Dave R Phillips

March 11, 2017

Temple Preparations, Peaceful Organization; David’s Death

Read: 1 Chronicles 22-29

Today we read the unique account of preparations for building the temple, unique in that these details are only included here in 1 Chronicles, not in 2 Samuel. This is a quick read that includes details and lists of many who were called by name for this great work.

Chapter 22 – Preparations for Solomon
Chapter 23 – New duties for those previously tasked to carry the things of the temple
Chapter 24 – Division of Priests, quite orderly
Chapter 25 – Musicians — God loves music!
Chapter 26 – Gatekeepers, treasurers and others
Chapter 27 – Army divisions, Leaders of the tribes and the King’s overseers
Chapter 28 – David’s plans for the temple
Chapter 29 – The closing of 1 Chronicles and David’s death

Although David knows he is not allowed to build the temple himself, he makes extensive preparations to enable Solomon to create a magnificent temple, The Temple in Jerusalem.

“I have taken great pains to provide for the temple of the Lord a hundred thousand talents of gold, a million talents of silver, quantities of bronze and iron too great to be weighed, and wood and stone. And you may add to them. You have many workers: stonecutters, masons and carpenters, as well as those skilled in every kind of work in gold and silver, bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work, and the Lord be with you.” 1 Chronicles 22:14-16

That is an incredible amount of raw materials! I am really amazed every time I read about vast amounts of iron and bronze. I remember many years ago watching the process of creating steel when my brother worked at US Steel in Birmingham or aluminum during a visit to Alcoa in Baton Rouge. Even in this modern world, it is a huge effort to create steel and aluminum. Gold mines with ground penetrating radar and sophisticated systems are employed to mine precious metals. Some 3,000 years ago this was not the case, but somehow the creative genius in the minds of people were able to find and mine enormous quantities of metals from rocks.

Chapters 23 through 27 provide very little narrative, mostly just lists of names, positions and duties. The significance should not be dismissed–these are real people that lived, had families, served and trusted God as part of the millions of people that made up the descendants of Abraham and Sarah. Individuals honored with their names included in the Bible. I don’t know them, but like walking through a cemetery and looking at gravestones, these are our ancestors.

Another observation is just this: the Israelites under David were very orderly. I don’t know about the neighboring countries or kingdoms, but having clear lines of authority and responsibility creates a solid structure that is formidable.

It’s also important to note that all are aligned to serve the Lord, to honor God by each doing their part. The sense I get from reading the details is this was a peaceful process. Many jobs were determined by casting lots and it appears that everyone agreed with the process and did their part, at least at this point! One enormous family, united and serving God. Crazy! Talk about your megachurch!

With all of that in place, Chapter 28 formally announces Solomon as David’s successor. The picture is perfect and a peaceful transition of power is set in motion–significant considering this was a time when kingdoms were overturned by insurrection quite often.

David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished. The divisions of the priests and Levites are ready for all the work on the temple of God, and every willing person skilled in any craft will help you in all the work. The officials and all the people will obey your every command.” 1 Chronicles 28:20-21

I love this: “Be strong and courageous and do the work.” This is not a job for the faint of heart. I think we should make a small plaque for every senior minister’s desk with these words for their job requires all three elements: strength, courage and work. Not that this is limited to pastors, just that their job in particular is challenging because their direct report is none other than God himself. No pressure!

It is significant that we read this was all a cooperative effort, at least at this point:

Then the leaders of families, the officers of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king’s work gave willingly. 1 Chronicles 29:6

They willingly did the work. This was a seriously happy time in history, “The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.” (1 Chronicles 29:9). The story begins to change in 2 Chronicles, but lets enjoy the moment here, don’t get ahead of the story!

The unity displayed at this point in the history of Israel is one we long to see in our modern churches, mere drops in the sea compared to the size and expanse of Israel at this point. What would it look like if we as the church were this united, all giving the glory to God? The writer of Chronicles paints a wonderful portrait of Israel at its finest.

Solomon formally takes the throne and David dies a peaceful death.

He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor. 1 Chronicles 29:28

And so we come to the end of 1st Chronicles, we witness an orderly and well kept union of people with well-defined responsibilities and people willingly serving the Lord. Like a glorious sunset with light dazzling the horizon and shooting colors across the sky while the music builds and then fades, we close the chapter on King David’s life. Nice. Peace. Done.

March 10, 2017

David’s Census; Property Bought From a Jebusite

Read: 1 Chronicles 19-21

Much of this narrative was covered in earlier posts David and Bathsheba and David’s Kingdom Reestablished; The Census from 2 Samuel. However, it’s interesting that the writer of Chronicles, presumably Ezra, chooses not to elaborate on Bathsheba or Absalom (in particular), but David’s Census–not that we need to discuss twice! (see 2 Samuel 24). Instead, we focus on events and people with a special emphasis on God’s compassion and grace. Have no doubt, sin is dealt with harshly and facts are not altered to create a friendlier narrative. The author simply leaves those details to another writer and draws us to learn how God cares and guides his people.

Chapter 19 recounts the foolish new king of the Ammonites, Hanun. Shaving the friendly envoys and cutting off “their garments at the buttocks” (1 Chronicles 19:4) was not a good plan! (This was covered in the David and Bathsheba back in January.)

Chapter 20 begins just like 2 Samuel 11: “In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war,…” but here we skip past the details of Bathsheba, Uriah and Nathan. Instead, we jump past that narrative and read about the super-heavy crown and plunder that resulted from victory at Rabbah (mostly due to Joab’s leadership).

Chapter 21: David’s Census

In 2 Samuel, this account is somewhat of an appendix to the narrative, provided at the very end. In Chronicles, this follows the chronological story of David’s rule (imagine that) which includes not only the horrible result of David’s sin, but the purchase of the land upon which the temple would be built later by Solomon.

The writer begins much differently here:

Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel. 1 Chronicles 21:1

Compared to:

Again the anger of the Lord burned against Israel, and he incited David against them, saying, “Go and take a census of Israel and Judah. 2 Samuel 24:1

Interesting. Diving in the details a bit reveals some difference in opinion about the translation of the verses. What is clear and consistent is that God did not ask David to take the census — this was something of his own doing. Perhaps this is revealing his humanity, some thread of insecurity or pride. Maybe he was still thinking about Hanun’s ridiculous reaction to his friendly gesture and decided that he would fight with numbers rather than on the battlefield, i.e., my army is bigger than your army, so save yourself some trouble–perhaps. Another thought, following the Chronicles translation, is consistent with the story of Job where it appears that God uses Satan for his purposes in the larger scheme. I really don’t know.

What we do read about in both accounts is Joab is not pleased with the task that he is given, but he does it anyway. He is loyal, but not happy. It took Joab 9 months and 23 days (2 Samuel 24:8) to complete the task:

In all Israel there were one million one hundred thousand men who could handle a sword, including four hundred and seventy thousand in Judah. 1 Chronicles 21:5

That’s a huge number of fighting men! But Joab did not include Levi and Benjamin, because the king’s command was repulsive to him (1 Chronicles 21:6) and Joab was, after all, a hard-headed warrior.

God was not pleased and his punishment was severe. He gave David three options, none of which were good, but the third option relied completely on God’s compassion, so he choose that one:

I am in deep distress. Let me fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is very great; but do not let me fall into human hands. 1 Chronicles 21:13

Some 70,000 died as a result of the plague that fell on Israel and David was deeply upset with his careless actions:

Was it not I who ordered the fighting men to be counted? I, the shepherd, have sinned and done wrong. These are but sheep. What have they done? Lord my God, let your hand fall on me and my family, but do not let this plague remain on your people. 1 Chronicles 21:17

Not only does David boldly confess his sin, he cries out to God and reminds him that this is “your people” — not David’s.

Property Purchased from a Jebusite

The plagues stops and David is directed to build an altar to the Lord on the threshing floor of Araunah, the Jebusite (1 Chronicles 21:18). David’s history with the Jebusites goes back a few chapters. In my mind, the requirement to humble himself before God is doubled by having to make a deal with Araunah, a notable non-Israelite, but David is faithful and complies, he buys the property. Ultimately, this becomes the site upon which the temple will be built.

It’s interesting how God uses those outside of Israel as instruments for his purpose. Nothing is beyond God, he is not constrained by any borders we construct.

The weight of the mantle of leadership is heavy. It’s a burden that crushes many who try to carry it themselves. The narrative here reminds me that my own perspective is easily thrown off track when I leave God out of the equation, when I forget (or refuse) to ask God first. In the previous chapters we saw David asking God for approval before taking steps, here we see David begging God for mercy because of his transgression against the nation (not just a few individuals).

Lord, help us to ask you first and, most importantly, give us ears to hear your answer, not the version we want to hear, but what you actually have to say.

March 9, 2017

Kingdom Promises

1 Chronicles 16-18 and Psalm 77

Chapter 16 – Ministering Before the Ark

Now that the ark of the covenant has been properly relocated, chapter 16 provides details and duties for the Levitical priests to minister before the Lord. The chapter includes a psalm that is not in 2 Samuel or specifically in the book of Psalms, though it is consistent with several psalms.

Part of David’s intentional appointments includes the worship team–those in charge of making joyful noises before the Lord! I find it interesting that instruments are not allowed to be part of Churches of Christ gatherings. For this group, no band equals no distractions. Here’s a brief quote from a post I found:

The church of Christ sang a cappella in the days of the apostles, so the church of Christ sings a cappella today. It really is as simple as that. See link for a concise explanation

The church is the bride of Christ, not a building, but a group of people gathering to build each other up, to strengthen one another. It is the vehicle we drive to make disciples of all nations, all people. If some find instruments distracting, praise God! For me, I can’t imagine a gathering without instruments, but not because of Mosaic law, instead my soul is stirred by strings and drums, by voices crying out. I’m thankful for the talented musicians that give unselfishly at gatherings. I hope this is not just confined to Sunday mornings!

Chapter 17 – God’s Promise to David

David settles into his palace, but want to build a proper place for the people to worship (proper in his mind). He asks Nathan, the same prophet that reveal his sin with Bathsheba, for advice. God then speaks to Nathan in a dream and redirects David’s plans. Essentially God says to David, I’m glad you have a heart and desire to honor me my little child. I didn’t tell your ancestors to build me a house and I don’t need you to do it now. Here’s the way this is going to work… That’s my poor paraphrase, but here’s what’s really interesting, God hears David desire and responds with:

Now I will make your name like the names of the greatest men on earth. And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. 1 Chronicles 17:8-9

This is our God. He is concerned about his children first, to provide a place of refuge for them, free from fighting and distractions. We know by looking at hundreds of years of history that they (well, we) often miss this point, but his intentional design was for us to have a place of refuge apart from the craziness of the rest of the world. Lord, I look forward to that day! Help us to find a piece of that place, the beulah land, here on earth now, even if just for a moment. This is what happens in music for me, a temporary spiritual transport to a place where there is no more hurting or pain.

David’s humble response reveals his true heart for the Lord, regardless of his personal mistakes:

“There is no one like you, Lord, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears. And who is like your people Israel—the one nation on earth whose God went out to redeem a people for himself, and to make a name for yourself, and to perform great and awesome wonders by driving out nations from before your people, whom you redeemed from Egypt? 1 Chronicles 17:20-21

Lord, remind us in ways that ministers to us individually wherever we are that there is no one like you, Lord!

Chapter 18 provides a brief summary of David’s victories with an emphasis on, “The Lord gave David victory wherever he went” (1 Chronicles 18:13). All honor, all power, all glory is directed where it belongs, to the Lord.

March 8, 2017

Letter to a Prodigal

I have to write this to remember the words from a mom writing to her prodigal son. Read this.

I’m pretty much a wreck now, thanks KD Sullivan, and thanks Brett Andrews for an incredible sermon that used this letter as part of his illustration for God’s unstoppable, unrelenting reconciliation. Watch this. If God would welcome Manasseh back, wouldn’t he take us too?

Do my daughters know how many sleepless nights we had (have) as parents? Can it be that this is part of your plan Lord to refine us even further? Parenting is hard, or at least it is at times when so many other stresses and strains are pulling at the imperfect adults who wear the titles mom and dad. How I long for the day when God reconciles everyone back to himself, no more tears, no more pain. Unending joy. That day things will make sense.

Last night we sang three songs, each with an impossible truth that reveals God’s incredible love for his children:

139, by David Moore. Based on Psalm 139, one line in this song asks the question I struggle with, honestly, I have an incredibly hard time sincerely asking God to search me, to see if anything displeases him, but that is my Heavenly Father with arms open for literally everyone.

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23-24

How He Loves, by David Crowder, drives home the incredible thought that God, the Almighty, the Creator loves me. So many days that’s just hard to comprehend. I believe the truth, but it’s difficult to see at times. It’s messy as Grant Collins reminded us last night. And I’m so glad Beth chose to sing the original words,

Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And my heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don’t have time to maintain these regrets
When I think about the way He loves us.

Grace to Grace, by Joel Houston/Chris Davenport, reminds us that Jesus paid it all again and again and again.

My chains are gone
My debt is paid
From death to life
and grace to grace

Thank you Lord Jesus for the way your poured yourself out for us. Help us to share this incredible great news!

March 8, 2017

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem

1 Chronicles 13-15

Chapter 13 provides the narrative of David’s desire and attempt to return the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. Ezra (assuming he’s the author of Chronicles), places this narrative out of sequence, up front, perhaps to emphasize David’s heart and desire to please God and the people. The first few verses show that everyone agreed this was a good idea; however, no one apparently remembered to proper procedures — or perhaps they were afraid to tell the new king he was making a mistake. Interesting thought.

David wanted to make a big production out of transferring the ark–all good intentions–but failed to properly transport the ark as laid out the law. Only the Levites (specifically the Kohathite clan (see Exodus 25:12-15 and Numbers 4:15) were supposed to carry the articles of the temple and even they were further instructed on how to carry it with certain poles, etc.

He failed. Uzzah died.

It’s interesting that verse 10 says, “the Lord’s anger” followed by verse 11, “David was angry.” David’s party was a bust and he knew he blew it in front of all of Israel.

David was afraid of God that day
1 Chronicles 13:12

This is real fear, the kind of fear born from guilt and recognition that he was mistaken, that perhaps he had his focus too much on his own glory. I feel bad for David. Years of hiding and running from Saul are finally over and he has assembled an incredible army of devoted fighting men. God is certainly on his side. So many times we see amazing, gifted leaders, filled with the Holy Spirit, get out of step with God’s plan. Unintentionally, they let their personal agenda out-rank that of God’s plan. The results are always disastrous. The only real question is when, not if; they will fall?

David’s reaction is to leave the ark in the nearby village:

The ark of God remained with the family of Obed-Edom in his house for three months, and the Lord blessed his household and everything he had. 1 Chronicles 13:14

God honored those who cared for the ark, again my presumption is simple: Obed-Edom sought to honor God above David; therefore, the Lord blessed them.

David got his act together quickly and the Lord blessed him with many children (though I’m hard-pressed to understand the “many” wives idea). In Chapter 14, the narrative shows David asking God for direction, then promptly defeating the Philistines, not once, but twice.

Now David is on the right path, he is walking in step with the Lord.

It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the Lord our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.” 1 Chronicles 15:13

“We” seems a little defensive, but perhaps David was given bad advice, so it may be that he is simply deflecting the blame and letting the people know he was part of the “we.”

Chapter 15 shows a careful account of moving the ark properly, complete with the combined worship teams and full celebration! Here we go–try #2!

I love this thought:

So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. 1 Chronicles 15:25

“With rejoicing.” There is nothing like ministry when everyone is in step, when all hearts and voices are honoring and praising the Lord! It’s difficult to put into words, perhaps impossible, but the sense you get when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that what you’re doing in the moment is exactly what God wants you to be doing is sensational. That’s the sense I get from the phrase, with rejoicing, here. So cool.

But wait, there’s Michal watching from afar. She is not so moved by the show. The details in 2 Samuel 6:14 show that David was dancing with all his might, undignified in her eyes, so she despised David. Sad to read the result in 2 Samuel 6:23, she had no children to the day of her death.

So goes the roller-coaster of ministry here on earth where God’s imperfect people try to do their best. Lord, don’t let the downs outweigh the ups! Help us to celebrate freely and not be so focused on those who want to selfishly point out our mistakes. Grace to grace. Your will above ours. Teach us to love each other:

…being like-minded,
having the same love,
being one in spirit and of one mind.
Philippians 2:2

Yes, Lord, help us to be that community of believers that leans on each other. I hope and pray that we can do this while keeping you the center of all.

March 7, 2017

David’s Leadership Established

1 Chronicles 11-12

Chapter 10 quickly covered the end of Saul’s life to clear the way for David to ascend to the throne. The remainder of 1^st Chronicles adds details to 2^nd Samuel’s coverage of King David’s life in many interesting ways, most notably, naming the valiant warriors alluded to in 2^nd Samuel. Second Chronicles does the same for 1&2 Kings. In hindsight, I probably should have added these chapters to the previous posts through 1&2 Samuel and 1&2 Kings–next time, there’s always next time!

David honored God with his steadfast loyalty to Saul, even though it was difficult to appreciate. Now the people are prepared to embrace their new king. David’s first act here is to march into Jebus (as Pastor Mark Gasque reminded us a few months ago) and confront the Jebusites:

The Jebusites who lived there said to David,
“You will not get in here.” Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion–which is the City of David.
1 Chronicles 11:4-5

In two verses we read three different names for Jerusalem: Jebus, Zion and City of David…all depends on context.

Joab rises to the challenge to lead the attack, thereby securing his place as the commander of David’s army. Joab is an interesting character, worthy of a study all by himself. I’m surprised there hasn’t been a movie made about this character since he resembles Rambo, James Bond, and a number of thematic characters that seem to single-handedly win battles. Joab was real. He has great and mighty as well as headstrong and horrible.

David became more and more powerful,
because the Lord Almighty was with him.
1 Chronicles 11:9

The narrative here is careful to highlight David’s reliance on God, constantly reminding us that he sought God’s approval before running into battles, e.g., “and the Lord brought about a great victory” (1 Chronicles 11:14). If I learn nothing else, I hope this persistent theme gets drilled into my head!

Ezra is considered the writer of Chronicles and essentially the remainder of the history of Israel in the Old Testament. It seems he wanted to memorialize those individuals who led the battles. All this says to me is simply: individuals matter to God. The characters referred to by name in 2 Samuel are introduced here with a verse or two about their mighty acts. Let there be no doubt, these guys were tough and not to be taken down lightly. Abishai and Benaiah are highlighted along with Joab as might warriors. From 1 Chronicles 11:26 through chapter 12, Ezra takes time to list those who honorably served the army well.

The Gadites were notable additions to David’s army:

Their faces were the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles in the mountains…the least was a match for a hundred, and the greatest for a thousand. 1 Chronicles 12:8,14

“Day after day men came to help David, until he had a great army, like the army of God” (1 Chronicles 12:22).

Such were the men that bore the weight of war for Israel. It was a horrible time for war, but God continued to show his care for these chosen people. In many ways, we are at war today–it’s just more spiritual than physical. The depravity of the times we read about here remind us of our current society. Lord, help me see your hand in all things. Make me an instrument of your will in whatever way you choose.

March 6, 2017

Genealogies in Chronicles

1 Chronicles 1-10 and Psalm 76

Cruising through the first 10 chapters of 1 Chronicles we read the long list of names from Adam to Abraham. Quite remarkable when you think about it, especially when you remember God’s restart with Noah.

Then we read the two branches of Abraham’s family: Isaac and Ishmael, Esau and Jacob (aka Israel). The kings of Judah are listed concisely in 1 Chronicles 3:10-16, but interestingly, we don’t have a corresponding list of the northern kings, the lost tribes of Israel.

Jabez

Some years ago, The Prayer of Jabez, by Bruce Wilkinson, was a best seller. Just two verses in between the list of genealogies, the prayer depicts God’s desire to bless those who are faithful:

Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.
1 Chronicles 4:9-10

Published in the year 2000, this small book (in length and in physical size) was a big hit. I guess we all needed to turn our minds toward the possibility that God will bless us if we would simply ask. Certainly a key component of the prosperity Gospel that fuels many ministries, my prayer is this isn’t a stumbling block for those who are seeking Christ. Surely God cares for his people, but we know from experience this doesn’t always mean we gain earthly possessions by request and being free from harm is not guaranteed. To be fair, the book makes no guarantees, but people rarely read carefully and often run down rabbit trails that are not consistent with the rest of scripture.

“And God granted his request” 1 Chronicles 4:10
compared to
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,
who give generously to all without finding fault,
and it will be given to you” James 1:5

(I had to include the whole verse from James, though I’m sure many simply include the last phrase).

Faith is the cornerstone. Lord, may we believe that you have our best in mind, even when we don’t understand the process, path or journey!

Tribes Listed

The remainder of 1 Chronicles 4 through 8 contains genealogies of the tribes of Israel. I like the fact that we see “The Temple Musicians” listed in their own section (1 Chronicles 6:54-80). Music is an integral part of worship and these early worship leaders had great responsibility and found themselves worthy of being identified among the followers of God.

Chapter 9 ends with the genealogy of Saul followed by a short chapter titled, “Saul Take His Life,” a sad end to the beginning of kings of Israel.

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the Lord; he did not keep the word of the Lord and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the Lord. So the Lord put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

So many names, so little time, hundreds of years are captured here. This quick trip through 10 chapters in 1st Chronicles gives us some perspective: God cares about his people. I think it’s safe to say that those who are faithful are blessed and those who are not do not find joy. Lord, all honor, all praise to you, the author and perfecter or all things. For those who have received Christ, who recognize the need for repentance and put their trust in Jesus, we know our names are included in the Book of Life (Revelation 20:12). Beyond words, but privilege of hearing our names called is incredibly humbling. At the same time, not hearing the names of loved ones is terrifying and sad beyond comprehension. May we remember to pray for the lost, but not take on guilt for their decision to ignore the Holy Spirit.

March 5, 2017

Conclusion of Job

Job 42

Job’s response to the Lord is completely humble:

Then Job replied to the Lord:
“I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
“You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you, and you shall answer me.’
My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you.
Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”
Job 42-1-6

This verse is worthy of a stone-etched reminder as my hasty words often shoot out of my mouth: “Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”

Job knows he isn’t God–that’s not a big revelation. But what he learned through this preposterous story is a full understanding of God, not just the Creator, not just the one who made everything, Job walked away from the conversation with a new sense of who God is:

My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
Job 42:5

The story of Job is summed up in the deep truth that God is God. The narrative took us on a journey through troubled times, through anguish, pain and hurt. We read about friends who came to console, yet scorned. The words of the younger proved more accurate, but we weren’t satisfied until we wrapped our mortal minds around the concept of the Lord himself.

I fall short so many times. It seems I am guilty all too often. Grace after grace is required to keep me humble. As we dig deeper into the word of God, may we continue to gain insight that will help us shine his light into this dark world.

Epilogue

Finished with Job, the Lord speaks to the three amigos:

After the Lord had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken the truth about me, as my servant Job has. Job 42:7

Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar did not speak properly about God. Their pious point of view prevented them from seeing his majesty and his wisdom escaped them as they argued from selfish perspectives. We should learn from these examples. In addition, notice Elihu is not mentioned in this group. Sometimes it’s good enough to simply NOT be named! We don’t need the spotlight to be moving in the right direction. Just because someone has the microphone, doesn’t mean their right.

I’m reminded of a NeedToBreathe song, Through Smoke, that includes these compelling lyrics:

Before the Truth will come to fill our eyes
The world comes down in the form of fire
And when the the answers and the Truth have cut their ties
Will you still find me
Will you still see me
Through smoke
Songwriters: Nathanial Rinehart / William Rinehart
Through Smoke lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing

When we lie to you, Father, will you still find me? Will you still find me? Yes, says the Lord, I will still find you, though it may be painful and difficult to understand or impossible to comprehend.

What do we do with Job?

It’s time to take inventory of the lessons revealed in Job, to weigh our understanding of the narrative, of the wisdom literature appropriately placed in the center of our Bibles where it’s easy to find, even if it’s difficult to understand. Is this the book to offer the new believer to study? Or perhaps to someone who is considering Christianity? Before you jump in with a resounding, “No,” consider the portrait of God that is vividly painted. If someone is truly seeking to find answers, the description of God here is quite compelling and sets up the Gospel message quite well. Honestly, this is not my “go-to” book, but I hope I’m not afraid to engage in the discussion with someone who is far from God if Job happens to be the book of debate. All the more reason to study the Bible, to have an understanding in my own words and thoughts. Not that this makes me right, but I hope it gives the Holy Spirit something to work with!

March 4, 2017

God Speaks to Job and his friends

Job 38-41

The words of Elihu dissolve into a faint echo as Job and his friends have nothing to say.

Then the Lord speaks in 124 of the next 129 verses.

“Out of the storm,” Job and his friends hear from God.

“Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge?
Brace yourself like a man;
I will question you, and you shall answer me.
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
Tell me, if you understand.
Job 38:2-4

Sit down Job, Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar and hear the words you were unable to put together. Listen, Elihu, for affirmation of your words and perhaps a more complete response.

The narrative over the course of chapters 38, 39, 40 and 41 provides a detailed description of the Lord, the Creator, the one who is in all, with a wide range of examples to provide clarity for us all. This could be a very long list, let me provide some highlights:

38:4. Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?
38:8. Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb
38:12-13. Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it?
38:19. What is the way to the abode of light? And where does darkness reside?
38:22. Have you entered the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of the hail?
38:31. Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades? Can you loosen Orion’s belt?
38:35. Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’?
38:41. Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food?
39:2. Do you count the months till they bear? Do you know the time they give birth? (mountain goats and deer)
39:5-18. The wild donkey, the wild ox, the ostrich and the stork
39:19. Do you give the horse its strength or clothe its neck with a flowing mane?
39:26-27. The hawk and the eagle

Interspersed among these physical examples, we read:

38:15. The wicked are denied their light, and their upraised arm is broken.
38:17. Have the gates of death been shown to you? Have you seen the gates of the deepest darkness?

Example after example, then the Lord pauses and asks a direction question:

The Lord said to Job:
“Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him?
Let him who accuses God answer him!”
Job 40:1-2

Job’s response, as it should be, is humble:

“I am unworthy—how can I reply to you?
I put my hand over my mouth.
I spoke once, but I have no answer—
twice, but I will say no more.”
Job 40:4-5

For the second time we read:

Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the storm:
“Brace yourself like a man;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.
“Would you discredit my justice?
Would you condemn me to justify yourself?
Job 40:6-8

In short, can you replace God? I don’t think so! In Job 41:11 the narrative begins to draw to a close:

Who has a claim against me that I must pay?
Everything under heaven belongs to me.
Job 41:11

In Job 41:12-34 we read a detailed description of Leviathan, the awesome, terrible, wonderfully horrible creature that is unequaled on earth, “a creature without fear” (Job 41:33) — the common theme of nightmares. Yet even this creature is under the thumb of God. How about you Job? Can you handle this? I didn’t think so.

Through imagery and poetic prose, the Lord convicts Job and his friends of “playing God” with their words and puts them in there place. Humility is not easily swallowed. Lord, help me remember my place, but at the same time remind me that I am yours. Through the blood of Jesus I have been adopted into a royal family, one that desires for all to join. Help me not to focus on myself, but to look for ways to reach others and point them to you.

March 3, 2017

Elihu’s Speeches; Almighty God

Job 32-37

My intention this morning was to read just a piece of Elihu’s argument; however, I found I could not arbitrarily stop until reading the entire narrative. I’m really glad I did and I encourage anyone who has a chance to bathe in the beauty of these words as he argues against Job and his friends by painting an incredible portrait of our God, the Almighty, the Creator, the lover of my soul.

Elihu “became very angry with Job for justifying himself rather than God. He was also angry with the three friends, because they had found no way to refute Job, and yet had condemned him.” (Job 32:2-3)

Apparently, Elihu has been quietly waiting in the corner as his elders spoke, but he is no longer able to contain himself.

not one of you has proved Job wrong;
none of you has answered his arguments.
Job 32:12

Elihu presents himself as one who is wise, even though he is young; one who will reveal the issues that no one else has been able to articulate. “My words come from an upright heart; my lips sincerely speak what I know.” (Job 33:3). He’s being careful and respectful as he begins, but he is answering the call of the Spirit to speak truth.

God does all these things to a person—
twice, even three times—
to turn them back from the pit,
that the light of life may shine on them.
Job 33:29-20

Elihu boldly tells Job to listen to his speech and if he has something to say to speak up. He sums up Job’s entire argument with this: “For he says, ‘There is no profit in trying to please God.’” (Job 34:9). Listen, men of old, and hear this clear message:

It is unthinkable that God would do wrong, that the Almighty would pervert justice.
Who appointed him over the earth?
Who put him in charge of the whole world?
If it were his intention and he withdrew his spirit and breath,
all humanity would perish together and mankind would return to the dust.
Job 34:12-15

God is the Almighty, he is to be honored above all else. Elihu begins his argument by realigning his friends thoughts. To underscore the power and majesty of God, he presents these questions:

If you sin, how does that affect him?
If your sins are many, what does that do to him?
If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?
Job 35:6-7

The rhetorical question is answered in part in the next verse: “Your wickedness only affects humans like yourself, and your righteousness only other people.”

Here we have a very interesting theme presented in the middle of the mayhem: sin disrupts our fellowship. The moral right and wrong is not for adding to our heavenly reward account, it is for the body of Christ, for the building up of each other. How can we make disciples is we are focused otherwise? We simply can’t be effective. God doesn’t need our sacrifices and he certainly doesn’t need our approval.

Elihu makes the case against Job. God does not respond to the cries of the arrogant,

How much less, then, will he listen when you say that you do not see him,
that your case is before him and you must wait for him,
and further, that his anger never punishes and he does not take the least notice of wickedness.
So Job opens his mouth with empty talk; without knowledge he multiplies words.”
Job 35:14-16

The case against Job and his friends is a lengthy one, but here’s a wonderful verse to keep hidden in your heart:

God is mighty, but despises no one
Job 36:5

Elihu continues his vivid description of God well into the next chapter, words that provide perspective, comfort and fear all at the same time. God is powerful, amazing, dancing in the lighting, bathing in the depths of oceans–God is so powerful and majestic while at the same time caring and compassionate. Awesome God indeed!

As he comes to a close of his colorful speech, Elihu leaves a question for Job:

“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders.”
Job 37:14

All our troubles pale in comparison to God. This may not alleviate the temporary pain of this life, but when held in proper perspective, my cries out to God to explain himself to me fall short and, quite frankly, seem embarrassing. Who am I to question God? When I see the psalms question God, does that give me liberty to lash out at our Creator?

Lord, help me to hear the words of Elihu and learn. As the words flow through my mind this morning I am comforted, humbled, sad, elated, filled with joy and ashamed–all at the same time. In the end, though, I think I have regained some perspective on the present difficulties and my cup of hope is filled, even overflowing. Teach me, Lord, to share this with others. Help me to find words and actions that demonstrate this lesson.