Day 135 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 15 May 2023 reflections
Day 135, 15 May 2023
1) 2 Samuel 16 - 18
2 Samuel 16
David and Ziba
1 (1Sa 25:18; 2Sa 15:32) When David had passed a little beyond the summit,
Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of saddled donkeys
carrying two hundred loaves of bread, one hundred clusters of raisins,
one hundred summer fruits, and one skin of wine.
2 (2Sa 17:29; Jdg 10:4) The king said to Ziba, "Why do you have these things?"
Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the household of the king to ride.
The bread and the summer fruit are for the servants to eat.
The wine is for those who become weary in the wilderness to drink."
3 (2Sa 9:9-10) The king said, "And where is your master's son?"
Ziba said to the king, "He is staying in Jerusalem, for he said,
'Today they will return to me the house of Israel and my father's kingdom.'"
4 Then David said to Ziba, "Everything that belonged to Mephibosheth
is now yours."
Ziba replied, "I bow before you. May I find favor in your sight,
my lord the king."
[1] And when David was a little past the top of the hill, behold, Ziba the
servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon
them two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an
hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.
[2] And the king said unto Ziba, What meanest thou by these? And Ziba said,
The asses be for the king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer
fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine, that such as be faint in the
wilderness may drink.
[3] And the king said, And where is thy master's son? And Ziba said unto the
king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house
of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.
[4] Then said the king to Ziba, Behold, thine are all that pertained unto
Mephibosheth. And Ziba said, I humbly beseech thee that I may find grace in
thy sight, my lord, O king.
Shimei Curses David
5 (2Sa 3:16; Ex 22:28) When King David came to Bahurim, a man of the family
of the house of Saul came out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, a
nd he came out continuously cursing.
6 He threw stones at David and all of the servants of King David, as well as
all of the people and all of the warriors who were at his right and left.
7 (2Sa 12:9) Shimei said when he cursed: "Come out! Come out!
You bloodthirsty man, you scoundrel!
8 (2Sa 1:16; Jdg 9:24) The Lord has returned upon you all the blood
of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. And the Lord
has given the kingdom into the hand of your son Absalom.
You are taken in your own evil, because you are a man of blood."
9 (Ex 22:28; 2Sa 9:8) Then Abishai the son of Zeruiah said to the king,
"How can this dead dog curse my lord the king!
Let me go over and remove his head."
10 (2Sa 19:22; Ro 9:20) The king responded, "What do you have against me,
sons of Zeruiah? Suppose that he curses because the Lord has said to him,
'Curse David.' Who shall then say, 'Why do you do so?' "
11 David then said to Abishai and to all of his servants, "My son who came
from my own body seeks my life, and now also this Benjamite. Leave him alone
and let him curse if the Lord has so instructed him.
12 (Dt 23:5; Ro 8:28) Perhaps today the Lord will look upon my guilt
and return kindness instead of his cursing."
13 So David and his men continued on the road, and Shimei went along
on the hillside beside them, cursing, throwing stones, and flinging dust
at them as he went.
14 The king and all of the people who were with him arrived at their
destination exhausted, but he refreshed himself there.
[5] And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of
the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he
came forth, and cursed still as he came.
[6] And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and
all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his
left.
[7] And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody
man, and thou man of Belial:
[8] The LORD hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in
whose stead thou hast reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into
the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art taken in thy mischief,
because thou art a bloody man.
[9] Then said Abishai the son of Zeruiah unto the king, Why should this dead
dog curse my lord the king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his
head.
[10] And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so
let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall
then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?
[11] And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son,
which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this
Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden
him.
[12] It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD
will requite me good for his cursing this day.
[13] And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the
hill's side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at
him, and cast dust.
[14] And the king, and all the people that were with him, came weary, and
refreshed themselves there.
The Advice of Ahithophel and Hushai
15(2Sa 15:37) Now Absalom and all of the Israelite people entered Jerusalem,
and Ahithophel was with him.
16 (Sa 10:24; 2Ki 11:12) When Hushai the Arkite, the friend of David,
came to Absalom, Hushai said to Absalom, "Long live the king!
Long live the king!"
17 (2Sa 19:25) Then Absalom said to Hushai, "Is this the extent of your
commitment to your friend? Why have you not gone with your friend?"
18 Hushai said to Absalom, "No! For whom the Lord, this people, and all men
of Israel have chosen, his I will be and with him I will remain.
19 (2Sa 15:34) Furthermore, whom shall I serve? Should it not be his son?
As I served your father, so shall I be with you."
20 Absalom said to Ahithophel, "Give your advice. What shall we do?"
21 (2Sa 15:16; 20:3) Ahithophel said to Absalom, "Lie with your father's
concubines, whom he left to watch over the palace. When all Israel hears
that you have made yourself abhorred by your father, then the hands
of all who are with you will be strong."
22 (2Sa 12:11-12; 15:16) So they set up a tent for Absalom on the roof,
and Absalom went in to his father's concubines in the sight of all of Israel.
23 (2Sa 15:12; 17:14) In those days, the advice that Ahithophel gave was as
when one inquired a word from God. Such was all of the advice of Ahithophel,
whether that which he gave to David or to Absalom.
[15] And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem,
and Ahithophel with him.
[16] And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come
unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the
king.
[17] And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why
wentest thou not with thy friend?
[18] And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people,
and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.
[19] And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of
his son? as I have served in thy father's presence, so will I be in thy
presence.
[20] Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall
do.
[21] And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines,
which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou
art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee
be strong.
[22] So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom
went in unto his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel.
[23] And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was
as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of
Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.
2 Samuel 17
1 Ahithophel also said to Absalom, "Let me choose twelve thousand men
so that I may arise and pursue David tonight.
2 (2Sa 16:14; 1Ki 22:31) I will overtake him while he is weary
and weak and strike him with terror; all of the people who are with him
will flee. Then I will strike only the king, 3and I will return all
of the people to you. When all return except the man whom you are seeking,
all of the people will be at peace."
4 The advice pleased Absalom and all of the elders of Israel.
5 So Absalom said, "Summon Hushai the Arkite so that we may hear
what he has to say as well."
6 When Hushai came to Absalom, Absalom said to him, "This is what Ahithophel
had advised. Should we do this thing? If not, you should tell us."
7 Hushai said to Absalom, "At this time, the advice
that Ahithophel has given is not good."
8 (Hos 13:8; 1Sa 16:18) Moreover, Hushai said, "You know that your father
and his men are warriors, and they have been provoked like a bear robbed
of her cubs. Your father is a veteran of warfare. He will not spend the night
with the people.
9 Even now, he has hidden himself in a ravine or some other place,
and when one of them falls in the first attack, whoever hears will say,
'It was a defeat for the people who follow Absalom.-
10 (Jos 2:9-11) Then even the valiant one, whose heart is like that of a lion,
will completely despair, for all of Israel knows
that your father is a warrior, and those who are with him are brave.
11 (Ge 22:17; Jos 11:4) "Therefore my advice is for all of Israel,
from Dan to Beersheba, to be completely gathered to you like
the multitude of the sand along the shoreline and for you to go to battle
in person.
12 We will come upon him in one of the places where he may be found,
and we will fall upon him like the dew upon the ground. Neither he nor
any of the men who are with him will remain, not a single one.
13 If he withdraws into a city, then all of Israel will bring ropes
to that city. We will raze it until it is a valley, until there cannot
be found there even a pebble."
14 (2Sa 15:34; 15:31) Then Absalom and all of the men of Israel said,
"The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than the advice of Ahithophel."
For the Lord had decided to undermine the prudent advice of Ahithophel,
so that the Lord might bring calamity to Absalom.
[1] Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve
thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:
[2] And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will
make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will
smite the king only:
[3] And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou
seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace.
[4] And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.
[5] Then said Absalom, Call now Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear
likewise what he saith.
[6] And when Hushai was come to Absalom, Absalom spake unto him, saying,
Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if
not; speak thou.
[7] And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is
not good at this time.
[8] For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be
mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her
whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with
the people.
[9] Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will
come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever
heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow
Absalom.
[10] And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion,
shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man,
and they which be with him are valiant men.
[11] Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee,
from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude;
and that thou go to battle in thine own person.
[12] So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we
will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all
the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one.
[13] Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring
ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not
one small stone found there.
[14] And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the
Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed
to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might
bring evil upon Absalom.
Hushai Warns David to Escape
15 Then Hushai said to Zadok and Abiathar the priests,
"Ahithophel advised Absalom and the elders of Israel to do one thing,
but I advised them to do another thing.
16 (2Sa 15:28) Now quickly send someone to report to David,
'Do not spend the night at the fords of the wilderness,
but instead cross over. Otherwise, the king and all of the people
who are with him will be swallowed up.' "
17 (Jos 15:7; 18:16) Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were waiting at En Rogel.
A servant girl would go report to them, and they would go report
to King David, because they could not be seen entering the city.
18 (2Sa 3:16; 16:5) But a young man saw them and reported this to Absalom.
So the two of them went quickly and came to the house of a man in Bahurim.
He had a well in his courtyard, and they went down into it.
19 The wife took a covering and spread it over the opening of the well.
Then she scattered grain over it so that nothing could be discerned.
20 (Ex 1:19) The servants of Absalom came to the woman at the house
and said, "Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?"
She said, "They crossed over the brook of water." When they searched,
they could not find them. So they returned to Jerusalem.
21 (2Sa 17:15-16) After they left, they came up from the well, went,
and reported to King David. They said to David, "Arise and quickly cross over
the water because thus has Ahithophel advised against you"
22 So David and all of the people who were with him arose and crossed
over the Jordan. By daybreak, there was not one left who had not crossed
over the Jordan.
23 (2Sa 15:12; 2Ki 20:1) When Ahithophel realized that his advice
was not followed, he saddled his donkey and returned to his house
in his own city. He gave instruction to his household, then he hanged
himself and died; he was interred in the tomb of his father.
[15] Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus
did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus
have I counselled.
[16] Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this
night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king
be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.
[17] Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen
to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and
told king David.
[18] Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of
them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in
his court; whither they went down.
[19] And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and
spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known.
[20] And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said,
Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone
over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them,
they returned to Jerusalem.
[21] And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of
the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass
quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.
[22] Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they
passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that
was not gone over Jordan.
[23] And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled
his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his
household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the
sepulchre of his father.
Absalom's Death
24 (Ge 32:2; 2Sa 2:8) David came to Mahanaim as Absalom crossed the Jordan,
he and every Israelite with him.
25 (2Sa 19:13; 20:9-12) Now Absalom had placed Amasa over the army
in the place of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man named Jether
the Ishmaelite, who went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash
and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab.
26 Israel and Absalom camped in the land of Gilead.
27 (2Sa 9:4; 10:1-2) When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi the son of Nahash
from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Makir the son of Ammiel from Lo Debar,
and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim
28 brought bedding, metal bowls, ceramic vessels, wheat, barley, flour,
roasted grain, beans, lentils,
29 (2Sa 16:2; 16:14) honey, curds, sheep, and cheese from the livestock
for David and the people who were with him to eat and use.
For they said, "The people are hungry, exhausted,
and thirsting in the wilderness."
[24] Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all
the men of Israel with him.
[25] And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa
was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail
the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother.
[26] So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead.
[27] And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the
son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of
Ammiel of Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,
[28] Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley,
and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentiles, and parched pulse,
[29] And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and
for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is
hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.
2 Samuel 18
1 David mustered the people who were with him, and he set over them
commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds.
2 (Jdg 7:16; 2Sa 15:19-22) Then David dispatched the people, one-third
under the command of Joab, one-third under the command of Abishai
the son of Zeruiah and brother of Joab, and one-third under the command
of Ittai the Gittite. Then David said to the people, "I myself will go out
with you."
3 (2Sa 21:17) But the people said, "You should not go, for if we retreat,
they will not be concerned about us. Even if half of us die,
they will not be concerned about us. But now you are worth ten thousand of us.
Therefore, it would be better to assist us from the city."
4 (2Sa 18:24) The king said to them, "I will do what seems best to you."
So the king stood beside the gate while all of the people went out
by hundreds and thousands.
5 The king commanded Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, "Deal gently
with the young man Absalom." All of the people heard the king instruct
the commanders concerning Absalom.
6 (Jos 17:18; 17:15) So the people went out toward Israel in the field,
but the fighting occurred in the forest of Ephraim.
7 The people of Israel were defeated there by the servants of David.
That day the defeat was extensive, twenty thousand men.
8 The fighting spread across the land, and the people consumed
by the forest were more numerous than those consumed by the sword that day.
9 (2Sa 14:26) Absalom was encountered by some of the servants of David.
Now Absalom was riding on his mule. When the mule went under the branches
of a very large tree, his head was caught in the tree. He was left in midair
while the mule that was under him kept going.
10 One man saw him and reported it to Joab, saying,
"I saw Absalom hanging in a tree."
11 Joab said to the man who was reporting to him, "What? You saw him?
Why did you not strike him on the spot, sending him to the ground?
I would have given you ten shekels [About 4 ounces, or 115 grams.]
of silver and a belt."
12 The man said to Joab, "Not even if I had felt the weight
of a thousand shekels [About 25 pounds, or 12 kilograms.] of silver in
my hand would I have laid a hand on the king's son. In our hearing
the king commanded you, Abishai, and Ittai saying:
Beware lest anyone touch the young man Absalom!
13 (2Sa 14:19-20) Otherwise, I would have worked falsehood
against my own life. For nothing is hidden from the king,
and you yourself would have set yourself against me."
14 Then Joab said, "I will not waste any more time with you."
He took three spears in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom
while he was still alive in the midst of the tree.
15 Then ten young men, armor bearers for Joab, gathered around
and struck down Absalom, killing him.
16 (2Sa 2:28; 20:22) When Joab blew the horn, the people returned
from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the people.
17 (Jos 7:26; 8:29) Then they took Absalom, disposed of him in a large pit
in the forest, and piled over him a very large heap of stones.
Then all Israel fled, everyone to his home.
18 (1Sa 15:12; Ge 14:17; 2Sa 14:27) Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken
and set up for himself a memorial stone in the Valley of the King,
for he said, "I have no son by whom my name may be remembered."
So he named the memorial stone after himself; and to this day,
it is called the monument of Absalom.
[1] And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of
thousands and captains of hundreds over them.
[2] And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab,
and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's
brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king
said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.
[3] But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away,
they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us:
but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that
thou succour us out of the city.
[4] And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the
king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by
thousands.
[5] And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Deal gently
for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom. And all the people heard
when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom.
[6] So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was
in the wood of Ephraim;
[7] Where the people of Israel were slain before the servants of David, and
there was there a great slaughter that day of twenty thousand men.
[8] For the battle was there scattered over the face of all the country: and
the wood devoured more people that day than the sword devoured.
[9] And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and
the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught
hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and
the mule that was under him went away.
[10] And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, Behold, I saw
Absalom hanged in an oak.
[11] And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest him,
and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given
thee ten shekels of silver, and a girdle.
[12] And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels
of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the
king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai,
saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.
[13] Otherwise I should have wrought falsehood against mine own life: for
there is no matter hid from the king, and thou thyself wouldest have set
thyself against me.
[14] Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts
in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet
alive in the midst of the oak.
[15] And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote
Absalom, and slew him.
[16] And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after
Israel: for Joab held back the people.
[17] And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and
laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to
his tent.
[18] Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a
pillar, which is in the king's dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my
name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his own name: and it is
called unto this day, Absalom's place.
David Mourns
19 (2Sa 15:36; 18:31) Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said,
"Allow me to run and bring the news to the king that the Lord
has delivered him from the hand of his enemies."
20 But Joab said to him, "You will not be a man who bears news today;
you may bear news another day. Today you will not bear news
because the king's son is dead."
21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, "Go, report to the king what you have seen."
The Cushite bowed to Joab, then ran off.
22 Ahimaaz again said to Joab, "Whatever may happen,
let me run also, after the Cushite."
Then Joab said, "Why is it that you want to run, my son?
There is no messenger's reward for you to obtain."
23 "Whatever happens, I want to run."
So he said to him, "Run." So Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain
and passed the Cushite.
24 (2Sa 19:8) Now David was sitting between the two gates when the watchman
went up to the roof of the gate, to the city wall. He lifted his eyes and
saw a man running by himself.
25 The watchman called and told the king.
The king said, "If he is alone, there is news in his mouth."
And he came ever closer.
26 Then the watchman saw another man running.
The watchman called to the gatekeeper and said,
"Look there is another man running alone."
The king said, "He also is bringing news."
27 (2Ki 9:20; 1Ki 1:42) The watchman said,
"I think that the running of the first one is like the running of Ahimaaz."
The king said, "He is a good man and comes with good news."
28 (Ge 14:20; 2Sa 14:4) Then Ahimaaz called to the king and said,
"All is well." He bowed down to the ground before the king and said,
"Blessed be the Lord your God who has handed over the men who raised
their hand against my lord the king."
29 (2Sa 18:22) The king said, "Is it well for the young man Absalom?"
Ahimaaz said, "I saw a great commotion when Joab sent the servant of the king,
your servant, but I do not know what it was."
30 The king said, "Step aside and stand here." So he stepped aside
and stood in position.
31 (2Sa 18:19) Then the Cushite came and said, "Good news for my lord
the king, for today the Lord has delivered you from those who rose up
against you."
32 (Jdg 5:31; 1Sa 25:26) The king said to the Cushite,
"Is it well for the young man Absalom?"
The Cushite said, "May the enemies of my lord the king and all
who would rise up against you to do harm become as the young man is."
33 (2Sa 19:4) The king was deeply moved and went up to the upper chamber
of the gate and wept. As he went he said, "O my son Absalom, my son,
my son Absalom! If only I could have given my death in your stead,
Absalom, my son, my son!"
[19] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, Let me now run, and bear the king
tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.
[20] And Joab said unto him, Thou shalt not bear tidings this day, but thou
shalt bear tidings another day: but this day thou shalt bear no tidings,
because the king's son is dead.
[21] Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And
Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
[22] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab, But howsoever,
let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi. And Joab said, Wherefore wilt
thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready?
[23] But howsoever, said he, let me run. And he said unto him, Run. Then
Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and overran Cushi.
[24] And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the
roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and
behold a man running alone.
[25] And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, If he be
alone, there is tidings in his mouth. And he came apace, and drew near.
[26] And the watchman saw another man running: and the watchman called unto
the porter, and said, Behold another man running alone. And the king said,
He also bringeth tidings.
[27] And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like
the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. And the king said, He is a good
man, and cometh with good tidings.
[28] And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king, All is well. And he fell
down to the earth upon his face before the king, and said, Blessed be the
LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand
against my lord the king.
[29] And the king said, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Ahimaaz answered,
When Joab sent the king's servant, and me thy servant, I saw a great tumult,
but I knew not what it was.
[30] And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned
aside, and stood still.
[31] And, behold, Cushi came; and Cushi said, Tidings, my lord the king: for
the LORD hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up against thee.
[32] And the king said unto Cushi, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Cushi
answered, The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise against thee to
do thee hurt, be as that young man is.
[33] And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate,
and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son
Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!
2) Our Daily Bread for 15 May 2023 titled
Exploring the Stars
PSALMS 19
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament shows His handiwork.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Day unto day utters speech,
and night unto night declares knowledge.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) There is no speech and there are no words;
their voice is not heard.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Their line has gone out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them has He set a tent for the sun,
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber;
it rejoices as a strong man to run a race.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Its going forth is from one end of the heavens,
and its circuit extends to the other end,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Psalm 19
[1] The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his
handywork.
[2] Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
[3] There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
[4] Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end
of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
[5] Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a
strong man to run a race.
[6] His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the
ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
Isaiah 40:26
26 (Ps 89:11-13; Isa 48:13) Lift up your eyes on high,
and see who has created these things,
who brings out their host by number;
He calls them all by name,
by the greatness of His might and the strength of His power;
not one of them is missing.
[26] Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things,
that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the
greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.
In 2021, a multination effort led to the launch of the James Webb Space
Telescope-deployed nearly a million miles from Earth to better investigate
the universe. This marvel will peer into deep space and examine the stars
and other celestial wonders.
This is indeed a fascinating astronomical piece of technology, and if
everything works, it will provide us with amazing photos and information.
But its mission isn't new. In fact, the prophet Isaiah described searching
the stars when he said, "Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who
created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one" (Isaiah
40:26). "Night after night" they speak of our Creator who hurled this
imperceptibly immense universe into existence (Psalm 19:2)-and with it the
countless luminous bodies that silently grace our night sky (v. 3).
And it's God Himself who decided how many of the shining objects there are:
"He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name" (Psalm
147:4). When mankind sends complicated, fascinating probes to explore the
universe, we can enjoy with spellbound wonder the discoveries they make,
because each observation points back to the One who made the solar system
and everything beyond it. Yes, the "heavens declare the glory of God"
(19:1)-stars and all.
How do the stars and the entire universe speak of God and His creative ways?
What thoughts and emotions strike you as you think about His power?
Heavenly Father, thank You for creating
such an amazing universe for me to enjoy.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 2 - Due Season
Gal 6:9
9 And let us not grow weary in doing good,
for in due season we shall reap, if we do not give up.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing:
for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Jackie's preschool class took on an exciting project: they were going to grow
flowers from seeds, Each child took the seed, planted it carefully in the
bedding soil, watered, and waited. But Jackie couldn't wait. Every day
for a week he ran to the window box, looked for his plants, poked, prodded,
unplanted the seeds and then planted them again. "It's no use,"
he pouted after the first week. "Nothing's gonna grow in there."
We live in an instant society - microwave dinners, quick fixes, easy answers.
We are conditioned by our environment to expect - even to demand -
immediate response, and when we have to wait,
we become impatient and irritable.
Paul's exhortation to the Galatians, "Let us not become weary in doing good,"
is as appropriate for twentieth-century believers as it was for the new church
at Galatia. We lose motivation when we don't see results,
and weariness sets in.
If our work does not seem to be producing as we hope, we want to abandon it
and move on to a new project.
But God says, "You will reap a harvest if you don't give up." We give up too
soon in our prayers for a loved one's salvation. We abandon hope too readily
when we don't see spiritual growth in our own lives, when our investment in
another's spiritual maturity seems to have no return. The Lord says,
"The harvest is coming; be patient; trust me."
In due season the harvest comes; when it's the right time. When the seed has
had time to germinate, when the roots are string enough, when the conditions
are right, the reaping time will come. But we must be willing to wait for
the due season, the moment of ripeness, when our labor brings its return.
Application
a) Have I ever felt that my spiritual labours have produced no harvest at all?
b) What does it mean to my own spiritual growth that there is a "due season"
for reaping the harvest?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Hebrews 7:8
8 In the one case mortal men receive tithes,
but in the other he of whom it is witnessed
that he is alive receives them.
8 And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them,
of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Facing Pain and Suffering
2 Cor 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance
of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan,
to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure.
8 I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me.
9 But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made
perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in hardships,
in persecutions, and in distresses for Christ's sake.
For when I am weak, then I am strong.
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of
the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh,
the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is
made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my
infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities,
in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak,
then am I strong.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)
Ontario
Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario
Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000
est Muslim Population 1 001 542
CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,
Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor
Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that
the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most
Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching
from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly
resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques
are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools
are starting.
And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their
advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,
the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour
brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of
"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of
receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town
reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.
Agree in prayer for:
- net network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 "In the last days it shall be," says God,
"that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.
18 Even on My menservants and maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.
21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]
Footnotes
Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
And
Thank you for praying through the
5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.
"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,
I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to
cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.
Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians
and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the
love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.
One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by
light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.
As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and
confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution
to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.
Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.
Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father
to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.
I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.
God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through
the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom
and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
ROMANS 15:13
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
15th Day of the Month
a) Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous
standards of living (John 16: 8 - 11)
8 "When He comes, He will convict the world of sin
and of righteousness and of judgment:
9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me;
10 of righteousness, because I am going to My Father,
and you will see Me no more;
11 and of judgment, because the ruler of this world stands condemned."
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,
and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 of sin, because they believe not on me;
10 of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11 of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
)
b) Pray for the province of Nova Scotia
I) Pray for the leaders of Nova Scotia, that God's Spirit would influence
them to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our
Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)
who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
)
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be an honourable leader in your family.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, thank You for creating
such an amazing universe for me to enjoy."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be patient through the process.
Pray to the Lord and pray to him that own the universe.
Pray to the Lord and pray for Him to strengthen you through pain .
Agree in prayer for Ontario:
- get network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous
standards of living
Pray that young pastors in Algeria receiving theological instruction will
mature in their faith.
1) 2 Samuel 16 - 18
2 Samuel 16
David and Ziba
1 (1Sa 25:18; 2Sa 15:32) When David had passed a little beyond the summit,
Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of saddled donkeys
carrying two hundred loaves of bread, one hundred clusters of raisins,
one hundred summer fruits, and one skin of wine.
2 (2Sa 17:29; Jdg 10:4) The king said to Ziba, "Why do you have these things?"
Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the household of the king to ride.
The bread and the summer fruit are for the servants to eat.
The wine is for those who become weary in the wilderness to drink."
3 (2Sa 9:9-10) The king said, "And where is your master's son?"
Ziba said to the king, "He is staying in Jerusalem, for he said,
'Today they will return to me the house of Israel and my father's kingdom.'"
4 Then David said to Ziba, "Everything that belonged to Mephibosheth
is now yours."
Ziba replied, "I bow before you. May I find favor in your sight,
my lord the king."
[1] And when David was a little past the top of the hill, behold, Ziba the
servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon
them two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an
hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.
[2] And the king said unto Ziba, What meanest thou by these? And Ziba said,
The asses be for the king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer
fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine, that such as be faint in the
wilderness may drink.
[3] And the king said, And where is thy master's son? And Ziba said unto the
king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house
of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.
[4] Then said the king to Ziba, Behold, thine are all that pertained unto
Mephibosheth. And Ziba said, I humbly beseech thee that I may find grace in
thy sight, my lord, O king.
Shimei Curses David
5 (2Sa 3:16; Ex 22:28) When King David came to Bahurim, a man of the family
of the house of Saul came out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, a
nd he came out continuously cursing.
6 He threw stones at David and all of the servants of King David, as well as
all of the people and all of the warriors who were at his right and left.
7 (2Sa 12:9) Shimei said when he cursed: "Come out! Come out!
You bloodthirsty man, you scoundrel!
8 (2Sa 1:16; Jdg 9:24) The Lord has returned upon you all the blood
of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. And the Lord
has given the kingdom into the hand of your son Absalom.
You are taken in your own evil, because you are a man of blood."
9 (Ex 22:28; 2Sa 9:8) Then Abishai the son of Zeruiah said to the king,
"How can this dead dog curse my lord the king!
Let me go over and remove his head."
10 (2Sa 19:22; Ro 9:20) The king responded, "What do you have against me,
sons of Zeruiah? Suppose that he curses because the Lord has said to him,
'Curse David.' Who shall then say, 'Why do you do so?' "
11 David then said to Abishai and to all of his servants, "My son who came
from my own body seeks my life, and now also this Benjamite. Leave him alone
and let him curse if the Lord has so instructed him.
12 (Dt 23:5; Ro 8:28) Perhaps today the Lord will look upon my guilt
and return kindness instead of his cursing."
13 So David and his men continued on the road, and Shimei went along
on the hillside beside them, cursing, throwing stones, and flinging dust
at them as he went.
14 The king and all of the people who were with him arrived at their
destination exhausted, but he refreshed himself there.
[5] And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of
the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he
came forth, and cursed still as he came.
[6] And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and
all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his
left.
[7] And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody
man, and thou man of Belial:
[8] The LORD hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in
whose stead thou hast reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into
the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art taken in thy mischief,
because thou art a bloody man.
[9] Then said Abishai the son of Zeruiah unto the king, Why should this dead
dog curse my lord the king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his
head.
[10] And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so
let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall
then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?
[11] And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son,
which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this
Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden
him.
[12] It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD
will requite me good for his cursing this day.
[13] And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the
hill's side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at
him, and cast dust.
[14] And the king, and all the people that were with him, came weary, and
refreshed themselves there.
The Advice of Ahithophel and Hushai
15(2Sa 15:37) Now Absalom and all of the Israelite people entered Jerusalem,
and Ahithophel was with him.
16 (Sa 10:24; 2Ki 11:12) When Hushai the Arkite, the friend of David,
came to Absalom, Hushai said to Absalom, "Long live the king!
Long live the king!"
17 (2Sa 19:25) Then Absalom said to Hushai, "Is this the extent of your
commitment to your friend? Why have you not gone with your friend?"
18 Hushai said to Absalom, "No! For whom the Lord, this people, and all men
of Israel have chosen, his I will be and with him I will remain.
19 (2Sa 15:34) Furthermore, whom shall I serve? Should it not be his son?
As I served your father, so shall I be with you."
20 Absalom said to Ahithophel, "Give your advice. What shall we do?"
21 (2Sa 15:16; 20:3) Ahithophel said to Absalom, "Lie with your father's
concubines, whom he left to watch over the palace. When all Israel hears
that you have made yourself abhorred by your father, then the hands
of all who are with you will be strong."
22 (2Sa 12:11-12; 15:16) So they set up a tent for Absalom on the roof,
and Absalom went in to his father's concubines in the sight of all of Israel.
23 (2Sa 15:12; 17:14) In those days, the advice that Ahithophel gave was as
when one inquired a word from God. Such was all of the advice of Ahithophel,
whether that which he gave to David or to Absalom.
[15] And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem,
and Ahithophel with him.
[16] And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come
unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the
king.
[17] And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why
wentest thou not with thy friend?
[18] And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people,
and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.
[19] And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of
his son? as I have served in thy father's presence, so will I be in thy
presence.
[20] Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall
do.
[21] And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines,
which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou
art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee
be strong.
[22] So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom
went in unto his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel.
[23] And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was
as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of
Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.
2 Samuel 17
1 Ahithophel also said to Absalom, "Let me choose twelve thousand men
so that I may arise and pursue David tonight.
2 (2Sa 16:14; 1Ki 22:31) I will overtake him while he is weary
and weak and strike him with terror; all of the people who are with him
will flee. Then I will strike only the king, 3and I will return all
of the people to you. When all return except the man whom you are seeking,
all of the people will be at peace."
4 The advice pleased Absalom and all of the elders of Israel.
5 So Absalom said, "Summon Hushai the Arkite so that we may hear
what he has to say as well."
6 When Hushai came to Absalom, Absalom said to him, "This is what Ahithophel
had advised. Should we do this thing? If not, you should tell us."
7 Hushai said to Absalom, "At this time, the advice
that Ahithophel has given is not good."
8 (Hos 13:8; 1Sa 16:18) Moreover, Hushai said, "You know that your father
and his men are warriors, and they have been provoked like a bear robbed
of her cubs. Your father is a veteran of warfare. He will not spend the night
with the people.
9 Even now, he has hidden himself in a ravine or some other place,
and when one of them falls in the first attack, whoever hears will say,
'It was a defeat for the people who follow Absalom.-
10 (Jos 2:9-11) Then even the valiant one, whose heart is like that of a lion,
will completely despair, for all of Israel knows
that your father is a warrior, and those who are with him are brave.
11 (Ge 22:17; Jos 11:4) "Therefore my advice is for all of Israel,
from Dan to Beersheba, to be completely gathered to you like
the multitude of the sand along the shoreline and for you to go to battle
in person.
12 We will come upon him in one of the places where he may be found,
and we will fall upon him like the dew upon the ground. Neither he nor
any of the men who are with him will remain, not a single one.
13 If he withdraws into a city, then all of Israel will bring ropes
to that city. We will raze it until it is a valley, until there cannot
be found there even a pebble."
14 (2Sa 15:34; 15:31) Then Absalom and all of the men of Israel said,
"The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than the advice of Ahithophel."
For the Lord had decided to undermine the prudent advice of Ahithophel,
so that the Lord might bring calamity to Absalom.
[1] Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve
thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:
[2] And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will
make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will
smite the king only:
[3] And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou
seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace.
[4] And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.
[5] Then said Absalom, Call now Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear
likewise what he saith.
[6] And when Hushai was come to Absalom, Absalom spake unto him, saying,
Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if
not; speak thou.
[7] And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is
not good at this time.
[8] For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be
mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her
whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with
the people.
[9] Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will
come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever
heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow
Absalom.
[10] And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion,
shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man,
and they which be with him are valiant men.
[11] Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee,
from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude;
and that thou go to battle in thine own person.
[12] So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we
will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all
the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one.
[13] Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring
ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not
one small stone found there.
[14] And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the
Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed
to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might
bring evil upon Absalom.
Hushai Warns David to Escape
15 Then Hushai said to Zadok and Abiathar the priests,
"Ahithophel advised Absalom and the elders of Israel to do one thing,
but I advised them to do another thing.
16 (2Sa 15:28) Now quickly send someone to report to David,
'Do not spend the night at the fords of the wilderness,
but instead cross over. Otherwise, the king and all of the people
who are with him will be swallowed up.' "
17 (Jos 15:7; 18:16) Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were waiting at En Rogel.
A servant girl would go report to them, and they would go report
to King David, because they could not be seen entering the city.
18 (2Sa 3:16; 16:5) But a young man saw them and reported this to Absalom.
So the two of them went quickly and came to the house of a man in Bahurim.
He had a well in his courtyard, and they went down into it.
19 The wife took a covering and spread it over the opening of the well.
Then she scattered grain over it so that nothing could be discerned.
20 (Ex 1:19) The servants of Absalom came to the woman at the house
and said, "Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?"
She said, "They crossed over the brook of water." When they searched,
they could not find them. So they returned to Jerusalem.
21 (2Sa 17:15-16) After they left, they came up from the well, went,
and reported to King David. They said to David, "Arise and quickly cross over
the water because thus has Ahithophel advised against you"
22 So David and all of the people who were with him arose and crossed
over the Jordan. By daybreak, there was not one left who had not crossed
over the Jordan.
23 (2Sa 15:12; 2Ki 20:1) When Ahithophel realized that his advice
was not followed, he saddled his donkey and returned to his house
in his own city. He gave instruction to his household, then he hanged
himself and died; he was interred in the tomb of his father.
[15] Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus
did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus
have I counselled.
[16] Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this
night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king
be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.
[17] Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen
to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and
told king David.
[18] Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of
them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in
his court; whither they went down.
[19] And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and
spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known.
[20] And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said,
Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone
over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them,
they returned to Jerusalem.
[21] And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of
the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass
quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.
[22] Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they
passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that
was not gone over Jordan.
[23] And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled
his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his
household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the
sepulchre of his father.
Absalom's Death
24 (Ge 32:2; 2Sa 2:8) David came to Mahanaim as Absalom crossed the Jordan,
he and every Israelite with him.
25 (2Sa 19:13; 20:9-12) Now Absalom had placed Amasa over the army
in the place of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man named Jether
the Ishmaelite, who went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash
and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab.
26 Israel and Absalom camped in the land of Gilead.
27 (2Sa 9:4; 10:1-2) When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi the son of Nahash
from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Makir the son of Ammiel from Lo Debar,
and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim
28 brought bedding, metal bowls, ceramic vessels, wheat, barley, flour,
roasted grain, beans, lentils,
29 (2Sa 16:2; 16:14) honey, curds, sheep, and cheese from the livestock
for David and the people who were with him to eat and use.
For they said, "The people are hungry, exhausted,
and thirsting in the wilderness."
[24] Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all
the men of Israel with him.
[25] And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa
was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail
the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother.
[26] So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead.
[27] And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the
son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of
Ammiel of Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,
[28] Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley,
and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentiles, and parched pulse,
[29] And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and
for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is
hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.
2 Samuel 18
1 David mustered the people who were with him, and he set over them
commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds.
2 (Jdg 7:16; 2Sa 15:19-22) Then David dispatched the people, one-third
under the command of Joab, one-third under the command of Abishai
the son of Zeruiah and brother of Joab, and one-third under the command
of Ittai the Gittite. Then David said to the people, "I myself will go out
with you."
3 (2Sa 21:17) But the people said, "You should not go, for if we retreat,
they will not be concerned about us. Even if half of us die,
they will not be concerned about us. But now you are worth ten thousand of us.
Therefore, it would be better to assist us from the city."
4 (2Sa 18:24) The king said to them, "I will do what seems best to you."
So the king stood beside the gate while all of the people went out
by hundreds and thousands.
5 The king commanded Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, "Deal gently
with the young man Absalom." All of the people heard the king instruct
the commanders concerning Absalom.
6 (Jos 17:18; 17:15) So the people went out toward Israel in the field,
but the fighting occurred in the forest of Ephraim.
7 The people of Israel were defeated there by the servants of David.
That day the defeat was extensive, twenty thousand men.
8 The fighting spread across the land, and the people consumed
by the forest were more numerous than those consumed by the sword that day.
9 (2Sa 14:26) Absalom was encountered by some of the servants of David.
Now Absalom was riding on his mule. When the mule went under the branches
of a very large tree, his head was caught in the tree. He was left in midair
while the mule that was under him kept going.
10 One man saw him and reported it to Joab, saying,
"I saw Absalom hanging in a tree."
11 Joab said to the man who was reporting to him, "What? You saw him?
Why did you not strike him on the spot, sending him to the ground?
I would have given you ten shekels [About 4 ounces, or 115 grams.]
of silver and a belt."
12 The man said to Joab, "Not even if I had felt the weight
of a thousand shekels [About 25 pounds, or 12 kilograms.] of silver in
my hand would I have laid a hand on the king's son. In our hearing
the king commanded you, Abishai, and Ittai saying:
Beware lest anyone touch the young man Absalom!
13 (2Sa 14:19-20) Otherwise, I would have worked falsehood
against my own life. For nothing is hidden from the king,
and you yourself would have set yourself against me."
14 Then Joab said, "I will not waste any more time with you."
He took three spears in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom
while he was still alive in the midst of the tree.
15 Then ten young men, armor bearers for Joab, gathered around
and struck down Absalom, killing him.
16 (2Sa 2:28; 20:22) When Joab blew the horn, the people returned
from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the people.
17 (Jos 7:26; 8:29) Then they took Absalom, disposed of him in a large pit
in the forest, and piled over him a very large heap of stones.
Then all Israel fled, everyone to his home.
18 (1Sa 15:12; Ge 14:17; 2Sa 14:27) Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken
and set up for himself a memorial stone in the Valley of the King,
for he said, "I have no son by whom my name may be remembered."
So he named the memorial stone after himself; and to this day,
it is called the monument of Absalom.
[1] And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of
thousands and captains of hundreds over them.
[2] And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab,
and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's
brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king
said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.
[3] But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away,
they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us:
but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that
thou succour us out of the city.
[4] And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the
king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by
thousands.
[5] And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Deal gently
for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom. And all the people heard
when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom.
[6] So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was
in the wood of Ephraim;
[7] Where the people of Israel were slain before the servants of David, and
there was there a great slaughter that day of twenty thousand men.
[8] For the battle was there scattered over the face of all the country: and
the wood devoured more people that day than the sword devoured.
[9] And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and
the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught
hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and
the mule that was under him went away.
[10] And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, Behold, I saw
Absalom hanged in an oak.
[11] And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest him,
and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given
thee ten shekels of silver, and a girdle.
[12] And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels
of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the
king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai,
saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.
[13] Otherwise I should have wrought falsehood against mine own life: for
there is no matter hid from the king, and thou thyself wouldest have set
thyself against me.
[14] Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts
in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet
alive in the midst of the oak.
[15] And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote
Absalom, and slew him.
[16] And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after
Israel: for Joab held back the people.
[17] And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and
laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to
his tent.
[18] Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a
pillar, which is in the king's dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my
name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his own name: and it is
called unto this day, Absalom's place.
David Mourns
19 (2Sa 15:36; 18:31) Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said,
"Allow me to run and bring the news to the king that the Lord
has delivered him from the hand of his enemies."
20 But Joab said to him, "You will not be a man who bears news today;
you may bear news another day. Today you will not bear news
because the king's son is dead."
21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, "Go, report to the king what you have seen."
The Cushite bowed to Joab, then ran off.
22 Ahimaaz again said to Joab, "Whatever may happen,
let me run also, after the Cushite."
Then Joab said, "Why is it that you want to run, my son?
There is no messenger's reward for you to obtain."
23 "Whatever happens, I want to run."
So he said to him, "Run." So Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain
and passed the Cushite.
24 (2Sa 19:8) Now David was sitting between the two gates when the watchman
went up to the roof of the gate, to the city wall. He lifted his eyes and
saw a man running by himself.
25 The watchman called and told the king.
The king said, "If he is alone, there is news in his mouth."
And he came ever closer.
26 Then the watchman saw another man running.
The watchman called to the gatekeeper and said,
"Look there is another man running alone."
The king said, "He also is bringing news."
27 (2Ki 9:20; 1Ki 1:42) The watchman said,
"I think that the running of the first one is like the running of Ahimaaz."
The king said, "He is a good man and comes with good news."
28 (Ge 14:20; 2Sa 14:4) Then Ahimaaz called to the king and said,
"All is well." He bowed down to the ground before the king and said,
"Blessed be the Lord your God who has handed over the men who raised
their hand against my lord the king."
29 (2Sa 18:22) The king said, "Is it well for the young man Absalom?"
Ahimaaz said, "I saw a great commotion when Joab sent the servant of the king,
your servant, but I do not know what it was."
30 The king said, "Step aside and stand here." So he stepped aside
and stood in position.
31 (2Sa 18:19) Then the Cushite came and said, "Good news for my lord
the king, for today the Lord has delivered you from those who rose up
against you."
32 (Jdg 5:31; 1Sa 25:26) The king said to the Cushite,
"Is it well for the young man Absalom?"
The Cushite said, "May the enemies of my lord the king and all
who would rise up against you to do harm become as the young man is."
33 (2Sa 19:4) The king was deeply moved and went up to the upper chamber
of the gate and wept. As he went he said, "O my son Absalom, my son,
my son Absalom! If only I could have given my death in your stead,
Absalom, my son, my son!"
[19] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, Let me now run, and bear the king
tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.
[20] And Joab said unto him, Thou shalt not bear tidings this day, but thou
shalt bear tidings another day: but this day thou shalt bear no tidings,
because the king's son is dead.
[21] Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And
Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.
[22] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab, But howsoever,
let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi. And Joab said, Wherefore wilt
thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready?
[23] But howsoever, said he, let me run. And he said unto him, Run. Then
Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and overran Cushi.
[24] And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the
roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and
behold a man running alone.
[25] And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, If he be
alone, there is tidings in his mouth. And he came apace, and drew near.
[26] And the watchman saw another man running: and the watchman called unto
the porter, and said, Behold another man running alone. And the king said,
He also bringeth tidings.
[27] And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like
the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. And the king said, He is a good
man, and cometh with good tidings.
[28] And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king, All is well. And he fell
down to the earth upon his face before the king, and said, Blessed be the
LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand
against my lord the king.
[29] And the king said, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Ahimaaz answered,
When Joab sent the king's servant, and me thy servant, I saw a great tumult,
but I knew not what it was.
[30] And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned
aside, and stood still.
[31] And, behold, Cushi came; and Cushi said, Tidings, my lord the king: for
the LORD hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up against thee.
[32] And the king said unto Cushi, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Cushi
answered, The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise against thee to
do thee hurt, be as that young man is.
[33] And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate,
and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son
Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!
2) Our Daily Bread for 15 May 2023 titled
Exploring the Stars
PSALMS 19
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament shows His handiwork.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Day unto day utters speech,
and night unto night declares knowledge.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) There is no speech and there are no words;
their voice is not heard.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Their line has gone out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them has He set a tent for the sun,
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber;
it rejoices as a strong man to run a race.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Its going forth is from one end of the heavens,
and its circuit extends to the other end,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
Psalm 19
[1] The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his
handywork.
[2] Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
[3] There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
[4] Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end
of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
[5] Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a
strong man to run a race.
[6] His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the
ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
Isaiah 40:26
26 (Ps 89:11-13; Isa 48:13) Lift up your eyes on high,
and see who has created these things,
who brings out their host by number;
He calls them all by name,
by the greatness of His might and the strength of His power;
not one of them is missing.
[26] Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things,
that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the
greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth.
In 2021, a multination effort led to the launch of the James Webb Space
Telescope-deployed nearly a million miles from Earth to better investigate
the universe. This marvel will peer into deep space and examine the stars
and other celestial wonders.
This is indeed a fascinating astronomical piece of technology, and if
everything works, it will provide us with amazing photos and information.
But its mission isn't new. In fact, the prophet Isaiah described searching
the stars when he said, "Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who
created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one" (Isaiah
40:26). "Night after night" they speak of our Creator who hurled this
imperceptibly immense universe into existence (Psalm 19:2)-and with it the
countless luminous bodies that silently grace our night sky (v. 3).
And it's God Himself who decided how many of the shining objects there are:
"He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name" (Psalm
147:4). When mankind sends complicated, fascinating probes to explore the
universe, we can enjoy with spellbound wonder the discoveries they make,
because each observation points back to the One who made the solar system
and everything beyond it. Yes, the "heavens declare the glory of God"
(19:1)-stars and all.
How do the stars and the entire universe speak of God and His creative ways?
What thoughts and emotions strike you as you think about His power?
Heavenly Father, thank You for creating
such an amazing universe for me to enjoy.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 2 - Due Season
Gal 6:9
9 And let us not grow weary in doing good,
for in due season we shall reap, if we do not give up.
9 And let us not be weary in well doing:
for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Jackie's preschool class took on an exciting project: they were going to grow
flowers from seeds, Each child took the seed, planted it carefully in the
bedding soil, watered, and waited. But Jackie couldn't wait. Every day
for a week he ran to the window box, looked for his plants, poked, prodded,
unplanted the seeds and then planted them again. "It's no use,"
he pouted after the first week. "Nothing's gonna grow in there."
We live in an instant society - microwave dinners, quick fixes, easy answers.
We are conditioned by our environment to expect - even to demand -
immediate response, and when we have to wait,
we become impatient and irritable.
Paul's exhortation to the Galatians, "Let us not become weary in doing good,"
is as appropriate for twentieth-century believers as it was for the new church
at Galatia. We lose motivation when we don't see results,
and weariness sets in.
If our work does not seem to be producing as we hope, we want to abandon it
and move on to a new project.
But God says, "You will reap a harvest if you don't give up." We give up too
soon in our prayers for a loved one's salvation. We abandon hope too readily
when we don't see spiritual growth in our own lives, when our investment in
another's spiritual maturity seems to have no return. The Lord says,
"The harvest is coming; be patient; trust me."
In due season the harvest comes; when it's the right time. When the seed has
had time to germinate, when the roots are string enough, when the conditions
are right, the reaping time will come. But we must be willing to wait for
the due season, the moment of ripeness, when our labor brings its return.
Application
a) Have I ever felt that my spiritual labours have produced no harvest at all?
b) What does it mean to my own spiritual growth that there is a "due season"
for reaping the harvest?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Hebrews 7:8
8 In the one case mortal men receive tithes,
but in the other he of whom it is witnessed
that he is alive receives them.
8 And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them,
of whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Facing Pain and Suffering
2 Cor 12:7-10
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance
of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan,
to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure.
8 I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me.
9 But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made
perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in hardships,
in persecutions, and in distresses for Christ's sake.
For when I am weak, then I am strong.
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of
the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh,
the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is
made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my
infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities,
in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak,
then am I strong.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)
Ontario
Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario
Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000
est Muslim Population 1 001 542
CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,
Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor
Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that
the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most
Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching
from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly
resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques
are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools
are starting.
And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their
advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,
the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour
brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of
"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of
receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town
reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.
Agree in prayer for:
- net network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 "In the last days it shall be," says God,
"that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.
18 Even on My menservants and maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.
21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]
Footnotes
Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
And
Thank you for praying through the
5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.
"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,
I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to
cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.
Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians
and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the
love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.
One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by
light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.
As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and
confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution
to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.
Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.
Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father
to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.
I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.
God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through
the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom
and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
ROMANS 15:13
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
15th Day of the Month
a) Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous
standards of living (John 16: 8 - 11)
8 "When He comes, He will convict the world of sin
and of righteousness and of judgment:
9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me;
10 of righteousness, because I am going to My Father,
and you will see Me no more;
11 and of judgment, because the ruler of this world stands condemned."
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,
and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 of sin, because they believe not on me;
10 of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11 of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
)
b) Pray for the province of Nova Scotia
I) Pray for the leaders of Nova Scotia, that God's Spirit would influence
them to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our
Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)
who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet
and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
)
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be an honourable leader in your family.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, thank You for creating
such an amazing universe for me to enjoy."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be patient through the process.
Pray to the Lord and pray to him that own the universe.
Pray to the Lord and pray for Him to strengthen you through pain .
Agree in prayer for Ontario:
- get network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous
standards of living
Pray that young pastors in Algeria receiving theological instruction will
mature in their faith.
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