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King Ahab faces Ben Hadad's overwhelming threat, but God intervenes with a miraculous provision. This ancient story reveals how God preserves His people and repeatedly invites us to truly know Him through His powerful Word, not just acknowledge Him. Listen now and be inspired to embrace complete obedience to God's Word. Because victory comes not from our strength, but from recognizing Him as the one true LORD.
The idea of “having enough” is really about perspective, right? Saying we don't have enough in the U.S. is a very different concept than not having enough in a third world country. Or maybe at some point in life, we have had a lot, and now there's not nearly as much. Everything compares to when there were better days. I heard ex-pro ball player and sports analyst Charles Barkley talking about his childhood recently where he said, “I was raised by a single mom and we were very happy, so as a kid, I really didn't realize we were poor.” … Perspective. So this week let's do what we do here at Sound Mind Set and look for some biblical perspective from God's Word on a tough topic.In 1 Kings 20, Syria was planning to attack Israel again. The Syrian leaders made this decision: Last time, Israel defeated us in the hills, so that's the reason we lost. If we can fight them on flat land, in the valley between the mountains, we can win.Listen to verses 26-28 …“The following spring he called up the Aramean army and marched out against Israel, this time at Aphek. Israel then mustered its army, set up supply lines, and marched out for battle. But the Israelite army looked like two little flocks of goats in comparison to the vast Aramean forces that filled the countryside! Then the man of God went to the king of Israel and said, “This is what the Lord says: The Arameans have said, ‘The Lord is a god of the hills and not of the plains.' So I will defeat this vast army for you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.” (1 Kings 20:26-28 NLT).In verses 29 and 30, we read that the Israelites were victorious and what was left of the Aramean army fled. We see God prove He is Lord, not only of the hills, but the valleys as well.Today, we can read a passage like this and think, “How ridiculous! Why would they excuse their defeat by thinking God is limited to certain areas? Why would they blame location?”Listen once again to the key part of this passage …Then the man of God went to the king of Israel and said, “This is what the Lord says: The Arameans have said, ‘The Lord is a god of the hills and not of the plains.' So I will defeat this vast army for you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.”Here's how we often create this same scenario in our own lives…I believe He is God over my family, but I can't trust Him with my finances.I believe He is God over my church, but not my career.I believe He will watch over my kids, but not my future.I believe He is God over forgiveness of sin, but He can't heal my heart.I believe He blesses everyone I know—but not me.Do you see the God-of-the-hills-but-not-the-valleys syndrome that we can so easily create? The limitations we place on a limitless God? The way we apply faith in one area and not another?Where are you most struggling with believing God? I want to encourage you to take a few minutes and talk to Him. Be honest with Him about how you feel and why you are struggling.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, please help me to remember that You are God everywhere in my life—my mountains and my valleys. Show me Your power in my weakest places. As above, so below.”
The Arameans came ready to fight—but instead of swords, they were met with a feast. Instead of death, they were given mercy. And that one act of grace stopped the battle for a generation.In this episode, we dive into 2 Kings 6:8-23, where Elisha shows us that God's power isn't just in miracles—it's in forgiveness, mercy, and radical love for our enemies.
Despite David's attempt at establishing peaceful relations with Ammon, the Ammonites choose to fight instead. This results in another military victory for David against the Arameans who came to help the Ammonites.
Lutheran Preaching and Teaching from St. John Random Lake, Wisconsin
2024-11-21 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stjohnrandomlake/support
After the king of the Ammonites died, David tried to show kindness to his son, Hanun. But Hanun got ugly. He seized David's envoys, shaved off half of each man's beard, cut off their garments at the buttocks, and sent them away. (Verse 4) It was on and cracking after that. David's army went to battle against the Ammonites and the Arameans who tried to help them. The Ammonites lost and the Arameans were afraid to help the anymore. ----- Corporate Soft by LesFM | https://lesfm.net/positive-background-music/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Sovereign by Kevin MacLeod | https://incompetech.com/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
David has many victories in this chapter – over the Philistines, the Moabites, the people of Zobah, the Arameans, and the Edomites. Verse 15 says, “David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people.” ----- Corporate Soft by LesFM | https://lesfm.net/positive-background-music/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Sovereign by Kevin MacLeod | https://incompetech.com/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Today our text in this week of reflections on how God works through our senses and perceptions comes from 2 Kings 6:8-23. May God bless you as you hear his word. Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his officers, he said, “I will set up my camp in such and such a place.” The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.” So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places. This enraged the king of Aram. He summoned his officers and demanded of them, “Tell me! Which of us is on the side of the king of Israel?” “None of us, my lord the king,” said one of his officers, “but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom.” “Go, find out where he is,” the king ordered, “so I can send men and capture him.” The report came back: “He is in Dothan.” Then he sent horses and chariots and a strong force there. They went by night and surrounded the city. When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. “Don't be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the Lord, “Strike this army with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked. Elisha told them, “This is not the road and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will lead you to the man you are looking for.” And he led them to Samaria. After they entered the city, Elisha said, “Lord, open the eyes of these men so they can see.” Then the Lord opened their eyes and they looked, and there they were, inside Samaria. When the king of Israel saw them, he asked Elisha, “Shall I kill them, my father? Shall I kill them?” “Do not kill them,” he answered. “Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them so that they may eat and drink and then go back to their master.” So he prepared a great feast for them, and after they had finished eating and drinking, he sent them away, and they returned to their master. So the bands from Aram stopped raiding Israel's territory. This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. As you journey on, go with the blessing of God: Guide us waking, O Lord, and guard us sleeping, That awake we may watch with Christ, and asleep rest in his peace. May Almighty God bless, preserve, and keep us, this day and forevermore. Amen.
Genesis 10 is often referred to as the “Table of Nations,” as it provides a genealogy that traces the descendants of Noah's three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—following the flood. This chapter outlines how various peoples and nations of the ancient world emerged from Noah's family. Breakdown of Genesis 10: 1.The Descendants of Japheth (Genesis 10:2–5): Japheth's lineage is associated with the peoples of the northern and western regions, often seen as the ancestors of the Indo-European nations. Some key descendants include: •Gomer, linked to the Cimmerians or other northern tribes. •Magog, associated with peoples from the region near the Black Sea. •Javan, believed to be the ancestor of the Greeks and other maritime nations. Verse 5 mentions that these descendants spread out across the islands and coastal regions, suggesting that Japheth's line populated much of Europe and parts of Asia. 2.The Descendants of Ham (Genesis 10:6–20): Ham's descendants are typically associated with Africa and parts of the Near East. His lineage includes: •Cush, associated with Ethiopia or the Nubian region. •Mizraim, often identified with Egypt. •Canaan, whose descendants are connected with the land of Canaan. This section also includes a mention of Nimrod, a mighty hunter and ruler who established significant cities, such as Babel, Akkad, and Nineveh, playing a pivotal role in the rise of Mesopotamian civilization. 3.The Descendants of Shem (Genesis 10:21–31): Shem is traditionally seen as the ancestor of the Semitic peoples, including the Hebrews, Assyrians, and Arameans. His descendants, such as Elam, Asshur, and Arphaxad, populated the regions of the Middle East. Arphaxad's lineage eventually leads to Abram (Abraham), establishing the connection to the Israelites. Significance of Genesis 10: The genealogy in Genesis 10 provides an account of how the nations were divided after the flood. It highlights that humanity, despite its diversity, traces its origins back to a common ancestor—Noah. This chapter emphasizes the unity of the human race and establishes a foundational framework for understanding the relationships among the different peoples in biblical history. The “Table of Nations” also sets the stage for the Tower of Babel narrative in Genesis 11, where the scattering of peoples and the diversification of languages are described.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.
2 Kings 13:14-1914 When Elisha was in his last illness, King Jehoash of Israel visited him and wept over him. “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” he cried.15 Elisha told him, “Get a bow and some arrows.” And the king did as he was told. 16 Elisha told him, “Put your hand on the bow,” and Elisha laid his own hands on the king's hands.17 Then he commanded, “Open that eastern window,” and he opened it. Then he said, “Shoot!” So he shot an arrow. Elisha proclaimed, “This is the Lord's arrow, an arrow of victory over Aram, for you will completely conquer the Arameans at Aphek.”18 Then he said, “Now pick up the other arrows and strike them against the ground.” So the king picked them up and struck the ground three times. 19 But the man of God was angry with him. “You should have struck the ground five or six times!” he exclaimed. “Then you would have beaten Aram until it was entirely destroyed. Now you will be victorious only three times.”God's Perspective leads my heart to trust and directs me towards obedience.Obedience to God's instructions will be met with God's partnership.The Heavenly perspective seeks to accomplish the Will of God.God's Will can only be accomplished by HIS Ways and through HIS Strength.The target we're meant to hit is living with His perspective while working on His priorities.
2 Kings 13:14-1914 When Elisha was in his last illness, King Jehoash of Israel visited him and wept over him. “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” he cried.15 Elisha told him, “Get a bow and some arrows.” And the king did as he was told. 16 Elisha told him, “Put your hand on the bow,” and Elisha laid his own hands on the king's hands.17 Then he commanded, “Open that eastern window,” and he opened it. Then he said, “Shoot!” So he shot an arrow. Elisha proclaimed, “This is the Lord's arrow, an arrow of victory over Aram, for you will completely conquer the Arameans at Aphek.”18 Then he said, “Now pick up the other arrows and strike them against the ground.” So the king picked them up and struck the ground three times. 19 But the man of God was angry with him. “You should have struck the ground five or six times!” he exclaimed. “Then you would have beaten Aram until it was entirely destroyed. Now you will be victorious only three times.”God's Perspective leads my heart to trust and directs me towards obedience.Obedience to God's instructions will be met with God's partnership.The Heavenly perspective seeks to accomplish the Will of God.God's Will can only be accomplished by HIS Ways and through HIS Strength.The target we're meant to hit is living with His perspective while working on His priorities.
In this episode Curtis and Sally delve into 2 Kings 6:8-23, where Elisha traps the Arameans. They discuss the remarkable ways God protects and guides His people, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Curtis and Sally explore the historical context of Israel's ongoing conflicts with the Arameans, drawing parallels to the broader themes of God's providence, divine vision, and the importance of trusting in His unseen plans. As they read through the passage, they highlight Elisha's deep faith and intimate relationship with God, which allowed him to see beyond the immediate danger to the divine protection that surrounded him. The discussion also reflects on how this story illustrates God's desire to save lives and demonstrate His love, even towards enemies. The episode encourages listeners to seek God's perspective in their lives, asking Him to open their eyes to His work around them, just as Elisha prayed for his servant. Through reflections on both Old and New Testament scriptures, Curtis and Sally emphasize the promise of spiritual sight that God grants to those who turn to Him, allowing them to see and reflect His glory in their lives. Join Curtis and Sally for a thoughtful exploration of faith, trust, and the transformative power of seeing the world through God's eyes.
In this section Jacob, now fleeing from his brother Esau, heads north to the region of the Arameans, around the city of Haran, where he would end up staying with his relative Laban (the brother of his mother, Rebekah) for the next 20 years. On the way, Jacob has his first encounter with the LORD at a place called Bethel, where God reveals himself to Jacob. The rest of these chapters record how Jacob's family were born. Through this encounter with Yahweh, and what he experiences during the years in Laban's household, God starts to transform Jacob.
Welcome to Day 2436 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – The Divine Arrow – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2436 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2436 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today is the seventeenth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church. The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God's redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it's also a book that seems strange to us. While God's Word was written for us, it wasn't written to us. Today, our lesson is, The Divine Arrow. Few characters in the Bible are as maligned for their wickedness as King Ahab of Israel. While Ahab's predecessors “did evil in the sight of the Lord' Ahab had an agenda: He did more to provoke the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than any of the other kings of Israel before him. (1 Kgs 16:33). Ahab's rule includes Baal worship, forbidden foreign covenants (Syria) and foreign alliances (Jezebel), and the murder of Naboth. In 1 Kings 22, the prophet Micaiah warns Ahab of his impending fate. This isn't a run-of-the-mill prophecy. It's mixed with a vision of how God came to the final details of His decision: a divine boardroom discussion. Yes-Men and Yahweh's Man The 12 tribes of Israel had been split into two kingdoms for a century by the time Ahab took the throne (ca. 869 bc). Ahab ruled the northern kingdom (called Israel or Ephraim), which often fought with the southern kingdom, Judah. After peace reigned between Israel and Judah for three years (22:1), Ahab decided he wanted to capture the city of Ramoth in Gilead from the Arameans. He asked Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, for military assistance. Jehoshaphat agreed to the battle for political reasons, but he wanted assurance that God was in the endeavor (22:5). The 400 prophetic yes-men Ahab consulted endorsed the idea, but Jehoshaphat wanted another opinion (22:6, 11-12). Ahab agreed to summon Micaiah, the prophet of Yahweh, though he openly admitted to hating him (22:8). The real prophet of Yahweh never had anything positive to say about the ungodly Ahab and his rule. The Prophecy At first, Micaiah told Ahab that God loved the plan, but Ahab saw through his mockery. Apparently, this was not the first time: “How many times must I demand that you speak only the truth to me when you speak for the Lord?” (22:16). Micaiah proceeded to tell Ahab he was about to meet his Maker, so chances are good he wanted Ahab to go through with the battle, knowing the end result. Rebuked by Ahab, Micaiah holds nothing back, revealing to Ahab and to us the inner workings of God's counsel:...
Daily Dose of Hope August 14, 2024 Day 4 of Week 20 Scripture: 2 Samuel 9-10; 1 Chronicles 18-19; Psalm 89; Acts 26 Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church Bible reading plan. We have a lot of Scripture to talk about today so let's get to it. Let's get started with 2 Samuel. In 2 Samuel chapter 9, we see David making good on his promise to Saul and his commitment to Jonathan, Saul's son. Despite the fact that Saul tried to kill David numerous times, it was David's commitment to care for Saul's descendants. He also wanted to “show kindness for Jonathan's sake.” If you recall, Jonathan was David's best friend who risked his own life to save David's. Thus, David asks one of Saul's former servants, named Ziba, if there are any descendants of Saul remaining. Ziba is honest and tells David about one of Jonathan's sons who lives in self-imposed exile with his family. This son's name was Mephibosheth and he was disabled. David then offers Mephibosheth the land that belonged to Saul and includes him at the royal table. Mephibosheth asks, “What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?” It reminded me of our discussion yesterday, when David asks God, “Who am I that you should bless me?” Again, we have this beautiful picture of grace. Let's head over to chapter 10. In an attempt to show kindness and build alliances, David sends a delegation to the new king of the Ammonites. David had a good relationship with the king's father and wanted to continue that relationship with the king. But the new king was not so wise. His advisors tell him that this delegation from Israel may actually be spies, sizing up the area for a conquest. The king takes their advice to heart, or possibly wants to exert his independence from the more powerful Israel, so he humiliates the men in the delegation by sending them home with half a beard and half-naked. In those days, this was basically a declaration of war. The Ammonites expected Israel to respond militarily so they hire mercenaries, the Arameans, to help them fight. But neither group is a match for the army of Israel, led by Joab. J.oab is strategic and brave, leading the men to victory despite formidable odds. In the end, the Ammonites plan backfired. Israel becomes the strongest nation in the area, politically, militarily, and economically. With God on their side, they cannot be stopped. Our passage from I Chronicles details several different battles during which the army of Israel was victorious. In I Chronicles 18 (as in 2 Kings 10 - it's the same story), the Hebrews are humiliated by the Ammonites and they respond by setting up battle lines. With Joab and David commanding the army, Israel is victorious. God is clearly with them. I Chronicles 19 is a little different. Yes, it's about war. The Israeli army conquers Rappha. But it also says that in the spring, the kings go off to war. Did you notice that David did not go? On first glance, that's really puzzling. David was excellent in battle. Maybe he didn't think this offensive was worth his time or he was just getting lazy. But he should have been with his men. What we know is that David staying home led to trouble. He saw a woman bathing. Maybe you have heard of her? Her name is Bathsheba. He then commits adultery (many would say rape because there is no way she had any say in the matter). When she ends up pregnant, he sends her husband, Uriah, to the front lines to be killed (in the same battle, he himself should have participated). Certainly, a lot happened from the time David sent his men off to war and their conquering of Rappah. It's curious that Chronicles does not chronicle this very significant event. What are your thoughts about this? Why does the chronicler leave this out of the passage? Psalm 89 is written by Ethan the Ezrahite. He was a very wise man. He is mentioned in I Chronicles 2 and I Kings 4. His psalm praises God and also reaffirms God's covenant with David. No matter what David's sons do (and David's sons have some big issues that we will be talking about soon), God will keep his promise to David. His throne will last forever. Of course, we know that it is Jesus who will sit on David's throne and fulfill the covenant but that isn't obvious to anyone yet. Our New Testament passage is Acts 26. Now, Paul is pleading his case before King Agrippa, to be more precise King Herod Agrippa II. Let's think about the power-hungry and unethical family of Herodians that had lorded authority over the Jews in the past several generations. The Herods were essentially puppet kings who the Romans put in charge of Judea. There was Herod the Great who tried to kill baby Jesus. Then there was his son, Herod Antipas, who beheaded John the Baptist for speaking out about his illegitimate marriage. Next in line was Agrippa I who beheaded James, the son of Zebedee. Now, Paul is standing before Agrippa II, with no sign of fear, simply speaking the truth with clarity and boldness. In today's passage, governor Festus has accused Paul of insanity after hearing his full testimony, including his conversion on the road to Damascus. In response, Paul speaks directly to Agrippa, knowing that he was very familiar with the ways of the Jews. As Paul stands there in chains, he forcefully asks the king if he believes in the ways of the prophets. I kind of picture the king embarrassed in front of all his Roman/pagan friends, stammering, not quite knowing how to answer. So he asks Paul, "Do you think you can convince me to be a Christian in such a short time?" There must have been something about Agrippa that Paul knew he was curious and open. Maybe God told him to direct his questions to Agrippa. We can assume that throughout this whole trial, the Holy Spirit is directing Paul's words and actions. There is a purpose for each trial, for each giving of testimony, for each conversation, because in each setting, more and more people are exposed to the Gospel. What's interesting to me at the end of this chapter, Agrippa and Festus are talking and say that it's a shame that Paul has appealed to the emperor because he had done nothing wrong and they could release him. However, his appeal meant he would be heading to Rome to testify once more. What they don't understand is that this isn't simply about Paul's freedom, it's about carrying the Good News to people and places it had never been before. God's up to something more. Blessings, Pastor Vicki
In this sermon, we dive into a lesser-known but powerful section of Scripture, exploring the conflict between Israel and the Arameans. Despite the Aramean King's efforts to capture Israel, they always seem one step ahead—leading him to believe there's a traitor in his ranks. However, the real source of Israel's success is the prophet Elisha, who can see beyond the physical realm. We discuss how the King of Aram, blinded to the true nature of his situation, mistakenly believes in treachery rather than recognizing God's intervention. This blindness is a metaphor for our own limited perceptions and the unseen spiritual forces at play in our lives. Elisha's servant, terrified when surrounded by the Aramean army, learns that there are more on their side than the enemy's. Elisha's confidence in God's protection is a lesson for us. If we could see all the spiritual battles and protections around us, we might be overwhelmed. But, just as Elisha trusted in God's unseen army, we can find comfort in knowing that God's protection is far greater than any threat we face. Join us as we uncover these profound truths and how they offer us confidence and peace in our own lives.
When we last left our reading covering the kingdom of Israel, the Arameans had laid siege against Samaria, Israel's capital city. This means that they were blocking people from going in or out so that the people might starve. The king of Israel, most likely Joram, son of Ahab, sends a messenger to Elisha, threatening him with violence. Today, Elisha predicts that they will soon be so flooded with food and grain that it will be hard to sell at even a fraction of its cost. Later, Jehu (a military commander) will be anointed as the next king of Israel by decree of Elisha and by a messenger sent by the prophet to anoint Jehu with oil. The newly anointed king then sets out to put an end to the house of Ahab.2 Kings 7 - 1:08 . 2 Kings 8 - 6:32 . 2 Kings 9 - 13:18 . Psalm 119:129 - 20:17 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Today's episode contains some particularly gruesome imagery for children; parental discretion is advised. The kings and kingdoms of the land are growing increasingly chaotic and tumultuous, but in the midst of the chaos, the Lord continues to work and speak through his prophet, Elisha. An Aramean army commander comes to Elisha to be healed, but when Elisha doesn't give him the respect he thinks he deserves, he almost rejects the offer out of hand. Later, the Arameans try to capture Elisha but he diffuses them with hospitality. Not long after, the Arameans lay siege to Israel, surrounding Samaria in order to cause a famine, and the people take evil & desperate measures to try and survive. 2 Kings 5 - 1:05 . 2 Kings 6 - 8:54 . Psalm 119:113 - 16:03 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Elisha Traps Blinded Arameans “Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his officers, he said, “I will set up my camp in such and such a place.” The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.” So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places...” (2 Kings 6:8-23) Part 3 of 3 Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture. Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com Donate: www.walkintruth.com
Elisha Traps Blinded Arameans “Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his officers, he said, “I will set up my camp in such and such a place.” The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.” So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places...” (2 Kings 6:8-23) Part 2 of 3 Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture. Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com Donate: www.walkintruth.com
“Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his officers, he said, “I will set up my camp in such and such a place.” The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.” So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places...” (2 Kings 6:8-23) Part 1 of 3 Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture. Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com Donate: www.walkintruth.com
On today's episode, an Aramean army commander comes to Elisha to be healed, but when Elisha doesn't give him the respect he thinks he deserves, he almost rejects the offer out of hand. Later, the Arameans try to capture Elisha but he diffuses them with hospitality. Not long after, the Arameans lay siege to Israel, surrounding Samaria in order to cause a famine, and the people take desperate measures. The king of Israel becomes enraged and sends for Elisha that he might kill him. When the messenger arrives, Elisha declares that a miraculous turn of events is just a day away.2 Kings 5 - 1:22 . 2 Kings 6 - 9:12 . 2 Kings 7 - 17:03 . Psalm 99 - 22:37 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
II Chronicles 28 details the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, who ascends to the throne at the age of 20 and reigns for 16 years. Unlike his predecessors, Ahaz is depicted as a wicked king who turns away from God. He follows the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations, even engaging in child sacrifice. Ahaz's reign is marked by numerous military defeats and calamities. The Arameans and the Israelites inflict heavy casualties on Judah and take many captives. Additionally, Edomites and Philistines attack and plunder Judah's territories. Despite these disasters, Ahaz refuses to turn back to God and instead seeks help from the Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser, offering treasures from the Temple and royal palace as tribute. The chapter emphasizes the consequences of Ahaz's unfaithfulness: Judah suffers greatly under his rule, experiencing loss, defeat, and divine disfavor. The narrative underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and portrays Ahaz's reign as a period of spiritual and political decline for Judah. Donation can be given through the following: CashApp: https://cash.app/$ShariseJohnsonMoore PayPal: PayPal.me/SNJMoore --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/sharise-johnson-moore/message
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:1 Kings 20-21; 2 Chronicles 17; Colossians 3 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Dear Daily Radio Bible Community,
When the Arameans met Elisha, they were struck blind and led into Samaria. When the king of Samaria asked if he should kill them, Elisha instructed him to spare their lives, set food before them and send them home. This encounter is a powerful illustration of the mercy of God that ought to be displayed by all who know Jesus as Lord. We forgive, love and release our enemies as God has forgiven, loved and released us from His wrath.
When the Arameans met Elisha, they were struck blind and led into Samaria. When the king of Samaria asked if he should kill them, Elisha instructed him to spare their lives, set food before them and send them home. This encounter is a powerful illustration of the mercy of God that ought to be displayed by all who know Jesus as Lord. We forgive, love and release our enemies as God has forgiven, loved and released us from His wrath.
Summary The conversation explores the story of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7 and draws lessons about faith and taking action. The lepers, who were outcasts and facing famine, decided to take a step of faith and go to the camp of the Arameans. God caused the Arameans to flee, and the lepers found abundance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing our limitations, surrendering to God, and trusting in His plans. It encourages listeners to have a desire for change and to take steps of faith, knowing that God can transform their situations. Takeaways Recognize your limitations and understand your condition. Surrender your weaknesses, struggles, and self-defeating attitudes to God. Have a desire for change and take steps of faith. Trust in God's plans and believe that He can transform your situation. Sound Bites "It is now or never." "Whatever we present to Jesus, it never comes back the same way." "If we have a relationship with Jesus, then definitely we will get to our desired, orchestrated, divine end."
Yehoram feeds the Arameans and sends them back home in peace
After the Paris Peace Conference that concluded World War I, French Marshall Ferdinand Foch bitterly observed, “This is not peace. It is an armistice for twenty years.” Foch’s view contradicted the popular opinion that the horrifying conflict would be the “war to end all wars.” Twenty years and two months later, World War II erupted. Foch was right. Long ago, Micaiah, the lone true prophet of God in the region at the time, prophesied dire military results for Israel (2 Chronicles 18:7). In contrast, four hundred of King Ahab’s false prophets foretold victory. “Look, the other prophets without exception are predicting success for the king,” a court official told Micaiah. “Let your word agree with theirs, and speak favorably” (v. 12). Micaiah responded, “I can tell him only what my God says” (v. 13). He prophesied how Israel would be “scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd” (v. 16). Micaiah was right. The Arameans killed Ahab and his army fled (vv. 33-34; 1 Kings 22:35–36). Like Micaiah, we who follow Jesus share a message that contradicts popular opinion. The One who is “the way and the truth and the life” told us, “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Many don’t like that message because it seems harshly narrow. Too exclusive, people say. Yet Jesus brings a comforting message that’s inclusive. He welcomes everyone who turns to Him.
The floating ax head, Elisha traps the Arameans and Ben-Hadad besieges Samaria. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/leapoffaithpodcast/support
God gives Ahab victory over the Arameans twice, but the king disobeys God. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/leapoffaithpodcast/support
Today we see Adad-Nirari bring huge quantities of Arameans into the Assyrian empire. This will change the linguistic fabric of the entire near east in time, but as we will see, at the time it just seemed like a set of good decisions, or at least imperialistic decisions. We also discuss what it is to be an Assyrian, and why no one was overly concerned about the sort of ethnic conflicts that seem to dominate nowadays. The main feature today is the Temannu war, which spanned perhaps 6 to 8 years and shows Adad-Nirari's strategic flexibility, as well as the full range from brutality to generosity in victory. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/oldeststories/message
The idea of “having enough” is really about perspective, right? Saying we don't have enough in the U.S. is a very different concept than not having enough in a third world country. Or maybe at some point in life, we have had a lot, and now there's not nearly as much. Everything compares to when there were better days. I heard ex-pro ball player and sports analyst Charles Barkley talking about his childhood recently where he said, “I was raised by a single mom and we were very happy, so as a kid, I really didn't realize we were poor.” … Perspective. So this week let's do what we do here at Sound Mind Set and look for some biblical perspective from God's Word on a tough topic. In 1 Kings 20, Syria was planning to attack Israel again. The Syrian leaders made this decision: Last time, Israel defeated us in the hills, so that's the reason we lost. If we can fight them on flat land, in the valley between the mountains, we can win. Listen to verses 26-28 … “The following spring he called up the Aramean army and marched out against Israel, this time at Aphek. Israel then mustered its army, set up supply lines, and marched out for battle. But the Israelite army looked like two little flocks of goats in comparison to the vast Aramean forces that filled the countryside! Then the man of God went to the king of Israel and said, “This is what the Lord says: The Arameans have said, ‘The Lord is a god of the hills and not of the plains.' So I will defeat this vast army for you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.” (1 Kings 20:26-28 NLT). In verses 29 and 30, we read that the Israelites were victorious and what was left of the Aramean army fled. We see God prove He is Lord, not only of the hills, but the valleys as well. Today, we can read a passage like this and think, “How ridiculous! Why would they excuse their defeat by thinking God is limited to certain areas? Why would they blame location?” Listen once again to the key part of this passage … Then the man of God went to the king of Israel and said, “This is what the Lord says: The Arameans have said, ‘The Lord is a god of the hills and not of the plains.' So I will defeat this vast army for you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.” Here's how we often create this same scenario in our own lives… I believe He is God over my family, but I can't trust Him with my finances. I believe He is God over my church, but not my career. I believe He will watch over my kids, but not my future. I believe He is God over forgiveness of sin, but He can't heal my heart. I believe He blesses everyone I know—but not me. Do you see the God-of-the-hills-but-not-the-valleys syndrome that we can so easily create? The limitations we place on a limitless God? The way we apply faith in one area and not another? Where are you most struggling with believing God? I want to encourage you to take a few minutes and talk to Him. Be honest with Him about how you feel and why you are struggling. Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, please help me to remember that You are God everywhere in my life—my mountains and my valleys. Show me Your power in my weakest places. As above, so below.”
Content warning for discussions of antisemitism and genocide. Also, note that from 19:10 until 20:05 you can hear an electric saw in the background. Nothing I can do about that. Episode music can be found here: https://uppbeat.io/track/paulo-kalazzi/heros-time Day 2 will dive deeply into the historic context of the Israel-Palestine Conflict and the Gazan Genocide. Starting 3700 years ago this episode will hit the major beats of the story and attempt to make everything a little bit clearer, if not really easier to understand. Episode transcript follows: Hey, Hi, Hello, this is the History Wizard and welcome to Day 2 of Have a Day! w/ The History Wizard. Thank you for everyone who tuned in for Day 1 last week, and especially thank you to everyone who rated and/or reviewed the podcast. I hope you all learned something last week and I hope the same for this week. Today we're going to be discussing the Gazan Genocide, what is often called, in mainstream, Western, media the Israel-Palestine Conflict. However, we're not going to be starting in 2023, we're not even going to be starting in 1948. To the best of my abilities we are going to drill into the historic context of this genocide and the ongoing historic and ethnic tensions that exist in the region. Before we start with that context I would like to state for the record that what is being done to the people of Gaza is, unequivocally, a genocide. Now, to find the beginning of this we are going to have to go back about 3700 years to the Levantine region. The regions known as the Levant is comprised of the modern nations of Cyprus, parts of Turkey southwest of the Euphrates, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and of course Israel and Palestine. Both historical record and genetic testing of modern Jewish and Palestinian people show them both being descended from ancient Canaanite cultures. While Biblical narratives show the Israelites entering the region from Egypt and conquering the region under the command of Moses' successor Joshua. Modern archeology and the historical view has, however, discounted this. The Bible is not and should not ever be used as a valid historical source. Indeed, modern archeology and historical research shows that the Jewish ethnicity emerged naturally as an offshoot of the Canaanites in much the same way that the Palestinian ethnicity did. It is also interesting to note that historically, Palestine appears to have been a name for a region and not a distinct nation or kingdom. Indeed, during the seventh century BC, no fewer than eight nations were settled in Palestine. These included the Arameans of the kingdom of Geshur; the Samaritans who replaced the Israelite kingdom in Samaria; the Phoenicians in the northern cities and parts of Galilee; the Philistines in the Philistine pentapolis; the three kingdoms of the Transjordan– Ammon, Moab and Edom; and the Judaeans of Kingdom of Judah. The first written record of the region being called Palestine, by the way, comes from 12th century BCE Egypt, which used the term Peleset for the area. Around 720 BCE, Kingdom of Israel was destroyed when it was conquered by the Neo-Assyrian Empire, which came to dominate the ancient Near East. Under the Assyrian resettlement policy, a significant portion of the northern Israelite population was exiled to Mesopotamia and replaced by immigrants from the same region. During the same period, and throughout the 7th century BCE, the Kingdom of Judah, experienced a period of economic, as well as population growth. Later in the same century, the Assyrians were defeated by the rising Neo-Babylonian Empire, and Judah became its vassal. In 587 BCE, following a revolt in Judah, the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II besieged and destroyed Jerusalem and the First Temple, putting an end to the kingdom. The majority of Jerusalem's residents, including the kingdom's elite, were exiled to Babylon. This marks the first historic diaspora of Jewish people from their indigenous homeland. Jewish people in the region enjoyed a brief period of political independence and national sovereignty following the Maccabean Revolt. This would only last for a few brief decades before the area would be conquered by the Romans. During the first Roman-Jewish War Jerusalem and the Second Temple, which has been built back in about 516 BCE were both destroyed. From that point on Roman rule would crack down even harder on Jewish people living in the empire. Many of these tensions were caused by the cultural and religions differences between the Romans and Jewish people. Their refusal to worship Roman gods and their refusal to venerate the emperor made them perpetual pariahs. Jewish communities would continue to resist Roman rule and oppression and this resistance would come to a violent head in events like the Kitos War and the Bar Kokhba Revolt. The Bar Kokhba revolt, led by Simon Bar Kokhba was certainly influenced by the Romans building a temple to Jupiter on the Temple Mount after the destruction of the Second Temple. The revolt, as with the First and Second Roman-Jewish Wars was a complete military defeat for the Jewish people. The Jewish Talmud relates that, when the fortress of Betar was besieged in 135 CE that the Romans went on killing until their horses were submerged in blood up to their nostrils. This revolt would result in Judea being literally wiped off the map. And I mean that quite literally, while the Jewish population was greatly reduced from the area, both by slaughter at the hands of the Romans and because many people were forced from the region, there was still and there has always been a Jewish population in the Levant. But any Roman map from after the Bar Kokhba Revolt would now show the region labeled as Syria Palestina. The Diaspora of Jewish people from Israel and Judea would result in Jewish populations congregating all around Eurasia. Jewish communities would settle near the Rhine, eventually collating into the Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity. Jewish communities would settle on the Iberian Peninsula and in Northern Africa collating into the Sephardi Jewish ethnicity. Jewish communities would also remain in the Middle East, in Syria Palestina (though they were forbidden by the Romans to live in Jerusalem) and collate into the Mizrahim Jewish ethnicity. There are also smaller Jewish ethnicities like the Bene Israel from India and the Beta Israel from Ethiopia. One of the conclusions that is important to take away at this point is that both Palestinians and Jewish people, Judaism being both a religion and an ethnicity, are indigenous to the lands of Israel and Palestine. I don't really care if you favor a one state or two state solution, but the fact of their mutual indigineousness is undeniable. Now, at this point we're going to take a huge jump forward in time to 1516 when Syria Palestina falls under Ottoman rule. As many ethnically Palestinian people had converted to Islam following the Islamic Conquests of the Middle East in the 7th century CE they were largely seen as good Ottoman citizens and interfered with very little. Jewish people, on the other hand, because they were not followers of Islam found themselves living under the dhimmi system. This was a common system under Muslim empires that allowed people to practice other religions, but with limited rights and at the cost of increased taxes. Some of the restrictions placed on Dhimmi were: In addition to other legal limitations, dhimmis were not considered equals to Muslims, despite being considered “people of the book” Their testimony against Muslims was inadmissible in courts of law wherein a Muslim could be punished; this meant that their testimony could only be considered in commercial cases. They were forbidden to carry weapons or ride atop horses and camels, and their houses could not overlook those of Muslims. All that being said, the lives of Jewish people in the Ottoman Empire were still demonstrably better than those of Jewish communities living in Europe and they were much more freely able to practice their religion. We're going to jump ahead again to the First Aliyah which took place between 1881 and 1903. Aliyah is a Hebrew word meaning “ascent”. There have been five “official” Aliyah throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. These Aliyah are periods of increased Jewish immigration to their ancestral homeland. This First Aliyah saw Jewish people, mostly from Eastern Europe and Yeman move to Ottoman Palestine because of an increased number of pogroms. Most of the Jewish people from Eastern Europe came from the Pale of Settlement and by 1903, saw about 25,000 Jewish people immigrate. This period also saw many thousands of Jewish people immigrate to the US in order to escape the ever increasing amounts of antisemitic violence around Europe. This First Aliyah also marks, more or less, the beginning of the Zionist movement. Political Zionism as a movement was founded by Theodor Herzl in the late 19th century. He saw antisemitism and antisemitic violence as an indelible part of any society in which Jewish people lived as minorities. He also believed that the only way a Jewish State could be established would be with the help of European powers. He also described the Jewish State as an outpost of civilization against Barbarism and compared himself to Cecil Rhodes. So, safe to say that Herzl was not a man with good intentions for the people that would become his neighbors. Throughout the first decade of the Zionist movement, there were several instances where some Zionist figures, including Herzl, supported a Jewish state in places outside Palestine, such as "Uganda" (actually parts of British East Africa today in Kenya), Argentina, Cyprus, Mesopotamia, Mozambique, and the Sinai Peninsula.] Herzl, was initially content with any Jewish self-governed state. Jewish settlement of Argentina was the project of Maurice de Hirsch. It is unclear if Herzl seriously considered this alternative plan, and he later reaffirmed that Palestine would have greater attraction because of the historic ties of Jewish people to that area. This, as it was always going to, brings us to the Balfour Declaration. As soon as World War I began the Great Powers of Europe began deciding how they were going to carve up the Ottoman Empire, the Sick Man of Europe, like a Thanksgiving turkey. The Balfour Declaration was part of this planning. The declaration was a public statement issued by the British government in 1917 stating their support for a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine. The entire Declaration reads as follows: His Majesty's Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country. They clearly failed in all regards of their declaration after the first statement. The end of World War I saw the League of Nations place Palestine under British colonial control, leading to the creation of Mandatory Palestine in 1920, with the League officially giving Britain a Class A mandate in 1922. Britain was originally supposed to guarantee Arab independence following the defeat of the Ottomans in exchange for the Great Arab Revolt that took place against Ottoman rule. The creation of Mandatory Palestine and the existence of the Balfour declaration was partially responsible for Jewish immigration over the next 30 years. As Jewish immigration increased, Palestinian peasants, known as fellahin (fellahin were often tenant farmers or other such peoples who didn't own the land they worked) were forced off the land they worked to survive. These tensions would result in small-scale conflicts between Jewish and Arab people living in Mandatory Palestine, though the first conflict of real historic note would be the Great Palestinian Revolt of 1936. The revolt lasted until 1939. It was a popular uprising of Palestinian Arabs that demanded Arab independence and and end to open-ended Jewish immigration to Palestine. The revolt eventually ended with the issuance of the White Paper in 1939. The White Paper was going to attempt to create a national home for the Jewish people within an independent Palestine within 10 years. However this proposal was rejected by both the Arab and Zionist sides of the negotiation. Before the White Paper, and before the massive violence of the Great Revolt was an Arab General strike that lasted for 6 months in order to try and get their voices heard. This led to the creation of the Peel Commission, which recommended partitioning Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. This plan was, like the White Paper that would come after it, rejected by both sides. Of force everything would change after World War 2. After the war the British Mandate for Palestine was dissolved and the Israeli Declaration of Independence was issued later that same day. This declaration came as part of the UN partition plan which was outlined in UN Resolution 181 (II). The Resolution set forth to create an Independent Jewish State, an Independent Arab State and a Special International Regime for the City of Jerusalem. This UN Resolution came during the context of the 1947 Civil War in Mandatory Palestine which began after the UN initially voted on the partition plan resolution. This war would have far reaching consequences for everyone in the region and would lead to events like the Nakba and the Israeli government initiating Plan Dalet. Nakba, an Arabic word meaning Catastrophe, refers to the initial ethnic cleansing of Palestinians from their homes following the 1947 Civil War and the broader 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Some 750,000 Palestinian people were forced to flee their homes and their country after the First Arab Israeli War saw Israel in control of all of the land the UN had granted them in the partition plan as well as roughly 60% of the land that was to be Palestine. Causes of Arab flight from Palestine include: Jewish military advances, destruction of Arab villages, psychological warfare and fears of another massacre by Zionist militias after the Deir Yassin massacre, which caused many to leave out of panic; direct expulsion orders by Israeli authorities; the voluntary self-removal of the wealthier classes; collapse in Palestinian leadership and Arab evacuation orders. This period of time would also see many thousands of Jewish people expelled from the surrounding Muslim countries. As you might expect the majority of those people would move to Israel. While we can see that tensions in the region and Zionist abuses of Palestinian people existed before this point, if we HAD to point to a single moment that defined the entire conflict, ethnic cleansing, and genocide it would be this moment. Following the flight of the majority of the Palestinians from Palestine, Israel passed a number of laws, known as Israel land and property laws, disallowing the Palestinians their right to return to their homes in Palestine. Wars would continue over the decades, but the point at which things start to get particularly heinous comes at the end of the Six Day War, also known as the Arab Israeli War. Following this war, which Israel fought against Syria, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq, Israel now had control of the Golan Heights, The West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, and the Sinai Peninsula leaving very little land still under Palestinian sovereign control. Israel would eventually cede the Sinai Peninsula back to Egypt in 1978 as part of the Camp David Accords in exchange for peace and Egyptian recognition of the State of Israel. They retained control over the rest of the territories they had seized. The actions of Israel during this time put increasing strain on Palestinians as more and more of them were forced into refugee camps, and while Gaza is technically under the control of the Palestinian Liberation Organization and Hamas and the West Bank is under the partial control of the Palestinian National Authority both still find themselves heavily under the control of the Israeli government and military. Especially since October of 2023. Human Rights Watch, a non-government organization, considers Israel to still be an invading and occupying force in these two Palestinian regions. The two of which are separated from each other by the nation of Israel. “Even though Israel unilaterally withdrew its troops and settlements from Gaza in 2005, it continues to have obligations as an occupying power in Gaza under the Fourth Geneva Convention because of its almost complete control over Gaza's borders, sea and air space, tax revenue, utilities, population registry, and the internal economy of Gaza. At a minimum, Israel continues to be responsible for the basic welfare of the Palestinian population in Gaza.” We actually have to backtrack a little bit here before we can finally catch up to the modern day. We need to pop back to 1987, the First Intifada, and the creation of Hamas. The First Intifada lasted from December 1987 until, basically the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993, although some date the end in 1991 with the Madrid Conference. The Intifafa, or Uprising, was a sustained series of protests, strikes, and riots that began after an IDF truck hit another car carrying Palestinian workers, all four of whom died in the crash. Now, where does Hamas come into this, well in the long history of the Western world, they were created by the people they now fight against. Hamas, in the beginning of its existence, received funding from the Israeli government to act as a counterweight against the more moderate elements of the PLO. Israel would then turn around and try and destroy Hamas when they started to get too powerful. It was Hamas who was behind the October 7th Attacks on Israel. Hamas, by the way, has been the defacto ruling party of Gaza since 2007. Hamas said its attack was in response to the continued Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories, the blockade of the Gaza Strip, the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements, rising Israeli settler violence, and recent escalations. The attack on October 7th began with some 300 missiles being fired into Israeli territory along with coordinated attacks at locations and events like the Re'im Music Festival and various kibbutz's such as Kfar Aza and Be'eri. The attack lasted into the 8th of October and saw 1,143 people killed, 767 of whom were civilians and 36 of whom were children. Also roughly 250 civilians and soldiers were taken hostage with the intent of using them to try and secure the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israel. It does bear mentioning that Israel has knowledge of such an attack a year in advance, according to the New York Times, but dismissed it as impossible. Since this attack by Hamas Israel has been increasing the violence and slaughter that it is committing against the Palestinian people. In the name of their alleged war with Hamas Israel has forced the people of Gaza to move farther and farther to the south as they bombed the northern part of the Strip to glass. Today most of the surviving population of Gaza, some 1.5 million people are forced to live in the city of Rafah, a city that they were told they'd be safe in. They is no longer the case as Israel is now bombing Rafah as well. Israel has also been blockading Gaza since 2007 and, effectively, has complete control over the food, water, electricity, and medicine that gets into Gaza. Part of this control comes from the fact that Israel keeps bombing hospitals, like they did with Al Shifa in November of 2023. Israel claims that Hamas was using the hospital as a staging ground, despite this being proven false by independent investigations. We know from our previous video that genocide isn't just the mass slaughter of a particular group of people. It is also inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about the physical destruction of the group in whole or in part. By this definition, concentrating 1.5 million people into a small area without adequate food, water, or medicine, and then bombing that area demonstrates clear intent to destroy. An even more clear example of this intent was the Flour Massacre that occurred on February 29, 2024. On that day Israel let food aid into Gaza after over a month of not letting anything through their blockade. When people lined up to receive this aid, the Israeli military shot them. The Israeli military set a deliberate trap to lure in starving civilians and then shot and killed over 100 people. We also have massive amounts of intent demonstrated in the words of members of the Israeli government. Such as with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant called the people of Gaza Human Animals and said that they would allow no food or water to get in. Or when Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister said they'd turn Gaza into a deserted island. There can be no denying the genocide in Gaza. None whatsoever. The actions of the Israeli government are inexcusable and must be condemned with all possible haste. We are in the midst of a genocide, and so if you've ever wondered what you would have done during something like the Holocaust, now you know. Whatever you're doing now, is what you would have done then. Hopefully what we covered today will provide some needed context for everything that is going on right now. I don't know if it will make anything clearer, and I doubt it will provide you with any solutions, but just because you learn information doesn't mean you can necessarily apply it. Thank you for joining me for Day 2. This was a very heavy topic and next week will not get any lighter. Next week we will be diving into the history and context of the ongoing trans genocide that is currently ongoing in the United States. Last thing we're gonna do today before we do is the outro is read some reviews that came in on Apple Podcasts over the week. I say over the week, all three of these came in on the 21st. 2 of them came from Canada! And now my notes say “read the reviews* Oh… wait, that was something i was supposed to DO. Not an actual sentence i was supposed to read. I hope i remember to edit this out… Have a Day! w/ The History Wizard is brought to you by me, The History Wizard. PLease remember to rate, review, and subscribe to Have a Day! On your pod catcher of choice. The more you do, the more people will be able to listen and learn along with you. Thank you for sticking around until the end and, as always, Have a Day and Free Palestine.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIVTrust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.2 KINGS 13:15-19 NIVElisha said, “Get a bow and some arrows,” and he did so. 16 “Take the bow in your hands,” he said to the king of Israel. When he had taken it, Elisha put his hands on the king's hands.17 “Open the east window,” he said, and he opened it. “Shoot!” Elisha said, and he shot. “The Lord's arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram!” Elisha declared. “You will completely destroy the Arameans at Aphek.”18 Then he said, “Take the arrows,” and the king took them. Elisha told him, “Strike the ground.” He struck it three times and stopped. 19 The man of God was angry with him and said, “You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.” Key #1 - Get a Word from God Key #2 - Stay focused on what's importantGalatians 1:10 NLTObviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant. Key #3 - Take God directed persistent action2 KINGS 13:18-19 NIV“Then he said, ‘Take the arrows,' and the king took them. Elisha told him, ‘Strike the ground.' He struck it three times and stopped. The man of God was angry with him and said, ‘You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.'
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIVTrust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.2 KINGS 13:15-19 NIVElisha said, “Get a bow and some arrows,” and he did so. 16 “Take the bow in your hands,” he said to the king of Israel. When he had taken it, Elisha put his hands on the king's hands.17 “Open the east window,” he said, and he opened it. “Shoot!” Elisha said, and he shot. “The Lord's arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram!” Elisha declared. “You will completely destroy the Arameans at Aphek.”18 Then he said, “Take the arrows,” and the king took them. Elisha told him, “Strike the ground.” He struck it three times and stopped. 19 The man of God was angry with him and said, “You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.” Key #1 - Get a Word from God Key #2 - Stay focused on what's importantGalatians 1:10 NLTObviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant. Key #3 - Take God directed persistent action2 KINGS 13:18-19 NIV“Then he said, ‘Take the arrows,' and the king took them. Elisha told him, ‘Strike the ground.' He struck it three times and stopped. The man of God was angry with him and said, ‘You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.'
Join Julia Jeffress Sadler as she takes us on an incredible adventure in Episode 108. In today's episode, we dive into the exciting story of Elisha and the Aramean army from the book of 2 Kings. Listen as we explore how Elisha, a man chosen by God, uses his faith to protect the king of Israel from the sneaky plans of the Arameans. You'll be amazed to hear about Elisha's prayer to God, resulting in a miraculous vision of fiery chariots and his clever trick to lead the blinded Aramean soldiers to safety, teaching us about mercy and God's protection. Join us for this thrilling biblical adventure that shows the power of faith and kindness! Sign up to receive Kids Bible in a Year devotionals in your inbox every weekday: https://www.kidsbibleinayear.com/ Get ready to experience the Bible designed specifically for children with the official KidsBibleinaYear.com podcast, led by Julia Jeffress Sadler. This captivating audio series presents the age-old wisdom of the Bible in an engaging format that will captivate your kids. Each episode Julia translates biblical teachings into real-life applications, making Bible comprehension a breeze for young minds. And if you want more Christian resources and content, you can download the Pray.com app. Pray.com is the digital destination for faith, offering over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime Bible stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible. For more resources on how to live a successful Christian life, visit Julia Jeffress Sadler's website at https://ptv.org/julia/. This episode is sponsored by Little Passports. Visit LittlePassports.com/blessed and use promo code BLESSED to receive 20% off. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the next seven or eight episodes of Bible Fiber, I will debrief you on the major Peoples of the Bible: the Canaanites, Philistines, Assyrians, Babylonians, Arameans, and Hittites. We will do an overview of their history, language, politics, and religion. And I will outline how, when, and why each group interacted with biblical Israel. We are going to start with the Assyrians, because they are the empire in the Bible that gets the most textual real-estate, especially in the prophets.
Pastor Dale Benson 1 Samuel 17:1-11 (NLT) Saul and his army felt trapped. They were being challenged to fight a battle they didn't think they could win. They were being called out as individuals. Every man in Saul's army had to admit that they were not able to fight the giant. They were being tormented, bullied, belittled, and made to feel worthless. There is a story written in 1 Kings 6 that long precedes the story we are looking at today. It a story of a king sending an army to attack and kill Elisha. The servant of Elisha goes outside in the morning to prepare food and sees their city besieged and surrounded by the forces of the Arameans. He goes to Elisha to warn him, but Elisha seems unfazed by the hypersensitivity of the servant. Elisha simply asks God to open the eyes of the servant, to reveal to him that “those who are with us are greater than those who are against us.” When the servant's eyes are opened, he sees that surrounding the entire hillside was a larger army with chariots of fire. You see. . . They were surrounded by more than just the enemy! They were surrounded by God's provision. WHO IS GOING TO FIGHT OUR BATTLE? What happens in the valley of Elah is that Saul forgets the story of Elisha and the Arameans. Saul has his eyes too fixed on the enemy he is facing, rather than the God for whom he is fighting. The obvious warrior to battle Goliath was Saul. Saul's army knew, we may be up against a Giant, but we know that we have a King and leader who was chosen to lead us. According to Samuel's account, Saul was the most handsome man in all of Israel, and he stood head and shoulders above anyone else. Saul's eyes are on the size of the enemy. The size of the giant. The size of the possible failure. It's good to be king. It's good to be in charge. It's good to be adored. Who would want to lose that power and position? Not Saul. So, he lays down his weapons and armor and asks for another volunteer to face Goliath. When you believe everything depends on you, it is so much easier to pass the buck than to face defeat yourself. So, Saul calls on his fighting men, yet no one answers the call. Until a small ruddy faced shepherd boy named David shows up on the scene. Saul gives him his armor. His sword, shield, and helmet. It is much too large for this small shepherd boy to wear, because this was not supposed to be his battle. The person picked for this battle was Saul, but Saul could only see a giant, and defeat and shame. THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S A teenage Shepherd boy named David has no armor, sword, or shield, just a sling and 5 smooth stones. But that is not his real weapon. His real weapon is the God he serves, and the faith he has in that God. 1 Samuel 17:45-47 (NLT) The battle is the Lord's. But is it still our watch. Are you ready to RISE UP? We have a goal to complete the preparation for the new field house. It will create the infrastructure for the Fieldhouse along with water retention to get us up to code, a beautiful pond, a new baseball diamond, playground, and shelter house. Places for our community to continue to gather and play and hear of the faithfulness of God. To our online congregation, take a moment and write your commitment on a piece of paper and lay it down in front of you. Go to https://thenaz.church/riseup and click the pledge button to make your pledge, or the give button to give a gift. We want you to join in with us as well. There will be directions on there for you to receive your reminder of this moment. . . Of the armor God has given you for the giants we will face. But more than a reminder of the commitment, let it be a reminder of the battles that God has prepared you for. The armor he has given you. We do not fight with sword and spear, but with salvation, and faith, and prayer, righteousness, and the Word of God. We enter the battles knowing that He has already won!
And the Arameans. Laban and family were Arameans. Thank you for listening! Please share and subscribe! Please leave a 6 star review!
The story of the seige of Israel by the Arameans is strange to be sure. One of the strangest parts is that the woman approaches the king to ask for justice (??) because the other mother has not given up her son to be cannibalized along with this woman's son. Who are these two women? Whom do they represent? The text of Kings and the Old Testament has given us clues. Always, there is more going on than the surface of the text easily gives up. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eatscripture/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eatscripture/support
The story of the seige of Israel by the Arameans is strange to be sure. One of the strangest parts is that the woman approaches the king to ask for justice (??) because the other mother has not given up her son to be cannibalized along with this woman's son. Who are these two women? Whom do they represent? The text of Kings and the Old Testament has given us clues. Always, there is more going on than the surface of the text easily gives up. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eatscripture/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eatscripture/support
2 Kings 7 - 1:08 . 2 Kings 8 - 6:32 . 2 Kings 9 - 13:18 . Psalm 119:129-144 - 20:17 . When we last left our reading covering the kingdom of Israel, the Arameans had laid siege against Samaria, Israel's capital city. This means that they were blocking people from going in or out so that the people might starve. The king of Israel, most likely Joram, son of Ahab, sends a messenger to Elisha, threatening him with violence. Today, Elisha predicts that they will soon be so flooded with food and grain that it will be hard to sell at even a fraction of its cost. Later, Jehu (a military commander) will be anointed as the next king of Israel by decree of Elisha and by a messenger sent by the prophet to anoint Jehu with oil. The newly anointed king then sets out to put an end to the house of Ahab.:::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2 Kings 5 - 1:05 . 2 Kings 6 - 8:54 . Psalm 119:113-128 - 16:03 . Today's episode contains some particularly gruesome imagery for children; parental discretion is advised. The kings and kingdoms of the land are growing increasingly chaotic and tumultuous, but in the midst of the chaos, the Lord continues to work and speak through his prophet, Elisha. An Aramean army commander comes to Elisha to be healed, but when Elisha doesn't give him the respect he thinks he deserves, he almost rejects the offer out of hand. Later, the Arameans try to capture Elisha but he diffuses them with hospitality. Not long after, the Arameans lay siege to Israel, surrounding Samaria in order to cause a famine, and the people take evil & desperate measures to try and survive. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
2 Kings 5 - 1:22 . 2 Kings 6 - 9:12 . 2 Kings 7 - 17:03 . Psalm 99 - 22:37 . On today's episode, an Aramean army commander comes to Elisha to be healed, but when Elisha doesn't give him the respect he thinks he deserves, he almost rejects the offer out of hand. Later, the Arameans try to capture Elisha but he diffuses them with hospitality. Not long after, the Arameans lay siege to Israel, surrounding Samaria in order to cause a famine, and the people take desperate measures. The king of Israel becomes enraged and sends for Elisha that he might kill him. When the messenger arrives, Elisha declares that a miraculous turn of events is just a day away.:::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson, and the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Samuel 10. When King David sends his envoys to express condolences to the Ammonite king after the passing of his father, they are met with suspicion and humiliation. Fueled by wounded pride, the Ammonites join forces with the Arameans, their allies, and prepare for war against Israel. Sensing the impending threat, David dispatches Joab, his trusted general, to lead the Israelite army into battle. What follows is a harrowing tale of strategic warfare, shifting alliances, and the quest for victory in the face of overwhelming odds. 2 Samuel tells how David becomes the king of Israel and faces both success and failure. It shows YHWH's faithfulness to His promise and David's need for His mercy. Through this book, God reveals David in times of both strength and weakness, but nevertheless as a man after God's heart.
The Rev. Matthew Knauss associate pastor of Community Lutheran Church in Escondido, CA, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study 2 Samuel 8-9. David's remarkable military victories as the king of Israel are recounted. He defeats the Philistines, the Moabites, the Arameans, and the Edomites, and establishes his authority over the surrounding nations. He dedicates the spoils of war to the Lord and appoints officials to administer justice and peace in his kingdom. David then seeks out any surviving member of Saul's family and finds Mephibosheth, Jonathan's crippled son. He restores to him all the land that belonged to Saul and invites him to eat at his table as one of his sons. 2 Samuel tells how David becomes the king of Israel and faces both success and failure. It shows YHWH's faithfulness to His promise and David's need for His mercy. Through this book, God reveals David in times of both strength and weakness, but nevertheless as a man after God's heart.
We're back! This episode we cover 2 Kings, chapters 1-12. Elijah's time comes to an end, but his young apprentice Elisha is just beginning to make a name for himself (which would probably be easier with pretty much any other name). Soon, he's enthralling crowds with necromancy, floating axes, and tasty stew. Meanwhile, Israel and Judah go through about a million more kings and good luck keeping the names straight. And of course, it wouldn't be the bible without some massacre. Arameans, Baal worshipers, and mischievous children. None are safe if Elisha has anything to say about it.Support the show
DAVID'S KINGDOM faced a strong test from his neighbors to the east and north as a coalition of Ammonites and Arameans tried to take down the new Israelite kingdom. We discuss the nearly identical accounts in 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles and the wonderful attitude of David's nephew and general Joab: “Be of good courage, and let us be courageous for our people, and for the cities of our God, and may the Lord do what seems good to him.” Help us Build Barn Better! This is our project to convert our 1,200 square foot shop building from a place to park our yard tractor into usable studio and warehouse space. In 2023, we plan to fix the holes in the walls, replace windows, insulate the building, install an HVAC system, and move our studios and book/DVD warehouse and shipping office out of our home. If you are so led, you can donate by clicking here. Get our free app! It connects you to these studies plus our weekly video programs, SciFriday, Unraveling Revelation, and A View from the Bunker. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at www.gilberthouse.org/app/. Join us in Israel! Our 2024 tour of Israel features special guest Timothy Alberino! We will tour the Holy Land March 31–April 9, 2024, with an optional three-day extension in Jordan. For more information, log on to www.GilbertsInIsrael.com. Please subscribe and share our YouTube channel, www.YouTube.com/GilbertHouse! Check out our online store! www.GilbertHouse.org/store is a virtual book table with books and DVDs related to our weekly Bible study. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site!
DAVID'S KINGDOM expanded outward in all directions, possibly reaching as far as the Euphrates in northern Syria. This week, we read the records of David's wars against the Arameans of Damascus and Zobah to the north, the small kingdoms east of the Jordan (Ammon, Moab, and Edom), and the Amalekites in the south. We discuss the historical context of David's reign and the recent discovery of an Iron Age kingdom in southern Turkey and northern Syria, known from inscriptions as Palistin (and probably related to the Philistines who settled between Israel and Egypt), whose best-known king, Taita, may be the Toi/Tou mentioned in 2 Sam. 8 and 1 Chr. 18. We also discuss David's kindness to Jonathan's son Mephibosheth, something that would have been unusual in a time when preserving the life of a male descendant of the former king, Saul, would have been unusual. Help us Build Barn Better! This is our project to convert our 1,200 square foot shop building from a place to park our yard tractor into usable studio and warehouse space. In 2023, we plan to fix the holes in the walls, replace windows, insulate the building, install an HVAC system, and move our studios and book/DVD warehouse and shipping office out of our home. If you are so led, you can donate by clicking here. Get our free app! It connects you to these studies plus our weekly video programs, SciFriday, Unraveling Revelation, and A View from the Bunker. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at www.gilberthouse.org/app/. Join us in Israel! Our 2024 tour of Israel features special guest Timothy Alberino! We will tour the Holy Land March 31–April 9, 2024, with an optional three-day extension in Jordan. For more information, log on to www.GilbertsInIsrael.com. Please subscribe and share our YouTube channel, www.YouTube.com/GilbertHouse! Check out our online store! www.GilbertHouse.org/store is a virtual book table with books and DVDs related to our weekly Bible study. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site!