2 Chron. 5-7

IF my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. [2 Chron. 7:14]

Our land NEEDS a healing. God transcends our national identity, but HE puts this formula in His Word so we can pray for the peace of the city and nation we live in.

“Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” [Jer. 29:7]

Now, we humble ourselves, seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways. That’s our part.

2 Chron. 2-4

Huram-Abi was a very highly skilled artisan whom King Hiram sent to Solomon to fabricate and produce items of worship for God’s temple. His list of accomplishments is staggering. He undoubtedly had the very best workers given to assist him, but his ability to produce quality work stands out in the Bible.

Paul encouraged us to do whatever we do “Heartily as unto the Lord.” God’s Holy Spirit is the silent observer of all we do. A lifestyle that pleases the Lord is always working for God’s glory and not the mere reward of man.

The great composer, J.S. Bach, signed all of his music with the dedication Soli Deo gloria .. the glory only goes to God.

1 Chron. 29; 2 Chron. 1

Solomon asked God for wisdom to lead. It was no doubt a request that pleased the Lord.

Each day I pray for the leaders of our church and our school. This is my primary request; Lord, give them wisdom to make the right decisions. Especially in 2020, wisdom has been NEEDED.

Wisdom has been defined as “Insight into the true nature of things.” When the issues are clearly seen, better decisions can be made.

Good leaders make decisions that pursue the best for everyone. Leaders destroy respect when they make decisions that contribute to their own self interests.

Examine the fruit that follows politicians when you vote. Are they for YOU, or for THEM-SELF?

1 Chron. 26-28

God gave the plans for the new temple to David. “I have (it) in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me, and he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan.” [1 Chrn 28:19] Details, accurate material lists, and insights into building it were all in the heart of David.

This is an example of how God fills the mind of a leader and lays out plans for whatever He is involved in. People just don’t understand why God does that. They want Him to spread it around so they can claim some credit. This gets them in trouble. When God gives the plan, He will defend it. The leader need not defend him/herself. Step back and watch God protect and defend His doings. Just keep being obedient and do what He shows youl

1 Chron. 24, 25

David used the casting of lots to determine the order of service for Levite families who ministered unto the Lord. The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. [Pr. 16:33 CSB]

The Disciples cast lots to replace Judas. {Acts 1:26]

All football games begin with a flip of the coin.

Disclaimer: I am not sanctioning gambling hereby. I am saying that lots can solve disputes fairly. Try it with your children.

1 Chron. 20-23

David had it in his heart to build God a temple in which to live. It seemed this was his lifelong quest. He finally designated the threshing floor of Araunah (also called Mt. Moriah where Abraham offered Isaac) for the location of the new temple. Solomon was commissioned to build it but David gathered quality materials for its construction so that “The house to be built for the Lord should be of great magnificence and fame and splendor in the sight of all the nations.”

The latter house’s glory is greater than the former. God’s house IS His church. We are that magnificent building, and God is still putting in the quality. He is refining us for more beauty. We are His bride.

1 Chron. 17-19

When we see this phrase we immediately think of the Hallelujah Chorus. This was the promise gave to King David when he wanted to build the Lord a house to live in. God said He had lived in tents so long and He projected to the above prophecy about Christ Jesus, our Messiah. Stated was that God would live IN the hearts of men rather than a bricks and mortar (or canvas) building. That was is true and ultimate intent. From then on, the city of David became a name for the future Church. Zion is the true City of God and it’s in the hearts of His people.

This (Zion) is my resting place forever, for I have desired it (for a long time). [Ps. 132:14]

1 Chron. 15, 16

Because David failed to follow the process God had prescribed … the Levites carrying the Ark … Uzza lost his life. He in fact WAS a Levite but was of the wrong order to touch the Ark. God was leaving a message – when you come close to Me, do it the way I want.

Today, we don’t necessarily have shofars and Levitical vestments, nor are we required to. God DOES want us to come before Him with thanksgiving and singing. A grateful heart is critical. Instead of a heart focused on what we WANT, we should be focused on all that God has already provided.

1 Chron. 12-14

Newly anointed as King of Israel, David began amassing a significant army of warriors. These were the fiercest and most capable men in Israel, many of whom had served under King Saul. Whenever a band of soldiers would approach David to join him. he would demand that they pledge complete and undivided loyalty to him. He could not have men with mixed motives standing behind him. This led to a time in Israel where there was great joy and unity of purpose.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard,
down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore. [Ps. 133]

1 Chron. 10, 11

Saul made some grave errors in the last days of his reign. He consulted the evil witch of Endor instead of the Lord when facing the Philistines in battle at Mt. Gilboa. Sadly, he and his sons lost their lives on that mountain. His body was shamed and his head and armor were displayed as trophies. This was the sad ending for a young man to whom God had given a marvelous opportunity to lead.

When healthy habits of devotion to the Lord are established in a young person’s life, they have a better chance of surviving the challenges of our society. Parents and youth leaders are wise to cultivate regular habits of Bible reading, study, and prayer that will give lifelong spiritual sustenance.

Man cannot live by bread alone, but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God. [Matt. 4:4]