Podcasts about i chronicles

I Chronicles 7-10

I Chronicles 6

I Chronicles 3-5

I Chronicles 7-10

I Chronicles 6

I Chronicles 3-5

In this Bible Story, David comes to the realization that the Lord should have a temple built for him. Nathan the prophet agrees, and speaks for the Lord saying his kingdom would be established forever. The Lord blesses all of David’s exploits, and the kingdom of Israel continues to grow day by day. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 7-8 & 4:4 & I Chronicles 17-18. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 7:2 from the King James Version.Episode 100: As David looks around at his luxurious new home, he is struck by the sudden urge to build a better home for God. So he holds counsel with Nathan the Prophet and Nathan encourages him and prays for him. That night, Nathan receives a promise from God for David, a promise that God will build up the household of David. David exemplified what it meant for a leader to follow God. He worshiped God both in battle and in praise and he taught the nation to do the same.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I Chronicles 1-2

I Chronicles 1-2

Join SU President, Gail Martin and guest Janet Morgan, SU-USA Executive Vice President, as they discuss a new week's readings in the book of I Chronicles. You can subscribe to the daily Bible reading God, Encounter with God, via print, email or online at www.ScriptureUnion.org Featured Guest: Janet Morgan, SU-USA Executive Vice PresidentJanet Morgan previously served as SU International Director, responsible for the oversight of the SU Movements in all 120 countries around the globe. She is currently sharing her wealth of experience and wisdom with the ministry of SU-USA as part of the executive leadership team.

I Chronicles ; ch 21 vs 14-30 - Jay Atkins - Sunday, May 4, 2025

As Americans, we don't often think about the fact that it is practically a miracle the United States even exists. As children, we were born into a story of stability and prosperity, the likes of which the world has never seen. As we grew older and read history, we began to wonder that it actually did happen. Thirteen colonies, each with their own ideas of what government should look like, and also vastly different perspectives on slavery, taxation, and states' rights (verses a more centralized form of government). There was a lot of fear, if you were in the middle of it. I suppose the old saying is true, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Then, to overcome a superpower in battlefields drenched with blood to form a new nation—amazing.            It really gets fun then: how do we now live in solidarity together? Lot of fear there, as well. If you wonder why chapter 22 in I Chronicles (which we looked at last week) and chapters 28 and 29 (which we will look at this week and next) keep repeating the same things, with variations along the way, it is because there must be a lot of fear. Israel has no experience at nationhood. They have a king that has brought stability, unity, and economic and social stability like never before, but he is about to die. The heir, his son, is young and inexperienced (the words of his own dad). What could possibly go wrong?             So here we are, and King David confronts this fear as he assembles all the leaders of Israel together with his son and gives them a commission to build the temple. He is, in essence, securing the throne and temple. As we come to the conclusion of this epic portion of scripture, it all comes together.            I hope you will join us. It will be a great Sunday of celebration, as we receive new members to our family and also put the sign of God's covenant love and membership on our children. If that is not a recipe for joy unspeakable, then it is all lost on me!

As Americans, we don't often think about the fact that it is practically a miracle the United States even exists. As children, we were born into a story of stability and prosperity, the likes of which the world has never seen. As we grew older and read history, we began to wonder that it actually did happen. Thirteen colonies, each with their own ideas of what government should look like, and also vastly different perspectives on slavery, taxation, and states' rights (verses a more centralized form of government). There was a lot of fear, if you were in the middle of it. I suppose the old saying is true, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Then, to overcome a superpower in battlefields drenched with blood to form a new nation—amazing.            It really gets fun then: how do we now live in solidarity together? Lot of fear there, as well. If you wonder why chapter 22 in I Chronicles (which we looked at last week) and chapters 28 and 29 (which we will look at this week and next) keep repeating the same things, with variations along the way, it is because there must be a lot of fear. Israel has no experience at nationhood. They have a king that has brought stability, unity, and economic and social stability like never before, but he is about to die. The heir, his son, is young and inexperienced (the words of his own dad). What could possibly go wrong?             So here we are, and King David confronts this fear as he assembles all the leaders of Israel together with his son and gives them a commission to build the temple. He is, in essence, securing the throne and temple. As we come to the conclusion of this epic portion of scripture, it all comes together.            I hope you will join us. It will be a great Sunday of celebration, as we receive new members to our family and also put the sign of God's covenant love and membership on our children. If that is not a recipe for joy unspeakable, then it is all lost on me!

Scripture References: James 1:17; 4:2-3; Matthew 5:17; 6:7-8; Isaiah 55:6;; Jeremiah 29:3; Proverbs 8:17; I Chronicles 28:9 0:00-1:09: Opening Worship and Prayer 1:10-33:07: Sermon and Closing Prayer 33:09-33:25: Closing Worship

Sunday Evening- Pastor Larson- Exodus 30:30-33, I Chronicles 23:27-32

One would think that once all the external adversaries are put to rest, things would get easier for the Israelites, but as we see in our text this week (and in other texts throughout the Bible), the real adversary is usually not out there—some external threat—but rather the real threat is internal. I tell people all the time that I sleep with the devil, and I don't mean Teri! As G. K. Chesterton said years ago in response to a question posed by a newspaper, What is wrong with the world?, Chesterton wrote back, "Dear Sir, 'I am.' Yours, G. K Chesterton.” While that might be an apocryphal story, the sentiment rings true. Woe be unto anyone who thinks differently.            We really see that in our text this week. David seems to do quite well when the threats are around him, external and obvious—a lion, a giant, a deranged king hunting him, large armies seeking to devour his people. Yet the real threat to David (and to us) is not the giants he (or we) must face, but dealing with the desires and motivations of our own heart.             David takes a census of his fighting men. We might ask, what is wrong with that? I mean, there is precedent for such actions in other places in the Bible. Some might consider it a move of wisdom at some new provocation by an adversary, but here it kindles God's wrath against David. David is even warned by Joab, who is himself no paragon of virtue, not to do this. So while David's sin with Bathsheba doesn't get press in I Chronicles (leading some to accuse the writer of whitewashing David's sin), here we see the man after God's own heart with his own heart laid bare.            There is a lot here, in this rather dramatic passage: sin, grace, angels, devils. It reads like a dramatic movie; and yet, at the end of the day, if we can see ourselves in the story, it is an amazing story of grace that is greater than all our sins and the God who uses even our sin to make a dance floor for his own glory.            I can't wait to talk about this with you, but first, I must go cheer on the Tigers (and also ponder my smashed bracket!). 

One would think that once all the external adversaries are put to rest, things would get easier for the Israelites, but as we see in our text this week (and in other texts throughout the Bible), the real adversary is usually not out there—some external threat—but rather the real threat is internal. I tell people all the time that I sleep with the devil, and I don't mean Teri! As G. K. Chesterton said years ago in response to a question posed by a newspaper, What is wrong with the world?, Chesterton wrote back, "Dear Sir, 'I am.' Yours, G. K Chesterton.” While that might be an apocryphal story, the sentiment rings true. Woe be unto anyone who thinks differently.            We really see that in our text this week. David seems to do quite well when the threats are around him, external and obvious—a lion, a giant, a deranged king hunting him, large armies seeking to devour his people. Yet the real threat to David (and to us) is not the giants he (or we) must face, but dealing with the desires and motivations of our own heart.             David takes a census of his fighting men. We might ask, what is wrong with that? I mean, there is precedent for such actions in other places in the Bible. Some might consider it a move of wisdom at some new provocation by an adversary, but here it kindles God's wrath against David. David is even warned by Joab, who is himself no paragon of virtue, not to do this. So while David's sin with Bathsheba doesn't get press in I Chronicles (leading some to accuse the writer of whitewashing David's sin), here we see the man after God's own heart with his own heart laid bare.            There is a lot here, in this rather dramatic passage: sin, grace, angels, devils. It reads like a dramatic movie; and yet, at the end of the day, if we can see ourselves in the story, it is an amazing story of grace that is greater than all our sins and the God who uses even our sin to make a dance floor for his own glory.            I can't wait to talk about this with you, but first, I must go cheer on the Tigers (and also ponder my smashed bracket!). 

I Chronicles 21 - Abdel Judeh - Sunday Evening, March 16, 2025 by First Baptist Church of Hammond

I can still remember the realization that settled on me, as I sat in my study in Greenville, Mississippi, three months after moving my family there to plant a church. I was in a miserable office with no windows in the top floor of a bank building. My second child had just been born, so I was sleep deprived, and it was dawning on me that I had no idea what I was doing. It was not for lack of prayer, I assure you. Church planters are desperate people. I was praying for revival, for a moment of God's grace; they were lofty prayers, good prayers. Church planting is a precarious vocation—you are only guaranteed a job for a short period, and, if things don't work out, you polish up the resume.  At that time, I didn't have the theological categories, as I do now, to articulate what I was wrestling with, but I did know a few true things. I knew I couldn't save anyone—that was God's business. I also knew that, if all I did was pray like a monk in a monastery of silence, it would not move the needle, at least for my calling. I was paralyzed and scared to death. Then I realized another thing, and it was from both an observation in the Bible and also from reading church history: God blesses effort. In other words, I couldn't achieve the promise of seeing the gospel spread and people thrive by sheer force of will and personality, but nor could I plant a church by passively praying for God to convert sinners.            This Sunday we walk into another mystery—how God moves the Kingdom forward, both in small places like our homes or in larger places like a church that is seeking to bless a town. We see a glorious model of this as we see David's response to God negating his will and instead giving him a bigger promise that He will build David a house. David prays in humble thanksgiving, and then he moves out to participate in the promise God has given him.             Most of Christianity involves learning to pray and seek God's face, but that is not all; we are then called to participate in our frail flesh with the promises God has made. As one man put it, “…it's impossible to know God through private prayer without equally participating with God in public mercy.” (Tyler Staton, “Praying like Monks, Living Like Fools,” YouVersion, 10 Day Bible Reading Plan) Simple, but hard and risky. That, or something like that, is where we find ourselves in our text in I Chronicles. I can't wait to explore it together on Sunday.

I can still remember the realization that settled on me, as I sat in my study in Greenville, Mississippi, three months after moving my family there to plant a church. I was in a miserable office with no windows in the top floor of a bank building. My second child had just been born, so I was sleep deprived, and it was dawning on me that I had no idea what I was doing. It was not for lack of prayer, I assure you. Church planters are desperate people. I was praying for revival, for a moment of God's grace; they were lofty prayers, good prayers. Church planting is a precarious vocation—you are only guaranteed a job for a short period, and, if things don't work out, you polish up the resume.  At that time, I didn't have the theological categories, as I do now, to articulate what I was wrestling with, but I did know a few true things. I knew I couldn't save anyone—that was God's business. I also knew that, if all I did was pray like a monk in a monastery of silence, it would not move the needle, at least for my calling. I was paralyzed and scared to death. Then I realized another thing, and it was from both an observation in the Bible and also from reading church history: God blesses effort. In other words, I couldn't achieve the promise of seeing the gospel spread and people thrive by sheer force of will and personality, but nor could I plant a church by passively praying for God to convert sinners.            This Sunday we walk into another mystery—how God moves the Kingdom forward, both in small places like our homes or in larger places like a church that is seeking to bless a town. We see a glorious model of this as we see David's response to God negating his will and instead giving him a bigger promise that He will build David a house. David prays in humble thanksgiving, and then he moves out to participate in the promise God has given him.             Most of Christianity involves learning to pray and seek God's face, but that is not all; we are then called to participate in our frail flesh with the promises God has made. As one man put it, “…it's impossible to know God through private prayer without equally participating with God in public mercy.” (Tyler Staton, “Praying like Monks, Living Like Fools,” YouVersion, 10 Day Bible Reading Plan) Simple, but hard and risky. That, or something like that, is where we find ourselves in our text in I Chronicles. I can't wait to explore it together on Sunday.

A Study of I Chronicles 27:28 on the importance of serving in the secret place.

A Study of I Chronicles 27:28 on the importance of serving in the secret place.

Introduction I Corinthians 14:26 God deserves worship! I Chronicles 28:9 Proverbs 3:19 Psalms 139:14 – My existence depends on God and David…

It is abrupt, to say the least. When reading I Chronicles, after slogging through nine chapters of lists of people, suddenly and unexpectedly you are whisked away into a narrative about the death of the king. I mean, you have been lulled to sleep by names you can't pronounce, skimming over the names at times, glancing to the bottom of the page to see how long it will go on. And then this?!—The king is dead. Make no mistake about it, chapter ten is about one thing: the King is dead. (It reminds me of the way A Christmas Carol starts off, but more on that Sunday.) Maybe that is the point, to rouse your slumbering soul to wake up and pay attention. This word of God comes to a people who, after wandering through the exile, find themselves back in their land and utterly lost. They don't know who they are or how to form a community shaped by God's Word. So God sends them a story of who they are—a story that connects them to their ancestors, who have been formed by God since the dawn of creation. The story might also serve as a cautionary tale, a word of hope, or both. In the death of the king? Yep, it is all there in our text this week, and we will talk about it this Sunday. I look forward to getting back into normal rhythms again. Make no mistake, I do love the chaos of the holidays but there is something satisfying about stepping back into the same ole patterns and habits—yet refreshed. Or you get may back into them just to catch some rest! Either way, I can't wait to see you all Sunday.  Also, don't forget our Epiphany Brunch in this Sunday at 9:15. The church will provide smoked ham and rolls. If your last name begins with A-M, bring something savory to share. Last names N-Z, bring something sweet. Happy New Year to all! 

It is abrupt, to say the least. When reading I Chronicles, after slogging through nine chapters of lists of people, suddenly and unexpectedly you are whisked away into a narrative about the death of the king. I mean, you have been lulled to sleep by names you can't pronounce, skimming over the names at times, glancing to the bottom of the page to see how long it will go on. And then this?!—The king is dead. Make no mistake about it, chapter ten is about one thing: the King is dead. (It reminds me of the way A Christmas Carol starts off, but more on that Sunday.) Maybe that is the point, to rouse your slumbering soul to wake up and pay attention. This word of God comes to a people who, after wandering through the exile, find themselves back in their land and utterly lost. They don't know who they are or how to form a community shaped by God's Word. So God sends them a story of who they are—a story that connects them to their ancestors, who have been formed by God since the dawn of creation. The story might also serve as a cautionary tale, a word of hope, or both. In the death of the king? Yep, it is all there in our text this week, and we will talk about it this Sunday. I look forward to getting back into normal rhythms again. Make no mistake, I do love the chaos of the holidays but there is something satisfying about stepping back into the same ole patterns and habits—yet refreshed. Or you get may back into them just to catch some rest! Either way, I can't wait to see you all Sunday.  Also, don't forget our Epiphany Brunch in this Sunday at 9:15. The church will provide smoked ham and rolls. If your last name begins with A-M, bring something savory to share. Last names N-Z, bring something sweet. Happy New Year to all! 

“Be sure to look them in the eye and say please and thank you.” If you grew up in home like mine, you constantly heard those words from your mother as she was training you to be kind and polite in social situations. I learned that lesson well and hope that we were successful in passing it on to our own kids. New research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has found that when family members show appreciation and gratitude to each other through saying “thank you”, relationships are strengthened and mental health improves. For married couples, showing gratitude to your partner improves relationship satisfaction and mental health. When a child expresses thanks to a parent, parenting stress is actually reduced. As Christian parents, we want to be sure to teach our kids that all good things come from God, including the gift of salvation. Point them to I Chronicles 16:34: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”

Questions Covered: 13:30 – In the parable of the servants who were left with talents, what is the meaning (if any) behind the servant with only 1 talent failing to multiply his goods but rather burying them? It can’t follow that having less (skill or what have you) means you’re more likely to fail God? Usually we find great reversals in the parables so this has me a bit puzzled if I’m missing something? Thanks  20:49 – 1 Kings 2 is often cited as evidence for the powerful intercession of the Queen Mother in David’s kingdom.  In this scene, although Solomon rises and bows before his mother, Bathsheba–and even brings out a throne for her to sit as his right!–he doesn’t actually grant her request.  In fact, he even puts Adonijah to death!  Should this passage be considered evidence for Mary’s intercession before her Son (as the fulfillment of the Davidic Kingdom), or are we who use this passage reading too much into it?  31:23 – Thank you! Can you help me formulate the best argument that the Bible is inspired by God to an unbeliever? Thanks.  37:19 – Why do other rites (besides the Roman) have their own canon law codes?  44:07 – What makes a sacrament a sacrament? I messaged a Lutheran content creator recently (because he called Purgatory a “Catholic Lie” and the conversation widened), and the Lutheran fellow very condescendingly spoke to Catholics (as well as Eastern Orthodox) ‘finding God where He is not present’, stating that Baptism and the Eucharist are the only sacraments, with anything else from Holy Matrimony/Orders to Annointing of the Sick being meaningless gestures that distract us from God’s grace, instead of imparting it. I was mortified, and disengaged at some bad faith arguments on his part, but it still made me wonder what is it about those seven things that make them sacraments, but not other things?  50:55 – Can you explain what inerrancy means and doesn’t mean? For example, in I Chronicles it says David prepared materials for the temple and in Samuel it only says it was Solomon. It also says David prepared 100,000 talents of gold for the temple, along with a million talents of silver, bronze, iron, timber, and stone. Do these numbers have to be literally correct for inerrancy?  …

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 12-16-2024) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Matt Discusses Interaction on a Media Platform/ What is The Immutability of God?/His Impassibility/ Romans 11:26--Will all Israel be Saved?/ I Chronicles 1-The Lineage-Why are Cain and Abel Not Included?/ Michael Heiser-View on The “Divine Council”/ Question about John The Baptist/ December 16, 2024

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 12-16-2024) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include:Matt Discusses Interaction on a Media Platform/ What is The Immutability of God?/His Impassibility/ Romans 11:26--Will all Israel be Saved?/ I Chronicles 1-The Lineage-Why are Cain and Abel Not Included?/ Michael Heiser-View on The "Divine Council"/ Question about John The Baptist/ December 16, 2024

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 12-16-2024) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Matt Discusses Interaction on a Media Platform/ What is The Immutability of God?/His Impassibility/ Romans 11:26--Will all Israel be Saved?/ I Chronicles 1-The Lineage-Why are Cain and Abel Not Included?/ Michael Heiser-View on The “Divine Council”/ Question about John The Baptist/ December 16, 2024

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings"., Children's Time, Communion, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings"., Children's Time, Choir, Communion, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings".34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings"., Children's Time, Communion, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings"., Children's Time, Choir, Communion, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Thankful for Our Blessings".34.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.          I Chronicles 16:34 (NIV)

I Chronicles 16:4-7 “Why Thanksgiving?”Preacher: Will SpinkSunday MorningDate: 24th November 2024Passage: 1 Chronicles 16:4-7

I Chronicles 4 - Abdel Judeh - Sunday Morning, November 17, 2024 by First Baptist Church of Hammond

Is your back up against the wall? Are you in between a rock and a hard place? Can you not win for loosing? Does it seem like no matter what decision you make it will be a bad one? Stay encouraged. God can make a way even though there seems to be none. We have seen Him do it for us and He will for you too! I Chronicles 21:13

The poor live for TODAY. The middle class live for RETIREMENT. The wealthy live for LEGACY. Judges 2:7-8, 10-11 And the Israelites served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and the leaders who outlived him—those who had seen all the great things the Lord had done for Israel.   Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110.   After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. The Israelites did evil in the Lord's sight and served the images of Baal.   They abandoned the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. Legacy: The IMPACT or impression you leave BEHIND in others. How will I be REMEMBERED? 1. What matters the MOST is emphasized the MOST. Philippians 4:9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. You TEACH what you know but you always REPRODUCE who you really are. 2. Sacrifice is the SEED for SIGNIFICANCE. People that are LEFT to themselves will make LIFE about themselves. I Chronicles 21:24 But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on buying it for the full price. I will not take what is yours and give it to the Lord. I will not present burnt offerings that have cost me nothing!” A faith that COSTS you nothing is worth NOTHING 3. The best way to impact TOMORROW is to start TODAY. “The ultimate test of a man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.” Gaylord Nelson

In this message, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Chronicles 28:9 on the advantage we have for God knowing our heart as well as our intentions. Scripture: I Chronicles 28:9 - “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

In this message, Pastor Dobbs ministers from I Chronicles 28:9 on the advantage we have for God knowing our heart as well as our intentions. Scripture: I Chronicles 28:9 - “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. Join us online: OCCVR.org

Daily Dose of Hope August 27, 2024 Day 3 of Week 22   Scripture:  I Kings 2; I Chronicles 29; Romans 7   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that goes with the New Hope Church 5 day a week Bible reading plan.  Keep me posted on your learnings and how you sense God is teaching you as we walk through this Scripture.  With that, let's get started.   Today, we start with I Kings 2.  David is about to die and provides some advice to his son, Solomon, the new king of Israel.  It's troubling advice, as he provides spiritual wisdom quickly followed by political strategizing that will lead to bloodshed.  The first part of his advice is Godly and sounds like the wisdom of a man after God's own heart: Follow God's laws and walk in obedience to him and then you will prosper.     But the second half of David's advice is about securing the kingdom.  All sense of faithfulness is now gone out the window: Avenge your father, kill those people who have done us wrong, and ensure your place on the throne.  Hmmm...  On the one hand, David tells Solomon to follow God and keep Torah.  On the other, he tells Solomon to avenge, kill, and break Torah.    Over the past few months, we have walked through all the Scriptures that detail David's life.  Overall, he was a faithful man who rarely wavered from following the Lord.  He definitely had some rough patches though, in which he fell away and sinned horrifically against God and other people.  But he was always repentant and turned back toward God.  Over this last little portion of his life, however, it seems that David consults God less and in many ways has grown angry and bitter.   What can we learn from King David's life? He is referred to as a man after God's own heart.  He wrote many of the Psalms which we read over and over again and use in worship and song.  He loved God and his allegiance was undeniable.  On the other hand, he was a human king and there were many times in which lust, fear, and arrogance ruled the day. What do you take away from these months of studying King David?   Our I Chronicles chapter also details the last moments of David's life but from a different perspective.  David offers his own treasures for the temple and requests others to give as well.  People respond well.  David has ensured that Solomon has a great start to getting the temple built and well-appointed.  He praises the Lord with a prayer.  From the perspective of the chronicler, David praised and thanked God a lot more than we read about in 2 Samuel and I Kings.  As always, perspective is everything.  The chapter closes with a second anointing of Solomon as king and the death of David.   Our New Testament passage for today is Romans 7.  This chapter describes our relationship to the law.  The law demonstrates how sinful we truly are.  We continually fail to follow the law, God's people throughout history have continually failed to follow the law, despite their best attempts.  The law exposes how vulnerable we all are to sin; it is like holding up a mirror.  It shows us our frailties and brokenness.   Keep in mind, this does not mean the law is bad.  It just shows how weak we happen to be.  On our own (that is, without Jesus), we will continue to mess up and do those things that we really don't want to do.  But in Jesus, we are new people.  We have the Holy Spirit living within us. That doesn't mean we won't mess up – we are still human.  But (and Paul will address this more in the next chapter) we have the ability to resist temptation and live for Jesus.  Again, none of this is because of us but because of who lives in us.    How often have we done something that we know is wrong even though we didn't want to?  That's our sinful nature.  As we grow in our walk with Jesus, I'm hoping we begin to resist that nature and lean into what we know is right.  What has been your experience with this?  How have you seen your thoughts and behavior change as you have grown in your Christian walk?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Daily Dose of Hope August 26, 2024 Day 2 of Week 22   Scripture:  1 Kings 1; 1 Chronicles 26-28; Romans 6   Happy Monday and welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope.  Today, we are starting the book of I Kings and we get to continue the saga with David and his family.  We will also continue with 1 Chronicles and read Romans 6.  This will be great so let's get started.   As I mentioned, today we begin the book of 1 Kings, which functions kind of like a sequel to 2 Samuel.  There isn't conclusive evidence as to who actually wrote 1and 2 Kings.  Tradition credits Jeremiah as the author but there is little indication that is true.  What we do know is that the book was written before the Jews went into exile by someone very familiar with Deuteronomy, as well as other historical texts related to the monarchy.  Thus, it could have been any of the prophets.   The general theme seems to be that Israel's well-being is intricately related to their obedience to the covenant and their ability to listen to God's prophets.  What's the gist of chapter one?  David's history of poor/permissive parenting is continuing to cause problems.  King David is now very old and sick.  He's weak.  Thus, one of his sons, Abdonijah, decides to take control of the throne.  Abdonijah doesn't ask for his father's permission or his blessing; he manipulates the situation to ensure that he gets to be king. His arrogance is a bit appalling but seems in line with David's other sons.  Abdonijah recruits powerful people to support him.     This whole scene creates a serious issue. David had promised Bathsheba that their son, Solomon, would be king.  The way things were going, it wouldn't be long before Abdonijah had Solomon killed to ensure that he would have no rivals for the throne.  Both Bathsheba and Nathan the prophet step in to inform King David.  They have to move quickly.  David summons equally powerful men to support Solomon.  Then, they place Solomon on David's own mule as a sign that he is the next king.  Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint Solomon as king and he is placed on David's throne.    Keep in mind that the previous kings were not chosen this way.  With both Saul and David, the prophet Samuel communicated God's choice for king.  With Solomon, things are different.  This is to signal the beginning of the Davidic dynasty, which will eventually culminate with Jesus Christ.  God has kept his promise to David.   Our chapters in I Chronicles today include, guess what, more lists!  The author continues to clarify the divisions of the priests, the musicians, the gatekeepers, and the treasurers who will be part of keeping God's temple functional, effective, and in obedience to the law.  I know I've said this a lot, but the chronicler wanted to create a record of these families.  He wanted to ensure that their legacy lived on, even though they were regular people.  These books are monuments to the regular Jew who did their part in taking care of God's temple.   Let's move on to our New Testament text, Romans 6.  In this chapter, Paul discusses why we should no longer sin once we have become believers of Jesus.  In the previous chapters, he has talked about how we are no longer under the law.  That's true.  We are saved and our sins are forgiven.  That's also true.  But that doesn't mean we should start acting like fools.  Rather, the standard is higher.   Paul explains that when someone accepts Jesus, they experience a spiritual death to sin.  They then also experience a rebirth.  They become new people in Jesus.  As new people in Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin, as our old selves were crucified.  Sin is no longer our master.  It no longer has the same hold on us.  That being said, we still have a daily choice to make.  We are still human and sin is still tempting.  But we make a choice to live righteously.    Think about your own temptations.  What daily choices do you make because you now live for Jesus?  How have your own daily choices changed as you have grown in your walk with Jesus Christ?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope August 25, 2024 Day 1 of Week 22   Scripture:  I Chronicles 22-25; Psalm 78; Romans 5   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope.  This is the devotional and podcast that complements the Bible reading plan for New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Let's get right into our Scripture for today.   Our Old Testament Scripture starts with the book of I Chronicles.  It appears that David is preparing for his death.  God has told him he cannot be the one to build the temple; that honor will be saved for Solomon.  In this book, we learn that the reason God said no to David is because of all the blood he shed in war.  Solomon will be a man of peace and rest, and it will be more appropriate for him to build God's house.    But while David can't actually see it built, he can certainly make preparations and that is exactly what he does.  I don't think he really trusts his boy to do it right.  He gets the supplies together and begins setting apart the people who will be part of maintaining the temple.  This was David's dream and I wonder how difficult it was for him to know he wouldn't get to see this project to fruition.    Please be sure to read Psalm 78.  We aren't going to discuss it today, but rather will move right to the New Testament, Romans 5.  In this chapter, Paul explores the origin of sin in a unique way.  He speaks of Adam, through which sin entered the world.  If you are familiar with the study of the spread of disease (called epidemiology), then you have probably heard of patient zero.  Patient zero is the first person who brings a specific disease into an area.  To find this person, the epidemiologists trace the outbreak through all sorts of people, interviewing, contact tracing, digging, and digging some more to find out where the disease began.   Adam was patient zero for sin.  It was through Adam (and Eve really) that sin came into play.  After that, all humans were “infected” with sin.  There was no way not to be infected. The world was no longer a lovely, perfect place like the Garden of Eden.  The world was now broken, filled with hardship, disease, and death.     But if Adam brought us sin and death, Jesus brings us life.  Jesus died for us while we were still sinners.  Through Jesus, we can be reconciled to a holy God.  We can do life, walking hand in hand with God–no walls, no barriers, and no shame.  Jesus has removed anything preventing us from accessing God.  You see, when he died on the cross, the blood of Jesus atoned for the sins of all humanity for all time.  He cleansed us from sin and gave us his righteousness.   What is righteousness?  It's the quality of being morally right, virtuous, and just.  Jesus was totally righteous and we weren't!  But through the cross, in the act of cleansing us from sin, Jesus imputed (gave) his righteousness to us.  We are made righteous by Jesus.  Now, God doesn't see our messed up, broken lives–he sees that which Jesus has freely gifted us.  In Jesus, we are saved and made righteous.  And as Jesus continues to work within us, let's hope that the righteousness of Jesus really takes root in a different way.  As we seek to grow closer to Jesus, may the righteousness, the virtuousness, the justice, and the love of Christ grow within us and make us better reflections of him.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki            

Daily Dose of Hope August 22, 2024 Day 5 of Week 21   Scripture:  2 Samuel 24; I Chronicles 21; Romans 4   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church Bible reading plan.  Hope you are having a great day!  Please know I pray for all of you.  If you need anything, please don't hesitate to reach out.   We are starting today with 2 Samuel 24.  This is the final chapter of this book.  But don't worry, the story is far from over and we will pick it up soon in I Kings.  Today, we read that the Lord is angry with Israel so he incites David against them.  We don't know why God is angry, but it is most likely due to a violation of the Torah.  Thus, David becomes angry with his people and demands that a census be taken of the fighting men.   Joab, his commander, protests.  Why was a census a big deal?  Afterall, we do a census in the U.S. every ten years.  At that time, numbering the people would have been some kind of metric of the Lord's favor.  It had the potential to lead to pride and self-aggrandizement.  But there was more.  In the Old Testament Scriptures, you generally only counted what belonged to you.  By David counting the people, it would have been a statement of sorts that the people belonged to David rather than God.   David overrules Joab and the men of fighting age are counted.  There were 800,000 in Israel and 500,000 in Judah, quite impressive numbers.  But the census greatly displeased God.  Maybe God saw it as David overstepping his authority or David became too prideful.  We really don't know.  What we do know is that God is angered and wanting to punish the nation of Israel.  David is repentant and builds an altar to the Lord.  However, that doesn't mean that the consequences would be reversed.   This made me reflect on our own sin.  How often have we been repentant for things we've done and cried out to God?  We know that God forgives us but that does not reverse the consequences of our sin.  Sin always has consequences.  Over and over and over again humanity has to learn this lesson.   I Chronicles 21 provides us with more lists!  Have you missed them?  Here, we read about the divisions and descendants of the priests and the Levites.  Remember, the intention was to create a monument to these men and their families who served the nation of Israel before the exile.      Our New Testament passage is Romans 4.  This is an interesting chapter.  Paul clearly wants his Jewish listeners to know that justification by faith is not a new concept, but there is actually a precedent in the Old Testament.  He wants his Gentile listeners to know that they have a rich spiritual heritage when they believe in Jesus, as the Old Testament attests to this salvation.  Paul highlights Abraham and David, two great men of faith, to demonstrate that even under the old covenant, people were saved by faith rather than by works.   Paul discusses Abraham's faith. Abraham believed, against all hope and even though it was a crazy thought, that he would become a father in his old age and even become the father of many nations.  Sarah was something like 100 years old.  This was not a reasonable thing to believe!  Despite some mishaps along the way (think Hagar and Ishmael), Abraham had faith that God would do what God said he would do.  It was Abraham's faith, rather than his adherence to the law (works), that God credited him as righteous.     It is also our faith, specifically our faith in Jesus Christ and belief that he died for our sins and was resurrected, that God credits us as righteous.  To be righteous means to be in right standing with God.  Let's be clear.  We are not righteous at all on our own merit.  Rather, because of Jesus, we are credited as righteous.  We essentially get to hang on Jesus' righteousness coattails and I am so very glad for it!   Enjoy your two days off or use them to catch up.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope August 15, 2024 Day 5 of Week 20   Scripture:  2 Samuel 11-12; I Chronicles 20; Psalm 51; Acts 27   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional that complements the New Hope Bible reading plan.  We are nearing the end of week 20 of consistent Bible reading.  I would love to hear how God is teaching you and what God may be revealing to you through his Word.   As usual, let's get started with 2 Samuel.  We begin in chapter 11.  This is a story that most of us know too well.  David messes up bigtime.  But I think it's important that we realize this didn't just happen.  There were certain circumstances that led David down this dark path.   Let's look at the beginning of the chapter.  In the very first verse, it says that it was springtime when the kings go off to war.  We talked about this yesterday with our I Chronicles passage and we find it now in 2 Samuel.  David sent his commander, Joab, off to war but he stays in Jerusalem.  David is a warrior.  That's his giftedness.  But rather than go to war with his men, he decides to lounge around Jerusalem.  We all need downtime but there is a difference between downtime and idleness.  For whatever reason, David decides not to do what he is called to do and to simply waste time in the palace.   When we don't feel purposeful, when we have too much time on our hands, when we're not actively engaging in our faith, then that's usually when things go awry.  And boy did things go wrong for David.  You know the story.  He sees Bathsheba bathing (hmmm...why was this Godly king hanging on the roof watching the women bathe?), finds her beautiful, and decides he must have her.  I want you to think about this.  He is the king of Israel.  She is the wife of a soldier.  My guess is she doesn't have a lot of choice in the situation.  There is something we call that in today's language–rape.  This man, who has always been so dedicated to God, going to great lengths to follow God's will, has now raped a woman.   But it gets worse.  She becomes pregnant.  To cover-up this issue, he sends Uriah, Bathsheba's husband, into battle on the front lines, where he will surely be killed. Now, David has added murder to his list of offenses.  After Bathsheba mourns her husband, David brings her into his home to be his wife.  But the Lord was displeased.    So we have to ask–what in the world happened to David?  From chapter 10 and the battle with the Ammonites to today's chapter, what went on in David's heart and mind? To say he drifted from God would kind of be an understatement.  The idleness probably didn't help but there had to be more, much more.  He became like the kings in the nations around him. He forgot who he was and to whom he belonged.  He totally lost his way.   As I reflected on this chapter and passed some pretty significant judgment on David, God really hit me over the head.  Friends, we all have the potential to lose our way.  We all have the potential to be David and I think it behooves us to recognize that.  What's the answer then?  I don't exactly know except that we have to be very, very intentional to walk close to Jesus every single day, every single second.  On our own, we drift and we lose our way. We allow all kinds of sin to creep into our hearts and lives.  We need Jesus.  You need Jesus. I need Jesus.  Not a little Jesus every now and then.  But all of Jesus all the time.   Let's head over to chapter 12.  It is the job of the prophet to speak truth to power.  In this situation, the prophet Nathan gets the fun job of telling David that he sinned against God.  Some men may have gotten angry or defensive but David accepts the truth.  He experiences conviction and is repentant.  God's response is that while David won't die, his child with Bathsheba will.    I have always struggled with this text.  Why did the baby have to die?  After all, it was David who sinned against the Lord.  Yet, he gets to live and the innocent one dies.  And then it hit me–our sin always has ugly consequences.  Look at the entire Biblical narrative–sin is destructive and it is harmful to the people around us and our communities.  It is harmful to the Kingdom.  We might not like to think about it but our sin always has consequences.  Our sin hurts others, often hurting those who are innocent and vulnerable.  I'll just stop there for today.   I think I might have gotten a bit ahead of myself yesterday and gone through I Chronicles 20.  If you recall, it speaks to how King David did not go off to war with his men.  Yes, they end up victorious.  But what the chapter doesn't speak of is what happened at home in the palace.  We've already talked about it so I'll stop there.  But the omission is glaring.   Take time to read the psalm for today but I'm not going to spend much time going over it.  I really want to get to Acts 27.  We find that Paul's journey continues.  This time, he is on his way to Rome.  They hit very severe weather, which threatens to kill all those on board.  It must have been quite dire, as they throw their cargo overboard to lighten up the ship.     It sounds like weeks and weeks of hunger and misery.  They finally see land. By this point, there isn't much left of the ship.  The soldiers want to kill the prisoners but the centurion stops them, as he wanted to ensure that Paul was spared.  It seems that the situation was a bit of a free for all; those who could swim, swam to shore.  Others grabbed pieces of floating debris and yet all managed to get to shore safely.   This is such an interesting passage to me.  The Scripture says there were 276 men on board that ship.  They must have all been praying in whatever way they were accustomed to do so.  I can't help but think that Paul was praying boldly and witnessing to all the men on board.  In such a situation, it seems highly likely people would be very open to hearing about the eternal life offered through faith in Jesus.  I wonder if that is why the centurion was so intent on saving Paul's life.  Had he become a follower of Jesus? More tomorrow.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki

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    

Daily Dose of Hope August 13, 2024 Day 3 of Week 20 Scripture:  2 Samuel 7-8; 1 Chronicles 17; Psalm 132; Acts 25 Welcome back to our daily podcast and devotional, the Daily Dose of Hope.  This complements the Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Please know I hope you are doing well.  If you need anything, including specific prayer, don't hesitate to reach out to me.  Well, we have an interesting mix of Scripture to talk about today so let's get started.   Our first Old Testament text is from 2 Samuel, chapter 7.   The Kingdom of Israel was finally where it was supposed to be and God gives the nation peace.  King David has united the kingdom, he has settled in Jerusalem and make that the national capital, the ark of the covenant had been transported there as well, the borders of Israel have been greatly expanded.  For the first time in a long time, this is a good time for King David and a good time for the people of Israel.   David decides that he wants to do something for God.  He has this idea to build a temple, a place of dignity for the ark.  But God brings a word to the prophet Nathan that he doesn't want a house of cedar.  This isn't about what David can do for God but what God will do for David.  Then, God covenants with David.  God says he will establish a house for David–this is another way of saying dynasty.  Basically, a descendent of David will be on the throne forever.    But how can in the world could the throne be established forever?  How could a descendent of David be on the throne forever?  Most of us know that later on, after the death of Solomon, the Kingdom divides and then the kings and the people become so evil that God lifts his hand of protection.  He allows the people to be conquered by foreign nations.  Once the southern kingdom of Judah is destroyed and the temple is destroyed in 586-7 BC by the Babylonians, the Jewish people are carried off to the land of Babylon in exile.  The people of Israel, from that point on, are subject to other nations.    Interestingly, it's then that the commitment of God in this covenant becomes more clear.  You see, the covenant was pointing to a future figure, a Messiah, who would come and sit on the throne of his ancestor David forever.  The covenant is pointing to Jesus.  One of the most interesting things to me is that despite all the dark days that the Hebrew people went through after the Kingdom was divided and then after the fall of the Kingdom, think about their days in exile, living in poverty, separated from God and one another. This went on for years and years.  But they held on to this promise to David.  And God was good in that he sent prophets to remind them of this promise...Isaiah 9:2, 6-7, The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.  He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.  The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.   Despite their disobedience, their stubbornness, and their desperate circumstances at times, the Israelites believed in the faithfulness of God.  For all their faults, and they had many, probably their primary strength was never losing sight of God's faithfulness, that God is a God who keeps his promises.  He did send someone who would reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness forever and forever. His name was Jesus Christ, the one who ensured that all people could be invited into God's covenant community.   Let's move on to chapter 8.  David reigned fairly and competently over Israel.  Part of his success was his choice of leaders.  He chose people who were effective, had integrity, and sought to execute God's justice and will.  There was Joab, one of David's nephews, who was in charge of the army, essentially executing justice against those who opposed the nation of Israel.  Jehoshaphat was the recorder, which means he chronicled all that went on with David's administration, allowing future generations to see how they honored God.     Zadak and Ahimelek, as priests, were in charge of proper worship. They were descendants of Aaron.  Seraiah, as secretary, would have assisted with the administration.  Benaiah, son of a priest and a military leader, oversaw the Kerethites and Pelethites, who essentially served as a private militia for the king.  Finally, David's sons also served as priests. This is somewhat strange, as priests must be from the line of Aaron.  Scholars think they may have served in a consultive role.   Regardless, all of these leaders were trusted.  They were effective.  They cared about the will of God.  A nation, an organization, a church, etc. can only function well with good leaders.  Leadership matters.  We have all seen the results of poor leadership–things fall apart, the people scatter, the organization is damaged.  The people who are charged with leading a church must be committed to the values of Jesus Christ.  In addition to the pastor, the leaders have they have the role of influencing and guiding the body, a huge responsibility!  Besides being competent, they must have integrity, they must care about the organization, and they must be mature in their walk with Jesus.  Leadership matters.  Please pray for the leaders of New Hope today.   We now move to I Chronicles 17.  In this chapter, we get a deeper look into David's heart.  He wants to build a house for the ark that is proper; not simply a tent.  But God doesn't want that.  God speaks to the prophet Nathan pretty clearly – David is not the one to build the Temple.  Most of us know, that will be for Solomon.  I do love how David exhibits humility as he praises God.  “Who am I?  Who is my family?” he asks God.    I think we can all ask God that, can't we?  Who are we that you would do so much for us?  Who am I that Jesus would die for me?  None of this is deserved.  We have not earned it.  This is grace.  It was grace for David and it's grace for us.    Psalm 132 is another Psalm of Ascent.  Remember, these were sung as pilgrims walked into Jerusalem for the annual festivals.  As you read through this one, you can see how the author highlights David and his humility.  He also highlights the coming of the Messiah.  What else can you pick out of the psalm from our current reading?   Our New Testament passage for today is Acts 25.  Paul's on-going custody and trial continues in this chapter.  Felix was recalled to Rome to handle some other events.  The man who followed him died after just two years and now we find ourselves introduced to the new governor, Festus.  So this means that Paul has been in custody for over two years!  Festus quickly demonstrates that, while he will listen to the Jewish leaders' accusations against Paul, he will not be bullied by them.     He appears to want to give Paul a fair hearing once again.  Now, the Jews were accusing Paul of both religious and civil offenses.  Even if he were innocent, this raises red flags among the Roman authorities.  Paul uses last card, an appeal to Caesar himself, which was his right to do as a Roman citizen.  This also means the Gospel message will now move further up the government ladder. God is at work here.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

In this Bible Story, David comes to the realization that the Lord should have a temple built for him. Nathan the prophet agrees, and speaks for the Lord saying his kingdom would be established forever. The Lord blesses all of David's exploits, and the kingdom of Israel continues to grow day by day. This story is inspired by 2 Samuel 7-8 & 4:4 & I Chronicles 17-18. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is 2 Samuel 7:2 from the King James Version.Episode 100: As David looks around at his luxurious new home, he is struck by the sudden urge to build a better home for God. So he holds counsel with Nathan the Prophet and Nathan encourages him and prays for him. That night, Nathan receives a promise from God for David, a promise that God will build up the household of David. David exemplified what it meant for a leader to follow God. He worshiped God both in battle and in praise and he taught the nation to do the same.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.