- “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9)
- “There is a way which seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death.” (Proverbs 14:12)
- “Every person’s way is right in his own eyes, but the LORD examines the hearts.” (Proverbs 21:2)
- “Oh, the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” (Romans 11:33)
God is serious about His Word. His Word is true in every situation. We should not take His Word for granted. His Word is the key to success and pleasing God. For here we learn His expectations. How we should live. What we should avoid. The Bible shows that God rewards those who obey Him and take His Word seriously and apply it in their lives. We suffer the consequences when we disobey Him.
Many Christians do not understand these truths. They think that it’s acceptable to compromise. That they can do what they want, as long as they can justify their actions. Many seem more concerned about pleasing friends or acquaintances than obeying God, worried more about what others think. But God wants us to see that He always wants us to obey Him, and follow His principles. Today, seek to know God’s Word. Don’t take Him for granted. Base your life on His Word. And don’t give in to compromise.
There were a whole series of events that led up to David becoming the king of Israel. David had spent most of the previous 10 years on the run from King Saul who repeatedly tried to kill him. But with Saul now dead the way was clear for David to become king. There were still some obstacles in the way, primarily the nation’s continued loyalty toward Saul and his family. God instructed David to live in Hebron, in Judah where he has been made the king of that one tribe. It will be another 7 years before David finally becomes the king of Israel. For now, David obeys God and waits. He doesn’t try to force himself on the people of Israel.
In contrast to David who is seeking and following God’s direction for his life are several other characters in the narrative of events who do not. Second Samuel 2-4 detail several bizarre events that take place as a result of people each following their own wisdom and desires and doing things their way. This led to a lot of unnecessary pain and suffering in the nation of Israel. By ignoring God’s clear desire to make David king the nation was in turmoil and chaos. But in the end, in spite of people messing things up, God’s ultimate will, to make David king over all of Israel, was accomplished.
