Proclaim Hope Daily | Week 11

Below is a short summary or synopsis of the Bible reading for the day. Use it as a helpful tool to think through the Scripture. There are also some cross references to study other passages of Scripture to highlight or better understand that passage.

The repetitious call for mercy in the opening draws attention to David’s desperate position from which he cries out, as well as his sincere dependence on God to provide such relief. Even though the Lord’s throne and dominion is even higher than the heavens, he stands apart from any other god, for he is very much present and active in the lives of those that call on him. The people of God are given a precious sense of connection and assurance through their active faith, which fuels the language of David as flees in persecution. He speaks of the Lord working both in the present and confidently in the ongoing future tense. David is in the midst of being tormented and devoured, yet he cannot wait to arise early and shout praises to God! The chorus focuses this psalm not on David’s need, but on the glory of God. Lukewarm faith will not produce the reliance or assurance in times of trouble like we see in David. So let our hearts consistently seek the Lord and may our lips unceasingly convey praise to our Father, no matter the circumstances.

(Psalm 34:1; Acts 16:22-26; Hebrews 11:6)

Beginning here in Proverbs 10 are dualistic or contrasting phrases which compare two different ways to live and their end result, or destiny. Between the two positions in each phrase, the reader can compare and contrast the apparent benefits and blessings of applying Godly wisdom in practical ways verses the opposing position, abandoning wisdom and/or not applying it to one’s way of life. Ultimately here we see two varying heart positions. First, there is pictured the life of a Christ-follower, who is called to live through faith enabled by the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit which bears good fruit. In opposition we see the life of an unbeliever, an unregenerate and unrighteous individual that bears bad fruit. The differences between these two ways of life are evident and should move us toward godly wisdom, while also encouraging us to point others in the same direction.

(Psalm 1:3-4; Jeremiah 17:7-8; Matthew 12:33-35; Luke 6:43-45)

Adhering to the instruction of the Lord is of great importance. It is not up to us to interpret our own meaning, add to or take from the commandment of the Lord. As Saul does here, often we all fall guilty of trying to do for God what he has not asked us to do. Saul received precise and direct instructions which he ignored, elevating and inserting his own ideals and interpretations to what the Lord wanted. God would rather us obey his directive rather than attempting to do something for him through own futile efforts. This brings great judgment on Saul as the Lord’s hand is removed from him and Samuel prophecies that a new king (eventually David) will replace him. The slaying of Agag is a drastic display of Samuel’s decisive obedience in the face of Saul’s blatant disobedience.

(Deuteronomy 4:2; Isaiah 1:19-20; Luke 6:46-49; John 14:15)

To understand the timing of this chapter, it is important to note that from 1 Samuel 16 (David’s first anointing) to 1 Chronicles 11 is roughly 15-25 years. Through this period David had fled from Saul, battled against Saul’s house, and eventually reigned over Judah for seven years. Prior to this point, Ishbosheth (Saul’s son) was propped up on the throne by Abner (Saul’s cousin/general) and was recognized by all the other tribes of Israel (apart from Judah) as king. No doubt the Lord was preparing David and working through these seasons of his life, the same being true with Israel collectively. Now had come the Lord’s appointed time for David to take his position as “shepherd” and “prince” of God’s people collectively. David is seen in great contrast to Saul. Although he is not of great stature and pedigree as Saul, David has a heart after God and is faithful to the Lord’s directive. God’s hand is clearly upon David as the Lord delivers Zion (the capital of Jerusalem) and many mighty men into the service of David.

(2 Samuel 2:8-11, 3:1; 1 Chronicles 12:18, 23)

The authoritative movement of the Lord is quite clear throughout these passages as we get a glimpse behind the scenes. God is sovereignly ordaining all of the necessary pieces into place. Because Saul has proven himself to be disobedient to the will of the Lord, God anoints his successor (David), strategically sends a spirit to inflict torment on Saul, and orchestrates it all in such a way that David, a gifted lyrist, finds favor in Saul’s company. If Saul would have known the plans of the Lord, he would have most certainly tried to thwart them, however. The Lord wills and works for his good pleasure, bringing about his perfect plan. Looking back, we have seen Abram called, his lineage blessed and preserved to bless others. There was the exodus from bondage into the promised land and now we see a king coming from the line of Judah, anointed from Bethlehem, a shepherd to oversee God’s people. We are able to see the stage of redemption is being set.

(Isaiah 46:8-10; Acts 4:27-28, 17:24-27; Ephesians 1:11)

Technically David had already been anointed king under the directive of the Lord by his prophet Samuel. It is here within this infamous bible story that we see a young boy, full of faith and the Spirit of God. Many see this story and read themselves into the role of David, naturally. God will enable us to face and defeat the giants in our lives, right? A more realistic approach to this narrative is to see ourselves as the frightened Israelite soldiers. David, a king anointed from Bethlehem, from the tribe of Judah and lineage of Jesse, that stands in the gap between us and the enemy is more of a picture of Jesus Christ. As Christians we should seek to remember that the battle is the Lord’s (v.47). His work is finished upon the cross and we are to trust and put our faith in him, not ourselves.

(Isaiah 59:16; 1 Corinthians 15:57; Hebrews 2:14-16; 12:1-3)

These historical passages are similar to that of 1 Chronicles 11, yet emphasize varying details. 2 Samuel 5 goes into greater specifics regarding the conquering of Jerusalem and David’s multiple conflicts with the Philistines. The taking of Jerusalem by defeating the Jebusites was a strategical step for David in the unification of Israel, as the city was located in between what would eventually be the northern kingdom and Judah to the south. David clearly ensures his success by communing with God, consistently seeking the Lord’s direction and approval as he leads. Being obedient unto the Lord will bring his blessings. It does not always guarantee our idea of success, but his will is what we should seek.

(Deuteronomy 28:1-2; 1 Kings 2:1-3; Luke 11:28)