon believed that the covenant that God made to David was fulfilled in Solomon building the temple; yet, that house is no longer there, so how can the house that Solomon built be an eternal house? Solomon’s pray of dedication is good, but I think that it might have been incorrectly focused. The focus should be on the the Lord and his covenant rather than on a man made building. The Lord had already sanctioned a vessel to carry his covenant, it was the ark of the covenant, but now the ark rests in this house built by Solomon. The Chronicler writing at the time of returning from captivity in Babylon is bringing the readers attention to Jerusalem and the temple. God demonstrated his promise to dwell in Israel as long as they kept the covenant when the Shekinah glory entered the temple. The dedication and the feast occurs with an assembly. God’s people are meant to be together. Solomon accomplished much as far as man but all that Solomon did is nothing compared to the Lord, the God who created heaven and earth.

What shall I do?

I shall be careful when interpreting God’s word for myself. I shall understand that Jesus Christ is the house of God. If we repent and turn to Jesus, God has promised to forgive us of all our sins and he is righteous to do so (1 Jn 1:9) because Jesus Christ is the descendant of David who has built the house of God. I shall remember that the people of God assemble together and encourage one another. (Heb 10:25) I shall realize that whatever I accomplish in this life is temporal and God is eternal; therefore, if I am not testifying repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21) then I am to be pitied, for I shall fix my hope on God and not the riches of this world. ( 1 Tim 6:17)

2 Chronicles 2-5

What does it say?

Solomon decided to build a house for God and a royal palace for himself. David his father had numbered the non-Israelites living amongst them during his unsanctioned census of the people. There were 153,600 of whom Solomon assigned 70,000 to carry loads and 80,000 to quarry stones and 3,600 to supervise the work. He also asked Huram, king of Tyre to help build the temple and his palace as he had helped build David’s house. Huram sent Huram-abi who was a skilled craftsmen. In return for the work and material, Huram asked for food. The temple was built and the inside of the temple was overlaid with pure gold. Then the temple was furnished by the magnificent craftsmanship of Huram-abi. At completion, Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and the heads of the tribes to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord and the ark was placed in the inner sanctuary of the house, the holy of holies. A feast was eaten, singers sang, instruments were played and the cloud filled the sanctuary.

What does it mean?

David his father had recently built a house for himself with the help of Huram the king of Tyre. It seems that David’s house was not good enough for Solomon. David had prepared for the building of the temple and Solomon went forth with this but also built a palace for himself. Also, it was not Israel who built the temple but a foreign king and non-Israelite slaves. Once completed, these foreigners would not be allowed into the temple that they actually built. The materials for the building, namely the timber, was provided by Huram and the craftsmanship by Huram-abi. A celebration occurred when the ark of the covenant was brought into the temple and was placed where no one could see it. The ark contained nothing but the two tablets which Moses put there at Horeb, where the Lord made a covenant with the sons of Israel. On the tablets are written The Ten Commandments. I think that it should be noted that from the moment that the ark was placed into the temple, the kings of Israel began turning away from the covenant.

What shall I do?

I shall love my neighbor as myself. Jesus has given to us understanding that everyone that we come in contact with is our neighbor; therefore, I shall not mistreat my neighbor. I shall not hide the covenant of the Lord but shall proclaim the new covenant to all people. Jesus said to Nicodemus, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life.” (Jn. 3:14) I shall not seek my own glory but that of the Lord Jesus Christ, for he alone is king of heaven and earth.

1 Chronicles 28-29 & 2 Chronicles 1

What does it say?

David addressed those whom he appointed about his plans for the temple; namely, the officials of Israel, the princes of the tribes, the commanders, the overseers of property and treasury, and his sons. David assumes the covenant given him through Nathan the prophet (cf. 1 Ch. 17:1-15, & 2 Sa. 7:1-17) to mean Solomon. David states before the congregation that the temple is not for man but for the Lord God. David charges Israel to be strong and courageous in the building of the temple. David talks about all that he has given for the temple; and thereby, employs the congregation to give towards the building project. David then prays to the Lord about this before the congregation. A sacrifice of 1,000 bulls, 1,000 rams and 1,000 lambs is made, then they ate and drank. And they made Solomon king and he sat on the thrown instead of David. After David’s death, Solomon went to Gibeon where the tabernacle was to worship the Lord. He offered sacrifices and prayed to God while at Gibeon. He asked the Lord for wisdom to lead Israel. The Lord God granted him wisdom, but also riches and honor because he did not ask for these. The wealth of Solomon is then summarized.

What does it mean?

David’s desire to build a temple to house God (the ark) was very strong. In fact, it seems that he accomplished everything required to build the temple except actually erecting it. Like we do with other things, David took the word of the Lord, given through Nathan the prophet and twisted it to mean what he wanted it to mean; namely, that Solomon is the descendant who would build a house for God whom God would be a Father too, and not take his lovingkindness away from, and settle him in the kingdom of God forever. This is quite an assumption to make; yet, the people rallied around him, for they also gave to the building project, celebrated with David at a feast and supported Solomon as his successor to the thrown. David’s charge to the congregation; namely, to be strong and courages, reminds me of Joshua’s charge to the leaders. Solomon began his reign rightly; namely, he worshiped God at the right place (Gibeon) where the tabernacles was. He asked the Lord God for wisdom and knowledge instead of riches, wealth, honor, the life of his enemies and a long life for himself. It seems that if we worship the Lord in accordance with his will, and come to him with a humble heart, he hears from heaven. Solomon was richly blessed by the Lord.

What shall I do?

I shall realize that even though I have something in my heart and mind to do, God may have other plans; therefore, it may not work out as I have planned. Also, I need to be careful when coercing others to go along with my plans. I shall worship the Lord at the tabernacle that he has ascribed; namely, through faith in Jesus Christ. And I shall always approach God in prayer with a humble and contrite heart.

1 Chronicles 25-27

What does it say?

The previous chapter (24) gives the divisions of Levites. In chapter 25 these divisions are given duties to preform. The musicians are divided into three family groups: Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun. The sons of these three and their relatives served in the temple in groups of twelve, for 2 weeks at a time, playing music on lyres, harps and cymbals. Then in chapter 26 other Levites are given the duties of keeping the gates. Others were given the duty of keeping the treasure. Still others were given duties outside of the temple as officers and judges. Then in chapter 27 the commanders of the army are listed into divisions of 24,000, serving for 1 month at a time. Following the army divisions, a chief officer for each tribe is named. Then a list of miscellaneous overseers with their duties is given. Lastly, the persons that made up David’s court.

What does it mean?

Regarding the musicians, more than music was being preformed for the text says that the sons of Asaph, Heman and Jeuthun who were divided into divisions of twelve, they served for two weeks at a time, prophesying with instruments. In other words, they wrote words set to music. Some of their songs became part of Scripture. The sons of Asaph is named in the titles of Psalms 50 and 73–83, and the sons of Jeduthun is named in the titles of Psalms 39; 62; and 77. The sons of Heman  may be Heman the Ezrahite named in the title of Psalm 88. (ESV Global SB Notes) It seems that the numbers three, twelve and twenty-four are repeatedly used both with the divisions of Levites and their duties, with the army divisions and with the leadership of Israel. The leaders of the tribes, like the divisions of Levites with their duties and the army leaders, the leaders of the tribes were probably appointed by David. For some reason Aaron (the priestly line) is counted as a tribe and Gad and Asher are not. All of these numbers came about because of the census (vs. 21:6) that David commanded but Joab did not complete because he recognized that it was against God’s promise to Abraham of countless descendants. (ESV Global SB Notes)

What shall I do?

I shall recognize that this entire system that David setup came about because of an unauthorized census but it did result in Scripture. The government of the United States often makes policies contrary to the word of God. I shall recognize that my present government has been put in place by God as was David’s kingdom. “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” (Rom. 13:1) These persons listed in these text were subject to David; therefore, I shall be subject to the laws of the United States congress and the polices of our president. However, I recognize that this government, like David’s government is temporal and the kingdom of God in Jesus Christ is eternal; therefore, I shall learn to observe all that Jesus Christ commanded.

1 Chronicles 22-24

What does it say?

Though David was not to build the temple and was told through Nathan the prophet that one of his descendants would build a house for God, David took it upon himself to prepare for the building. David gathered resident aliens as forced laborers and gathered materials for the building of the temple. David then charges Solomon with the task of building a temple for God and tells Solomon that he intended to build the temple himself but refers to the word of the Lord given through Nathan the prophet as the reason for tasking Solomon with building the temple. (Ch. 22) David turned over the kingdom to his son Solomon before his death, when David had reached old age. In addition to the forced labor and materials; david also provides religious, military, and political leadership for Solomon’s kingdom. The Levites were given a new job because they would no longer need to care for the portable tabernacle and its furnishings which included the ark of the covenant. The age for Levitical service was 30 and upwards (Numbers 4:1-3) but is lowered to 20. The Levites were ordered by their traditional clans for their duties in the temple: the Gershonites, the Kohatthites, and the Meraites. (Ch. 23) David then organizes the priest into 24 divisions with each division serving for 2 weeks, this covered a lunar year. It is acknowledged hear that one could only be a priest by hereditary as a descent of Aaron. (Ch. 24)

What does it mean?

David had it in his heart and mind to build a temple out of cedar to house God. Yet the Lord said, “Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest?” (Is. 66:1) David wanted to put the God who created heaven and earth (Gn. 1:1) in a temple made out of cedar. God put David on a thrown. God told David that one of his descendants would build him a house and that it is God who would build a house for David. God did not sanction a temple made out of cedar but David goes forth planning the building anyway. “David appears as the successor to Moses (see Numbers 4) as he defines the Levites’ duties in relation to the temple.” (ESV Global SB Notes) All that David did regarding the temple came from David. It should be noted that the temple planned by David and built by Solomon was not permanent. In fact, the temple would be rebuilt several times before it would ultimately be destroyed by the Romans. The kingdom and house that was prophesied through Nathan was forever, not temporal as this house of cedar would be.

What shall I do?

I shall understand that God is the creator of heaven and earth (Gn. 1:1) not I. God does not need me to accomplish anything. I can be used by God for his purpose but it is God who works all things for good. (Rom. 8:28) I am temporal and God is eternal but in Jesus Christ God has promised eternal life to me in his house; therefore, I shall trust in Christ alone. Jesus Comforts his disciples: “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” (John 14:1-4) It is by the grace of God alone, through faith alone, in the Son of God Jesus Christ alone that we may enter into the house of God. A house not made from the materials of this world but from above. (Cf. Jn. 1:12-13 & 14:7)

1 Chronicles 18-21

What does it say?

The events of chapters 18-20 summarize David’s wars and victories which was drawn from the content of 2 Samuel 8-21. The Chronicler also shows David as a king that ministered justice and righteousness for all his people. (vs. 18:14) The chronicler gives Satan credit for moving David to number Israel. (vs. 21:1) Joab did not agree with the census; therefore, he did not number the tribes of Benjamin or Levi. (vs. 21:6) The Lord was angry; therefore, he struck Israel but gave David a choice through the the prophet Gad, three things: three years of famine, three months of being swept by his foes, or three days of pestilence. David leaned on the graciousness of God and choose the three days of pestilence. This lead to David purchasing the threshing floor of Oran the Jebusite to build an alter on which David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings to the Lord. After this, the Lord withdrew from destroying Jerusalem with pestilence. 

What does it mean?

The events of chapters 18-20 did not take place after the events of the ark of God being brought into Jerusalem or the Davidic covenant being given through the prophet Nathan. However, the Chronicler places them here to show the reader God’s providence. Even the events of chapter 21 show the providence of God. God uses evil for good. God allowed Satan to move David to number Israel which brought about the wrath of God. Before this incident occurred, the tabernacle of the Lord that Moses made, and the alter of burnt offerings was at the high place in Gibeon. Gibeon was a priestly city in the territory of Benjamin. David could not go there to offer sacrifice because of the pestilence occurring outside of the city. Therefore, he offered sacrifice at the location in Jerusalem that would later become the sight for the temple.

What shall I do?

I shall recognize that the Lord God is sovereign overall. Everything that occurs on the earth, occurs by the providence of God. The Lord is king of heaven and earth no matter what his enemies might think. God can use evil to bring about good. God used evil to bring about the purchase of the site that would be later used for the building of the temple in Jerusalem. Nothing that occurs on the earth happens under the radar of our God. The seed of David, who is the Son of God, who is Jesus Christ the Lord is on the thrown. He is the true Davidic king who administers justice and righteousness for all his people. He forever defeated Satan, sin and death at the cross. Christ died for our sins and was buried and rose again from the dead on the third day. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) Now God can be just and justifier for all who believe in Jesus. (Romans 3:25)

1 Chronicles 15-17

What does it say?

David built houses for himself and prepared a place for the ark of God by pitching a tent for it. This time David ascribed that the Levites should carry the ark of God to its resting place in the tent. The sons of Aaron and the Levites consecrated themselves for the task. David , with the elders of Israel and the captains of the armies went to bring the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-edom to Jerusalem and the Levites carried the ark of the covenant. The Israelites were united as one, shouting and playing musical instruments. The ark of God was placed in the tent and they offered burnt offerings and peace offering before God. Then all of Israel had a meal together; both man and women alike; a loaf of bread, a portion of meat and a raisin cake. David gave thanks to the Lord with a psalm of thanksgiving. Then David was stirred in his heart to make a house of cedar for the ark of God but God told David that he would make him a house permanently. Through Nathan the prophet, the word of God said” “I took you from the pasture…I have been with you wherever you have gone…I will make you a name…I will appoint a place for my people…I will subdue your enemies…I will build a house for you…I will set up one of your descendants and establish his kingdom…He shall build a house for me and I will establish his thrown forever…I will be his Father and he shall be my Son…I will establish his thrown in my kingdom forever. (vs. 17:7-14) David prays adoration to the Lord God in response to his covenant.

What does it mean?

The first time that David attempted to bring the ark of God to Jerusalem he did not obey the Lord’s command regarding how the ark of the covenant of God was to be carried. Poles were to be used and it was to be carried by Levites on foot. John chapter 12 speaks of Jesus entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey’s colt. I think that there is a direct parallel with Jesus entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey’s colt and the ark of God being carried into Jerusalem by the hands and feet of the Levites. The ark of God is placed in a tent which is a temporary holding place. Jesus Christ came in a human body which is a temporary holding place for the soul. He was to die for the sins of the people. The celebration of Israel parallels the celebration that occurred when Jesus entered Jerusalem, and the feast parallels the supper that the disciples had with Jesus before his arrest and crucifixion. Like David, we should all be singing songs of thanksgiving to God for what he did for us in Jesus Christ. The covenant that God made with David through Nathan the prophet (vs. 17:7-14) has been fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus Christ housed God in a human body, God is his Father and he is the Son of God, and God has settled Jesus Christ in heaven, and in the kingdom of God forever. Jesus will return on a day and our of the Father’s choosing to sit down on his glorious thrown to judge the earth.

What shall I do? 

Jesus Christ is the ark of the covenant of God who was taken into Jerusalem to dwell temporarily in a tent (a human body). The people rejoiced at his entry and the disciples enjoyed a meal with the Lord before his arrest. The chief priest and the officers saw him and cried out saying, “Crucify, crucify!” (John 19:6) Jesus was crucified at the hands of foreigners. Jesus Christ rose from the dead and has been given all authority in heaven and earth. He our king has commissioned the church to make disciples of all nations and teach them to observe all that he commanded. Therefore, I shall reach out to people with the gospel and of those who hear, I shall teach them the word of God. I shall gather together with other believers to celebrate the coming of the Lord in worship, offering up hymns of praise and thanksgiving and fellowshipping around the table with bread, meat and dessert. Listening to the word of God taught by our elders and praying to God. Yes, this is what I shall do, I shall worship the Lord. Praying, reading and studying his word. Going and  fellowship with the brethren; rejoicing, singing and eating together in the name of Jesus Christ.