Solomon Builds the Temple

 📖 *Bible in 400 Days* 📖

Day 110, 1-Sep-2024, 1Ki 4-6

🔆 *Solomon Builds the Temple*

🌿 Solomon undertook the monumental task of building a house for the name of the LORD (1 Kings 5:5). His intent wasn’t to construct a residence for God, but rather a temple dedicated to His name, aligning with the promise God made to David in 2 Samuel 7:12-13.

🌿 Solomon spared no expense in creating a structure of such magnificence that it defies comprehension. The NKJV Study Bible summarizes the mind-boggling grandeur of this construction:

⚡ The temple was made from the most precious materials, many imported: cedar (5:6), quarried stone (5:15-18), gold (6:20-22), olive wood (6:23-28, 31-33), cypress (6:34), and bronze (7:13-47).

⚡ The project employed 30,000 laborers (5:13), 150,000 stonemasons and haulers (5:15), and 3,300 supervisors (5:16).

⚡ The temple was paneled with cedar, some of which was ornately carved (6:9, 15-18).

⚡ Its floors and walls were overlaid with gold (6:20-22).

⚡ The furnishings were crafted from fine wood and gold (6:23-35; 7:48-50).

⚡ So much bronze was used that its weight was beyond measure (7:45-47).

⚡ The construction work continued nonstop for seven years (6:37-38).

🌿 While Solomon was building the temple, the LORD spoke to him concerning this temple he was building (6:12). What did the LORD say?

❗ First, let’s note what the LORD *did not* say: He didn’t mention the gold, the silver, the bronze, the cedar, or the olive wood used in the temple’s construction. Isn’t that remarkable? Not a single comment on the splendor of the building! Yet, the LORD had much to say about the two copper coins (mites) the widow offered (Luke 21:1-4). Clearly, no amount of gold or silver can impress the Creator of heaven and earth!

❗ Now, let’s focus on what the LORD did say: _"Concerning this house you are building, if you will *walk* in My statutes, *obey* My rules, and *keep* all My commandments, then I will establish My word with you, which I spoke to your father David."_

❗ The LORD’s primary concern was this: Solomon must honour the name of the LORD by obeying God and keeping all His commandments. Nothing more, nothing less.

🎯 *Application*

🪶 To the LORD, the most important aspect of the temple's architecture was obedience. It’s as if God was telling Solomon, “Grand construction! But don’t forget the one thing that matters most to Me: I want you to obey Me with all your heart. Your destiny—what I will fulfill through you (6:12)—depends not on the splendor of your construction but on the wholeness of your obedience.”

🪶 This truth applies to us as well. Let the one thing that matters most to the LORD be the one thing that matters most to us.

*David Chellappa* ✍

💝WISDOM IS DIVINE GIFT🎁

 *💝WISDOM IS DIVINE GIFT🎁*

[DAY - 109] 1 Kings - Chapters 2-3

1️⃣ *1 KINGS - CHAPTER 2: THE SUCCESSION OF SOLOMON*

🔹In 1 Kings 2, we witness the transition of power from King David to his son Solomon. 🔹David, on his deathbed, gives Solomon, crucial advice on leadership and righteousness. 

🔹He urges Solomon to remain faithful to God, walk in His ways, and uphold justice. 

🔹This chapter highlights the importance of wisdom in governance and the need for strong moral foundations in leadership.

🔹The counsel we provide can shape the future. David’s guidance to Solomon illustrates the importance of parents imparting wisdom to the next generation.

🔹Upholding integrity and justice is essential for effective leadership. 

🔹Solomon’s reign begins with the promise to follow God’s commandments.

2️⃣ *1 KINGS CHAPTER 3: SOLOMON’S DIVINE REQUEST*

🔸Chapter 3 focuses on Solomon’s remarkable encounter with God. 

🔸After establishing his reign, Solomon offers sacrifices at Gibeon, where God appears to him in a dream. 

🔸God grants Solomon one wish, and instead of asking for wealth or power, he humbly requests wisdom to govern the people. 

🔸Pleased with Solomon’s choice, God not only grants him wisdom but also blesses him with riches and honor.

🔸Solomon’s desire for wisdom over material wealth teaches us to prioritize spiritual understanding and discernment in our lives.

🔸Solomon’s wise decision regarding the true mother reverberates throughout the land, filling his subjects with awe and deep respect. 

🔸True leadership stems from humility and a willingness to serve others. 

🔸Solomon’s request reflects a servant’s heart, seeking to benefit his people rather than himself.

🔸Just as Solomon sought divine wisdom, we are called to seek God's guidance in our lives. 

🔸Jesus emphasizes the importance of wisdom in Matthew 7:24-25, where He speaks of building our lives on a solid foundation. 

♥️ *LIFE LESSONS*

💥Solomon's reign foreshadows Christ's ultimate kingship, where true wisdom and righteousness are fully realized.

💥The succession of Solomon and his request for wisdom encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God, embody humility, and seek His wisdom and guidance in all aspects of life. 

*‼️LET US DESIRE FOR WISDOM AND TRUST IN GOD’S PLAN FOR OUR LIVES‼️*

Princess Hudson

What does it cost

 *WHAT DOES IT COST?*

_And the king said unto Araunah, Nay; but I will surely buy it of thee at a price: neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing..._ 2 Samuel 24:24a

Today's sacrifice will be a future reference point.

*Points*

1. Willingness to Pay: David was willing to pay a price for the threshing floor, demonstrating his commitment.

2. No Free Offerings: David refused to offer sacrifices to God without cost, recognizing the value of sacrifice.

3. Personal Investment: David invested personally in his worship, demonstrating his devotion.

4. Honoring God: David honored God by offering his best, not just what was convenient.

5. Sacrificial Giving: David's actions demonstrated sacrificial giving, putting God's desires above his own.

6. Heartfelt Worship: David's worship was heartfelt, not just going through the motions.

7. Valuing God's Presence: David valued God's presence and blessing, seeking to honor Him.

8. Leadership by Example: David led by example, showing his people the importance of sacrificial worship.

9. Prioritizing God: David prioritized God's desires above his own, demonstrating his faith.

10. Authentic Faith: David's actions demonstrated authentic faith, not just superficial religiosity.

11. Investing in the Future: David invested in the future of his people, building a legacy of faith.

12. Pleasing God: David sought to please God, not just men, in his worship and offerings.

Let us follow the good example of David by offering our best unto the LORD.

*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*

     _Africa_

GREAT ESTABLISHMENT

 *GREAT ESTABLISHMENT*

_Then sat Solomon upon the throne of David his father; and his kingdom was established greatly._ 1 Kings 2:12

Solomon throne was established because he was given the platform.

*Points*

1. Rightful Succession: Solomon's succession to the throne was a fulfillment of God's plan, ensuring continuity and stability.

2. Established Kingdom: The kingdom was firmly established, with a strong foundation for growth and prosperity.

3. God's Promise: The fulfillment of God's promise to David demonstrated His faithfulness and commitment to His people.

4. Wise Leadership: Solomon's leadership was marked by wisdom, discernment, and a deep understanding of God's ways.

5. Stability and Peace: The kingdom experienced a season of stability and peace, allowing for growth and development.

6. God's Guidance: Solomon sought God's guidance and wisdom, recognizing his dependence on Him.

7. Obedience and Faithfulness: Solomon's obedience to God's commands and faithfulness to His ways ensured a strong spiritual foundation.

8. Prosperity and Abundance: The kingdom prospered under Solomon's leadership, experiencing abundance and blessing.

9. Legacy and Heritage: David's legacy lived on through Solomon, who built upon his father's foundation.

10. Continuity and Unity: The transition from David to Solomon ensured continuity and unity, preventing division and strife.

11. Strong Foundation for Growth: Solomon's leadership provided a strong foundation for growth, expansion, and development.

12. Lasting Impact: The solid foundation laid by David handing over to Solomon had a lasting impact on the kingdom.

To have a great establishment and lasting legacy after us like David, we must have a successor plan.

*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*

      _Africa_

WISE WOMEN IN DAVID’S LIFE

 WISE WOMEN IN DAVID’S LIFE

                  MICHAL WIFE OF DAVID

       When Saul was searching for David to kill him ,she saved him by letting him through the window and kept an image and kept covered with clothes in place of David on his bed .(1 Samuel 19:11-17)When the messengers came, they found the image and Saul got angry but David was saved.

     

         ABIGAIL- A WISE WOMAN

     When Saul was chasing David ,he and his followers wanted help from Nabal,a rich man .But he refused and ridiculed David .He got angry and wanted to destroy him and his household .

     But his wife ,Abigail,a wise woman ,went to see David,pleaded for mercy for her husband’s sake .She knew very well that David is God’s chosen one and he would be the next king .

        She pointed out the goodness in him and said “ You are seeking God’s righteousness.He is fighting your battles.He will take revenge for you.Do not sin by taking matters into your own hands.”(1 Samuel 25:28)

        David accepted her advice and withdrew from his thoughts . David told her “Blessed be your advice and you are blessed because you have kept me away from shedding blood.”(1 Samuel 25:33)

          “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver”.( proverbs 25:11)

              WISE WOMAN OF ABEL OF 

                       BETH-MAACAH

        Then a wise woman called from city please tell Joab,come here I may speak with you,I am one of those who are peaceable and faithful in Israel (2Samuel 20:19))After the revolt of Absalom David faced another led by Sheba .David’s army wanted to attack him under the leadership of Joab.Sheba took refuge in a city Abel Beth - maacah.The city was surrounded by army .The unknown wise woman understood the root cause and that was Sheba .She proposed a solution that if they delivered Sheba,the war should be over.Joab agreed with her condition.She convinced the people about this and they killed Sheba and problem was solved .

        Some times we should not be silent.If necessary,we have to involve ourselves in the matter and try to find a solution.

        “Withhold not good from them to whom it is due,when it is in the power of your hand to do it.”(Proverbs 3:27) 

       “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver”.( proverbs 25:11)

  

                    UN NAMED WOMAN OF BAHURIM

        When David’s son Absalom was plotting a plan against David with Ahithophel,his plans were overturned by the plans of Hushai.. It was the decision of the Lord.His plans were to be informed to David in proper time.The informers were Ahimaz and Jonathan .Absalom came to know about it He sent people in search of them.On their way to David,they were hidden in a well by an unnamed woman and she took a spread covering over the well’s mouth and spread ground corn on it .The messengers could not find them and were saved .They could pass the information in proper time (2Samuel 17:19)and David was saved. 

               RIZPAH-A DEDICATED MOTHER 

         She was not a wife,only a concubine with no legal rights.Amasa also exploited her (2Samuel 3:6-8)became a widow without any support .Her only support was her two sons Armoni and Mephibosheth, but were hanged and killed (2 Samuel 21:8)Everyone in the Israel were accusing them for the drought and famine for three years continuously.No one was on her side , really helpless.Her love for her children made her to watch the bodies carefully so that the bodies should not be mutilated by birds or wild animals for almost 6 months until David buried the bones of the seven people including her sons .

          If you are in place of Rizpah ,don’t give up.Pray for justice to God .He will answer your prayers.

        God always has got a purpose about every one.He will fulfill His purpose in His PROPER TIME. 

May our good God bless us all.

     Dr Annamma George

I will CRUSH and Scatter my Enemies

 *I WILL CRUSH AND SCATTER MY ENEMIES*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2 Samuel 22: 35-43.

1. This is a portion of the song, David was singing when God delivered him from all his enemies. *Here we can find out how he fought and overcome his enemies*

2. He said that *God was teaching his arms to break a bow of steel*. Today we even have to learn from God, to fight with our enemies. *He teaches my hands to war and my fingers to fight*.Psalm 144:1.

3. *He gives us the shield of His Salvation. He enlarges the steps under us so that we won't slip.*

4. *I will pursue my enemies and destroy them . I will not turn back till l consume them. Yes, God gave him this sought of decision, courage and faith*. David confessed this faith with his mouth.

5. *My enemies fell down under my feet. I have consumed and wounded them and they could not arise. He has girded me with strength to fight and subdued them. You have given me the necks of my enemies. Thus David said his witness and glorified God.*

6. David said, *I will beat them as small as the dust of the earth and stamp and crush them as the mire of the street under my feet and scatter them abroad*. What sought of courage David had!

 We too should fight against our enemies and should overcome them. If so , *we should learn from God and from His words. We should fight with courage and boldness, confessing our faith and magnifying God. Thus we should break, stamp and scatter his works*

*For who is God other than our God ? When He is with us, why should we get afraid? Yes, our Lord is mighty in battle. He is the Lord of Hosts. He is Jehovah Nissi*. Amen Hallelujah.

*Dr. Padmini Selvyn.*

WATER FROM BETHLEHEM.

 BOOK OF 2 SAMUEL. 

2 Samuel 23:13-17.

WATER FROM BETHLEHEM. 

This passage speaks volumes about the devotion and bravery of David's mighty men. 

David and his men were lodged in the cave of Adullam, a place of refuge while fleeing from Saul. 

The Philistines were encamped in and around Bethlehem, the hometown of David. 

The water in the caves and cisterns of Adullam would have turned brackish, in the dry season. 

David longed for fresh, cool water from the well near the gate of his hometown. 

Three of his mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water from the well in Bethlehem and brought it back for David. 

David's men loved him enough to risk their lives to serve him and get him something he longed for. 

David was equally devoted to his mighty men as he instinctively grasped that water brought at such risk could not be treated as an ordinary thirst quencher. 

2 Samuel 23:16-17........ 

Nevertheless, he would not drink it, but poured it out to the Lord. 

And he said, "Far be it from me, O Lord, that I should do this! 

Is this not the blood of the men who went in jeopardy of their lives?" 

Therefore he would not drink it....... 

When David poured out the water, it was more like an offering to God, equivalent to the blood of his warriors, so valuable, that it can be poured out to God, in gratitude. 

Henry Francis Lyte, the man who wrote the hymn, 'Abide with me', ended another poem this way:

 

There is a well in Bethlehem still, 

A fountain at whose brink, 

The weary soul may rest at will, 

The thirsty stoop and drink, 

And unrepelled by foe or fence, 

Draw living waters freely thence. 

Oh, did we thirst as David then, 

For this divine spring! 

Had we the zeal of David's men, 

To please a higher King! 

What precious draughts we thence might drain, 

What holy triumphs daily gain! 

Happy are those whose soul thirsts for God! 

John 4:14;

But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. 

But the water that I shall give him, will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life. 

Revelation 21:6;

And He said to me, 

" It is done! 

I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. 

I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts". 

Compiled by Shanti Jayanth, Madurai.

Unknown Unnamed but Wise

 *UNKNOWN, UNNAMED..BUT WISE* 

 _(2 Samuel 20:16-22)_ 

 

An unknown, ordinary woman rose up in the nick of time for her city's defence.

1. BOLD-She *boldly* called for Joab without even consulting the men of the city. She knew every delayed second meant imminent disaster. Because Joab and his men were already hammering away at their city wall.

2. HUMBLE- Notice how she humbly addresses herself to Joab as "your servant".

3. LOYAL- She defended her beloved city. Why should they destroy them who have been *the* "faithful and peaceful" in Israel, the Lord's inheritance? People used to once look to Abel, their city for answers to their questions. They were like a mother in Israel.

4. DECISIVE-And when she came to know it was rebellious Sheba they sought after, she immediately agreed to have him killed and handed over. 

5. PERSUSASIVE-She persuaded her people to have wicked Sheba killed and his head handed over to Joab to appease him. She thus prevented a great calamity from coming over to the city.

This heroic woman, had tremendous leadership qualities. She was unknown, unnamed before. And she remained unnamed, unknown after. She saved her city with sheer guts and a wise head over her shoulders.

Her name is not known.

She is only known as the wise woman.

She joins the list of ordinary women in the Bible who did great heroic deeds for the Lord. 

1.Jael, who killed enemy Sisera.

2.The woman who killed Abimelek in Judges with a millstone.

3.The widow, prophetess Anna, in Luke 2, who dedicated her life to God in the temple and was ultimately rewarded with seeing baby Jesus being blessed by Simeon.

4.Zipporah, Moses' wife, who saved him from the Lord's anger in exodus 4.

5.Abigail, in 1 Samuel 25, who saved her husband and David himself from attacking foolish Nabal.

6.Midwives Shiprah and Puah, who protected Jewish firstborns from being destroyed on the Pharaoh's instruction.

The list goes on...

The gist is this..God uses simple, humble, ordinary, godly women, totally surrendered to the Lord, full of His wisdom, faith and courage to rise above adverse circumstances, willing to be unknown and unnamed.. and they bring tremendous deliverance to their people!

Will you be one of them?

SJ

Pune, India

Rizpah

 *Rizpah* - _a mother's cry for justice_

🪶She was nothing but a possession, never a wife but a concubine with no legal rights. Amasa too exploited her for his own benefits (2 Sam 3:6-8). 

🌿She became a widow, with no one to support her. 

The only comfort she had was in her two sons - Armoni and Mephibosheth but, they were cruelly taken away (2 Sam 21:8) because of their father's sin.

🔅There was no one to argue for her, for *who can stand against the king and a society blaming her children for a drought?*

🪶People blame God for this injustice, but did God order the hanging of the 7 descendants of Saul? *NO!*

🌿David consulted God, after the three-year famine (2 Sam 21:1) but when it came to solving the problem, David consulted the Gibeonites (pagans) and not God (2 Sam 21:5-6). Killing 7 innocent men and not allowing their bodies to be buried was an evil pagan act. David could not interfere because he had rashly told them that he would do whatever they wanted (2 Sam 21:4).

🪶Knowing she would not get justice at human hands; this broken woman took up a vigil at the foot of the stakes on which the 7 men had been displayed. She was determined that the birds and animals would not eat the bodies as this was the ultimate disgrace (Deut 28:26b).

🌿She lived there for nearly 6 months (2 Sam 21:10 states that this took place from the beginning of harvest until the start of the late rains, which is a 6-month period). 

🔅It was not easy for she was driving away predators, constantly alert, not even able to sleep or rest in her duty. It was not a pleasant job, for the bodies would have been decaying in front of her eyes.

🪶 *She persevered until the rains came, signalling the end of the drought.* It was only at this moment that David moved; feeling remorse for his callousness, he *buried the bones of the 7 men, along with Saul and his sons in the tomb of his father, Kish* (2 Sam 21:14).

🌿Notice that vs 14 tells us that it was _only after this act of compassion, that God answered the prayers of the people, for the land !_

🔅Some people go through such situations, where those who should protect them betray them. They have nothing with which to fight back like Rizpah – no money, no power, no influence… The only comfort they have is that God is watching. At the right time, He will make a move filled with compassion, to mete out true justice.

✨ *If you are in a Rizpah-like situation, don’t give up. Do what you can. Keep praying for justice. God will answer your prayers. It may take 6 long months or years for no one knows His timing. But get up each day, knowing that His justice will come.*

✨ _Let us pray for such Rizpahs today. Let us pray that the God of Justice moves to right the wrongs that are perpetuated daily on this earth_. Stay blessed.

Adeline Albert

The Giants of Philistines

 *THE GIANTS OF PHILISTINES*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2 Samuel 21:18- 22.

1. Philistines were occupying the land of Canaan. Among them there were 5 giants. *David killed Goliath. The other 4 were killed by the servants of David.*

2. If we have to inherit the blessings of Canaan, *the spirit of Philistines should be driven away from us.*

3. *We should know the charecters of Philistines and then only we can drive them out from us.*

1. *The Philistines envied on lsaac. So , they closed the wells which were dug by his father Abraham and filled them with earth.* Genesis 26: 14,18.

In our life too, *we should not give a place to envy. We should drive away the works of the enemy. The word of God is the living water, which springs out of the well of the Holy Spirit.*

2. *Philistines bored out Samson's eyes and bound him with 2 bronze fetters. They destroyed Samsons life and so, he could not work for the Lord*. Therefore we should overcome the Spirit of Philistines and drive them out from us. Judges 16:21.

3. *Philistines caught the Ark of the Covenant and kept it with them for 7 months.* 1 Samuel 7:1. That means they will take away the precious word of God from us. But God made the Philistines to understand the power of His words. Their God dagon fell on his face on the ground and broke his head. His both palms were lying cut off on the threshold. 1 Samuel 5:4. 

Yes, *when the word of God is within us , the works of the devil will break and scatter.*

4. *The giant Goliath fell down on his face with a small stone in the sling of David. God helped David to overcome the giant with a small stone and by the name of God which was despised by Goliath*. I Samuel 17:45,52.

May the Holy Spirit help us to overcome our enemy , who despise the name of our Lord.

5. *Philistines killed the blacksmiths, so that they can't make their weapons of war.* Even today, our enemy will destroy our weapons of war, so that we will not have the swords and other weapons of war to fight the battle. Therefore we should be very careful.

6. *Philistines are uncircumcised people. They are soothsayers* . They strike hands and make pledges and agreements with the aliens. They worship the work of their own hands and their own fingers. Isaiah 2: 6,8. We should be cautious about them.

*May the Holy Spirit help us to overcome and drive away these spirit of Philistines so that we can inherit the eternal Canaan*. Amen. Hallelujah.

*Dr. Padmini Selvyn*

Wisdom in action

 *WISDOM IN ACTION*

_Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab returned to Jerusalem unto the king._ 2 Samuel 20:22

Peace is possible if we follow the path of conflict resolution to war and battle.

*Points*

1. Wisdom's Power: Wisdom has the power to diffuse tense situations and bring peace.

2. Courageous Action: The people took courageous action to save their city from destruction.

3. Wise Leadership: The woman demonstrated wise leadership by guiding the people.

4. Community Involvement: The community worked together to resolve the conflict.

5. Effective Communication: Effective communication led to a peaceful resolution.

6. Conflict Resolution: The conflict was resolved peacefully, avoiding bloodshed and destruction.

7. Respect and Admiration: The woman earned respect and admiration for her wisdom.

8. Godly Wisdom: The woman demonstrated godly wisdom in her actions.

9. Selfless Motive: The motive was selfless, seeking the good of the community.

10. Quick Thinking: Quick thinking and wise action led to a peaceful resolution.

11. Prevention of Bloodshed: Bloodshed and destruction were prevented.

12. Heroic Act: The act was heroic, saving the city from destruction.

Let us follow the pathway of wisdom and peace in conflict resolution.

*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*

    _Africa_

Beware of Deception

 *BEWARE OF DECEPTION*

_And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to the king; because thy servant is lame._ 2 Samuel 19:26

Leaders are prone to having deceptive people around them, who are seeking for personal gain and favor.

*Points*

1. Deception's Presence: Deception can be present even in unexpected places more especially among persons closer to privileged people.

2. Misinformation's Danger: Misinformation can lead to false assumptions and wrong decisions, as David transfer to Ziba, properties belonging to Mephibosheth in Chapter 16.

3. Importance of Accountability: Mephibosheth took responsibility for his servant's actions and accept in good faith David's decision.

4. Physical Limitations: Physical limitations impacted Mephibosheth decisions to follow David, but he made it up in his actions by being in a sorry situation until the king returned back.

5. Reliance on Others: Let us be warn on total reliance on others, once they see your limitations it can lead to deception if not properly managed.

6. Communication Breakdown: Communication breakdowns do lead to deception and misinformation, more especially when leaders don't double check before taking action.

7. Trust Issues: Deception raises questions about trust and loyalty. As Christian we trust too easily and too quickly. Let us test before we trust.

8. Leadership Lessons: Leaders must verify information and hear from all sides. Otherwise people will use us to fulfill their personal agenda.

9. Personal Responsibility: Mephibosheth demonstrated personal responsibility and accountability. 

10. Humility's Role: Humility is necessary for restoration and healing. Mephibosheth came to David in humility not minding David error in decision making.

11. Redemption's Possibility: Redemption and restoration are possible through humility and justice. That was how David reverted himself to say okay _both Ziba and Mephibosheth can share the property_.

12. Justice's Necessity: Justice must be served to ensure fairness and equality. If we feel cheated on any matter we can seek redress instead of dying in silence.

Let us seek the truth, avoid acting one sided testimony before passing judgment. 

*Dr. Tayo Olorunlana,*

    _Africa_

Ahithophel

 COUNSELOR TURNING TO TRAITOR- AHITHOPHEL

         

          Ahithophel was originally the counselor of King David but he later betrayed David, aiding Absalom in his rebellion to overthrow David’s kingship. Ahithophel was well-known for his advice, so much so that “Absalom followed Ahithophel’s advice, just as David had done. For every word Ahithophel spoke seemed as wise as though it had come directly from the mouth of God” Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice”(2 Samuel‬ ‭16‬:‭23‬ ‭) Ahithophel had the gift of wisdom.

         After Absalom captured Jerusalem, Ahithophel’s first piece of advice to him was that he sleep with all his father’s concubines—in a public manner—so as to become a “stench in your father’s nostrils,” and to strengthen his following (2 Samuel 16:21–22). In those days, taking possession of a king’s concubines was a declaration of one’s right to the throne. This fulfilled God’s word to David after his adultery with Bathsheba: “This is what the Lord says: ‘Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight. You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel’” (2 Samuel 12:11–12). Absalom followed the advice of Ahithophel and performed this wicked act on the top of the palace roof for all Israel to see (2 Samuel 16:22).

       When Absalom began his rebellion, King David knew that Ahithophel’s advice would be dangerous in the hands of his son. During his escape up the Mount of Olives, David prayed to the Lord that Ahithophel’s counsel would be turned into foolishness (2 Samuel 15:31).  

       In answer to David’s prayer, when David reached the summit of the Mount of Olives, he met Hushai the Arkite. David sent Hushai back to Absalom in Jerusalem as a secret agent to frustrate the advice of Ahithophel (2 Samuel 15:32–37). In Jerusalem Hushai pledged his loyalty to Absalom but began to give advice to work to David’s benefit (2 Samuel 17:14).

           Absalom asked his counsellors what next step he should take. Ahithophel said to pursue David immediately with an army of twelve thousand men and “attack him while he is weary and weak” 

(2 Samuel 17:1). Hushai, however, counselled Absalom to delay the attack, form a larger force, and totally annihilate David and his men (verses 7–13). Absalom chose to follow the advice of Hushai and reject Ahithophel’s counsel. This was of God, since “the Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom” (verse 14).

         When Absalom rejected his advice, Ahithophel’s pride was injured, and “he put his house in order and then hanged himself” (2 Samuel 17:23). In following Hushai’s advice, Absalom was defeated and received the punishment due his rebellion (2 Samuel 18:6–15).

      Ahithophel is the grandfather of Bathsheba! The daughter of his son had a tragic end to her marriage because of David. Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband, was killed through the cunning plan of David in his desperate attempt to hide the fact that he was the father of the child that Bathsheba was carrying.

       As a result of these observations, it seems very possible that Ahithophel never got over this betrayal by David and he was waiting for his opportunity to get revenge because he had harmed his family. What a tragic story!

       Because of Ahithophel’s betrayal of David, many scholars see him as a type of Judas Iscariot. Just as David’s counselor betrayed him, so also did Jesus’ disciple Judas betray Him. Similarities between Ahithophel and Judas include the following:

   *They both were trusted friends who betrayed their friend

         (2 Samuel 15:31; Matthew 26:14–16).

   *They both sided with the enemy to plot their king’s death

         (2 Samuel 17:1–4; Luke 22:2–6).

    *They both hanged themselves once the betrayal was complete

          (2 Samuel 17:23; Matthew 27:5).

        In Psalm 41:9 David laments, “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” This is, most immediately, a reference to the treachery of Ahithophel. But it is also a prophetic reference to Judas, as Jesus points out in John 13:18, where He quotes Psalm 41:9. Like Judas, Ahithophel will forever be remembered as a traitor.

       “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”“Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭44&48)

    May our good God bless us all.

   Dr Annamma George

Joab

 BOOK OF 2 SAMUEL. 

JOAB/ JEHOVAH IS FATHER. 

Joab was the second son of the three sons of Zeruiah, the sister of David, the other two being Abishai and Asahel. 

Joab was captain of David's army when Abner, Saul's cousin and army commander led the army of Saul's son Ishbosheth. 

Asahel was killed when he pursued Abner. 

When Abner transferred his allegiance to David, Joab treacherously killed him for killing Asahel, although Abner had done so in self defense. 

Later, Joab was made commander of the armies of David, as a reward for gaining entry into the stronghold of Mount Zion which was controlled by the Jebusites. 

He achieved victory over the Ammonites. 

He obeyed David in getting Uriah killed at the forefront of battle and called for David to storm Rabbah, so that David could get credit for victory over the Ammonites. 

Joab helped Absalom to be restored to royal favour after banishment due to the murder of Amnon.

Joab remained loyal to David during Absalom's revolt and was responsible for killing Absalom. 

When David gave vent to extravagant grief at the death of Absalom, his son, Joab rebuked him. 

2 Samuel 19:7;

"Now therefore, arise, go out and speak comfort to your servants. 

For I swear by the Lord, if you do not go out, no one will stay with you this night. 

And that will be worse for you than all the evil that has befallen you from your youth till now".

David pulled himself out of his sorrow of losing Absalom and was restored to kingship by the priests and the people. 

David made Amasa another nephew and cousin of Joab, who had been loyal to Absalom, as commander of his army and gave him the responsibility of summoning the men of Judah. 

Joab felt threatened by Amasa and stabbed him while pursuing Sheba the Benjamite. 

Much later, Joab was killed by Benaiah, the chief of the bodyguard of Solomon, as he supported Adonijah's claim to the throne of David. 

Joab for all his faults was a capable man of war and a valiant soldier on the battlefield. 

He has to be given credit for his loyalty to David for almost four decades. 

Some of his rash decisions and vengeful murders resulted in his sad end with no hope of finding clemency. 

Compiled by Shanti Jayanth, Madurai.

Absaloms

 *MODERN DAY ABSALOMS* 

 _(2 Samuel :15:1-7)_ 

 

1.AMBITIOUS

Young, charismatic and handsome Absalom wanted to be king. He was in a hurry. He was disgruntled with his father, David, and the way he had handled certain issues, especially regarding his sister, Tamar. And Absalom was convinced he was the right man for the job. A better choice.

2.CULTIVATES AN IMAGE

 Absalom got chariots, horses and footmen for himself to create for himself the grand image of the next better king. 

3.HARDWORKING

Absalom woke up early and went to meet people at the city gate. 

4. PEOPLE PERSON

Absalom tried to create an impression in people's minds that he was really interested in their personal affairs. But actually he was only aiming at carrying out his devious, cunning schemes.

5.DECEPTIVE 

The people got easily swayed by Absalom’s false narrative. A youthful dynamic leader would always be better for them in the long run. David was getting old. And Absalom said he would be a better man to judge their affairs, because the king  now had no one to hear them out. 

6.PEACE BREAKER

Absalom, in accusing the king indirectly of providing them no help, destroyed whatever peace they had. They became more troubled. 

7.INDIRECT

Absalom never said anything against his father directly. He tried to swerve people's opinions against David indirectly. He was cunning and very subtle in his ways. And so he stole the people's hearts.

There are so many ambitious, charismatic *modern day Absaloms* in our churches and homes, who are hurt and disgruntled sons or spiritual sons. They want prominence at any cost. So like Absalom, they create an imposing persona of themselves and try to woo church and family away from reigning boring ”oldies” and draw them after themselves. They happen to be divisive, work hard at achieving their nefarious schemes and win over people's hearts through flattery and deception. Satan uses them to bring in trouble wherever they go.

But their end will be as deadly as Absalom’s.

Credits :SJ, Pune, India

Roller Coaster

*"Bracing ourselves up for the _challenging, yet exciting ride with the Lord,_ as His disciple!"*

*(Based on Nah 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7 and Mt 16:24-28 - _Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)_*

Some of us have been to amusement parks...

... filled with many jolly and amazing rides.

One of the common yet interesting rides in these parks are the Roller Coaster rides....

>>The ones, which are constructed at dizzying heights

>> The ones possessing several dangerous and heart-wrenching ups and dips

>> The sight of which fills many a weak-at-heart persons, to have giddy feelings!

To those, however, who take up this challenge...

... it's a sheer ecstatic and thrilling experience!

Welcome to Christianity....a Real-Time Roller Coaster Ride!

The ride is not easy...

>> But the Thrill of the Ride...

... is truly a genuine experience of Remarkable Joy and Peace and Happiness!

Chapter 16 of St Matthew's Gospel continues the Theme of True Discipleship.

After having revealed Himself as being the Heroic, Awesome and Suffering God-Man, Jesus spells out clearly the demands of being His True Disciple:

>> To deny oneself...to take up one's cross..to follow Him! (Mt 16: 24)

To follow Christ, we need to follow His terms!

We need to...

>> Lay down something...

>> Lift up something...

>> And then Follow the Lord

We need to...

>> Lay down our personal pleasures and comforts...

>> Lift up our daily duties...

>> And then Follow the Lord

The Lord demands.

>> The Lord expects.

Am I ready?

Am I a Christian who is zealous and devout and religious on a Sunday...

... but tepid and listless and impractical through the weekdays?

Am I a Christian who loves to wear religious articles around my body...

... but fail to adorn my actions and deeds with charitable and sanctifying works?

Am I a Christian who enjoys rattling off prayers and reciting many devout ejaculations...

... but fall short of translating those good words into a life of honesty and gentleness and humility?

Am I a Christian who takes the pleasure and benefit of being a member of the Church...

... but come to a sticky end in standing by the Church in Her moments of crisis and scandals?

Am I a Christian who relishes listening to Gospel Music, decorating houses with devout pictures and even spreading devotions to many saints...

... but not make the grade when it comes to living the Gospel values and morals?

Very often, our activities and works are centered only on acquiring the things of this world.

>> Surely, we have our own daily needs and wants

But beyond all these, a Christian ought to realize, that we are "pilgrims on this earth"

>> As St Paul says, "Our citizenship is in heaven" (Phil 3: 20)

>> As St Peter says, "... As aliens and sojourners... keep away from worldly desires" (1 Pet 2: 11)

Jesus says, "What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?" (Mt 16:26)

>> Sometimes we hoard up only material wealth and riches...

... failing to seek for the God who blesses us with the needs of our life!

>> Sometimes our prayers become only petitions for transient things...

... failing to raise a word of thanks to the Lord Who always sustains us!

The Lord invites us to take up the challenges of being a Christian.

As a Christian, our lives have to be qualitatively different from others!

>> Let those who see us - be it in our workplaces or in our friend's circle or any other place - make remarks such as...

... "Ah! Here is a person who displays a lot of trust and hope in a living God!"

... "Here is somebody who remains firm even in difficulties, because he/she knows there is a Loving Father caring and protecting always"

Yes, Christianity is indeed a Real-Time Roller Coaster Ride

>> To those who take up this challenge...

... it's a sheer ecstatic and thrilling experience!

At Baptism, we have signed a document...

... which entitles us to the Great Privilege of being the Child of God

But by Baptism, we also have agreed to many terms....

... which obliges us the Great Duties of being a Soldier of God!

Being a disciple and soldier of Christ is a demanding affair.

>> Let us brace ourselves up for this challenging, yet exciting ride with the Lord.

*God Bless! _Live Jesus!_*

*-- Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS*

Henry Ford

*(Based on Ezek 16:1-15, 60, 63 and Mt 19:3-12 - _Friday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2)_*

Henry Ford is the founder of the Ford Motor Company.

>> He manufactured the first automobile that was affordable even to the middle class - an object of expensive curiosity turned into a practical conveyance.

Ford had a happy married life with Clara Jane Bryant.

On their golden wedding anniversary, a reporter asked them:

"To what do you attribute your fifty years of successful married life?”

“The formula,” said Mr. Ford, “is the same formula I have always used in making cars - just stick to one model!”

Being faithful and loyal is undoubtedly the hallmarks of a successful relationship.

>> But we live in a world, where divorce is becoming an increasingly common term and phenomenon.

The Gospel of the Day presents Jesus engaged in a conversation with the Pharisees...

... and clarifying and shedding light on the concept of faithfulness and fidelity in relationships.

When we hear the word Divorce, we primarily associate it…

…. with a man and woman, in marriage, seeking divorce.

But Divorce is not merely limited to spousal relations.

>> In fact, divorce is on the increase everywhere....

There is divorce…

… between the parents and the children

… between siblings and family relations

… among the members of a religious community and congregation

… among the members of the Church

… within the society itself

There is also a great divorce within one's spiritual life...

… One is separated and torn apart between serving God and serving the World!

In all these cases of Divorce…

… the one basic factor that is lacking is that of Commitment and Faithfulness.

When there is a decrease in commitment and faithfulness, the gravity of divorce and separation, increases!

It could be…

… in the spousal relation

… in the family relation

… in the community relations

… in the societal relations

... or even in our personal spiritual relationship with God!

When we fail in faithfulness, we succeed in separation...

>> When we are complacent in commitment, we are in danger of divorce...!

Today, let us look into our personal spiritual relationship with God...and examine...

>> Are we separating ourselves from God?

>> Are we being divorced from God?

Apparently, we may feel that these questions are not for us...

>> But let’s go a little deeper into ourselves...

… Are we really serving God as our master? … as the Only Master?

… Or are there times, when we fail in our faithfulness, and become complacent in our commitment...?

We need to give the first place to God…

… in our personal lives , our family lives/ our religious and priestly consecration.

But are there occasions, when for some time at least, we keep God away…

… to satisfy our sinful pleasures?

… to answer our egoistic tendencies?

… to fulfill our worldly sinful desires?

… to gratify our evil personal agenda?

If the answer is yes...

… then we are not on God's side!

The Lord demands a total commitment and dedication to Him.

>> God hates divorce!

In Baptism, we have entered into a covenant with Him.

>> Am I in danger of being divorced or separated from our Beloved Covenant Partner?

Little acts of unfaithfulness & infidelity are the ones that slowly shreds a relationship into pieces.

>> Lets tighten up our spiritual lives, and re-dedicate our commitment and faithfulness and consecration to the Lord.

He is a God who cares deeply for us

>> He is Loving parent who sees to all our needs

>> He is a Lover who is intensely passionate about us

Shall we not remain in His loving affection by being more faithful and committed to Him and Him alone?!

Let faithfulness and loyalty be the hallmarks of our successful relationship with the Lord.

Let's say…

>> Yeah to Jesus and His Kingdom...

… and Nay to Satan and the World!

*God Bless! _Live Jesus!_*

*-- Fr Jijo Jose Manjackal MSFS*

One Story, Two Perspectives

*One Story, Two Perspectives*

A famous book writer sat in his study. He took out his pen and began to write:

“Last year, I had surgery to remove gallstones. I was bedridden for a long time. 

In the same year, I turned 60 and was retired … quitting a company that I loved so much. I had to leave the job I've been doing for 35 years. 

That same year I was abandoned by my beloved mother who passed away. 

Then, still in the same year, my son failed his final medical exam because of a car accident.  Repair costs from the car damage marked the peak of bad luck last year.”

At the end he wrote:

“What, what a bad year!"

The writer's wife entered the room and found her husband who was sad and pensive. From behind, the wife saw the husband's writing. Slowly she backed away and left the room. 

15 minutes later she came back in and put down a piece of paper with the following words:

“Last year, my husband finally managed to get rid of his gallbladder which had been making his stomach hurt for years. 

That same year, I am grateful that my husband was able to retire in a healthy and happy state of mind & body. I thank God he was given the opportunity to work and earn for 35 years to support our family.

Now, my husband can spend more of his time writing, which has always been his hobby.

In the same year, my 95 year old mother-in-law, without any pain, returned to God in peace. 

And still in the same year, God protected our son from harm in a terrible car accident. Our car was seriously damaged by the accident, but my son survived without any serious injuries.”

                                  

In the last sentence his wife wrote:

“Last year was a year full of extraordinary blessings from God, and we spent it full of wonder and gratitude.”

                                       

The writer smiled with emotion, and warm tears flowed down his cheeks. He was grateful for a different point of view for every event he had gone through the past year. A different perspective of the same events now made him joyful. 

Friends, in this life we ​​must understand that it is not happiness or joy that makes us grateful. It is *gratitude that makes us happy/joyful*! Let’s practise seeing events from a positive point of view and keep envy away from our hearts.

_”We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”_ 

 *Abraham Lincoln*

12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be a Part of Your Life

 **12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be a Part of Your Life 📚**

1. **Knowledge Highway 🛣️**: Books are a treasure trove of information on any topic you can think of! Whether it’s history, science, or new hobbies, there's something for everyone to explore. 🌍

2. **Enhanced Vocabulary 🗣️**: The more you read, the more words you encounter. Expand your vocabulary and sharpen your communication skills effortlessly.

3. **Memory Boost 🧠**: Keep your mind sharp! Reading has been linked to improved memory and cognitive function, keeping your brain active and engaged. 💡

4. **Stress Reduction 🌿**: Need a mental escape? Curling up with a good book is the perfect way to unwind and relieve daily stresses. 

5. **Improved Focus and Concentration 🎯**: In our distraction-filled world, reading strengthens your ability to focus and concentrate for longer periods.

6. **Empathy and Perspective 🌎**: Stepping into the shoes of fictional characters helps you develop empathy and understand different viewpoints.

7. **Enhanced Creativity 🎨**: Books are a playground for your imagination! Exposure to new ideas can inspire your own creativity and problem-solving skills.

8. **Stronger Writing Skills ✍️**: By reading well-crafted prose, you can improve your writing style, sentence structure, and overall communication clarity.

9. **Improved Sleep Quality 😴**: Ditch the screens before bed and pick up a book instead. Reading can help you relax, making it easier to drift off into a peaceful sleep.

---

**#ReadingBenefits #BookLovers #KnowledgeIsPower #StressRelief #BoostYourBrain #ImproveFocus #CreativeThinking #BetterSleep #ReadMoreBooks**

The Feast of Gods

 So many butthurt posts about blasphemy in the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, so here's the real score: The tableau in the ceremony is not a reference to Da Vinci's Last Supper but to Jan Harkens van Bijlert's The Feast of the Gods (1635), with Apollo crowned at the center of the table (no, that isn't Jesus Christ) and Dionysus the god of wine and pleasure in the foreground. Why this reference? Because Apollo and Dionysus are Greek gods, and the Olympics are a Greek invention, a tribute to Zeus.

And, yes, there was a decapitated woman cradling her own head. That's a reference to Marie Antoinette, whose beheading (along with the rest of French royalty in 1793) was a turning point for France moving away from a Catholic monarchy into a republic.

When your only point of reference is your Christianity, anything resembling a tableau or anything including performers in drag or anything with even a hint of impropriety will scandalize you. Read mythology, read history, look at art, do a simple Google search. Don't let your intellectual horizons begin and end with the Bible. (Which, by the way, has scores of children being massacred not once, but twice! So I don't know why, as avowed Bible lovers, violence should bother you.) 

Not everything is about your faith. Especially in France, which is a multicultural and increasingly immigrant society. And because so many of my Catholic friends here on Facebook can afford to travel, please stop with the intellectual laziness and replace it with intellectual curiosity. The French will be French. They will do their thing. France has the grand trappings of its Catholic past, but if you display even a hint of your insular lack of exposure to the immigrant experience or your Catholicism-is-under-attack viewpoint, you will embarrass not only yourself, but the country.