Today’s Hebrew Testament chronological reading is in 2 Samuel 5 and 6.
The Psalms/ Proverbs reading is in Proverbs 9.
The Greek Testament reading is in 1 Thessalonians 2.
ESSENTIAL STUDIES.
2 Samuel 5, A king after God’s own heart
Additional studies: 1 and 2 Samuel Index
David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam 13:14). That his kingdom was being exalted was evident, because the king of the Phoenicians, who were the premier architects and builders in his day, sent him people to build his palace. But also that his victories over the Jebusites, whom even Joshua did not displace, and the Philistines, who had been oppressing Israel since the lifetime of Samson, testified to David’s might. But David understood that it was God acting to benefit His people Israel, and not something to be ascribed to his own glory. He avoided the pitfall of many proud and oppressive kings, because he maintained his humility before God.
Proverbs 9, Wisdom and Folly cry aloud
Additional studies: Proverbs Index
In the Chiastic Structure which Proverbs 9 forms, the 1A pairs reveal that Wisdom calls out to the simple, and her end is life. The 2A pairs reveal that Folly also calls out to the simple, and her end is death. Both call from the highest places in the city, that is, from the greatest vantage point to be heard by all. Truly, we all have ample opportunity to choose this day life, or death.
1 Thessalonians 2, Knowing truth is not enough
Additional studies: 1 and 2 Thessalonians Index
All of us are called, as disciples, to impart truth. But pride, hostility, debate, defensiveness and other like tactics accomplish nothing but entrench others in their falsehoods. It is not enough to know what is true. If we want to impart truth so that lies are destroyed and lives changed, we must have embedded in us as characteristics, humility, honesty, and genuine love.
Another way to say it: Change me, Lord, even me, so that I might be counted worthy to impart truth!
THREE-YEAR BIBLE.
The three-year plan is here.
Today’s reading is in Micah 3.
Suggested study: Micah 3, Bible for Beginners.
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