Bible Pathways - April 11, 2006

April 11, 2006
Read 2 Samuel 1
In Today's
Saul killed in battle; David mourns the deaths of Saul and Jonathan; David crowned king of
Saul had driven David from his family, his wife, his friends, and then into exile as a fugitive far from the palace. An Amalekite nomad, who carried in his hand the crown of Saul, mistakenly thought David would be pleased that he had executed him. The Amalekite could not conceive of David not rejoicing over the death of such an enemy. But, David mourned, and wept, and fasted until even (evening) . . . because they were fallen by the sword. . . . David lamented. . . . The beauty of
The world delights in the failures of Christians. Surely no Christian should ever be involved in gossip about the failures of fellow Christians. If any man among you seem to be religious (God-fearing), and bridleth (controls) not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain (worthless) (James 1:26).
Now that Saul was dead, who would reign in his place?
How prone we are to jump at opportunities for personal advancement rather than seek God and His plan for our lives. But we need not fight for our rights. David prayed for God's will to be done in His way and at His time. It is comforting for Christians to know that great peace have they which love Thy Law: and nothing shall offend them (Psalm 119:165).
Word Studies:
1:2 did obeisance = bowed in honor; 1:9 anguish = extreme pain; 1:18 use = song; 2:6 requite = repay; 2:14 play before us = hold a contest as to which side has the best soldiers; 2:17 sore = fierce; 2:26 following = pursuing; 2:32 sepulchre = tomb.
Christ Revealed:
In David's noble poem of sorrow (II Samuel 1:17-27). David forgot all his years of suffering at the hand of Saul and considered only the pleasant things. Here David typifies Christ, who loved us even when we were dead in trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mrs. Harold J. Foerder · Staff: Diana Hash · Government Officials: Rep. Kevin Brady (TX) and Rep. Mark Kennedy (MN) · Country: Portugal (10 million) in western Europe · Major language: Portuguese · Limited religious freedom · 90% Roman Catholic; .75% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Don't try to impress others with your prayers; pray about whatever is on your heart (Matthew 6:7-8).
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: I Samuel 15:23