Why it Matters - Role Models

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 19-21, Psalms 5, 38, 42

There are some who look to David as a great role model for faith. They extol his virtues. They lift up the fact that he has a heart after God. He refuses to strike down the Lord’s anointed. He is humble. He is charismatic. He is a leader for God’s people. He is a song-writer. He is a poet. He is a warrior. Without a doubt, David is a gifted man. However, David is also a deeply flawed man. In many ways, he is a product of his culture just like we are products of our cultures. David is a classic ancient near east warlord. He uses violence to accomplish his goals. He is more than willing to sacrifice others in pursuit of his ends. He often takes matters into his own hands rather than listen to God. And he frequently refuses to accept responsibility for his actions. For example, he weeps over Absalom. While his grief is understandable, he never owns the fact that it was his actions - or inactions as it were - that led Israel to civil war. He refuses to hold Joab responsible for murdering one man after another. And when it comes to the matter of the Gibeonites, he seeks the Lord to find out the reason for the famine in the land but doesn’t ask God how he should resolve it. Instead, he takes matters into his own hands and sacrifices seven men to atone for Saul’s crimes. It’s a classic pagan, ancient near east move.

Thankfully, God has provided a greater David to serve as our example. He has provided the perfect Man to follow and pattern our life after. While we can learn from the saints of the Bible, the only role model we should seek is Jesus. He reveals the perfect will of God for our lives. He shows us the perfect way to live. He never leads us astray. He is full of the grace and truth. He is the light and life of the world. Every single saint in the Old Testament longed for the day when Messiah would appear. Every single Christian in the New Testament looked to Christ not only as their Savior but as their Lord as well. He was the one they were to be like. Him and no other. Sadly, I see far too many ministries and far too many books and far too many conference speakers lifting up the flawed human beings of the Old and New Testaments as role models for the faith. Far too often, they use their sinful actions to justify their current social and political and personal beliefs. And, again, while I can appreciate their strengths as well as their weaknesses, the only person I am going to model my life after is the Person of Jesus. What about you?

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 22-23, Psalms 57

Why it Matters - Reflection

Readings for today: Psalms 26, 40, 41, 58, 61, 62, 64

My oldest friend lost his mom recently. He reached out to me to see if I was available to officiate her funeral. As you might imagine, we started talking and reminiscing and it brought back a lot of memories. I’ve known this friend since fourth grade. He has seen me in the best of times and worst of times. He knows the challenges my family faced as I was growing up. My father’s addiction. Our financial struggles. The times we were on the verge of homelessness. He also knows the journey I’ve been on since I got married and started having my own kids. The ups and downs of ministry. The experiences of success and failure along the way. The years we labored in obscurity, on government assistance, trying to make ends meet. It hasn’t been easy. There have been times when I wondered if we would make it through. But my friend encouraged me to look at where the Lord has brought me. Look at the fruit of the ministry I get to be part of. Look at the close relationships I have with my wife and children and family. Look at all I’ve been able to accomplish as the Lord provided opportunity after opportunity. His perspective was such a blessing to me.

This is what I love most about David. He reflects back on his life. He sees the successes and failures. He sees the good times and bad. He’s honest about his sin and mistakes. And yet, he marvels over all God has done for him. “O Lord, my God, you have accomplished many things; you have done amazing things and carried out your purposes for us. No one can thwart you! I want to declare them and talk about them, but they are too numerous to recount!” (Psalms 40:5 NET) Godly perspective is important in life. It keeps us from falling into despair. It keeps us from being trapped in an endless cycle of negativity. It’s so important for us to take the time and make the time to sit and prayerfully reflect and recount all the many things God has done for us. From the small graces to the amazing miracles. God is always at work. His hand is always on us. His presence is always with us.

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 19-21, Psalms 5, 38, 42

Why it Matters - Regret

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 16-18

I have many regrets in my life. I have regrets over how I squandered the success my parents helped me achieve when I was growing up. I literally drank myself out of college after two years. Thankfully, the Lord saved me, set my feet on a new path, and I was able to finish college. I have regrets over my failure to love and serve my wife in the early years of our marriage. Thankfully, she stuck with me and we were able to work through things to get to a much better place. I have regrets over how I raised my children. I had an anger issue as a dad and I know it created a lot of pain and hurt along the way. Praise the Lord for godly counselors, the grace of God, the forgiveness of my kids, and the closeness of our relationships today. I have regrets from the last thirty years of my ministry career. The many ways I failed to love and serve those in need. The many ways I let my pride and ego get in the way. The many ways I lost sight of God’s heart and God’s mission. Thankfully, God’s steadfast love and faithfulness never failed and He continues to allow me to serve as a leader for His people.

I imagine David must have felt much the same way. Especially when he got the news about his beloved son, Absalom. I imagine he thought back over his many mistakes. His many failures. His many regrets. No wonder he cried out in agony and grief. “My son, Absalom! My son, my son, Absalom! If only I could have died in your place! Absalom, my son, my son!” (2 Samuel 18:33 NET) David understood it was his decisions that paved the way to this tragic event. It was his actions that led to Israel being divided and at war. He was culpable. He was responsible. And the weight of it all was crushing to him.

Regret is a burden that grows heavier by the year. Left unresolved, it piles up on a person. Left unaddressed, it can be soul-crushing. It’s one of the reasons I am such a big believer in keeping short accounts. As soon as I know I have sinned or failed or made a mistake, I try to acknowledge it. I confess it immediately. I ask for forgiveness and seek to reconcile with those who may be impacted. Most of all, I seek to change my ways so I don’t have to live with any regrets. I open my heart to the Holy Spirit for His sanctifying work in me. I surrender to His will and His way so I might become more like Jesus who came to serve and not be served. The more I serve. The more I give. The more I love. The more God frees me from any regret.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 26, 40, 41, 58, 61, 62, 64

Why it Matters - True Courage

Readings for today: Psalms 3, 4, 13, 28, 55

It’s hard for me to imagine how David must have felt. Running for his life from his own son. Knowing his son not only wanted to depose him but wanted to kill him. I can’t fathom such a scenario. Not only that but David had to know he bore some measure of responsibility for what had taken place. He refused to bring Amnon to justice. He refused to reconcile with Absalom when he lived in the city. His decisions helped create the very conditions under which a rebellion could rise up. I also wonder what kind of impact David’s crime with Bathsheba had on both his boys. What did they learn from his example? Did David ever sit down with them and share his pain and heartbreak over his sin? We will never know but it’s worth thinking about.

It’s also worth noting where David goes when he feels afraid. He goes to the Lord. He cries out to God. He rehearses what he knows about God over and over again. “But you, Lord, are a shield that protects me; you are my glory and the one who restores me. To the Lord I cried out, and he answered me from his holy hill. I rested and slept; I awoke, for the Lord protects me. I am not afraid of the multitude of people who attack me from all directions…The Lord delivers; you show favor to your people.” (Psalms‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬-‭6‬, ‭8‬ ‭NET‬‬) I don’t think this means David is any less afraid. True courage is not the absence of fear. In fact, true courage is walking by faith even in the midst of your fear. True courage is keeping your eyes fixed on God even in the middle of the chaos of our world and David’s world is incredibly chaotic at this point in his life.

We met recently with some friends. We talked with them about a recent period of their lives where they were out of work and things got hard financially. It wasn’t easy for them. They experienced all kinds of anxiety and fear. But they kept walking by faith. They kept looking to the Lord. They found the courage to keep moving forward despite their feelings. And as they leaned on the Lord, their faith deepened. It was a powerful testimony. What about you? How are you looking to the Lord in your own life? Let the Psalms lift your eyes and heart to the Lord.

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 16-18

Why it Matters - Justice

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 13-15

Injustice is a curse upon any land. It destroys relationships between individuals. Tears apart families and clans. It shatters the peace and stability of a nation. I think of the places I have been where there is no justice. National governments are corrupt, enriching themselves off of foreign aid while their own people starve. Villages are at the mercy of roving gangs who routinely raid in order to kill, steal, and destroy. There are no police. At least any that a person would trust. There are no laws. At least any that are consistently and fairly enforced. There is no hope. Only perpetual cycles of helplessness. It’s heartbreaking to witness.

We see the devastating impact of injustice in our reading for today. In the ancient kingdom of Israel, justice was one of the primary responsibilities of the king. Sadly, David’s rape of Bathsheba and murder of her husband, Uriah, leads to a series of similar crimes within his own family. Amnon rapes his half-sister Tamar. Rather than marry her, her casts her out of his home, dooming her to a life full of shame as a “ruined” woman. Rather than execute justice and punish Amnon, David seems to let it go. This leads to Absalom taking matters into his own hands. He kills Amnon in an act of vigilante violence and then flees the king’s justice himself. After three years, Absalom is allowed to return but David refuses to see him. Two more years pass. Finally, David relents to restore Absalom but it is clear there is distance between them. Absalom takes advantage of his restoration by acting in the king’s stead and offering justice to the people of Israel. As a result, their hearts turn towards him, leading to a civil war. It’s a heartbreaking cycle that only comes to an end when Absalom is killed.

Consider the cost of David’s unwillingness to promote justice in his family and in his kingdom. He loses two sons. His daughter suffers the trauma and shame of rape. His household is divided. He is betrayed by some of those closest to him. His own son rises up against him to try to steal his throne. Many of his people will die in the battles that follow. The seeds are sown for the future, more permanent, division of the kingdom of Israel. This is why we must not only pray for justice in our own country but do all we can to promote justice as well. We must hold our leaders accountable when they act selfishly and engage in corruption. We must not look away from oppression but instead rise up to fight back. Most of all, we must make sure to act justly and love mercy and walk humbly with our God in our own lives so our families and our communities will be blessed.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 3, 4, 13, 28, 55

Why it Matters - Rock Bottom

Readings for today: Psalms 32, 86, 102, 103, 122

I hate addiction. I hate what it does to those I love. I hate how it impacts those I serve. I have had to battle addiction in my own life and family. As a pastor, I’ve come alongside countless people struggling with addiction or struggling with someone they love who’s enslaved by addiction. I think of a young man I met years ago who struggled with substance abuse. He was unable to hold a job. Unable to find a consistent place to live. He would manipulate and threaten his mother until she gave him money to support his habit. As a result he grew isolated from the rest of his family. He lost all his friends. His only consolation was his drug. It was heartbreaking. It reminded me of what David says today in Psalms 32. “When I refused to confess my sin, my whole body wasted away, while I groaned in pain all day long. For day and night you tormented me; you tried to destroy me in the intense heat of summer.” This young man’s unwillingness to seek help and submit to a treatment program cost him everything he held dear.

My heart breaks for that young man and for the so many others I know just like him. As human beings, we somehow convince ourselves it is easier to hold onto our sin than to confess, repent, and give it up to the Lord. And the harder we hold onto sin, the more it impacts our lives. Our physical bodies. Our mental health. Our emotional well-being. Our relationships. Our stability in life. Our future hopes and dreams. But if we confess our sins, if we no longer spend so much energy attempting to hide our wrongdoing, we find forgiveness. We find freedom. We find health and wholeness. We find reconciliation and restoration.

One of my favorite passages from the Psalms comes from Psalms 32:7, “You are my hiding place; you protect me from distress. You surround me with shouts of joy from those celebrating deliverance.” The reality is God wants to be our help and our hope in time of trouble. God wants to be our refuge from all fear and anxiety. God wants to protect us from our distress but that can only happen if we trust Him. If we submit to Him. If we surrender to Him and let Him direct our steps in life. Those who continue to walk in sin will suffer a great deal of pain but the Lord’s faithfulness overwhelms those who trust in Him. Place your trust in Him today!

Readings for tomorrow: No devotionals on Sundays

Why it Matters - Repentance

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 11-12, 1 Chronicles 20, Psalms 51

Repentance is a consistent theme throughout the Bible. It is the key to maintaining a right relationship with God. God isn’t interested in religion. He isn’t interested in us performing a bunch of rituals if our hearts are not in it. He doesn’t want us going through the motions. As David sings after being confronted by the prophet Nathan, “The sacrifices God desires are a humble spirit – O God, a humble and repentant heart you will not reject.” (Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭17‬ ‭NET‬‬)

Over the years, I’ve made a lot of promises to God. Promises to be faithful. Promises to obey Him. Promises to make great sacrifices to honor Him. Sometimes I deliver on those promises, sometimes I do not. Sometimes I am faithful, sometimes I am not. Sometimes I do make great sacrifices but not always for God. I am a sinner. I am saved by grace alone through faith alone by Christ alone. And the Holy Spirit has to continually remind me that the sacrifices God desires must from me are not outward expressions of piety so much as inward humility of the heart. God wants me to live my life in a constant state of repentance. Not to make me miserable but to set me free. Not to take all the joy and fun out of life but to help me learn what it means to walk by faith and not by sight and depend on God alone.

David learned this lesson the hard way. Rather than fulfilling his duty to lead his armies in battle, he stayed home. Rather than remain faithful, he committed adultery. Rather than confess his sin, he murdered one of his mighty men and closest followers. It’s a brutal cycle. One that is tragically all too common. But God will not be mocked. He sees what David attempts to cover up and He sends Nathan to confront him. David repents but his choices still result in significant consequences. The death of a child. The disruption of a kingdom. Eventual civil war.

To whom much is given, much is expected. The more power and position and influence and authority a person is given, the more their choices impact those around them. David was a king so his choices impact a nation. The same holds true for our national, state, and local leaders today. I am a pastor so my choices impact the church I serve. I am a husband and a father and my choices impact my wife and children. What choices are you making? What impact are they having? What sacrifices are you offering to the Lord?

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 32, 86, 102, 103, 122

Why it Matters - Provision

Readings for today: Psalms 65, 66, 67, 69, 70

I have seen plenty and I have seen want in my life. I’ve had seasons where my bank account was full and times where it was empty. I’ve had years where I made plenty of money and was able to provide abundantly for my family and years where I’ve needed public assistance to feed them. I’ve seen both ends of the economic spectrum. I’ve moved up and down the levels of our economic system. Here’s what I’ve discovered to be true…God provides. He provides what we need in the time we need it. Maybe not more than we need but never less than what we need. Maybe not what we want or desire but enough for us to make it through another day. If we are humble and if we submit to Him and if we are willing to accept His help and the help of the people or programs He brings into our lives and if we consider all our options, God is faithful.

Ancient Israel was an agrarian society. As such, they depended on the harvests each year to provide them with food. They worked hard. They were faithful to till the ground. Plant the fields. Do what they could to tear up the weeds or chase away the animals who might steal their crops. But as any farmer knows, there’s only so much one can do. Ultimately, there are so many things outside our control. The sun. The rain. The health of the soil. These things can only come from God. This is why David sings Psalm 65. It’s a song celebrating the bountiful harvest. It’s a song of praise to God the provider. It’s a song declaring the goodness of God the creator.

“You answer our prayers by performing awesome acts of deliverance, O God, our savior. All the ends of the earth trust in you, as well as those living across the wide seas. You created the mountains by your power, and demonstrated your strength. You calm the raging seas and their roaring waves, as well as the commotion made by the nations. Even those living in the most remote areas are awestruck by your acts; you cause those living in the east and west to praise you.” (Psalms‬ ‭65‬:‭5‬-‭8‬ ‭NET‬‬)

“You visit the earth and give it rain; you make it rich and fertile with overflowing streams full of water. You provide grain for them, for you prepare the earth to yield its crops. You saturate its furrows, and soak its plowed ground. With rain showers you soften its soil, and make its crops grow. You crown the year with your good blessings, and you leave abundance in your wake. The pastures in the wilderness glisten with moisture, and the hills are clothed with joy. The meadows are clothed with sheep, and the valleys are covered with grain. They shout joyfully, yes, they sing.” (Psalms‬ ‭65‬:‭9‬-‭13‬ ‭NET‬‬)

“You visit the earth and give it rain…” I love that line. Perhaps because my family has been in farming for generations, I know the importance of abundant water. In fact, my mom just replaced a well on our land up in Nebraska because the old well failed and the crops can’t survive without the water it provides. I also know the importance of Living Water. The kind of water Jesus talks about to the woman at the well in John 4. I’ve experienced it in my own life. No matter how much I’ve struggled or how far I’ve fallen or how little I may have, God always provides. His river is always flowing, providing what I need. Sometimes it feels like a trickle but it gets me through. Sometimes it feels like a torrent and I am overwhelmed by its abundance. Most of the time, I find it to be a slow, meandering stream constantly refreshing my soul.

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 11-12, 1 Chronicles 20, Psalms 51

Why it Matters - Suspicion

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 19, Psalms 20, 53, 60, 75

Human beings tend to be naturally suspicious. Especially those who have been hurt before. It is hard to earn trust and when it is lost, it is almost impossible to regain. There is an old Nigerian proverb that says, “Any animal that escapes from a trap will be suspicious of every bent stick.” This rings true to me especially in our culture today. The rise of social media has led to an exponential increase in bullying and abusive behavior. The hurt and pain so many suffer online bleeds over into everyday relationships. It creates a posture where we assume the worst rather than the best of each other. We question each other’s motives and/or character rather than offer trust. We are quick to pounce on mistakes rather than extend grace. The result is a toxic emotional system which perpetuates pain and suffering on a local, national, even global scale.

There is nothing new under the sun. In our reading for today, King David reaches out to King Hanun of the Ammonites to offer his condolences after his father dies. Sadly, Hanun is deeply insecure and perceives a threat where there is none. In an effort of self-protection, he shames David’s messengers and sends them back home. This represents a significant act of aggression in the Ancient Near East so David goes to war. He defeats the Ammonites in a major battle that costs the lives of thousands of soldiers. All because one man reacted with suspicion to a compassionate gesture.

In one of my favorite all time passages, the Apostle Paul writes, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.” (1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NET‬‬) Those who are in Christ are set free from a life of suspicion. We are set free from a life of caution and distrust. We are set free from the burden of being guarded and self-protective. We are set free to love. Love unconditionally. Love generously. Love sacrificially just as Jesus did. And as the Apostle John so famously said, “Perfect love casts out all fear.” So let me challenge you to set aside any and all of your suspicions. Step into the freedom Christ won for you on the cross. Step into the freedom Christ offers you through His Spirit. Embrace the way of love and watch how it changes your relationships with those you love and the world around you.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 65, 66, 67, 69, 70

Why it Matters - Hyperbole

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 8-9, 1 Chronicles 18

One of the challenges in reading the Old Testament is the use of hyperbole. This was a common rhetorical device among Ancient Near East writers especially when it came to reporting on military encounters. For the Biblical authors, the purpose was the magnify the glory of God and the overwhelming nature of His victories. This was especially true when Israel won victories against much stronger enemies. Additionally, round numbers were often used to signify the “completeness” of a victory. You see similar “epic” rhetoric used by the Egyptian Pharaohs or the Assyrian kings.

Take today’s reading for example. The author of 2 Samuel writes that David put two thirds of the Moabites to death after a battle, seized 1,700 charioteers and 20,000 infantry, and killed 22,000 Arameans. He then writes about another battle in the Valley of Salt where David defeats 18,000 more Arameans. The author of 1 Chronicles comes up with some different numbers in David’s battle with the king of Zobah - 1,000 chariots and 7,000 charioteers rather than 1,700. Is this a contradiction? Not if we are reading from an Ancient Near East point of view. The point was not to provide accurate data for a census but to magnify the successes of King David against the enemies of Israel and the fulfillment of God’s promise.

One of the key questions to ask as you read the Bible, especially the Old Testament, is what did it mean to the people it was written to. The Bible was written for us but it wasn’t originally written to us. It was written to a particular people in a particular culture who saw life through a particular worldview. This is essential for us to keep in mind lest we lose sight of the true meaning of the text or fall into the trap of anachronism. I see this happen all the time. People projecting our cultural values and ways of seeing the world back onto the text of Scripture. It never works out well and it fails to treat the Bible as a serious conversation partner when it comes to faith.

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 19, Psalms 20, 53, 60, 75

Why it Matters - Credit

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 7, 1 Chronicles 17, Psalms 1, 2, 33, 127, 133

I love today’s reading. It’s one of my favorite stories in the Old Testament. David, a man after God’s own heart, looks around at his beautiful palace and the first thing he thinks about is the disparity between his house and God’s house. God lives in a tent so how can David live in a house of cedar? What does it say about David that he would live in a palace while God still has no permanent place to place His glory? So David begins to plan. He intends to build God a magnificent Temple. But this is not God’s will for David. God refuses to allow David to take any credit for what has taken place in his life. It is God who raised David up from the pasture. God who took a shepherd boy and made him king. God who defeated all David’s enemies. God who made his name famous in the region. It is God who will continue to give David success as he sits on throne and it will be God who will guarantee his dynasty for eternity.

What is David’s response? Does he argue with God? Does he point out all the work he’s put in over the course of his life? Does he seek to take credit for any of his accomplishments? Not at all. David humbles himself before the Lord. He falls on his knees in worship and praises God for all He has done. “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my family, that should have brought me to this point?” (2 Samuel 7:18 NET) As David reflects on all that has happened in his life, he immediately turns to praise. He gives God all the glory. He gives God all the credit.

Who gets the credit for your life? It’s a very important question. Especially for a Christian. Do I claim all the credit for myself or do I give glory to God? When I look back on my life, do I attribute all I’ve accomplished to my own hard work or do I thank God for the grace He has given me? When I consider all I have experienced, do I consider it the natural result of my own effort or can I see God’s hand at work, carefully orchestrating things according to His sovereign will? The fundamental reality is this…I didn’t choose where I would be born. I didn’t choose my family. I didn’t choose my gifts and talents and abilities. God gave me all of those things. He blessed me in more ways than I could possibly imagine and it is what has allowed me to achieve whatever success I have achieved in my life. What about you?

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 8-9, 1 Chronicles 18

Why it Matters - Righteousness and Justice

Readings for today: Psalms 89, 96, 100, 101, 107

In our current political climate, there is a tug of war between righteousness and justice. Those who lean right politically tend to focus on individual righteousness. Individual responsibility. Personal choices. The temptation is to ignore the very real impact of unjust systems and structures that often impact individual lives, limit their options, and shape how they understand the moral good. Those who lean left politically tend to focus on justice. Just systems. Just structures. Just laws. The temptation is ignore the very real impact of the unrighteous choices individuals make whether due to greed, selfishness, deceit, etc. The Bible is clear we need both to thrive.

Psalms 89:14 states, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Loyal love and faithfulness characterize your rule.” God’s Kingdom is built on a foundation that includes both righteousness and justice. You can’t have one without the other. You have to take both seriously. Human beings are sinful. The history of humanity is a testimony to this salient, Biblical fact. As such, we will naturally love unrighteousness more than righteousness. It’s why we need Jesus. Only by accepting Christ and receiving the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit will we ever learn to love righteousness. At the same time, it’s just as important to address the systems and structures we build. Because humanity is sinful, the systems we create are naturally unjust. They privilege certain classes of people over others. They reinforce prejudice and bias. They are tilted towards those with power and influence. We must consistently fight to reform these systems in order to create a more just and equitable society. Ultimately, of course, we will never reach perfection. Not in this life. Not on our own. Not without God. But the battle is worth it. The battle for every human heart. The battle for every society and nation on earth.

Readings for tomorrow: No devotionals on Sundays

Why it Matters - Security

Readings for today: Psalms 15, 23-25, 47

Human beings have an innate need for security. Without it, we cannot flourish. Not as individuals. Not as families. Not as a society. I think of the nations I’ve worked in where there is no security. The result is all kinds of lawlessness and violence. The people there experience all kinds of pain and suffering. They are often left helpless and without hope. I think of the work a dear friend of mine is doing among immigrants in a city just north of me. So much of his focus is to bring security to a very insecure population. He works on issues like legal security, food security, housing security, and job security. Most of all, he works on spiritual security. Eternal security. Something every human being desperately needs. Recently, I was talking to someone I love dearly about his life. He has lived a quarter century at this point and most of that time has been a struggle. By his own admission, he keeps trying to do things his own way but it’s not working out for him. He wants desperately to be free of his addictions. He would love to let go of the guilt and shame of his past. He lives with all kinds of regrets over the choices he’s made. What he’s longing for is the security only Jesus can bring.

The Psalms talk a lot about how to live a secure life. First and foremost, we place our trust in God. The One who owns the earth and all it contains. The One who runs the world and all that is in it. (Psalms 24) We trust Him because He promises to provide for our needs and lead us to green pastures and still waters and restore our souls. He never leaves us or forsakes us but is with us through every dark valley in life. (Psalm 23) The more we trust God, the more we walk in His ways. We do what is right. We speak honestly. We do no harm to others. We keep our promises. (Psalms 15) Our deeds become blameless. Our hearts become pure. (Psalms 24)

God rewards those who seek Him and those who follow Him with a secure life. Not an easy life. Not a comfortable life. Not a pain-free life. But a secure life. A life that stands no matter how many storms come our way. We do not obey God in order to gain this life or earn this life but our obedience is a natural response to the life we are given when we begin a relationship with Him. Holiness and purity and righteousness characterize the lives of those who love God. And it’s why we can rest secure. Because we dwell with Him. In His home. On His holy hill. On the mountain of the Lord. In His holy dwelling place.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 89, 96, 100, 101, 107

Why it Matters - Holiness

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 5:11-25, 2 Samuel 6, 1 Chronicles 13-16

Holiness seems to be a forgotten concept in our culture. Even in many of our churches. We have become so familiar with Jesus that it has bread contempt. Contempt for His Word. Contempt for His ways. Contempt for His Law. We’ve settled for cheap grace. Easy believism. We falsely assume that a relationship with Jesus comes with no expectations. Nothing could be further from the truth. Jesus is clear. Those who love Him obey His commandments. Those who follow Him deny themselves. Those who become His disciples pick up a cross. There is a cost to discipleship. Not because we have to earn anything. Not because we have to prove ourselves to anyone. Not because we have to work to earn God’s favor. But simply because God is holy. And because God is holy, we must be holy. And holiness requires us to submit our will and our way to God.

David learned this the hard way. He falsely assumed he could worship God any way he wanted as long as it was sincere. The people of God were so excited to bring the ark of the covenant back home but in their fervor, they did not seek the Lord. They did not honor God’s commands when it came to worship. God had clearly prescribed a precise way to handle the ark. It was to be carried by the Levites. It was to be accompanied by musicians. Sacrifices were to be made. It was a sacred procession. Tragically, David’s first attempt to bring the ark home didn’t follow God’s prescribed commands so when Uzzah, himself a Levite and someone who should have known better, reaches out his hand to steady the ark to keep it from falling, he is struck down. Even though he was well-intentioned, he violated God’s command not to touch the holy items directly. It’s a sober reminder even for us today.

When we gather for worship, are we gathering in accordance with God’s will and God’s way? Unfortunately, a lot of churches have turned inward and focus more on their own preferences when it comes to worship. Still others focus on entertainment and self-help. Still others focus on the needs of the people rather than honoring a holy God. No church is perfect, of course. I won’t pretend the church I serve has it “right.” But the primary question that guides our worship is not “how do the people feel or respond” but does it honor God.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 15, 23-25, 47

Why it Matters - Unity

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 5:1-10, 1 Chronicles 11-12, Psalms 133

A fundamental principle of the Christian faith is that we are never, ever alone. First and foremost, God is with us. He promises to come and dwell with us when we give our lives to Him. Through the Holy Spirit, He indwells our hearts and abides with us forever. This is why it’s so important to spend time with God every day and gather for worship with His people every week. We need the constant reminder that He is Emmanuel, God with us. Second, God surrounds us with His people. People from all walks of life who share a common commitment to the Lord. They pray for us. They encourage us. They support us. They hold us accountable. Men and women of deep faith who do life alongside us. We build these relationships in small groups, Bible studies, and through mentoring. We connect deeply with one another as we share openly and honestly and vulnerably and transparently. This is how God designed the Christian life to work and as we follow Him faithfully, our circle of relationships grows. It’s beautiful.

This is what David experienced as well. First and foremost, the Bible says God was with David. “David’s power grew steadily, for the Lord God who commands armies was with him.” (1 Samuel 5:10 NET) The source of David’s success was the Lord. He did not win his battles by himself. He did not accomplish all the great things he accomplished on his own. God was with him to strengthen and empower him along the way. Second, God surrounded David with godly men. Mighty men. Men of valor who would have his back and fight by his side. “These were the leaders of David’s warriors who helped establish and stabilize his rule over all Israel, in accordance with the Lord’s Word.” (1 Chronicles 11:10 NET) The author of Chronicles goes on to list the names of these men and even provides some of the detail as to their accomplishments. The sacrifices these men made for David are extraordinary. These men were eventually joined by thousands of others as God brought unity to His people under David’s godly leadership.

God blesses the unity of His people. I have seen it with my own eyes. All it takes to make it happen is one person who commits to walk with the Lord. As we commit our way to Him, He will surround us with godly men and women who share the same heart and desire. And as that group of people grows, great things will be accomplished for God’s Kingdom. This is how it has always been and always will be. What role do you play in bringing God’s people together?

Readings for tomorrow: 2 Samuel 5:11-25, 2 Samuel 6, 1 Chronicles 13-16

Why it Matters - Friendship

Readings for today: 2 Samuel 1-4

I got a call from my oldest friend the other day. His mom passed away recently and he asked me if I would officiate at the memorial service. I was honored. After all, I’ve known Kyle since I first moved to Colorado. He and I went to elementary school together. We were in Boy Scouts. We hung out all the time in high school. We attended each other’s weddings. When he lost his mom, I too was grieved because of all the memories I have of her from growing up.

I reached out to another friend when I was in Central Asia last week. I met Tim in college right after becoming a Christian. Tim and I did Bible study together and served in our campus ministry together. When I got married, Tim was my best man. When he got married - literally two weeks later - I was one of his groomsmen. When he and his wife went on staff with a parachurch ministry, my wife and I were one of his early supporters. It’s been an honor to stay in touch with him over the years and follow the work God has done in and through him. That’s why I reached out to him while overseas. The people I was with are part of the same ministry Tim is with and it made me so grateful for our friendship and partnership in the gospel over so many years.

I hope you have friends like Kyle and Tim in your life. People who are close to you. People you could call at 2AM if you were in crisis. People who would pray for you, support you, encourage you, and bless you. People who are very dear to you. That’s what Jonathan was to David. He was David’s closest and dearest friend. Though they were technically rivals for the throne of Israel, Jonathan willingly gave up his rights for the sake of their friendship and David honored Jonathan in return. When Jonathan dies, David grieves. The loss is painful and personal for him. In fact, he even says his love for Jonathan was more special to him than the love of women. “I grieve over you, my brother Jonathan! You were very dear to me. Your love was more special to me than the love of women.” (2 Samuel 1:26 NET) The loss of Jonathan represents not only the loss of a close friend but the death of their dreams of ruling Israel together.

Now some have suggested this passage is an oblique ancient reference to a homoerotic relationship. It’s utter nonsense. Those who support such a view are reading their own point of view back into the text. Sadly, in our culture today, we have hypersexualized every relationship. We falsely believe that if we feel a deep, emotional connection to someone then we must desire them sexually. We don’t have modern categories for platonic friendships anymore whereas such things were common in the ancient world. Our lives are the poorer for it. The epidemic of loneliness and isolation is largely due in part to the loss of deep friendships. The reality is far too many of us don’t have a close friend. We don’t have someone we can call at 2AM in a crisis. We don’t have someone with whom we can bare our soul. This is not God’s design. He created us for deep friendships, especially in the Body of Christ.

p.s. If you need help getting started, let me recommend picking up the book, Receive, by Jeff Kemp. It’s geared towards men but is equally applicable to women. Very practical guide to how to begin forming deep friendships.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 6, 9, 10, 14, 16, 21

Why it Matters - Vengeance

Readings for today: 1 Samuel 25-27, Psalms 17, 73

Revenge is a powerful motivator. It is fueled by rage and a deep sense of injustice. It is the primal human response whenever we feel wronged or hurt or betrayed. Something deep inside us demands a response. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth or something even more disproportionate. We want the perpetrator to experience what we’ve experienced and to feel what we feel. We want them to taste the pain we have suffered. We want them to be punished for their crimes against us. Tragically, vengeance has created cycles of violence that have consumed families, clans, tribes, and even nations. Millions have perished as a result. Millions more suffer incredible pain and grief and loss. There is no end to it because violence simply begets more violence. Vengeance is never truly satisfied. And perhaps that’s why the Lord says, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay.” He knows how deep this propensity runs within us and He knows it can never be truly satisfied.

King David felt this impulse. When rebuffed by Nabal, he is quick to respond with violence. He feels wronged so he straps on a sword and marches out to kill Nabal and all his men. But for the intercession of Abigail, David would have committed a grave sin. “The Lord has kept his servant from doing evil, and he has repaid Nabal for his evil deeds.” (1 Samuel‬ ‭25‬:‭39‬ ‭NET‬‬) Taking vengeance into his own hands, he would prove himself to be no different than Saul. Thankfully, David was saved by Abigail’s quick and courageous response and it taught him a lesson that he soon employed when given the opportunity to take Saul’s life once again. David learned to leave vengeance to God. Let Him execute His justice in His time. Nabal suffers a stroke and dies. Saul eventually is killed in battle. David’s hands and heart remain clean. I love how Asaph reflects on this dynamic in his Psalm. His words are worth reading again in their entirety.

“Certainly God is good to Israel, and to those whose motives are pure! But as for me, my feet almost slipped; my feet almost slid out from under me. For I envied those who are proud, as I observed the prosperity of the wicked. For they suffer no pain; their bodies are strong and well-fed. They are immune to the trouble common to men; they do not suffer as other men do. Arrogance is their necklace, and violence their clothing. Their prosperity causes them to do wrong; their thoughts are sinful. They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence. They speak as if they rule in heaven, and lay claim to the earth. Therefore they have more than enough food to eat, and even suck up the water of the sea. They say, “How does God know what we do? Is the sovereign one aware of what goes on?” Take a good look! This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer. I concluded, “Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle. I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning.” If I had publicized these thoughts, I would have betrayed your loyal followers. When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me. Then I entered the precincts of God’s temple, and understood the destiny of the wicked. Surely you put them in slippery places; you bring them down to ruin. How desolate they become in a mere moment! Terrifying judgments make their demise complete! They are like a dream after one wakes up. O Lord, when you awake you will despise them. Yes, my spirit was bitter, and my insides felt sharp pain. I was ignorant and lacked insight; I was as senseless as an animal before you. But I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me by your wise advice, and then you will lead me to a position of honor. Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire no one but you on earth. My flesh and my heart may grow weak, but God always protects my heart and gives me stability. Yes, look! Those far from you die; you destroy everyone who is unfaithful to you. But as for me, God’s presence is all I need. I have made the sovereign Lord my shelter, as I declare all the things you have done.” (Psalms‬ ‭73‬:‭1‬-‭28‬ ‭NET‬‬)

Where have you been tempted to take revenge? Perhaps you felt insulted by a co-worker? Hurt by a harsh word by someone you love? Unjustly accused for something you did not do? Personally attacked? Maybe you’ve experienced discrimination over your ethnicity or gender? Maybe you’ve been dismissed due to your lack of education or economic or social status? Maybe someone has physically and violently assaulted you? Perhaps even taken the life of someone you love? Rather than allow yourself to become consumed with the desire for vengeance, turn those feelings over to God. Trust Him to make it right. Let Him set you free from the anger and bitterness and guilt and a hyper-fixation on past harms.

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 35, 54, 63, 18

Why it Matters - Trust

Readings for today: Psalms 56, 120, 140-142

“What can mere men do to me?” It’s a question David asked after finding himself in the Philistine city of Gath. Having fled for his life from King Saul, he now found himself in danger once again as the servants of King Achish sought his life. They knew his history. Goliath, their ancient champion, had been from Gath. David had spent his entire military career up to that point killing “tens of thousands” of Philistines or at least that’s what the Israelites claimed when they sang about him. Now he was at the mercy of his enemies. In danger of being killed or imprisoned. Caught between the hammer of Saul’s armies and the anvil of the Philistines. Having jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire as they say. What did David do? Did he succumb to his fears? Did he become paralyzed by anxiety? Did he let his circumstances overwhelm him? No. He turned to God. “When I am afraid, I trust in you. In God – I boast in his promise – in God I trust, I am not afraid. What can mere men do to me?” (Psalms‬ ‭56‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭NET‬‬)

When I am afraid, I trust in you. What a statement! I think of a young woman I met this week. She recently relocated to the particular city I visited in a sensitive area of the world where Christians have to be careful because they are watched and monitored. It’s a Muslim dominated country where proselytization is illegal. You can be fined and imprisoned or deported for sharing your faith. She is on her own. Away from her family. She is so very young - in her early twenties- and the reason she came to this city is because she was being threatened in her previous location. The governing authorities had found out that she was evangelizing and they started to pursue her. The ministry she works for got word of their intentions and relocated her for her safety. Has that stopped her from sharing? Not at all. She helps lead the ministry among young college students. She is going to Korea in two months for seminary. She has dedicated her life to serving the Lord. This is what it means to trust God. This is what it looks like to take your fears and give them to God.

So many people today struggle with fear and anxiety. They fear the world. They fear the future. They fear responsiblity. They fear not measuring up. They fear not being accepted. They fear the stress and pressures of life. Our culture preys upon their fears. Monetizes their fears by selling them drugs that promise to numb their pain. The problem, of course, is you can’t selectively numb so their joy and excitement is numbed as well, leading to a dull and listless state. If it’s not prescription medication, it’s drugs like marijuana or alcohol. Addiction rates soar but the fear never actually goes away. They look for escape through online gaming or interactions with strangers or even AI chatbots. All in an effort to get rid of fear. But fear and anxiety are powerful. Persistent. And the only way to deal with them is by turning to something, or rather Someone, who is even more powerful. The Lord. When I am afraid, I trust in you. David acknowledges his fears honestly. He doesn’t pretend to be immune from anxiety. But what David does do and what the young woman I met does is trust in God. He knows and she knows God is all-powerful and God is good and God can be trusted to deliver those He loves.

Readings for tomorrow: 1 Samuel 25-27, Psalms 17, 73

Why it Matters - Protection

Readings for today: Psalms 7, 27, 31, 34, 52

I am currently overseas visiting mission partners in sensitive areas. They live under the constant threat of persecution, imprisonment, and deportation. They are monitored and tracked by their local governments. They have to be careful how and when they gather and how they communicate. They can’t gather in large groups. Even when they do gather, they make sure to include a meal so if the police invade, they can say they are just spending time with friends. The pressure they are under is significant. They live in major cities where they can get lost in the larger population. Some of them recently relocated due to intense pressure at a previous city where they lived. It’s an eye-opening experience to say the least. At the same time, they laugh easily. They love being together. The joy of the Lord is truly their strength. They are open and vulnerable about their struggles with anxiety and fear. They don’t pretend any of it is easy. But they trust in the Lord to guide them and protect them. In a very real, literal way, He is their stronghold and shield.

Reading these particular Psalms when David was on the run from Saul hits different when spending time with the persecuted church. They know many of the same pressures David was experiencing. They know the same anxieties and fears. They know the same struggles. And yet, like David, they look to the Lord. Last evening we spent some time singing praise songs. As we did, I turned in my Bible to Psalms 31 and let David’s opening words wash over me. “In you, O Lord, I have taken shelter! Never let me be humiliated! Vindicate me by rescuing me! Listen to me! Quickly deliver me! Be my protector and refuge, a stronghold where I can be safe! For you are my high ridge and my stronghold; for the sake of your own reputation you lead me and guide me. You will free me from the net they hid for me, for you are my place of refuge. Into your hand I entrust my life; you will rescue me, O Lord, the faithful God.” (Psalms‬ ‭31‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NET‬‬) Though the words they sang were different, they expressed the same hope and trust in God. I found myself connecting to David’s heart in a new and fresh way.

The great Reformer, Martin Luther, once said that God speaks to us through the “tensions” of life. While we don’t suffer from persecution in the West, we do struggle with many of the same anxieties and fears. We struggle with a lot of pain and suffering. We struggle with a lot of disappointment, grief, and heartbreak. How is God speaking to you today about those things in your life? When you experience the pressure and stress that live inevitably brings your way, how do you respond? Do you turn to God like David? Like the believers I’ve met? Or do you try to manage things in your own strength and wisdom? In what way do you need God to be your shelter today? Your stronghold? Your protector and refuge? Ask God to lead you and guide you. Entrust your life into His hands. He will be faithful and true!

Readings for tomorrow: Psalms 56, 120, 140-142

Why it Matters - Self-fulfilling prophecy

Readings for today: 1 Samuel 21-24, Psalms 91

It’s almost a cliche in the ancient world. The harder one tries to escape one’s fate, the more that fate finds them. You see it Greek myth after Greek myth. The Greeks were great at using stories to diagnose human behavior and our tendency towards self-fulfilling prophecy is one of them. Think about King Saul. He could have chosen any number of ways to respond to David. He could have chosen humility and rejoiced in the victories David won. He could have graciously chosen to relinquish his crown and endorse David for the throne. He could repented of his sin, asked God for forgiveness, and perhaps lived out his life in peace. Sadly, Saul did what we all do. He fought his pre-ordained fate with all his might. And the harder he tried to hold on to power, the more it slipped through his fingers. The more he focused on killing David, the more his behavior became erratic and evil. Decisions that would have once been unthinkable - like killing Ahimelech and the priests of Nob - suddenly become more rational in the mind of an irrational person.

I’ve seen this dynamic play out in my own life and the lives of those I love. The more we resist the will of God for our lives, the more we bring all kinds of negative consequences upon us. I think about a conversation I had recently where the person is struggling with so much anxiety and fear. Rather than turn to God for comfort and peace, he chooses alcohol and marijuana and ends up not only feeling worse but broke as well! I think of another conversation where the person is working so hard to do so much good in an underserved area with a challenging population of young people. They come home exhausted every night. They are in their twenties and already exhibiting a lot of signs of burnout. But rather than turn to God for strength and wisdom, they keep Him at arm’s length, determined to do it themselves. I think of how many couples I’ve counseled over the years who could have saved their marriages if they just took the time to humble themselves, ask for forgiveness for the mistakes they made, listen more attentively to each other, and make a few changes to how they operate. Instead, they chose messy divorces and spent tons of money on legal fees and the ripple effect financially and emotionally stayed with them for years. It’s painful to watch.

Think about your own life. Where are you actively resisting the will of God? Where do you need to humble yourself under God’s mighty hand? Where do you need to turn to Him for strength and wisdom, peace and comfort today? What’s stopping you? Is it pride? Fear? Confusion? Potential embarrassment? Let me encourage you with all my heart to repent! Ask God for forgiveness. Open your hands and heart to Him. Let Him lead and guide you on new paths.

Readings for tomorrow: No devotionals on Sundays