1Chronicles 1-2

Overview of chapter 1
Genealogy from Adam to Abraham.

Genealogy of Abraham’s sons.

The kings of Edom.

The Chiefs of Edom.

Overview of chapter 2
Genealogy from Israel to David.

Genealogy of David.

Genealogy of Caleb.

Reflection

For Further Study

2Kings 23-25

Overview of chapter 23
King Josiah covenants with the Lord.

King Josiah cleans house.

Passover.

Josiah killed by Pharaoh, his son Jehoasaz succeeds him as king.

Jehoasaz replaced by Pharaoh with Jehoiakim.

Overview of chapter 24
Babylon controls Jehoiakim.

Jehoiachin reigns.

Deported to Babylon.

Zedekiah reigns.

Overview of chapter 25
Nebuchadnezzar besieges Jerusalem.

Jerusalem burned and plundered.

Gedaliah Made Governor

Reflection


For Further Study

CONGRATULATIONS!

YOU FINISHED 2KINGS!

2Kings 20-22

Overview of chapter 20
Isaiah extends Hezekiah’s life.

Hezekiah shows off his treasure.

Overview of chapter 21
Manasseh succeeds Hezekiah as king of Judah.

Manasseh rebuked for idolatry.

Amon succeeds Manasseh as king of Judah.

Overview of chapter 22
Josiah succeeds Manasseh as king of Judah.

The book of the Law is found.

The priest predicts bad things for Israel.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 18-19

Overview of chapter 18
Hezekiah - king of Judah.

Judah invaded by Assyria.

Overview of chapter 19
Isaiah the prophet.

Hezekiah prays.

God answers Hezekiah through Isaiah.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 15-17

Overview of chapter 15
List of kings.

Zechariah - king of Israel.

Menahem - king of Israel.

Pekahiah - king of Israel.

Pekah - king of Israel.

Jotham - King of Judah.

Overview of chapter 16
Ahaz - king of Judah.

Ahaz asks for the king of Assyria’s help.

The altar rebuilt.

Hezekiah - king of Judah.

Overview of chapter 17
Hoshea - king of Israel.

Israel taken into exile by the Assyrians.

The reason Israel was taken captive.

Israel’s cities filled with foreigners.

The foreigners taught to follow God.

The foreigners still follow their own gods.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 12-14

Overview of chapter 12
Jehoash becomes king of Judah.

Jehoash plans to rebuild the temple.

Joash is killed by his servants.

Overview of chapter 13
Jehoahaz the evil, but repentant king.

King Joash lived and died.

Overview of chapter 14
Amaziah reigns over Judah.

Jeroboam II succeeds Jehoash in Israel.

Azariah succeeds Amaziah in Judah.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 9-11

Overview of chapter 9
Jehu - King of Israel.

King Joram is assassinated by Jehu.

King Ahaziah is assassinated by Jehu.

Jezebel is eaten by dogs.

Overview of chapter 10
Ahab’s household is judged.

Jehu kills everyone who worships Baal.

Jehu dies and is succeeded by Jehoahaz.

Overview of chapter 11
A queen in Judah.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 6-8

Overview of chapter 6
The floating axe head.

The Arameans plot to kidnap Elisha backfires.

Samaria is besieged and the people become cannibals.

Overview of chapter 7
Elisha promises food.

The Arameans’ flee, and four lepers pass the message on.

Elisha’s promise of food is fulfilled.

Overview of chapter 8
Jehoram restores the Shunammites land after seven years of famine.

Elisha foresees Hazael becoming king.

King Jehoram part deux.

Ahaziah follows Jehoram as king.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 4-5

Overview of chapter 4
The miracle of the widow’s oil.

A Shunammite woman and her husband help Elisha.

Elisha raises the Shunammite woman's son from the dead.

Elisha and the stew of death.

Overview of chapter 5
Naaman, the captain of the kings army is healed.

Elisha’s servant Gehazi’s greed leads to leprosy.

Reflection


For Further Study

2Kings 1-3

Overview of chapter 1
Ahab’s son Ahaziah, the current king of Israel, fell and hurt himself. He sent messengers to find prophets of Baal to see if he would live. Elijah, the prophet of the real God, met these men on their way and told them that the king would die. When the messengers brought word to the king sent a group of 50 military to get Elijah, but God sent fire to destroy them. This happened twice, and the third group of 50 bowed down to Elijah, so the Lord allowed Elijah to go with them. When Elijah got to the king he repeated the message that the king would die.

Overview of chapter 2
Elijah knew that he was going to die, and he journeyed from Gilgal to Jericho. He tried to convince Elisha to let him die alone, but Elisha refused to let him go alone. When Elijah got to a river the Lord divided the waters so they could cross on dry land. Elijah went to heaven in a whirlwind behind a chariot. When Elisha returned some men begged him to allow them to go look for Elijah. He allowed it, but they did not find him.

Elisha’s first act as Elijah’s successor was to purify the waters around Jericho.

When Elisha was traveling some kids made fun of him, and God sent some bears to kill them.

Overview of chapter 3
Moab rebels against King Jehoram.

Reflection


For Further Study

1Kings 21-22

Overview of chapter 21
King Ahab noted that a neighboring city had a pretty sweet vineyard and was close by, so he offered the owner a trade or cash buyout. The owner, Naboth refused because the land was his families inheritance when they entered the land. Ahab went home and pouted about it until his wife told him to cheer up she would take care of everything.

Her plan was to kill Naboth and she got the leaders of Naboth’s hometown to do the dirty work. He was accused of cursing God so the city stoned him. She told hubby to go take possession of his new vineyard. When he got there his arch enemy Elijah was waiting for him, and God had instructed to Elijah to tell Ahab that he and his wife were doomed. Then something very unexpected happened, Ahab repented, so God relented.

Overview of chapter 22
Israel and Aram had been at peace for three years. Ahab the king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah to join with him and take back a city that Aram had taken from Israel. Jehoshaphat agreed with the one condition that they pray first. Ahab brought in 400 false prophet’s who all said “go for it you will win.” Jehoshaphat protested and asked if a real prophet of the true God could be consulted.

Ahab begrudgingly agreed and called a prophet named Micaiah. Micaiah explained that it was God’s will that they fought, but only so He could destroy them. With that Ahab and Jehoshaphat went to war with Aram, but Ahab dressed like a regular warrior so he could be in the battle. That was a bad idea and he was killed.

An overview of Jehoshaphat’s reign is given that tell us he was a Godly king, but that his people were not Godly. At the age of 60, after 25 years as king Jehoshaphat died and his son Jehoram became king in his place.

Ahab’s rule was followed by his wicked son Ahaziah who only ruled for two years.

Reflection
Are you easily swayed by your spouse? Do you enter into battles, knowing that it will only result in a harmful outcome? Do you inquire of God before you make decisions?

For Further Study
Jezebel: 1Kings 16:31-32, 1Kings 18:4, 1Kings 19:2, 1Kings 21:23, 2Kings 9:22, 2Kings 9:30-37, Revelation 2:20.

CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE FINISHED THE BOOK OF 1KINGS!!!

1Kings 18-20

Overview of chapter 18
God spoke to Elijah and told him to go find King Ahab, whom Elijah was hiding from. At this same time Ahab and his household manager Obidiah were searching the land for someplace to pasture their horses during the drought. Obidiah and Elijah crossed each others paths and Elijah asked Obidiah to tell Ahab where to meet him. Obidiah was afraid that Elijah wouldn’t stick around, and then Ahab would think he was lying, but Elijah reassured him that he would not back out.

When Ahab and Elijah met, Elijah challenged all the prophets of Baal to a competition in front of all Israel. Two altars were set up, one for Baal, and one for the one true God. Whichever God answered and consumed the sacrifices was the one that Israel should serve. The 450 prophets of Baal called out first, leaping, crying, raving, and even cutting themselves. Apparently Baal was asleep because he did not answer. Next Elijah called out and the real God consumed his sacrifice.

All the people of Israel worshipped God, killed the 450 prophets of Baal, and the Lord sent rain. Then Elijah went for a jog, keeping ahead of Ahab.

Overview of chapter 19
Ahab returned home and told his wife that all her prophets were dead and it was Elijah’s fault. She threatened to kill Elijah, which freaked him out, so he ran away. An angel ministered to him and fed him before he left on a 40 day journey.

While Elijah was hiding in a gave the Lord blew into town asked him what he was doing their. Elijah said he was hiding so he wouldn’t be killed, but God told him to get up and go to Damascus where he would anoint a couple of new kings and pick up a successor in training for himself (Elisha). When Elijah saw Elisha, he passed his mantle on to him, and after saying bye to mom and pop Elisha followed and ministered to Elijah.

Overview of chapter 20
The king of Aram, Ben-hadad, decided to take out king Ahab, but before he did he asked Ahab to hand over all his silver, gold, women and children. Ahab agreed, but before he could do it Ben-hadad sent his servants to Ahab and told them to take whatever they wanted. At the advice of his elder Ahab told them to back off. At this time the prepared for war, and a prophet told Ahab that he would win, which of course they did.

Following this victory a prophet told Ahab that Ben-hadad would be back in a year to fight again. Of course he was, and Israel was victorious against unbelievable odds. Ahab spared Ben-hadad’s life, which a prophet later told Ahab was a bad choice, one he would eventually die for. Ahab stubbornly went home angry at God.

Reflection
Do you put much trust in the promises people make to you? When you see God working in the world around you, do you drop to the ground and worship God? Are you obedient to God even if it is dangerous and could cost you dearly? How important is it to you that you follow God’s word exactly?

For Further Study
Ministering Angels: Psalm 34:7, Daniel 9:20-27, Matthew 4:11, Luke 22:43, Acts 12:7, Hebrews 1:13-14

1Kings 15-17

Overview of chapter 15
Kings of Judah:
- Abijam - 3 years, evil, fought with Jeroboam king of Israel.
- Asa - 41 years, wholly devoted to God, fought with Baasha king of Israel, died with diseased feet.
- Jehoshaphat -

Kings of Israel:
Jeroboam - 22 years, evil.
Nadab - 2 years, evil, murdered by his successor Baasha.
Baasha - 24 years, evil, executed everyone from Jeroboam’s household as prophesied in 1Kings 14, fought with Asa.

Overview of chapter 16
Kings of Israel:
- Elah - 2 years, evil, murdered by his successor and chariot commander Zimri (who also killed his household as prophesied earlier in the chapter).
- Zimri - 7 days, evil, overthrown by his successor Omri and commited suicide.
- Tibni - ?, ruled over half of Israel at the same time as Omri, but was overthrown.
- Omri - 12 years, evil, built Samaria.
- Ahab - 22 years, evil, married Jezebel and restarted Baal worship.

A man named Hiel rebuild Jericho, but it cost him his first and second born sons as prophesied in Joshua 6:26.

Overview of chapter 17
A prophet named Elijah prophesied during the reign of king Ahab that their would be a huge draught. The Lord told Elijah to hide, but God miraculously provided food for him first by having a raven feed him, then a widow who had no food, but it miraculously appeared. This widow also had a son who was sick and she blamed Elijah. Elijah covered the boy in prayer, and the Lord healed him.

Reflection
If someone was to describe your time on earth, would it be wholly devoted to God or evil? Do you provide for God’s messengers? Do you believe that God can heal those ask?

For Further Study
Miraculous Healing: Genesis 20:17, Exodus 15:26, Leviticus 13:18, Numbers 12:13-15, Deuteronomy 32:39, Psalm 30:2, Proverbs 12:18, Matthew 4:23, Acts 4:14, 1Corithians 12:9, James 5:16, 1Peter 2:24, Revelation 13:3, Revelation 22:2.

1Kings 12-14

Overview of chapter 12
After Solomon died his son Rehoboam became king. On the day he was inaugurated his people asked him to be less harsh then his father. After consulting with the elders (who told him to lighten up) and his friends (who told him he was twice the man his father was so he should be even harsher then his father) he decided to increase the burdens of his people. He sent his taskmaster to them, but the people killed him.

With the exception of Judah and Benjamin, all of Israel decided they didn’t want Rehoboam as king, but they instead established Jeroboam to be their king (as had been prophesied). Rehoboam assembled an army from the people of Judah and Benjamin, but the Lord spoke to the people through a prophet and told them that this was all His will.

Jeroboam wasn’t too happy that the only place his people could offer sacrifices to God was Jerusalem, which was under Rehoboam’s rule. To counter this Jeroboam made up some false gods (golden calves) and placed them in two of his cities. He even told the people that these were the gods who had brought them up from Egypt, and he celebrated feasts to these false gods on the days that the people were supposed to be celebrating a feast to the real God.

Overview of chapter 13
God was not too excited about what Jeroboam was doing so he sent a prophet from Judah to tell him so. The prophet first spoke to the altar telling it that a kid named Josiah would sacrifice all the false priests on it. Then to prove what he was saying was a sign from God he told them the altar would split in half and the ashes would fall off it. Jeroboam was not to happy with this prophecy and reached his hand out to silence the prophet, but instead he was silenced when God caused his hand to shrivel up. The prophet asked God to heal the hand, but was unwilling to join the king for dinner (as God had instructed him).

Word of this prophecy got out and an old prophet chased the prophet from Judah and asked him to dinner. Once again the prophet from Judah refused and explained that God had told him not to. The old prophet lied and said an angel told him to invite him to dinner. The prophet from Judah accepted this man’s word over the word of God and went to dinner.

Because of this sin, the prophet from Judah was killed by a lion, and buried in the old prophet’s grave.

Overview of chapter 14
Jeroboam’s son got sick so the king sent his wife to find the prophet who told him he would be king. He told her to go in a disguise so that she would not be noticed, but it didn’t matter because God told the prophet who she was. The prophet told her more information then she asked, not only will her son die, but calamity will be brought to the whole house of Jeroboam and everyone who pees standing will be taken from him. In addition Israel will be scattered beyond the Euphrates river and God will give them up.

The rest of Jeroboam’s 22 year reign was plagued with war, then he died and another of his sons reigned in his place.

Reflection
Do you find yourself following the advice of your friends more then you do experts? Do you feel you have to exceed the things your parents did when they were your age? Do you speak up when people are misrepresenting God? Do you try to hide or disguise your sin from God? Does it seem that you are spending your whole life battling someone or something? If so, could it be because you are not wholly devoted to God?

For Further Study
Prophets: Deuteronomy 13:1-5, Deuteronomy 18:20-22, Psalm 105:15, Romans 12:6, 1Corinthians 12:28, 1Corinthians 13:2 & 8, 1Corinthians 14:22, 2Peter 1:20-21

1Kings 10-11

Overview of chapter 10
The queen of Sheba paid king Solomon a visit to see if he was as smart and successful as she had heard. It turns out he was and them some. Before she left she was blessing God and giving Solomon gifts.

The rest of the chapter lists proof of Solomon’s riches. Unfortunately at the end we see that he had been gathering horses to himself which was against God’s law for a king.

Overview of chapter 11
Solomon broke God’s law by marrying foreign women. He had 700 wives, 300 concubines, and they turned his heart away from God. To please them he would build altars for them to worship their gods. This angered the real God, who stopped by to tell Solomon that he was going to take the kingdom away from his son. His son would only be king over one of the tribes. To do this God had been preparing an adversary to fight against Solomon.

This adversary was an Edomite named Hadad, who escaped to Egypt when Israel was fighting Edom. He became good friends with the Pharaoh in Egypt, and even lived among Pharaoh’s sons. When Hadad heard that David was dead he returned to Edom. Another enemy was raised by the name of Rezon who led a band of marauders.

In addition to these adversaries Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s overseers, rebelled against him because God had told him through a prophet that he would rule over ten of the tribes of Israel. Solomon found out about Jeroboam and tried to kill him, but Jeroboam hid in Egypt until Solomon died. Solomon ruled Israel for 40 years at the time of his death.

Reflection
Do people see God in your life by how you conduct yourself? Do you find that you are more likely to sin when things are going well for you financially?

For Further Study
Sheba: 2Chronicles 9:1-12, Matthew 12:42, Luke 11:31

1Kings 8-9

Overview of chapter 8
Solomon had the ark brought to the temple that he had built for the Lord. The ark was put under the wings of the cherubim. Inside the ark were the two stone tablets Moses put there that contained the ten commandments. After the priests left the holy place the entire temple filled with a heavy cloud which was the glory of the Lord.

King Solomon prayed to the Lord in the presence of all the people, he knelt to his knees and raised his hands to heaven. Solomon prayed for these things:
1. That God would keep his promise to keep a descendant of David on the Throne.
2. That the Lord would hear and listen to the prayers of his people.
3. That the Lord would forgive those who confessed and were sincere of heart.
4. That the Lord would teach His people the good ways.
5. That the Lord would help His people when they were fighting for a good cause.

After praying, Solomon turned and blessed the people and implored them to be wholly devoted to the Lord. The temple was dedicated and offerings were offered there for the first time, so many that they were unable to use the altar. The dedication occurred during the feasts of first fruits and tabernacles, and lasted 7 days, followed by 7 days of celebrating the feast of tabernacles.

Overview of chapter 9
The Lord spoke to Solomon and told him that He would answer the prayers, but that it would be contingent on obedience. If Solomon was not obedient he would lose the throne, if Israel was not obedient they would be removed from the land and the temple would be destroyed.

Solomon gave Hiram twenty cities for his help with the various building projects he was involved in, but Hiram thought the gift was pretty worthless, but paid 120 talents of Gold ($50 million dollars).

The labor required to do all the building that Solomon did was taken from the Amorite, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites who were not destroyed as God instructed. Solomon built the temple, his own house, a house for his wife, a fortress, the wall of Jerusalem, several cities were rebuilt and some cities were built to be storage cities. In addition Solomon built a fleet of ships.

Reflection
If you could ask for 5 things from God for your church, what would they be? Are you wholly devoted to God? When you are not getting answers to prayer, do you examine your life for obedience to God’s word?

For Further Study
Positions in prayer: 1Kings 8:54, Psalm 141:2, Ezra 10:1, Matthew 19:13, Acts 21:5, 1Corinthians 11:3-16, 1Timothy 2:8.

1Kings 6-7

Overview of chapter 6
In the 2nd month (late April) of the 418th year the Israelites have been in the land, the fourth year of Solomon’s reign he started building the temple. It was rectangular in shape measuring 90’ long by 30’ wide by 45’ high. This was surrounded by a tiered three stories of outer chambers that were used as store houses. The tabernacle also had a porch on the front. It was made of stone, but covered in beautifully carved wood and some of it was covered in gold. This project took seven years to complete.

If you would like to see artistic representations of this try this website:

The Temple that Solomon built

Overview of chapter 7
Solomon also built a house for himself and one for his wife. His house contained a large hallway that people would come to and he would judge their disputes. His house took 13 years to build.

King Hiram came and he and Solomon put some finishing touches on the temple. Hiram made pillars with capitals and interwoven network out of bronze. Two main pillars were built and they carried inscriptions, one said Jachin (“he will establish) and the other said Boaz (“quickly”). He also made the sea (a large basin of water) and it sat on the back of 12 bronze bulls. Ten smaller basins and stands were made that were on wheels. Solomon made all the furniture and utensils used by the priests; the golden altar, table of the presence, lampstands, tongs, snuffers,bowls, spoons, firepans, and all the hinges for the doors.

After the temple was built Solomon brought all the silver and gold that David had dedicated to the Lord and put them in the storehouse of the temple.

Reflection
What dreams of your parents would you like to complete? When God asks you to do something, are you as careful as Solomon to do it with such quality? Are there things you have promised God that you have not yet completed?

For Further Study
Cherubim: Genesis 3:24, Exodus 25:18, Numbers 7:89, 2Samuel 6:2, Psalm 80:1, Ezekiel 10:2-22, Revelation 7:11.

1Kings 3-5

Overview of chapter 3
Solomon make a treaty with the Pharaoh of Egypt with one catch, he had to marry Pharaoh’s daughter.

The Lord spoke to Solomon in a dream, and told him He would grant him any wish. Solomon chose wisdom so he could rule his people well. God granted this to him and also promised him much wealth. This wisdom was immediately put to the test when to women brought a child to him, and both were claiming the baby was theirs. Solomon ruled that the baby should be cut in half and shared. When this was heard one woman agreed with Solomon’s idea, but the other mother said she would rather the baby be with the other woman as long as the baby could live. Her love made it clear to Solomon that she was the real mother and so he gave the baby to her.

Overview of chapter 4
Solomon assigned people to the different tasks neccessary to maintain the kingdom.

Solomon’s wealth and wisdom are described in detail.

Overview of chapter 5
Solomon made a deal with his fathers old buddy king Hiram of Tyre. Hiram had his people provide the Israelites with the wood necessary to build a temple for God. Solomon also employed many workers to build the temple.

Reflection
If you had one wish what would it be? Who would your wish benefit more, you or your friends and family? Have you ever asked God for wisdom?

For Further Study
Wisdom: Exodus 28:3, Deuteronomy 4:5-6, Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7, Proverbs 2:6, Proverbs 8:11, Proverbs 13:10, Luke 2:52, 1Corinthians 3:19, James 1:15, James 3:17.

1Kings 1-2

Overview of chapter 1
David is old, and unable to maintain his body temperature so a beautiful young lady named Abishag is brought to him to lay next to him and keep him warm (I am not sure why one of his many wives could not do this).

Meanwhile Davids son Adonijah decides he wants to be king and is able to convince a few of David’s loyal followers to go along with the sham. Adonijah, David’s commander Joab, and Abiathar the priest throw a party so Adonijah can continue to play king, but they don’t invite David’s son Solomon or any of those who are loyal to David.

Nathan the prophet asks Bathsheba to tell David that Adonijah has appointed himself king and ask why David did not keep his promise to appoint Solomon king. She gives this information to king David, and he decides to anoint Solomon king now rather then waiting until he is dead. David sends his trusted advisors and Solomon to Gihon, where they anoint him king. They did this, and then blew the trumpet announcing the new king, everyone gets excited and begins playing music and singing so much that the ground shakes.

Adonijah and his guests are still at their party when they hear all the noise so they ask what is going on. When they find out that David has appointed Solomon as king they all take to running. Adonijah runs to were the altar of sacrifice is held and grabs hold of the horns and begs for Solomon to promise not to kill him. Solomon agrees with one condition, if Adonijah acts wickedly then he will be killed.

Overview of chapter 2
As David is near death he calls his son Solomon, the new king to his side and gives him these instructions:

“Be strong, therefore, and show yourself a man. Keep the charge of the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies, according to what is written in the Law of Moses, that you may succeed in all that you do and wherever you turn.”

David then instructs his son to clean up some of the messes he left, namely Joab and Shimei must die. Then David died, after 42 years as king of Israel.

Adonijah asks if he can have David’s nurse for his wife, but this is seen as wicked in Solomon’s eyes so he kills Adonijah. When Joab hears that Adonijah is dead he runs to the altar, but Solomon has him killed there. Shimei was shown some grace, but he over stepped his boundaries and was killed by Solomon’s new military commander Benaiah.

Reflection
Have you taken the time to draw up a will that designates what all your children get when you die? Have you filled out the paperwork to declare who will make your medical and financial decisions if you are incapacitated. If you had one last chance to speak to your loved ones, what would you tell them? What unfinished business with other people do you have in your life?

For Further Study
Rules for the new king: Deuteronomy 17:14-20.

2Samuel 22-24

Overview of chapter 22
David’s song about the Lord’s deliverance gives us some of God’s characteristics:
- rock
- fortress
- deliverer
- shield
- savior
- stronghold
- refuge
- support
- rewarder
- kind
- blameless
- pure
- lamp
- trainer
- helper
- executioner
- loving kind

Because of these attributes of God being visible in David’s life he promises to thank and sing praises to God for the whole world to see and hear.

Overview of chapter 23
David’s last psalm tells of how he was a king who ruled righteously, and in the fear of God. This is the reason that God has made the kingdom grow.

A list is given of David’s mighty men of valor who fought and ruled with him. Detail is given of several of their exploits, but in the end it was the Lord who brought them victory.

Overview of chapter 24
David makes a prideful decision to number Israel and Judah. His commanders tried to talk David out of it, but he had them do it anyway. The census took nearly ten months and the result was 800,000 men of war from Israel and 500,000 men of war from Judah.

After the fact David realized this decision was sinful and repented. The Lord sent word to David through a prophet named Gad that David could choose his punishment from the following three options:
1. seven years of famine for David and the land.
2. David’s foes would chase him for three months.
3. three days of pestilence in the land.

David chose three days of pestilence, but after he saw 70,000 men die David asked that the Lord not strike any more of the people, but to kill him and his family instead since David had been the one who sinned. The Lord instructed David to build an altar, which he did after paying for the land to offer it on. David offered a burnt offering and a peace offering, and the Lord stopped the plague.

Reflection
Which characteristics of God have been made evident to you based on God’s work in your life? Does seeing how God is lead you to give thanks and praise Him? What great victories have you seen in your life? Do you credit God for those victories or yourself? What poor decisions have you made because of your pride? Have you repented for them?

For Further Study
Psalms credited to David:
Psalm 4-9, 11-32, 34-41, 51-65, 68-70, 86, 101, 103, 108-110, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138-145.

CONGRATULATIONS!
YOU HAVE FINISHED THE BOOK OF SAMUEL.

2Samuel 19-21

Overview of chapter 19
When Joab found out that David was mourning for his son Absalom it upset him and he confronted the king. Joab told David he was making the rest of the people not enjoy the victory. David then went out to the gates of the city to speak with his people. The people were very conflicted about what to do because they had been following Absalom who was now dead, but they knew David had delivered them from the Philistines in the past.

David sent the two priest to talk to the elders of Judah and convince them to side with David, and he even promoted one of them to replace Joab as the commander of his army. The tribe of Judah agreed to return David to Jerusalem as king.

Then Shimei, the man who had been cursing and throwing rocks at David, came and repented so David gave him forgiveness and let him live. Next Mephibosheth (who was Saul’s handicapped son) came to David and explained that the only reason he had not followed David was that his servant (Ziba) never brought a donkey for him. David had given Ziba all of Mephibosheth’s land when he brought food to David and his men, but after hearing this he told Mephibosheth that they would share the land. Mephibosheth told David that Ziba could keep it. David also tried to reward an old man who had fed him and his men while they were fleeing Absalom, but the old guy was content where he was.

When the rest of the tribes of Israel saw that Judah was bringing David back over the Jordan they complained that Judah was trying to steal their king (who they didn’t want a few verses ago). They argued, but in the end Judah was the loudest and (almost) everyone accepted David as king.

Overview of chapter 20
One worthless dude, Sheba, from the tribe of Benjamin (Saul’s tribe) refused to follow David and even blew the trumpet of war to call the warriors. All of Israel then followed him except for Judah. David and Judah completed the trip home to Jerusalem. When they got there David sent his new commander to call all the men to chase and kill Sheba. His new commander was slow about his duty, so David them sent Joab and his men under the command of Abishai. When the new commander met up with Joab, Joab pretended to kiss him but stabbed him instead, and the men began to follow Joab again.

As Joab and his men besieged the city that Sheba was in a wise old woman asked to speak with Joab. She asked Joab to spare the city and in return they would give Joab the head of Sheba. It was agreed and the city kept its promise so the rebellion was put down.

Overview of chapter 21
God sent a famine over the land of Israel for three years. David asked God why their was a famine and he was told it was because Saul had broken the covenant that Israel made with the Gibeonites. David called the Gibeonites and asked them how he could repay this wrong and they asked to seven of Saul’s relatives killed. David took seven of them and hung them. The mother of some of them sat by their bodies the entire harvest season and chased away the birds. When David heard this he took the bodies of these seven men and the bones of Saul and his son Jonathan and buried them in the land of their inheritance.

During David’s reign he was told not to go out to battle anymore for fear he would be killed. In his place the four remaining giant champions of the Philistines were killed by valiant men of Israel.

Reflection
Do you allow mourning to paralyze you and your family from living when family members die? When people come to you in repentance do you offer complete forgiveness or forgiveness based on what retribution? Have you ever destroyed the good things in order to get to evil things you are trying to destroy?

For Further Study
Trumpet: Numbers 10:1-10, Numbers 31:6, Joshua 6:1-5, Judges 6:34, Matthew 24:31, 1Corinthians 15:52, Revelation 8:2.

2Samuel 16-18

Overview of chapter 16
A man named Ziba brought some donkeys and food to David and his men. Shortly after this Shimei started following, heckling, and throwing rocks at David. David allowed him to do this because he could have been a prophet.

Meanwhile back in Jerusalem David’s spy Hushai was accepted by Absalom. Absalom also had an advisor named Ahithophel (a traitor from David’s kingdom) who counseled Absalom to have public sex with David’s concubines to insure that everyone knew that his relationship with his dad David stunk. Ahithophel was known for giving great advice.

Overview of chapter 17
Ahithophel also counseled Absalom to send 12,000 men to chase after David. Absalom asked for a second opinion from Hushai (David’s spy), who disagreed and said that all Israel should go out after David and king Absalom should lead the way. Absalom followed Hushai’s advice, and when Ahithophel heard that his advice was not taken he committed suicide.

Hushai passed this information on to the two priests who gave the information to their sons to take to David. They hid in a well after realizing they were being followed and were able escape to get the information to David. David and his men crossed over the Jordan, but Absalom and his men followed him. Some men from Ammon brought some supplies and food to David and his men.

Overview of chapter 18
David divided his men into three divisions and decides to go out to battle with them. The people refuse to let David go out to war for fear that he will be killed. David gives instructions to his commanders in the hearing of their armies to take it easy on his son Absalom.

The battle between Israel and David took place in a dangerous forest and the Israelites lost. Absalom got stuck hanging from a tree and it was reported to Joab. Joab is upset that the guy who saw him did not kill him. He goes and kills Absalom himself. Joab blew his trumpet telling his men to stop chasing Israel. Two men race to tell David how the war went, and they let David know the good news that they won the war and the bad news that his son was dead. David wept, and desired that he had died instead of his rebellious son.

Reflection
When you are rebuked or confronted are you as humble as David to assume the criticism is accurate and not defend yourself? Do you provide for others in need? Do you follow those who are over you, even if it goes against your desires?

For Further Study
Counsel: Numbers 31:16, Deuteronomy 13:5, Psalm 1:1, Psalm 16:7, Proverbs 11:14, Proverbs 12:15, Proverbs 27:9, Ephesians 1:11.

2Samuel 13-15

Overview of chapter 13
One of David’s sons Amnon was lovesick for his half sister Tamar. Amnon’s friend Jonadab came up with a plan for Amnon to seduce her. Amnon pretended to be really sick and would not eat unless Tamar fed him. While she was feeding him alone in his room, he raped her. After raping her, he threw her out of his room. She tore her robe and covered herself with ashes to show she was not a virgin anymore, and when her brother Absalom saw her he took her to his home and let her live there.

Absalom hated Amnon and would not speak to him. After two years he plotted to have him killed. He invited all his brothers and half brothers to party with his sheep shearers. After Amnon was drunk he had some servants kill him. The rest of the brothers ran away, afraid that they would be killed as well. Word of this got to David, who originally thought that all his sons were killed, but later found out it was only Amnon who had been killed and when his sons returned they all mourned his death together. Absalom fled to Geshur to escape the wrath of his brothers, but David longed to see his son Absalom.

Overview of chapter 14
Joab, the commander of David’s army realized that David missed Absalom and came up with a plan for David to be reunited with Absalom. Joab hired a lady to pretend to have a dispute for David to solve. She told David that one of her sons had killed her other son, and now her family had sent a blood avenger to kill her remaining son. She asked that David would have mercy on her son and let him live. David agreed, but then the lady told him that he was guilty of doing the same thing to his son. David perceived that he had been set up by his old friend Joab.

David asked Joab to go and get his son Absalom and bring him to Jerusalem to live, but David refused to see him. This continued for two years, and Absalom tried to convince Joab to let him see his father. Eventually to get Joab’s attention Absalom set Joab’s field on fire. Finally Joab agreed to bring him to David and it was a happy reunion.

Overview of chapter 15
Absalom grew prideful, and after many years decided he wanted to be king. Absalom used to sit at the city gate and tell people that David was not judging anymore, and then tell them that he would judge if he was in charge. This whisper campaign turned the peoples hearts against David, including one of his advisors. Absalom asked David if he could return to Geshur to complete a vow.

While Absalom was gone he sent word to all the tribes that they will hear a trumpet and then Absalom will be king. Absalom continued to conspire with David and draw in more and more people. When David heard about it he fled Jerusalem and left some spies to tell him what Absalom was doing and planning.

Reflection
Do the things you lust after ever truly satisfy you? When you have family members in trouble are you willing to take them in and care for them? Are you less likely to show mercy to people you love then to strangers? Does your pride lead you to sin? Do you take part in gossip, or ignore it?

For Further Study
Blood Avenger: Numbers 35:6-34, Deuteronomy 19:1-13, Joshua 20, Romans 13:3-4, 1Thessalonians 4:6.

2Samuel 8-12

Overview of chapter 8
David defeated the Philistines, the Moabites, and had victory over several other enemies. Many of them he killed, but some of them he kept as servants. One king gave David gifts because David defeated one of his enemies. David reigned over all Israel with justice and righteousness, and God was with him. David established other leadership in his kingdom, military leaders, priests, secretary, recorder, and even gave jobs to his sons.

Overview of chapter 9
David asked around to see if any one was alive from the house of Saul, so that he could bless them on Jonathan’s account. All that was left was Jonathan’s crippled son, who was brought to David. David gave him all the land that used to belong to Saul and had servants plant and harvest the land. In addition he was allowed to eat at David’s table with all his sons.

Overview of chapter 10
One of the kings of the Ammonites died and his son took over as king. David decided to send messengers to help the new king, but the new king got some bad advice and humiliated David’s messengers. Once the Ammonites realized that David was not going to be happy about this they hired an army from the Aramean’s to fight alongside them. David sent Joab, his commander, out to war. Joab saw that there were two fronts so he split his men in two divisions and defeated both armies.

The Aramean’s that were hired then gathered on the other side of the Jordan and met up with more of their men, but David’s army crossed the Jordan and defeated them there as well. Those who were left made peace with Israel and became their servants.

Overview of chapter 11
One spring while David’s army was out fighting David stayed behind. While on his roof he saw a beautiful woman bathing, named Bathsheba. Even after David found out she was married to one of his soldiers he still brought her to himself and had sex with her, and got her pregnant. In an attempt to cover his sin David brought her husband, Uriah, home from the war, in hopes he would sleep with her, but he refused to enter his house while his men were at war. David even tried getting him drunk first, but he refused to go home.

David then decided to cover his sin by having Uriah killed, so he sent Uriah back to the front lines of the war and arranged for everyone to pull back, leaving Uriah to be killed. When this information was brought back to David, he waited until after Bathsheba had mourned her husband and then he married her. David’s actions were evil in the sight of the Lord.

Overview of chapter 12
The Lord sent Nathan the prophet to speak to David. Nathan relayed a parable about a rich man who stole a poor man’s beloved sheep. This story angered David and he said that the rich man should be killed and the poor man should be repaid 4 times what he lost. At that point Nathan revealed that David had done the same thing in his dealings with Uriah.

David repented, and the Lord allowed him to live, but He caused David and Bathsheba’s son to be sick. David prayed, fasted and lay on the floor while the child was sick, but when the child finally died David stopped his fast, worshipped God and ate again. David’s servants asked why David reacted this way and where told that while the boy was sick David asked God to change his mind, but after he had died no more could have been done.

David and Bathsheba again conceived a child and this one was named Solomon, and the Lord loved him as he had previously promised David he would.

Joab finished off the Ammonites, and all Israel, including David, joined in for the final battle and ultimate destruction of the survivors.

Reflection
When you have great victories in your life, do you dedicate the rewards to God or claim them for yourself? Do you take care of your brothers and sisters in Christ, especially after a death in the family? When faced with a large task or battle of the faith, are you able to say, “I will be strong and courageous and trust whatever outcome the Lord provides? How far will you go to cover up your sin? When your sin is found out, are you quick to repent? Isn’t it better to repent before your sin is found out? What can you learn from David’s example of how to mourn?

For Further Study
Mourning: Genesis 23:2, Genesis 37:34-35, Psalm 30:11, Ecclesiastes 3:4, Matthew 5:4.

2Samuel 4-7

Overview of chapter 4
Two servants of the current king of Israel (Ish-bosheth - Saul’s son) came to him while he was napping and killed him, decapitated him and brought his head to king David. They thought this would please David, but instead it upset them and was more evil then the killing of Saul. He had the men killed and strung up for all to see.

Overview of chapter 5
David made a covenant with all the elders of Israel and became their king. David then took a group of men to Jerusalem and snuck in through the water tunnels and captured the city. David lived there and the king of Tyre built David a house there. During this time David started gathering wives and concubines and that led to lots of princes.

When the Philistines heard of the success of David they started to war with him, and with the direction and help of the Lord Israel defeated the Philistines twice.

Overview of chapter 6
David decided it was time to move the ark of the covenant, so he errantly had it placed on a fancy cart. The cart was unsteady on the rocky ground and it looked like the ark was going to fall, so a guy named Uzzah tried to catch it. As soon as he touched it God killed him. This angered David, but it also reminded him to fear God. The ark was left at the nearest house for a while. Eventually David moved the ark again, properly this time, and brought it to Jerusalem. The whole time it was moving David and his men were dancing and singing and sacrificing to praise the Lord.

David’s wife Michal was embarrassed by the behavior of her husband, and rudely accused him of playing the fool in front of the whole nation. David’s reply was simple - I don’t care what everyone thinks I am going to praise the Lord. This apparently led to deeper problems in their relationship because we are told that she never had any children.

Overview of chapter 7
When David realized that the Lord had given him rest from fighting his enemies he decided it was time to build a more permanent tabernacle for God. The Lord, speaking through the prophet Nathan, told him that was not necessary; He was used to living in tents. In addition the Lord told David that He would make sure that David’s family was on the throne forever and that he would take one of David’s sons and treat him as if he was a son of God. The Lord would love and discipline him as if he was his own. That son would build a tabernacle for God.

Reflection
Do you occasionally try to bring about God’s judgement for Him? What value do you place on doing things God’s way, even if your way should work? Do worship God whole heartedly no matter who is watching or are you careful not to look foolish? As a son of God do you realize that He will both love and discipline you?

For Further Study
Moving the ark: Exodus 25:14, Numbers 4:5-6, Numbers 4:15

2Samuel 1-3

Overview of chapter 1
Three days after the death of Saul an Amalekite came to David at Ziklag and told him of Saul and Jonathan’s death. It turns out that after Saul attempted to kill himself he still had not died and he asked this Amalekite to finish the job, which he did. The Amalekite brought the news and Saul’s crown and bracelet to David. David had the Amalekite killed because he admitted to killing Saul. Then David sang a song of lament for Saul and Jonathan.

Overview of chapter 2
David asked God if he should return to Israel and God told him to go to Hebron. David, his men, and his two wives went their and the people of Judah anointed David as king. Meanwhile, Abner (the commander of Saul’s army)had anointed Saul’s son (Ish-bosheth) as king over Israel.

Abner and Joab (from the camp of David) brought men together and began a civil war between Judah and Israel. Joab’s men were victorious and they chased after Abner. While Abner was being pursued he killed Joab’s brother. The pursuit continued and Abner reached the Benjamites who stood behind him to protect them. Abner called out to Joab and told him to stop chasing him because it would only turn out bad. Joab agreed and returned to David. When an account had been made of all the men it was found that 19 of David’s men died and 660 of Abner’s men.

Overview of chapter 3
The civil war continued and David’s army grew stronger while the army of Israel weakened. David’s family was growing as well, he added several wives and children. During this time Ish-bosheth confronted Abner because Abner had taken one of Saul’s concubines. This upset Abner because he was fighting for Ish-bosheth’s survival and did not think it was something they should be fighting about. Because of this Abner decided to switch sides.

Abner sent messengers to David asking to join up with David. David agreed with the one condition that Abner bring David’s betrothed wife Michal (who is currently married to someone else). Michal was brought amidst the tears of her current husband. Abner met with the elders of Israel to convince them to join up with David and make him king. Abner then asked to go to all the lands of Israel and make a covenant with them. David agreed to let Abner go, and as Abner was leaving Joab saw him. Joab asked David why Abner was allowed to leave alive, and he accused Abner of being a spy. Joab followed after Abner and killed him without David’s knowledge.

David and all the people wept over the death of Abner and David sang a son for him. The people understood that David had not intended for Abner to be killed, and David asked the Lord to repay the evil of Joab.

Reflection
Are you loyal to those whom God has chosen to lead you, even if they are imperfect? When you have experienced a death in your family do you take time to morn, putting everything else on hold? Do you seek justice on your own or ask God to bring it?

For Further Study
Rules for Israel’s king: Deuteronomy 17:14-20.

1Samuel 28-31

Overview of chapter 28
Once again the Philistines gathered for war with the Israelites. David was still living with the Philistines and one of their kings asked David to go along with them to fight Israel, and David agreed to go. Meanwhile king Saul was afraid and asked God what the outcome of the war would be. God was no longer speaking with Saul so no answer was given to him, not even through the priest with the Urim or any of the prophets. Saul was so desperate he consulted a medium (even though he had previously banned them from operating in Israel). He met with a woman at Endor and after promising not to let it be known that she was still working as a medium she agreed to conjure up Samuel from the dead. Samuel was not to excited about being called up from the dead. Saul asked Samuel what the result of the current war with the Philistines would be and he was told that Israel would lose and Saul and his sons would be killed. This news knocked Saul off of his feet and he was very scared.

Overview of chapter 29
The commanders of the Philistines were not to happy about David and his men joining them in camp. They brought their dispute to the king and requested that David leave. Although David pleaded his case before the king he was still told to leave, so he and his men headed back to their homes at Ziklzg in the land of the Philistines.

Overview of chapter 30
When David and his men returned to Ziklag they found that the city had been burnt to the ground and all of their families were taken hostage by the Amalekites. After asking God what to do, David and his men pursued them and with the help of an Egyptian slave who was left by the Amalekites found out where the Amalekites were headed. 200 of his 600 men were too wore out to continue the whole way so they stayed with the luggage. David caught up with the Amalekites and slaughtered them until all but a few deserters were killed. They were able to recover all of their family members and everything that had been stolen.

The some of the 400 men who fought wanted to divide the spoil and leave the 200 luggage watchers out. David refused and said that the luggage watchers had also earned a portion of the spoil. David also gave some of the spoil to the elders of the city of Ziklag, and to all the towns were David and his men used to hang out.

Overview of chapter 31
As the dead prophet Samuel had prophesied the Philistines defeated the Israelites, and all of Saul’s sons were killed including Jonathan. Saul was hit with an arrow, and before the Philistines could get their he killed himself, and his armor bearer did the same. The Philistines lived in the cities that the Israelites had abandoned. They also put Saul, his sons, and Saul’s weapons on display for all to see. Some valiant men from Israel took the decapitated bodies of Saul and his sons and burnt them, then buried their bones at Jabesh, and the people fasted for seven days.

Reflection
Have you ever been so backslidden that you would agree to fight for the enemy? Has God spoken to you at times when you were outside of his will?

For Further Study
Fasting: Judges 20:26, 1Samuel 7:6, 2Samuel 12:16, Psalm 35:13, Isaiah 58:1-12, Matthew 4:2, Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Matthew 17:21, Luke 18:10-14, Acts 13:2-3, Acts 14:23.

CONGRATULATIONS ON COMPLETING THE BOOK OF 1SAMUEL! YOU ARE NOW 1/4 OF THE WAY THROUGH THE YEAR AND YOUR BIBLE!

1Samuel 25-27

Overview of chapter 25
Samuel died. David hid in the wilderness of Paran and while their began protecting the shepherds of a evil man named Nabal (which means senseless of foolish). On a festival day David sent messengers to see if Nabal would send some food for David’s men to celebrate as well. Nabal refused, so David and his men decided to return his evil by killing him and his men (KJV - “any that pisseth against the wall”). A message was sent to Nabal’s intelligent wife Abigail warning her of the impending death of her husband. She decided to bring a great feast out to David in hopes of saving her husband. David met her and agreed to take the feast and leave her husband alone. When Abigail returned home, she waited for her husband to sober up and then she told him what had happened. It broke his heart and he died 10 days later. When David heard that Nabal had died he proposed to Abigail and they were married. David had two other wives at this time, Saul’s daughter (who was also married to someone else) and a woman named Ahinoam.

Overview of chapter 26
The Ziphites continued to spy for Saul and once again told him where David was hiding. Saul and an army of 3000 men came to find David and set up camp near where David was hiding. The Lord caused a deep sleep to fall over Saul and his men, allowing David and Abishai to sneak in to the camp. Once again David would not allow Saul to be killed, but he had Abishai steal Saul’s spear and water jug. Once David and Abishai got a comfortable distance away they called out to Abner the captain of Saul’s guards. They asked Abner why he had done such a poor job defending Saul, since they were able to get close enough to kill Saul. Saul recognized David’s voice and realized that David had again spared his life. Saul sounds repentant so David gave him his spear back and the two men parted to their own place again.

Overview of chapter 27
David still did not believe that Saul would give up trying to kill him (and apparently he didn’t believe that God would continue to protect him), so David decided to hide among Saul’s enemies the Philistines. When Saul heard David left the country he stopped searching for him. The king of Gath originally let David stay in his palace, but David convinced him to allow him to have the city of Ziklag. David still continued to fight the enemies of Israel, but he lied to the king of Gath and told him he was fighting the Israelites. We are told that David lived this bandit type lifestyle for 16 months.

Reflection
Do you trust God to take vengeance or do you try to take it for yourself when you are wronged? Abigail showed her wisdom by giving a gift to her enemy, what gifts can you give your enemies? In 1Samuel 26:23 David says, “the Lord will repay each man for his righteousness and his faithfulness;” will that be a big or small paycheck for you? Does lying to protect yourself show a lack of faith or trust in God?

For Further Study
Saul’s spear: 1Samuel 13:22-23, 1Samuel 18:10-11, 1Samuel 19:9-10, 1Samuel 20:32-33, 1Samuel 26:12, 2Samuel 1:6.

1Samuel 21-24

Overview of chapter 21
David is fleeing Saul and came to the city of Nob and meet the priest their. David made up a story about being on a secret mission for the king and asked for some food. All that was available was the week old bread from tabernacle. David accepted it and asked if any weapons were available for him to take, and the only weapon available was Goliath’s sword. David accepted it, and moved on to the town of Gath. David was afraid that the king their would kill him, so he acted crazy. Apparently this village already had an idiot so David was sent away.

Overview of chapter 22
From Gath David proceeded to Adulam and hid in a cave. His family found out he was their and they stopped by to visit him. In addition, 400 men joined up with him who were discontent with their lives. David then made a deal with the king of Moab to let his family stay their until this problem with Saul was settled. A prophet told David to return to Judah, so he moved to their.

When Saul found out where David was he accused everyone of keeping secrets from him. At that time a man named Doeg, who had seen David get the bread from the priests, spoke up and gave the name of the priest to Saul. Saul had the priest brought to him and he told his guards to kill all the priests. They refused so Saul asked Doeg to do the dirty deed and he killed 85 priests, but one escaped. The escaped priest told David what happened and David offered him a safe place to stay.

Overview of chapter 23
David heard that the Philistines were attacking the city of Keilah so he asked God what he should do. The Lord told him to go fight the Philistines, and he took his scared men along with him. David and his men slaughtered the Philistines. Saul heard about this and sent a unit to besiege the city that David had captured. David escaped before they got their after the Lord told him that the people of the city would hand him over to Saul.

David hid in the wilderness, and Jonathan came to visit him and encourage him. Meanwhile the Ziphites agreed to scout around and find David for Saul. When they did, Saul and his army surrounded David. Before they could attach Saul received news that the Philistines were attacking, so he left and David was able to escape.

Overview of chapter 24
After fending off the Philistines Saul continued to search for David. While looking for David, Saul stopped to use the bathroom in a cave that David was hiding in. David convinced his troops not to kill Saul because he was still the king. Instead, David snuck up close and cut off a piece of his robe. After Saul left the cave, David came out and told Saul that he had saved his life. He showed the piece of robe as proof, hoping to convince Saul that he was loyal and did not deserve to be killed. Saul began to cry and admitted that David was righteous. He then asked David to promise not to destroy his family when he became king. Saul went home, but David and his men took up residence in a local stronghold.

Reflection
When you are afraid do you lie and act crazy like David did? When you are discontent in your life, do you hide out, or find Godly men to follow? When you feel that God is giving you direction, do you have any methods established to double check what you believe God is telling you? When people are lying about you and trying to cause you harm, do you attack back or patiently wait for a chance to defend your righteousness with truth?

For Further Study
Bread of the Presence: Exodus 25:30, Leviticus 24:5-9, 1Kings 7:48, 2Chronicles 13:11, Matthew 12:3-4

1Samuel 18-20

Overview of chapter 18
Following David’s victory over Goliath Saul put David on his full-time staff. Jonathan and David became best friends. However, Saul became jealous of David’s popularity with the ladies and Saul was suspicious of David from that time on. An evil spirit came upon Saul and he tried to kill David with his spear. Eventually the two seemingly work out their differences and Saul allows David to marry his daughter Michal. Because David could not afford the dowery Saul asked for 100 Philistine foreskins - hoping the Philistines would kill David. David was able to fulfill the dowry and get married.

Overview of chapter 19
Saul told his servants and his son Jonathan to kill David, but Jonathan talked him out of it. Once again while David was playing the harp for Saul and evil spirit caused Saul to throw his spear at David, but David escaped. Saul then sent assassins to David’s house, but his wife helped him escape and used the old idol under the covers trick to make it look like David was in bed. David traveled to where Samuel the prophet was and told him all that Saul was up to.

Saul heard were David was and sent assassins on two different occasions, but each time when they arrived they began to prophesy rather than kill. Saul finally decided to go himself, but even he was unable to kill and he prophesied.

Overview of chapter 20
David went to ask Jonathan why Saul wanted him dead, but Jonathan did not believe this was true. David devised a method to figure out if Saul wanted him dead. He would skip eating with Saul at the upcoming feast, and if that angered Saul then it would be clear he wanted to kill David. Meanwhile, David would be hiding near by and if Jonathan determined Saul wanted David dead he would warn David to flee.

As it turns out Saul did want David dead and when Jonathan told him that he allowed David to return home Saul attempted to kill him. Jonathan warned David who fled for his life.

Reflection
Do you ever get jealous of how God uses other people that you know? Have you ever been angry at a Godly friend because they are getting more attention then you? Do you ever feel persecuted because of your Godliness?

For Further Study
Harp: 1Chronicles 25:3, Psalms 33:2, Psalm 71:22, Psalm 150, 1Corinthians 14:7-9, Revelation 5:8