Summary 2 Samuel 2:

Seeking the Lord’s guidance, David asks about going up to Judah. The Lord directs David to go to Hebron. He has two wives right now, Ahinoam and Abigail. All his men came with him and settled. David was anointed king over Judah. David thanked the people of Jabesh Gilead who buried Saul’s body and promised to show them favor because of it.

A commander in Saul’s army, Abner, wanted the throne. He convinced Saul’s son, Ish-Bosheth to join him to fight against David. After two years of Ish-Bosheth being king over Israel, a battle was fought at Gibeon. Some men from both sides were sent to fight as representatives. All died and an all-out battle ensued. Abner was defeated by David’s men. They pursued Abner, resulting in the death of Asahel. Abner convinces the men of David (Judah) to give up the pursuit, which they do. Abner continues his flight.

Summary 2 Samuel 3:1-5:

The war between the houses of Saul and David lasted a long time, with David growing stronger and Saul’s growing weaker. During this time, David has 6 sons by 6 different wives while in Hebron: Amnon, Kileab, Absalom, Adonijah, Shephatiah, and Ithream.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 16, Day 3: 2 Samuel 2:1-3:5:

6) David had to decide when to claim the throne of Israel. He asked God first.

7) Worse. Abner was the commander of Saul’s army. He mounted what was in essence a coup against David, using Saul’s son a puppet, and causing David’s men to fight against their own countrymen.

8 ) Part personal Question. My answer: It’s a warning to not let others use you. It shows the animosity that happens when you go against God. I can pray first always in what I do and choose wisely those I surround myself with.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 3: 2 Samuel 2:1-3:5:

To me, what stood out was how many wives David has. That’s a lot of in-fighting, favoritism, and jockeying for position of favorite internally. I’m unsure how David even dealt with all of that. I love how we see man’s unchanging nature as Abner wants power and uses whoever he wants to get it. It’s a warning to always be aware of who your friends are.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 3: 2 Samuel 2:1-3:5:

Commentary 2 Samuel 2:

The key to David’s success is life was his constant inquiry of the Lord. With rare exceptions, he did so. David wanted more than God’s blessing on his plans; he wanted to be right in the middle of God’s plan.

At this time David was still in Ziklag, in the territory of the Philistines. Out of great discouragement and despair, he had left the land of Israel and lived almost as a Philistine among the Philistines. Now that David was restored to the LORD, he wondered if it was time for him to go back to his homeland.

David didn’t want to appear opportunistic, as if he only came back to Israel because Saul was dead. While not being overly concerned with appearances before man, he was not unconcerned with appearances either.

God was faithful to answer when David inquired. Since David just came out of a period of spiritual decline, God could have put him on “probation” and refused to speak to him for a while. Instead, the LORD spoke to David and gave him guidance.

It has been 15 to 20 years since David was anointed king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:12-13).

What does David’s anointing show?

• It’s better to let God lift you up through others than to strive to advance yourself. We should strive to advance God’s Kingdom and leave the advancement of self in His hands.
• The first anointing wasn’t enough. We need a fresh anointing from God and ongoing experience with the Holy Spirit.

Who was Abner?

Abner was Saul’s cousin (1 Samuel 14:50) and the commander of Saul’s armies for many years. He first met David when David was a young man (1 Samuel 17:55-57). David once challenged Abner when he had the opportunity to kill Saul but did not. David pointed out that Abner failed to protect his king.

Who was Ishbosheth?

Saul had three sons who died with him in battle (1 Samuel 31:6). There is no previous mention of Ishbosheth among the sons of Saul, so it is possible that he was an illegitimate son or the son of a concubine.

David was also a son of Saul by marriage. David married Michal, the daughter of Saul (1 Samuel 18:17-30)

For two years, David allowed Ishbosheth to reign over most of Israel. These two years showed remarkable patience, longsuffering, and trust in God on David’s part. Ishbosheth was not the LORD’s anointed like Saul – David seemed to have every right to crush this man who stood in the way of his calling. Yet out of trust in the LORD and respect for Saul’s memory, David waited.

It seems strange that many of the tribes preferred Ishbosheth to David. Yet since the Philistines had overrun many of the other tribes of Israel, they were even more hesitant to come out-and-out for David, who was no longer fighting for the Philistines and was probably unliked because of it.

7 years and 6 months David ruled in Hebron, 2 of which, Ishbosheth ruled Israel.

The battle between Abner and Joab

Who was Joab?

Joab was apparently one of the 400 men who joined David at Adullam Cave (1 Samuel 22:1-2), or he joined with David during this general period.

• Joab had two notable brothers: Abishai and Asahel.
• Joab, Abishai, and Asahel were David’s nephews, the sons of David’s sister Zeruiah (1 Chronicles 2:16).
• Joab had a long and checkered career as David’s chief general.

Abner and Joab were each tough, mean, military men who were completely devoted to their cause.

Abner suggested some kind of contest or duel between a select group of his men and Joab’s men. When the two groups of 12 met, it quickly degenerated into a mutual bloodbath.  Yet David’s men under the command of Joab prevailed in the very fierce battle that followed this bloodbath at the Field of Sharp Swords.

Abner and Asahel

Abner first asked Asahel to turn back out of concern for his own safety. This didn’t make much sense to Asahel because it seemed that Abner was at the disadvantage. Abner also appealed to Asahel on the ground of military honor – that officers should not strike down officers, especially when it might lead to ugly retribution and the danger of leaderless armies.

Yet, Asahel refused to turn aside, being too single-minded in his determination to kill Abner and crush the armies opposing David.

Clearly, Abner killed Asahel in self-defense – it was the only thing he could do. Yet his concern (How then could I face your brother Joab) was entirely justified, and Joab will make it his passion to avenge his brother’s death.

Motivated by revenge for their brother, Joab agreed to the cease fire to rest his army and avoid more bloodshed.

Abner and the army of Ishbosheth lost 360 men to 20 in the army of David.

Mistakes at Battle of the Field of Sharp Swords

• Joab, having the military advantage, should never have accepted Abner’s appeal for a cease-fire at the battle of The Field of Sharp Swords. The fact was that they couldn’t just get along, and that there could be no peace between the rightful king David and the pretender to the throne, Ishbosheth. The cease fire led to a long war.
• When we try to make peace between King Jesus and King Self within us, the result is a long, bitter war. It is so much better to simply surrender and submit to the reign of Jesus.

“In the lives of many Christian people today there is raging, literally, a civil war. The flesh – the kingdom of Saul, struggles with the spirit – the kingdom of David, and the conflict is bitter. We do everything we possibly can to hold up the tottering kingdom of self, so that it might exist just a bit longer. If only we could preserve some rights; if only we could have at least part of our own way; if only we could keep this or that at any cost! We feel we must bolster up this kingdom of self, that we cannot let ourselves be crucified with Christ.” (Redpath)

The increasing strength of David and increasing weakness of Saul’s house did not begin when Saul died. It began when God first chose David and withdrew His Spirit from Saul (1 Samuel 16:13-14).

Commentary 2 Samuel 3:1-5:

David’s many wives and sons

David was in Hebron for 7 years. While there he had 6 sons by 6 different wives. This was against God’s command to kings (Deuteronomy 17:17) and against God’s heart for marriage (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6).

Adding many wives was one way great men and especially kings expressed their power and status.

David was troubled because of his many wives. Some wonder why the Bible doesn’t expressly condemn David’s polygamy here, but as is often the case, the Scripture simply states the fact and later records how David reaped the penalty for this sort of sin in regard to his family.

God used and blessed David despite his many wives. Yet his family life and these sons were obviously not blessed.

• Amnon raped his half-sister and was murdered by his half-brother.
• Kileab is also known as Daniel in 1 Chronicles 3:1. The few mentions of this son indicate that perhaps he died young or that he was an ungodly, unworthy man.
• Absalom murdered his half-brother and led a civil war against his father David, attempting to murder David.
• Adonijah tried to seize the throne from David and David’s appointed successor – then he tried to take one of David’s concubines and was executed for his arrogance.
• Shephatiah and Ithream either died young or were ungodly and unworthy men because they are mentioned only once again in the Scriptures – in a generic listing of David’s sons (1 Chronicles 3:1-4).

Summary 2 Samuel 3:6-29:

Abner slept with Saul’s concubine in order to strengthen his position within the house of Saul. When Ish-Bosheth questioned Abner, Abner get offended and defected to David’s side. David agreed to meet with Abner if he brought his first wife, Michal, daughter of Saul, with him. Abner agreed, and he immediately began building a coalition of elders and Benjamites to support David.

Joab kills Abner for revenge for his brother’s death. When David finds out, he absolves himself of all wrongdoing and publicly weeps and condemns Joab for his actions.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 16, Day 4: 2 Samuel 3:6-29:

9) Abner was questioned by Ish-Bosheth on why he slept with Saul’s concubine. Abner began building a coalition of elders and Benjamites to support David. He swore he would help establish David’s throne over all of Judah and Israel.

10) Personal Question. My answer: David asked essentially for proof that Abner was acting in faith by having him bring him his first wife, Michal. David welcomed him with a feast for him and his men. David gave Abner an opportunity to prove his loyalty. Joab, on the other hand, was blinded by revenge and would do anything to kill him. He immediately thinks Abner is out to deceive David, so he goes out and kills him. I try to respond with love and compassion, but it’s a battle all the way because I want to write them off and have nothing to do with them ever again.

11) Personal Question. My answer: God places men in David’s life to help him such as Abner. God changes Abner’s heart to David.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 4: 2 Samuel 3:6-29:

It’s interesting how a little accusation blows up into something big enough to make Abner switch sides. We see how evil and unforgiving man is at heart when Joab murders Abner in cold blood.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 4: 2 Samuel 3:6-29:

Ishbosheth accused Abner of a serious crime. Taking a royal concubine was regarded as both sexual immorality and treason. “To take the wife or concubine of the late monarch was to appropriate his property and to make a bid for the throne.” (Baldwin)

In David’s time, women were political symbols. Abner’s sleeping with Saul’s concubine would have suggested that he had his eyes on becoming king himself. Later, when Absalom drove his father David out of Jerusalem, he slept with David’s concubines in public, demonstrating to all eyes that he had taken over from his father (1 Sam 16:12).

We aren’t specifically told, but Abner’s response leads us to believe that the accusation was false. It is possible that as he was strengthening his hold on the house of Saul he took the concubine as an expression of his power and dominance. It is more likely that because of Abner’s increasing power Ishbosheth felt it necessary to invent this accusation as a reason to get rid of Abner.

Abner switching sides

If Abner knew that David was God’s choice for king, he had no good reason to fight against him before this. Abner is a good example of those of us who know things to be true, but who don’t live as if they were true.

Abner did the right thing in joining David’s side, but he did it for the wrong reason. Instead of joining David because Ishbosheth offended him personally, he should have joined David because he knew that David was God’s choice to be king.

David received Michal in marriage (1 Samuel 18:26-28), but Saul took her away to spite David (1 Samuel 25:44).

1 Samuel 18:20-30 describes how David used this unusual payment instead of a dowry for the right to marry the daughter of King Saul.

Why did David want Michal back?

1. David may have still loved her.
2. David wanted to show that he harbored no bitterness towards Saul’s house, and he would show this through his good treatment of Saul’s daughter.
3. David wanted to give himself a greater claim to Saul’s throne as his son-in-law.

Though he was the rightful king, David would not reign over Israel until the elders submitted to him freely. He never moved an inch without an invitation.

How does King David reflect Jesus?

• Jesus and David were prophesied, but only the remnant and the few accepted them.
• Until both are accepted, nothing is set in stone.
• David and Jesus must be invited in.

Why did Joab murder Abner?

1. Joab believed Abner to be working for Ishbosheth
2. Joab wanted revenge for Abner killing his brother
3. Abner had been the number 2 guy for Saul. Joab may have felt threatened by his presence

Joab carefully engineered this murder because the killing was done outside the gate of Hebron , which wasa city of refuge (Joshua 20:7). It was against the law for Joab to kill Abner inside the city.

Spurgeon:  “We may even deceive ourselves into the belief that we are honoring our Lord and Master when we are, all the while, bringing disgrace upon his name.”

Why did David renounce this murder so strongly?

• The murder of Abner set a bad precedent.
• The murder of Abner gave David’s administration a reputation for brutality
• The murder of Abner made it harder for David to win the rest of Israel over to his side.

Why was Joab not punished for the murder of Abner?

• David pronounced a severe curse against Joab
• David was afraid to lose Joab as a general. (Joab would be punished in 1 Kings 2:5-6
• David still believed vengeance belongs to the Lord.

This was just one mess David would deal with, and, as king, these messes are commonplace when running a country since men are sinners inherently.

Summary 2 Samuel 4:

Ish-Bosheth was murdered by two men while he slept. They took the head to David, expecting to be rewarded when instead David put them to death for murder. Ish-Bosheth was buried in Abner’s tomb.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 16, Day 5: 2 Samuel 4:1-12:

12) They were hoping to gain favor with David. Instead, they were put to death for murder.

13) Part personal Question. My answer: In all kinds of way. Social media. Pride. Bragging. Putting others down. Gossiping. Back-stabbing. Sabotaging others. Withholding information. I can get jealous and not be as helpful as I could be.

14) Personal Question. My answer: Sometimes the consequences we hope for are not in reality what they are. Our motivations matter. If you do something just for self-promotion, odds are it won’t turn out in your favor. Motivation is the key.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 5: 2 Samuel 4:1-12:

Not a lot happened in this chapter. Nice, succinct lesson.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 16, Day 5: 2 Samuel 4:1-12:

Ish-Bosheth was a weak king and when his number one man was gone (Abner), it was only a matter of time before he was removed from power.

2 Samuel 4:2 reminds us that Rechab and Baanah were of the children of Benjamin. This was the tribe that Saul’s family came from. Thus, it was fellow Benjaminites who murdered Ishbosheth.

The mid-day siesta wasn’t unusual in that part of the world, but the absence of guards points to carelessness, even sloth, on the part of Ishbosheth.

The murderers claimed they were doing God’s work. We must beware of this in our own lives.

David was loyal to his pledge to honor and preserve Saul’s family and descendants (1 Samuel 24:20-22)

Quick justice was required to show:

1. David did not order the murders.
2. David did not approve of the murders.
3. David knew it was God’s job to take vengeance, not man’s.

Abner was a great general who fought most of his life for a bad king. Though he introduced David to King Saul (1 Samuel 17:55-58) and commanded David during his early campaigns, Abner ultimately followed Saul’s orders and fought against David. During the years when David’s band of outlaws was roaming the hills, Abner led the hunt to track them down. Along the way he and David won mutual respect as honorable enemies.

Even after Saul died, Abner remained loyal to the forces arrayed against David. He installed Saul’s son as king (2 Samuel 2:8) and fought a long civil war against David, knowing David was the anointed king of Israel.

Abner was loyal to Saul’s son until accused of disloyalty. Saul’s son, Ish-Bosheth, saw Abner as a threat to the throne and finally said something about it — albeit in a round-about way. He switched sides and died by treachery. Shortly after Abner’s death, Ish-bosheth was assassinated as he slept (2 Samuel 4), and David became king of the reunited kingdoms (2 Samuel 5).

Abner was a great soldier with undying loyalty to his king. He had his faults like we all do (like taking loyalty to the extreme), but Israel needed more men like Abner.

“Better to know a few things which are good and necessary than many things which are useless and mediocre.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Summary 2 Samuel 5:1-16:

Finally, all the tribes and elders came to David and told him they wanted him as king. David was anointed king over all of Israel at age 30. He reigned in Hebron 7 1/2 years and in Jerusalem 33 years.

David captured Jerusalem (otherwise known as Zion) for his capital, a city about in the middle of the northern and southern part of Israel. David built a palace, and he grew stronger as the Lord was with him. He took more wives and concubines and had more kids.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 17, Day 2: 2 Samuel 5:1-16:

3) “We are your own flesh and blood. In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.'” God had him anointed and in His timing, David became king.

4) Part personal Question. My answer: Patience as he waited for the people and the elders to come to him. Faithfulness as David trusted in God’s promise to make the kingship happen, so David never took matters into his own hands. Lots if I’d listen. Patience with my kids and my career and what’s next in my life.

5) Part personal Question. My answer: David knew he was successful because the Lord was with him. David knew the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. David knew it was all about God’s glory. God has put me in my job and in my family and everywhere I go to bless others around me.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 2: 2 Samuel 5:1-16:

Finally, after all those years of patiently waiting and hiding, David becomes king. I picture him as content in God’s plan as he continues to follow it through. He understands it is all about God, and he is merely being used by God. And yet we see his imperfections in wives and such. We are all human, making mistakes, and striving to do what’s best.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 2: 2 Samuel 5:1-16:

Prior to this, only one of the tribes of Israel recognized David as king. The other tribes recognized Ishbosheth, a son of Saul. The tribes only turned to David when their previous choice was taken away.

Why did the elders recognize David as king?

1. David was an Israelite.
2. David was a leader.
3. David was God’s anointed one.

1 Chronicles 12:23-40 describes the great assembly that gathered in Hebron to recognize David as king over all Israel. Chronicles describes the impressive army that came to Hebron and numbers the soldiers at over 340,000 men. It then describes the scene: All these men of war, who could keep ranks, came to Hebron with a loyal heart, to make David king over all Israel; and all the rest of Israel were of one mind to make David king. And they were there with David three days, eating and drinking, for their brethren had prepared for them… for there was joy in Israel.

Samuel anointed David when he was about 15, and he did not take the throne until 30. David spent at least 15 years in preparation for the throne of Israel.

David takes Jerusalem

Up to this time Jerusalem was a small Canaanite city in the center of Israel. Some 400 years after God commanded Israel to take the whole land, this city was still in Canaanite hands. Because of its location, Jerusalem was an easily defended city. This made the Jebusites overconfident and quick to mock David and his troops.

Why pick Jerusalem as Israel’s capital city?

1. It had no prior tribal association and was therefore good for a unified Israel.
2. The geography of the city made it easy to defend against a hostile army.
3. It was centrally located between the north and south of Israel, belonging to neither.

The Price of Greatness

• In God’s plan there is almost always a hidden price of greatness. Often those who become great among God’s people experience much pain and difficulty in God’s training process.

Neighboring kings honored David with the finest craftsmen and wood to build a palace. The relationship with Hiram king of Tyre also showed that David was more than a man of war: David knew how to build important political alliances.

What Godly qualities did King David know?

1. David knew it was God who called him and established him as king — not man.
2. David knew Israel (his kingdom) belonged to God.
3. David knew he was king for the people of Israel’s sake and for God’s sake. Being king had nothing to do with him.
4. David knew he and Israel flourished because of God and no one else.

David’s future downfall: His many wives

Having multiple wives was in direct disobedience to Deuteronomy 17:17: Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away.

Certainly David (and everyone else) saw these many children as God’s sign of blessing upon David and his many marriages. Yet most of the trouble to come in David’s life came from his relationships with women and problems with his children.

It is often true that the seeds to our future trouble are sown in times of great success and prosperity. In some ways, David handled trials better than success.

Summary 2 Samuel 5:17-25:

Philistines attack David in the Valley of Rephaim. The Lord tells David He will hand them over to him, so David goes and defeats them. They abandoned their idols, which David carried off. Again, the Philistines come before David and this time God tells them to circle around and wait for Him to go before them (which he’ll know by the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees).

Summary Psalm 68:

David prays for God’s enemies and foes to be scattered and the righteous be glad and rejoice. God gave the Promised Land to His people. He provides. He bears our burdens. He is awesome and worthy of our praise.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 17, Day 3: 2 Samuel 5:17-25 and Psalm 68:

6) Part personal Question. My answer: David prayed to God to ask God what he should do, which David did. In careers, in jobs, in my future, and in my health. I think He’s answering all in His time.

7) His justness, his care of widows and the fatherless. His giving of the Promised Land. His delivering of the enemies. His scattering of nations. His majesty. His power.

8 ) Personal Question. My answer: His utter faith on God for everything in his life. David’s constant praying and asking God what to do. His constant praise of God. God as his center. This is what challenges me.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 3: 2 Samuel 5:17-25 and Psalm 68:

The key is asking God always for everything in your life. What your next move will be in all areas: career, spiritual, money, battles, relationships, etc. Then obeying and taking action.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 3: 2 Samuel 5:17-25 and Psalm 68:

Commentary 2 Samuel 5:17-25:

As David sought God and looked to Him for guidance, he was blessed. God honored David’s dependence on Him and gave him the promise of victory.

Take away from 2 Samuel 5:

• David always triumphed when he sought and obeyed God.

God directed David differently in this battle. Even against the same enemy, not every battle is the same.

How do you respond to the sound of the balsam trees?

• The footsteps of angels is what some say the sound in the balsam trees was.
• When we sense that the Lord is at work, we must advance quickly, and we will see a great victory won.
• King James version says: “thou shalt bestir thyself.” When you hear the work of God happening, bestir thyself .

When we see the work of God happening around us, it is like the sound in the mulberry trees – the rustling sound should awaken us to prayer and devotion. A time of crisis or tragedy is also like the sound in the mulberry trees – the rustling sound should awaken us to confession and repentance.

Commentary Psalm 68:

The title of this Psalm is, To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. A Song. Most commentators believe this Psalm is connected with the coming of the ark of the covenant into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6) celebrating not only that event, but also the faithfulness of God to give Israel victory over her enemies, secure enough to bring the ark into Jerusalem.

Horne described how this Psalm was assigned to Pentecost in the Anglican liturgy, no doubt because it describes gifts given upon ascension and is quoted in Ephesians 4. “This beautiful, sublime, and comprehensive, but very difficult Psalm, is one of those which the church has appointed to be used on Whitsunday.”

The composition of this Psalm makes it a challenge for commentators, both from the Hebrew and in translation. Adam Clarke wrote, “I know not how to undertake a comment on this Psalm: it is the most difficult in the whole Psalter.”

Using the phrasing of Numbers 10:35, David proclaimed the triumph of God over all His enemies. When God goes forth no opponent can stand against Him. They are all scattered. Since Moses said those words when the ark of the covenant led Israel from Mount Sinai, David knew it was appropriate to say the same words as the ark came to Jerusalem, its resting place.

As David brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6) he made a dramatic historical connection.

Numbers 10 describes the departure of Israel from Mount Sinai, towards the Promised Land. As they marched, the ark of the covenant led the way. So it was, whenever the ark set out, that Moses said: “Rise up, O LORD! Let Your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate You flee before You.” (Numbers 10:35)

The idea was simple, both with Moses in the Exodus and David with Israel in the land. It expressed the confidence and the need of God’s people: “God, go before us and take care of our enemies. It’s too dangerous ahead without You.” This spirit of confident dependence is appropriate for every believer.

God’s enemies have no ability to stand against Him.

We are to praise God with knowledge of His character, and knowing Him personally.

Why should we rejoice in God?

1. God rides on the clouds, in victory and triumph over all the earth.
2. God has revealed Himself to humanity in the name Yahweh, showing His love and loyalty to His people.

“The psalmist contrasts the all-sufficiency of the God of Israel with the powers of Baal whom the Canaanites worshipped as ‘the Rider on the clouds.’” (VanGemeren)

“The name JAH is an abbreviation of the name Jehovah; it is not a diminution of that name, but an intensified word, containing in it the essence of the longer, august title. It only occurs here in our version of Scripture, except in connection with other words such as Hallelujah.” (Spurgeon)

“Yah, probably a contraction of the word Yehovah; at least so the ancient Versions understood it. It is used but in a few places in the sacred writings. It might be translated The Self existent.” (Clarke)

God’s Greatness

God’s greatness isn’t only defined by military-like triumphs. It is also seen in His compassionate concern and care for the weak and needy. The name Yahweh is connected to God as the Becoming One (Exodus 3:13-14), the God who becomes what His people need.

God is with you:

• God provides
• God protects

Great was the company: “The Hebrew word is of the feminine gender, because it was the manner of the Hebrews, that when the men returned victorious from the battle, the women went out to meet them with songs of triumph.” (Poole)

It is significant that God chose women to be the first messengers of the good news of the victory of Jesus’ resurrection (Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-10). The New Testament says that women should not be in positions of doctrinal authority (1 Timothy 2:9-14), but they certainly can and should proclaim the good news of God’s victory in Jesus Christ.

Zalmon is another name for Mount Ebal in central Israel, which many would consider more of a high hill than an actual mountain. The meaning of this line is not entirely clear, and has been the source of much speculation.

“According to Judges 9:48, Zalmon (‘the Dark One’) is one of the mountains by Shechem.” (VanGemeren)

“Whether the rout of kings there was caused by a blizzard, or whether the battlefield was ‘snowed’ with weapons and garments (or, later, with bones), or the fleeing armies compared to snowflakes, we cannot tell.” (Kidner)

Where was Bashan?

Bashan was further north in Israel, in the region of what today is called the Golan Heights. Bashan was an impressive mountain, even a mountain of God and part of Israel’s heritage. Yet it and the other mountains seem to fume with envy when they see how God has favored Zion.

God chose Jerusalem even though there were higher and more spectacular mountains. Yet as He often chooses the weak to confound the strong and the foolish to mystify the wise, He chose Zion over Bashan.

By God’s command (Deuteronomy 17:16) ancient Israel never had many chariots. They were unneeded because God fought for Israel, and He had power greater than thousands of thousands of chariots.

With the direct leading of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Paul quoted Psalm 68:18 and applied it to Jesus, keeping the context but changing one key word. Paul quoted, When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men (Ephesians 4:8). Paul applied this to the ascension of Jesus into heaven and His sending of the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit to His Church. The one word Paul changed by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit was received gifts to gave gifts.

In describing God’s victory, David used an image from Genesis 3:15 where God promised that the Messiah would strike a fatal head wound against Satan.

The bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem

After the great triumph over their enemies, David and Israel could bring the ark of the covenant into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6).

In the procession of the ark, the small tribe of Benjamin had a prominent role. This showed wonderful grace on David’s part because his predecessor King Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin and many kings of David’s day would refuse to give them any honor at all.

“Little Benjamin. That tribe is called little, partly because it was the youngest, as being descended from Jacob’s youngest son Benjamin; and principally because it was exceedingly diminished, and almost extinguished, under the judges.” (Poole)

Since reeds were often associated with the Nile River, David prayed that God would keep them safe against the Egyptians and Ethiopians. He asked God to do that until they, like all the nations, come in submitted tribute to Jerusalem

The essence of this Psalm:

This Psalm has been much loved by generals and soldiers. “To the Crusaders, setting out for the recovery of the Holy Land; to Savonarola and his monks, as they marched to the ‘Trial of Fire’ in the Piazza at Florence; to the Huguenots, who called it ‘The song of battles’; to Cromwell, at Dunbar, as the sun rose on the mists of the morning and he charged Leslie’s army.” (Kirkpatrick, cited in Morgan)

Whatever victory generals may have won and inspiration they received from this Psalm, the victories did not last. The lasting victory still waits for the Messiah’s great kingdom.

Summary 2 Samuel 6:1-11:

David and 30,000 men gather to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem from Baalah on a cart. Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark, touching it, and God struck him dead. David was angry over this and afraid and left the Ark  in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for 3 months, and the Lord blessed this household.

Summary 1 Chronicles 13:1-14:

David wanted to bring all together to bring back the Ark of the Covenant from Kiriath Jearim. They moved the Ark on an ox cart and when it began to tip, Uzzah reached out to steady it. When he touched the ark, he was struck dead by God. David was angry at Uzzah’s death and afraid. He put the ark in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months. God blessed Obed-Edom and his household.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 17, Day 4: 2 Samuel 6:1-11; 1 Chronicles 13:1-14:

9) The Ark of the Covenant was God’s dwelling place on Earth, so who wouldn’t want God with them? David conferred with his officers, commanders, priests and Levites, and all the people gathered who agreed to move the Ark. God, however, did not agree.

10) Part personal Question. My answer: God had ordered for the Ark never to be touched and instead carried with poles. He struck down Uzzah because he disobeyed, carrying the Ark on an oxcart like the Philistines did. I learn God is serious in His commandments to His people and how He wants to be honored.

11) Personal Question. My answer: Since I can’t predict the future, I can’t say definitively how this will impact the way I live. This study has deepened my understanding of God. God is mighty. God is to be taken seriously. God is faithful. God is in control. God does what He says He’s going to do.

Conclusions: BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 4: 2 Samuel 6:1-11; 1 Chronicles 13:1-14:

I love the Old Testament because you always see the consequences of disobedience. In this case, it was death. God is serious in how He expects us to obey, to act, and to treat and honor Him. When we don’t, the consequences are serious. We need to take our faith more seriously.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 4: 2 Samuel 6:1-11; 1 Chronicles 13:1-14:

Commentary 2 Samuel 6:1-11:

Psalm 132 is commonly associated with the events of this chapter.

David gathered so many of his best soldiers because bringing the ark to Jerusalem was an important step towards providing a central place of worship for all of Israel.

The Ark of the Covenant

• The Ark of the Covenant was what God had commanded Moses to make more than 400 years before David’s time. It was a wood box (the word ark means “box” or “chest”) completely covered with gold and with an ornate gold lid known as the mercy seat.
• The Ark of God was 3 feet 9 inches (1.15 meters) long, 2 feet 3 inches (.68 meter) wide and 2 feet 3 inches (.68 meter) high.
• The Ark of the Covenant contained the tablets of the law that Moses brought down from Mount Sinai, a jar of manna, and Aaron’s rod that miraculously budded as a confirmation of his leadership.
• The Ark of God represented the immediate presence and glory of God in Israel.

Why move the Ark of the Covenant now?

• David considered it a high priority to bring the ark out of obscurity and back into prominence.
• David wanted Israel to be alive with a sense of the near presence and glory of God.
• We last heard of the Ark of God when it came back from the land of the Philistines in 1 Samuel 7:1. It had been at the house of Abinadab for 70 years.
• David had a great motive – to emphasize the presence and glory of God in Israel.

What did the Israelites do wrong?

• Transporting the ark on a cart was against God’s specific command. The ark was designed to be carried (Exodus 25:12-15) only by Levites of the family of Koath (Numbers 4:15).

“The ark was nothing less than the burden of the Lord, and the burden of the Lord was to be carried on the hearts of the Levites.” (Redpath)

The Philistines transported the ark on a cart (1 Samuel 6:10-11). They were pagans who didn’t know better. Israel was to follow God’s law, not pagans’ ways.

Take away from 2 Samuel 6:

A good idea (bringing the Ark back) done in a wrong way against God (using a cart) displeases God.

Uzzah means “strength” and Ahio means “friendly.” Despite the big production, God was unhappy.

Why was Uzzah struck dead?

• Uzzah disobeyed God’s commandment in  Numbers 4:15 says, they shall not touch any holy thing lest they die.
• The Israelites were not honoring God (the Ark being the symbol of His presence on earth).

Why was David angry and fearful over Uzzah’s death?

• David was confused because he himself had forgotten God’s word.
• Although David had good intentions, God cares about actions as well.
• David disobeyed God as well.

God blesses those who obey Him

• Obed-Edom was a Levite of the family of Koath (1 Chronicles 26:4). This was the family within the tribe of Levi that God commanded to carry and take care of the ark (Numbers 4:15).

Lessons from 2 Samuel 6:

When God’s Word is obeyed and His holiness respected, blessing follows.

Commentary 1 Chronicles 13:1-14:

Note: the Bible does not say that David consulted with the Lord. A group of godly men with good intentions would soon make a significant mistake because they took counsel with each other, but not with the LORD.

Payne:“Literally ‘our brothers that are left.’ This may reflect something of the seriousness of the third major Philistine oppression against Israel, 1010-1003 b.c., which David had just broken (2 Samuel 5:20, 25).”

What was wrong with the method of transportation of the Ark of the Covenant?

• Who was transporting the ark
• How the ark was being transported
• Assumed God couldn’t care for the ark Himself

Lesson from 1 Chronicles 13:

The process matters as much as the outcome.

Summary 2 Samuel 6:12-23:

David eventually brought the Ark of the Covenant from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David. He danced before the Lord while all celebrated. Michal did not like her husband. David put the Ark in the tent and offered sacrifices to God. David blessed the people and fed them. When David returned home after bringing the Ark up to bless his household, he was condemned by Michal for his behavior. David reminded Michal God chose him to rule Israel, and he will celebrate the Lord and be even more humbled before God. As punishment, Michal had no children.

Summary 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:43:

David prepares a place for the Ark of the Covenant before moving it this time. He forbade anyone but the Levites to carry it this time. The Levites consecrated themselves and brought up the Ark of God has He had commanded using poles. There was much singing and celebrating and sacrificing as the Ark was transported and upon its arrival in Jerusalem. David joined in the celebrations. Michal despised him in her heart because of this.

David put the Ark of God in the prepared tent and sacrifices were offered. David blessed the people and fed them. He appointed Levites to minister before the Ark, to praise God, and give Him thanks. David sings a psalm of thanks to God. David left many Levites to minister before the Ark and in the tabernacle of the Lord in Gibeon (the old tent that housed the Ark).

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 17, Day 5: 2 Samuel 6:12-23; 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:43:

12) Part personal Question. My answer: David prepares a place for the Ark of the Covenant before moving it this time. He forbade anyone but the Levites to carry it this time. The Levites consecrated themselves and brought up the Ark of God has He had commanded using poles. There was much singing and celebrating and sacrificing as the Ark was transported and upon its arrival in Jerusalem. David joined in the celebrations and danced before God. Michal despised him in her heart because of this.

David put the Ark of God in the prepared tent and sacrifices were offered. David blessed the people and fed them. He appointed Levites to minister before the Ark, to praise God, and give Him thanks. David sings a psalm of thanks to God. David left many Levites to minister before the Ark and in the tabernacle of the Lord in Gibeon (the old tent that housed the Ark).

This was not a spur-of-the-moment decision. This time around David prepares ahead of time for the Ark, follows all of God’s rules for moving the Ark and having the Levites do it all, praises God for his goodness and faithfulness, and attends to the Ark after it has been moved. I learn God desires us to follow His rules just as much as He desires the act be done. God does not reward shortcuts in worshipping and obeying Him.

13) Part personal Question. My answer: David joined in the celebrations and danced before God. He sang God a psalm of praise, thanking Him for all He has done and all He will do. Everything in my life. I celebrate Him, give Him praise for all I do, and thank Him.

14) Part personal Question. My answer: Michael despised David in her heart for his celebrations before the Lord, deeming them inappropriate. David responds by saying He celebrated before the Lord who chose him to lead all of Israel. He will become even more undignified and more humiliating to celebrate God. I love David’s response how he’ll do what he wants to celebrate God without worrying what others think of him. This is a lesson we all can apply in our lives.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 4: 2 Samuel 6:12-23; 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:43:

My favorite part was David dancing before the Lord, David telling Michal he didn’t care what she thought about his praising of God, and Michal being duly punished.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 17, Day 4: 2 Samuel 6:12-23; 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:43:

Commentary 2 Samuel 6:12-23:

In the second attempt to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, we see that when worship is according to God, it’s filled with gladness and joy. “Real” worship does not have to be subdued, solemn, or only in a minor key.

Why all the sacrifices for the Ark of the Covenant?

• This was elaborate, excessive, over-the-top sacrifice to show
• Atonement
• Consecration
• Longing for fellowship.

David didn’t hold back anything in his own expression of worship. He didn’t dance out of obligation but out of heartfelt worship. Emotions need not be repressed when celebrating and worshipping God.

Why was David wearing an Ephod?

It is a mistake to think that David was immodest. 1 Chronicles 15:27 indicates that David was dressed just like all the other priests and Levites in this procession.

From our knowledge of ancient and modern culture, David’s dance wasn’t a solo performance. He probably danced with simple rhythmic steps together with other men in the way one might see Orthodox Jewish men today dance. In this context, David’s linen ephod means he set aside his royal robes and dressed just like everyone else in the procession.

What was Michal’s problem with David’s celebrations?

• Michal felt it wasn’t dignified for the King of Israel to express his emotions before God in such a way.
• Michal felt David shouldn’t have worn an ephod like everyone else. After all, he’s the king. Shouldn’t he dress like one?

David’s dancing was for God, not Michal, and he told her so.

Lesson we learn from Michal’s barrenness:

There is often barrenness in the life and ministry of the overly critical.

Commentary 1 Chronicles 15:

. 1 Chronicles 15:11-15 shows us that David specifically commanded the priests to carry the ark the right way – on their shoulders. We often think that a “new cart” or “strength” or a “friendly” manner is the way to bring the presence and glory of God. But God always wants His presence and glory to come on the shoulders of consecrated, obedient, praising men and women.

Commentary 1 Chronicles 16:

The emblem of God’s presence and glory was set at its proper place in Israel.

These sacrifices were an important part of the ceremony, neglected in the first attempt to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem.

“David’s appointment then of Levites to minister in music and praise to God marks a significant advance in the history of Israel’s worship. His previous arrangements for music had been devised for just one occasion; but now a continuing service is envisioned.” (Payne)

How can we remember what God does for us?

Simply remembering God’s great works is an important and often neglected part of the Christian life. Spurgeon (in his sermon The Recorders) noted several ways that we can help ourselves remember the great things of God:

• Make an actual record of what God has done, keeping a written journal.
• Be sure to praise God thoroughly at the time you receive His goodness.
• Set apart time for meditation on the good things God has done.
• Talk about His mercy often to other people.
• Use everything around you as reminders to the goodness of God.
• Remember your blessings and who gave them to you.

David though the Levites had appointed Heman as the leader of worship (1 Chronicles 15:17), at this time David elevated Asaph to this position.

“No reason is given, though Asaph did represent the senior Levitical clan of Gershon (1 Chronicles 6:39-43). Personal ability may also have been a contributing factor, for Asaph and his descendants are listed as composers for twelve of the inspired Old Testament psalms.” (Payne)

David was known as sweet psalmist of Israel (2 Samuel 23:1), and he specially wrote the following psalm to thank the LORD on the day the ark of the covenant was brought to Jerusalem.

“The Psalm is found in the Book of Psalms; its first movement (8-22) in Psalm 105:1-15; its second movement (23-33) in Psalm 96:1b-13a; its third movement (34-36) consisting of a quotation of the opening and closing sentences of Psalm 106:1-47 and 48.” (Morgan)

“All three of the canonical psalms that he quoted are anonymous, ‘orphan psalms’ (without title) in the Old Testament Psalter; but on the basis of the king’s use of them here, they should indeed be classed as his.” (Payne)

The three movements of this psalm

1. Like many psalms, this one begins with a call to praise, virtually in the form of a commandment. David lists a remarkable number of ways (at least eight) one can praise and glorify God. As will be noted later in the psalm, all creation has a responsibility to praise its Creator; but this is the special responsibility of God’s people.
2. David will soon begin to sing about the special relationship between the LORD and His covenant people. In this we see that this portion of the psalm is largely meant for teaching.
3. God protects His people when they were out of the Promised Land.

What covenants did God make with man?

1. God made a covenant with Abraham regarding a land, a nation, and a particular messianic blessing (Genesis 12:1-3).
2. God made a covenant with Israel as a nation, regarding a law, sacrifice, and choice of blessing or cursing (Exodus 19:5-8).
3. God made a covenant with David regarding the specific lineage of the Messiah (2 Samuel 7).
4. God made a covenant with all who would believe on His Son, the New Covenant through Jesus Christ (Luke 22:20).

God’s covenant people have a special responsibility to praise Him, but all the earth should also proclaim the good news of His salvation day to day.

David is back to imploring the Israelites to tell everyone of the greatness of God, and His superiority above all gods.

Possibly the first reference to the Second Coming of Christ in the Bible:

Payne on for He is coming to judge the earth: “While earlier messianic prophecies had foretold our Lord’s universal, millennial reign (Genesis 49:10; Numbers 24:17; 1 Samuel 2:10), these words – ‘he comes’ – may be the first in all of written Scripture (Job 19:25 may well have been spoken earlier) to set forth the doctrine of the glorious second coming of Jesus Christ.”

This reminds us that the center of sacrifice was still at the tabernacle’s altar at Gibeon. Worship would be divided between the ark at Jerusalem and the altar at Gibeon.

“How long the service at Gibeon was continued we cannot tell; the principle functions were no doubt performed at Jerusalem.” (Clarke)

“It is not the place we occupy which is important, but the direction in which we move.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes

Hey all!

It’s the last Sunday of the month, and today complaining is on my heart.

I know we all complain. It’s human nature. However, the things we complain about the most shouldn’t really be complaints. For example, the schools our kids go to (at least they get to go to school), co-workers whom you feel aren’t doing their jobs (at least you have a job), driving in the snow (at least there is moisture to water our world), flying (at least airplanes exist), the toilet that isn’t working (thank God for indoor plumbing), or traffic that made you a few minutes late to work (at least we have cars).

My prayer today is for all of us to see the positives in this world instead of the negatives and to be grateful for the little things we “complain” about when in truth we have nothing at all to complain about in the 21st century.

We have God, and we have the Bible. Everything else is inconsequential.

God bless you in this coming week!

Summary 2 Samuel 7:1-7:

David was given rest by the Lord from his enemies once he became king. David wants to build God a dwelling place. God told Nathan the prophet to tell David that He wants a house to dwell in.

Summary 1 Chronicles 17:1-6; 22:8; 28:3:

After David was settled in his palace, he told Nathan he wants to build God a dwelling place. Nathan said do it, but God came to Nathan in a dream and said not to build him a temple. God did not want David to build God a temple because of all the bloodshed he had caused.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 18, Day 2: 2 Samuel 7:1-7; 1 Chronicles 17:1-6; 22:8; 28:3:

3) David wanted to build God a temple because he felt God was worthier of a better dwelling place than just a tent. Yes, God was pleased because it was on David’s heart.

4) Part personal Question. My answer: God did not want David to build the temple because he had fought many wars and shed much blood in God’s sight. God wanted someone pure to build the temple and someone of peace. War is not God’s way even when directed by Him.

5) Personal Question. My answer: God says no to many things I have wanted, and He continues to say no. I see this mostly in jobs I think I want, but I don’t get. Schools I want for my kids they don’t get into. Houses we didn’t end up buying. Vacations we don’t end up going on. Probably a million other little things I think I need in the moment when they are not a need, but a want — and not God’s want for my life.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 2: 2 Samuel 7:1-7; 1 Chronicles 17:1-6; 22:8; 28:3:

I don’t think I’ve ever caught this before: how David wanted to build God a temple, and God said no. Great lesson in how God does reject our wants because they are not His wants for our lives.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 2: 2 Samuel 7:1-7; 1 Chronicles 17:1-6; 22:8; 28:3:

Commentary 2 Samuel 7:1-7:

The events of 2 Samuel 7 happened after the wars of conquest described in 2 Samuel 8. This section is placed before the war accounts in the text to show its greater importance.

Why did David want to build God a tabernacle?

• Cedar wood was expensive, showing us that David lived in an expensive, beautiful home. When David sees how the ark of God dwells inside tent curtains, he was troubled by the thought that he lived in a nicer house than the ark of the covenant — as all of us should have felt.
• David wanted to do something special for God because he wanted to glorify God and was grateful to God.

David told Nathan that he wanted to build a temple to replace the tabernacle. When Israel was in the wilderness more than 400 years before, God commanded Moses to build a tent of meeting (Exodus 25:8-9). God didn’t asked for a permanent building to replace the tent, but David wants to do this for God.

The tent of meeting – also known as the tabernacle – was perfectly suited to Israel in the wilderness because they constantly moved. Now that Israel was securely in the land and the ark of the covenant was in Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:17), David thought it would be better and more appropriate to build a temple to replace the tabernacle.

Nathan sees nothing wrong with wanting to build the temple. After all, it’s coming from David’s heart.

What do we learn from God’s response to Nathan?

• Never presume to know God’s will.
• Even with the right motives, if God doesn’t ask for it or want it, don’t do it.

God seemed honored and “surprised” that David offered to build Him a house. It was as if God said to David, “You want to build Me a house? No one ever offered to do that before, and I never commanded anyone to do it.”

David wanted to do more than God commanded. This is a wonderful place to be in our relationship with God.

Commentary 1 Chronicles 17:1-6; 22:8; 28:3:

This is around 995 BC. “The Hebrew text says literally, ‘build me the house.’ The idea of there being such a house was legitimate, just that David was not the one to build it.” (Payne)

David now knew that God didn’t want him to build the temple, but David didn’t respond by doing nothing. Instead of building the temple, David gathered all the materials for its construction so Solomon could build a glorious temple to God (1 Chronicles 29:2-9)

Why did God reject David’s request to build God a temple?

• This explanation was not previously recorded, either in 2 Samuel or in 1 Chronicles. God wanted a man of rest and peace to build a house unto Him.

It wasn’t that David’s wars were wrong or ungodly, or that the blood he shed was unrighteous.

“Principally for mystical signification, to teach us that the church (whereof the temple was a manifest and a illustrious type) should be built by Christ, the Prince of peace, Isaiah 9:6; and that it should be gathered and built up, not by might or power, or by force of arms, but by God’s Spirit, Zechariah 4:6, and by the preaching of the gospel of peace.” (Poole)

Though David wanted to build God a house, God politely refused David’s offer and proposed to build him a house instead, in the sense of a lasting royal dynasty (2 Samuel 7).

Significantly, David calls the temple a house of rest. “As in the case of God’s sabbath rest at creation (Genesis 2:1-3), God’s rest represents the completion of his work. The idea of rest was so significant for the temple that even though David’s role as a ‘man of war’ was a vital part of the temple preparations in creating the necessary conditions for the work, it disqualified him from building the temple himself. Only Solomon, the ‘man of rest’ (1 Chronicles 22:9), was sufficiently fitted for the task.” (Selman)

Summary of 2 Samuel 7:8-17:

The Lord, speaking through Nathan the prophet, tells David He will make his name great and give him and Israel a home safe from enemies. God will build a house for Himself through one of David’s sons. God promises to establish a throne for David forever (Jesus).

Summary of 1 Chronicles 17:7-15:

Says almost exactly the same thing as 2 Samuel 7:8-17.

Summary of Psalm 89:35-37:

God promises David’s line and throne to endure forever.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 18, Day 3: 2 Samuel 7:8-17; 1 Chronicles 17:7-15; Psalm 89:35-37:

6) God promises to make David’s name great, provide a place for him and Israel to have a home and not be disturbed by enemies, to give David rest from his enemies, to establish a house for David, to have one of his offspring build God a house, and to establish a throne and kingdom for David forever. Jesus.

7) Personal Question. My answer: God’s love will never be taken away despite what wrong you do. God follows through on all of His promises.

8 ) Personal Question. My answer: Too many ways to list. In sum, everything is His doing. From my past experiences and moves to my present job and role in His kingdom, it’s all God. Keeping the faith has been the key in the lows as well as the highs.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 3: 2 Samuel 7:8-17; 1 Chronicles 17:7-15; Psalm 89:35-37:

I love how God keeps His promises, and He tells David what He’s going to do. I think God talks to us too, and let’s us know His plans — we just don’t hear Him.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 3: 2 Samuel 7:8-17; 1 Chronicles 17:7-15; Psalm 89:35-37:

Commentary 2 Samuel 7:8-17:

God promised David that He would build him a house in the sense of establishing a dynasty for the house of David. This was an enduring legacy for David long after his death.

God’s promise to build David a house forever was a greater promise than David’s offer to God. This offer would last longer and be more glorious than the temple David wanted to build.

Lessons for us from David’s offer to build God a temple:

• God honored what David gave Him, even though he only gave it to God in his sincere intention. There are some things that we want to give God but are prevented from giving. In these cases, God receives the intention as the gift.

For many years David did not know the exact reason why God didn’t want him to build the temple. Surely, he was grieved and perhaps heartbroken at the time. But David persevered, still doing God’s work for him.

God specifically promised a hereditary monarchy for the house of David — something there had never been before in Israel — a son succeeded as king. The family of Saul all had died.

The family of David did rule over Israel for more than four centuries but was eventually removed because of sin. Yet out of the “stump” of Jesse, God raised up a new branch that will reign for ever and ever (Isaiah 11:1-2).

How did God fulfill His promises?

We see a partial fulfillment in Solomon.

• Solomon ruled after David.
• God cleft Solomon despite his sins.
• Solomon build God a magnificent temple.

However, a greater Son would arise — Jesus (Jeremiah 23:5-6; Isaiah 9:6-7; Luke 1:31-33)

Commentary 1 Chronicles 17:7-15:

God was about to make David an amazing promise, so God first reminded David of His past work in His life. The same God who was with David wherever he had gone would also fulfill this promise.

The Hebrew bayit meaning for house has various translations:  ‘dynasty’, ‘temple’, and even ‘household’.

“While God did not here employ the term covenant, what he revealed was one; and it is so designated subsequently (2 Samuel 23:5; Psalm 89:3, 34; Psalm 132:11-12).” (Payne)

The New Testament identifies Jesus with David more than with any other human ancestor.

• Hosanna to the Son of David! (Matthew 21:9)
• The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. (Luke 1:32)
• I am the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star. (Revelation 22:16)

David will be God’s chosen prince over a restored Israel in the millennial earth. Hosea 3:5 says, Afterward, the children of Israel shall return, seek the Lord their God and David their king, and fear the Lord and His goodness in the latter days. Other passages which set forth this idea are Ezekiel 37:24-25, Ezekiel 34:23-24, and Jeremiah 30:9.

Summary of 2 Samuel 7:18-24:

David is humbled by God’s choice of him and treatment of him. David prays a prayer of thanks and gratitude for God’s goodness.

Summary of 1 Chronicles 17:16-22:

The same as above with David saying how God is the only God who chose a people for Himself.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 18, Day 4: 2 Samuel 7:18-24; 1 Chronicles 17:16-22:

9) Complete humility. He praises God for His goodness, says how he is not worthy of anything God has given him and will give him and how God is great.

10) Personal Question. My answer: David’s response to God’s goodness — complete humility. David is overwhelmed with gratitude, and we see it here.

11) Part personal Question. My answer: David recognized how God was putting David and his family in a place of authority over Israel forever. He recognizes how God has chosen Israel as the one nation on earth to redeem for Himself. I have responded with gratitude and prayer, but I don’t think in the same way as David — with such a humble heart. This my prayer today.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 4: 2 Samuel 7:18-24; 1 Chronicles 17:16-22:

I love David’s attitude. If only I could be as humbled and grateful as David for all I’ve been given and for how God has chosen me for Him.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 4: 2 Samuel 7:18-24; 1 Chronicles 17:16-22:

Commentary 2 Samuel 7:18-24 & 1 Chronicles 17:16-22:

God’s gift made God greater — not David.

FUN FACT: David says “your servant” ten times in this prayer.

David’s prayer boldly asked God to do what He promised. God loves when we pray like this.

Summary of 2 Samuel 7:25-29:

David prays for God to do as He promises for His name and bless his house forever.

Summary of 1 Chronicles 17:23-27:

Same as above.

Summary of Psalm 89:19-37:

This sums up what God has done: chosen and anointed David as king over God’s people, protected David and struck down his enemies, God will be with him and establish his line forever, God will punish David’s sons but not remove His love nor faithfulness, God will not break His covenant with David, and David’s line will endure forever.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 18, Day 5: 2 Samuel 7:25-29; 1 Chronicles 17:23-27; Psalm 89:19-37:

12) The definition of covenant is: “usually a formal, solemn, and binding agreement; compact. A written agreement or promise usually under seal between two or more parties especially for the performance of an action.”  God’s covenant with David is unconditional. God promises to never take away His love despite any sin that may occur. He doesn’t ask David to do anything in return. He merely picked David and promised Him

13) Part personal Question. My answer: David is praying based off God’s promise to Him. God encourages prayer through both our valleys and our mountains. We thank Him for good in our life and ask for help when we need it.

14) God will not take away His love nor His covenant from David if David sins. There is no repercussions or warnings to God’s covenant promise to David. God promises out of His love for David.

15) Part personal Question. My answer: God keeps His promises, never betrays His faithfulness, does not lie, and His love will be with David forever. He mentions how David calls him “His Father, God, Rock my Savior.” Knowing God does not take away His love despite my sins is a great comfort to me.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 5: 2 Samuel 7:25-29; 1 Chronicles 17:23-27; Psalm 89:19-37:

Knowing God’s love is unconditional and no matter what stupid things we do and sins we commit, He forgives us and still loves us is huge in my faith and very encouraging. Praying with David’s heart is a prayer of mine as well.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 18, Day 5: 2 Samuel 7:25-29; 1 Chronicles 17:23-27; Psalm 89:19-37:

Commentary 2 Samuel 7:25-29 & 1 Chronicles 17:23-27:

David prayed from the heart.

Commentary Psalm 89:19-37:

Spurgeon thought the holy one in this context was Nathan the Prophet, not David. “The holy one here may be either David or Nathan the prophet, but most probably the latter, for it was to him that the word of the Lord came by night (2 Samuel 7:4-5).” (Spurgeon)

One chosen from the people describes Jesus:

• Jesus was extracted from the people.
• Jesus was elected among the people.
• Jesus was exalted above the people.

What are the blessings God placed upon David?

In this section of the Psalm, God described the many blessings He placed upon David, the man after His heart (1 Samuel 13:14):

• The blessing of help (I have given help)
• The blessing of exaltation (I have exalted)
• The blessing of election (one chosen from the people)
• The blessing of anointing (I have anointed him)
• The blessing of security (with whom My hand shall be established)
• The blessing of God’s own strength (My arm shall strengthen him)
• The blessing of protection (the enemy shall not outwit him, nor the son of wickedness afflict him)
• The blessing of vindication (I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague those who hate him)
• The blessing of ongoing faithfulness and mercy (My faithfulness and My mercy shall be with him)
• The blessing of exalted strength (in My name his horn shall be exalted).

“David was never overthrown; he finally conquered every foe that rose up against him. Saul’s persecution, Absalom’s revolt, Sheba’s conspiracy, and the struggle made by the partisans of the house of Saul after his death only tended to call forth David’s skill, courage, and prowess, and to seat him more firmly on his throne.” (Clarke)

“First-born is not always to be understood literally in Scripture. It often signifies simply a well-beloved, or best-beloved son; one preferred to all the rest, and distinguished by some eminent prerogative. Thus God calls Israel his son, his first-born, Exodus 4:22.” (Clarke)

With Jesus the covenant is ratified both by blood of sacrifice and by oath of God (Spurgeon).

All of those in David’s royal line had some part of this Davidic covenant. Some of these were disobedient kings, and God had to bring considerable correction to both the kings and the kingdom.

As described in the Davidic covenant, Yahweh would never completely take His hesed, His covenant love, from the house of David (2 Samuel 7:14-16). Yahweh would remain faithful to His covenant and His word.

In ancient times, it was hard for rulers to find advisors who would tell them the truth as most feared for their lives if they said something to anger the king. Hence, most advisors told the king what they wanted to hear.

Not Nathan. Short for Elnathan (God has given), the prophet Nathan told the king the truth. He told David God did not want him to build the temple (2 Samuel 7:5-16). He reminded David he hadn’t yet kept his promise to crown Solomon as his successor (1 Kings 1:24-30). And it was Nathan who accused David of sinning against God when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and callously had one of his best generals — her husband — murdered, so he could be with her. (2 Samuel 12)

David could have killed Nathan for telling him so. Instead, David repented, and Nathan assured his king of God’s forgiveness.

Telling the truth — even when hard to hear — was a hallmark of a prophet in Biblical times. Today, it’s just as hard to find someone to tell you the truth even when it’s hard to hear — a hallmark of true friendship today.

“Let us think about God, remember Him, and talk to Him as often as we can.”

Epictetus

Hey all!

Please leave your prayer requests here and praises if you have some. There is power in prayer so the more the merrier! You can also email me your requests at: atozmom.wordpress@gmail.com or post them in the comments below.

Mine: Pray for our leaders and the broken-hearted.

God bless!

Summary of 2 Samuel 8:

David defeated the Philistines and the Moabites, whom he put many to death. He fought Hadadezer, the king of Zobah, and captured his chariots and hamstrung most of the horses. David conquered Damascus. God gave David victory wherever he went. He gained a lot of booty. The King of Hamath brought David tribute. David defeated the Edomites and was a just ruler for Israel.

BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1: Lesson 19, Day 2: 2 Samuel 8:

3) David defeated the Philistines, Moabites, Zobah (Syria), Damascus, Hamath, and Edomites. Victory meant they would finally have peace, and with peace comes economic prosperity. David’s victories were complete.

4) The Lord gave David victory wherever he went. People acknowledge God in their success by saying so, by doing the right thing, and by thanking Him. Also, when they are humble, knowing it is all in God’s power, they acknowledge Him with their hearts.

5) He dedicated the plunder to God. There would be less poverty if God were given resources. More people would be blessed. There would be less dependence on the government for care of the poor, the homeless, and the widowed. The world would be a less selfish place.

6) Part personal Question. My answer: He is obeying God. He is doing what is just and right for all his people. I hope my kids describe me as doing what is right for them and others. Putting others first before myself. Thinking of others.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 19 Day 2: 2 Samuel 8:

God does need to be given more of the credit for what He does in our lives. It’s all Him, and none of it is us.

End Notes BSF Study Questions People of the Promised Land 1 Lesson 19, Day 2: 2 Samuel 8:

Metheg Ammah was another name for the Philistine city of Gath (compare 1 Chronicles 18:1). When David became king, the Philistines were taking territory from God’s people. Under his leadership God’s people began to take territory from the enemy.

Why was David so harsh against the Moabites?

Scholars do not know. David’s war against Moab and his harsh treatment of their army seemed out of place considering that David’s great-grandmother was a Moabite (Ruth) and that he entrusted his mother and father into the care of the Moabites (1 Samuel 22:3-4). It may be that the Moabites killed or mistreated David’s parents. We are not told.

God did not want Israel to destroy every neighbor nation. Generally, God wanted Israel to be so blessed and strong that other nations were “taxed” by Israel, thus recognizing their strength and dominance.

The king of Zobah (a Syrian kingdom) ran into David on his way to capture territory to the Euphrates. David’s dominance extended all the way to the Euphrates River.

God’s promise to Abraham was fulfilled: “Unto thy seed I have given this land, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates.”

The harshness of war

• David could not care for so many horses while on military campaign, and he could not give them back to the enemy.
• David obeyed the principle of Deuteronomy 17:15-16 and absolutely refused to trust in horses as military weapons. His trust was in God instead (Psalm 20:7 and 33:16-17).

The plunder of war

• David took what was the glory of the enemy and transformed them into trophies of the power and goodness of God. Those shields of gold were set in the temple and testified to God’s work in and through David.

Take away: God loves to take people and things that are “trophies” for the Devil and make them trophies to His power and grace.

Fun fact:  Israel possessed more of the land God promised to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21) under David’s reign than at any other time.

The reign of King David

This chapter of victory, blessing, and prosperity describes the national life of Israel during the reign of David. This is one reason why he is generally regarded as the greatest king or ruler Israel ever had. David fulfilled what is the fundamental duty of government – to administer judgment and justice (Romans 13:1-7)

Because David allowed God to subdue Him, the nations were subdued before David.

No great ruler succeeds by himself. Success comes with support.

We never find such a list regarding the organization of King Saul’s government. This is because David’s government had much more form and structure than Saul’s.

There is a limit to what we can be and what we can do for the LORD without order and organization. Together we are stronger and delegation is key to being able to accomplish more for God’s kingdom.

The Cherethites and Pelethites were hired soldiers from Crete.