JULY 2017

One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. Psalm 145:4

THE GOD OF YOUR HISTORY: 1 Chronicles

A devotional from TODAY WITH DR. PAUL NYQUIST President of Moody Global Ministries

Part of the Story Technology makes it history of God’s people from to easier for the average . The Hebrew name for the person to discover book is translated as “The Words [also his or her past. We Events or Matters] of the Days,” taken now have almost from 1 Chronicles 27:24. The great fifth- instantaneous access century biblical scholar Jerome gave it to historical records the name Chronicles. But many of us that previously required hours in the might wonder why Scripture includes library or travel to remote locations. DNA chapter after chapter that seems to be testing, available through the mail, allows nothing more than a list of names? us to learn about our precise ethnic mix. As you read the record of Chronicles, Studying our family’s past can reveal two things should be abundantly clear. a bit more about who we are and from First, God notices us as individuals— where we come. But we may also every single one of us. This genealogy find some surprises. People might be contains hundreds of individual names, excited to discover their family tree generation after generation. It reminds includes a respected physician or one us that we are significant in God’s eyes. of the original colonists, but they might also be dismayed to learn their great- Second, God’s plan is larger than any great uncle was the town drunkard. single one of us. It is easy to get caught up in our limited earthly perspective. In the book of Chronicles, the subject Sometimes we focus on our individual of this month’s study, we see a listing failures and missteps. This list reminds of the history of God’s people. In the us that we are a part of a much bigger opening chapters, you will see some story. God worked not just through familiar names (Adam, , , one person, but through generation Esau) but also the names of less well- after generation, weaving us together known individuals (Seir, Anah, Zaavan, into His perfect divine plan. The story and Hadad). Some were shining of your individual life is part of His successes, while others we might larger narrative. dismiss as failures. Friend, you are not left out. You are Originally written as one volume, the valued by God, and an integral part of books of 1 and 2 Chronicles trace the His story. n

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The Son of , Son of Abraham Matthew opens his Gospel by calling out to build a temple for the Lord, the Jesus “the son of David, the son of Lord promised: “When your days are Abraham” (Matt. 1:1). This is a statement over and you rest with your fathers, I about Jesus’ human lineage. This will raise up your offspring to succeed genealogy links Jesus to two of the you, your own flesh and blood, and I foundational promises of the Old will establish his kingdom” (2 Sam. 7:12). Testament: first, God’s promise to bless The fact that this was to take place after all the nations of the earth through David’s death indicates that someone Abraham’s offspring (Gen. 22:17–18); other than Solomon was in view. second, His promise to give one of David’s descendants an eternal As the Son of Abraham, Jesus brings kingdom (2 Sam. 7:12). the blessing of eternal life to all nations. Anyone who trusts in Him will be Matthew uses “son of David” as a title forgiven. As the Son of David, Jesus is that identifies Jesus as Israel’s Messiah. Israel’s promised Messiah and King. He Matthew 9:27 describes how two blind will one day sit on David’s throne and men followed Jesus, calling to Him reign in . His rule will extend “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” On throughout the entire earth and will another occasion, when Jesus healed a never end (Isa. 9:7; Rev. 11:15). demon possessed man who was blind and mute, the astonished crowd asked, The juxtaposition of these two “Could this be the Son of David?” (Matt. designations in Matthew’s Gospel 12:22–23). At the Triumphal Entry into reminds us that God keeps His pro- Jerusalem, which inaugurated Jesus’ mises. All that God has said He will do final week, the welcoming crowd will come to pass. Just as the past is a shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of record of God’s faithfulness, the future David” (Matt. 21:9). Even a Canaanite offers the prospect of faithfulness yet to woman who lived in the region of Tyre be experienced. The God of Abraham and Sidon recognized that this title and David does not make idle promises. belonged to Jesus (Matt. 15:22). He always keeps His word! n

Son of David was a messianic title. FOR FURTHER STUDY Those who used it to refer to Jesus To learn more about God’s promises to were identifying Him as David’s David, read First & Second Chronicles promised descendant. When David set by John Sailhamer (Moody Publishers).

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Current Interests How to Overcome Worry Seeking Refuge $9.99 $13.99 Dr. Winfred Neely has Informed by real stories from experienced his fair refugee communities around share of anxiety-inducing the world, Seeking Refuge is circumstances. He walks readers through a call to display God’s power and love to Philippians 4:6–7 to help them release a hurting world. worry and experience the peace of God. VOLUME 30 • ISSUE 7 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Bruce Everhart MANAGING EDITOR Heather Mo’tt SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter The God of Your History: 1 Chronicles CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jamie Janosz John Koessler Laurence Overmire—author, poet, genealogist, and WRITER descendant of several Mayflower passengers— John Koessler ART DIRECTOR dedicated two decades to tracing his family’s history. Lynn Gabalec In his book, One Immigrant’s Legacy, he writes: GRAPHIC DESIGNERS “History remembers only the celebrated, genealogy Larry Bohlin, Dana Chen BUSINESS MANAGER remembers them all.” Paul B. Currie MARKETING MANAGER After their return from the Babylonian captivity, the Claire Kniowski Jewish people had their genealogies preserved: MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES All the tribes and families and all the names were PRESIDENT J. Paul Nyquist recorded in the book of 1 Chronicles. As we study this PROVOST book this month, we’ll see that these Junias Venugopal mostly obscure names helped the Jewish people EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Steven Mogck preserve their history and know who they are as SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT the people of God. They will also help us trace the Greg R. Thornton earthly pedigree of our Lord Jesus Christ—to David, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Ken Heulitt Judah, Abraham, and Adam—in fulfillment of what the CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER prophets said about the coming Messiah. Choy VICE PRESIDENTS Tim Arens This month we will also follow the ups and downs in Larry Davidhizar the life of one person—the famous King David. We’ll Jim Elliott Bruce Everhart learn about his victories and failures, his love for God John A. Jelinek Collin G. Lambert and desire to worship the Lord with all his heart, soul, Frank W. Leber Jr. and strength. We’ll marvel at the way God used David Bryan O’Neal Paul Santhouse to change history. You may not feel as important and James Spencer mighty as King David, but the same God who guided Janet Stiven Anthony Turner the king’s life, guides yours. He is the God of history, Debbie Zelinski and your life is interwoven in His story. n TRUSTEES Christopher Denison Orbelina Eguizabal T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Moody Global Ministries is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright Jerry B. Jenkins © 2017 by Moody Global Ministries. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Paul Johnson (Emeritus) in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., James Meeks Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, J. Paul Nyquist NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. David Schipper All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Julianna Slattery Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by Paul Von Tobel the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Mark Wagner Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper. Richard E. Warren Richard Yook

TODAYINTHEWORD.COM READ :12:2

SATURDAY JULY One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. 1 Psalm 145:4

Ancestry and God Because of people’s growing interest familiar passage. We should remember in tracing their family history, Ancestry. that each name listed in this book com has become the largest for-profit represents someone’s story. We will genealogy company in the world. learn some of the details along the way, Subscribers can use the Internet to but only God can know the whole story. access billions of historical records and We should also take heart because submit DNA samples to learn about these lists of names show us that the their roots. God who made us is also the God who knows us. He knows us by name and This month we will take a deep dive is familiar with every detail of our lives. into God’s genealogical database as The God whose actions are described we study the book of 1 Chronicles. along with the names listed in this book Although genealogical lists play an is the God of their history and of ours. important role in 1 Chronicles, it is also a book of history that focuses primarily on This is especially true of Jesus Christ, the dynasty of David. The first chapter who “calls his own sheep by name describes David’s lineage, beginning and leads them out” (John 10:3). As we with Adam and Abraham’s descendants. begin this study, let’s ask God for the patience to persevere in our reading. The list is impressive. There are 200 Our circumstances may not be identical proper names in the first chapter with theirs, but if we know Jesus Christ alone! With so many unfamiliar names as Savior, we have become part of and so little narrative, we may be this story. tempted to give up and turn to a more

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This list of names in Chronicles is more than a Summer is the season of training genealogy. It is a kind of faith history. Why not get and development for the staff things started by doing some research into your of the Student Life department. Please support Tim Arens, vice own family’s faith history? Ask family members president and dean of Student about their journey of faith. How does it compare Life, and his team in prayer to your own? Look for an opportunity to share your as they get ready for the new faith story with your family members as well. academic year.

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Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! SUNDAY See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of JULY David, has triumphed.” Revelation 5:5 2

Judah and His Offspring One of the main characters in the those mentioned. The line of Judah is popular Chronicles of Narnia series is traced through Perez, a child who was the lion, Aslan. In this series of fantasy conceived through trickery (Genesis stories, Aslan represents Jesus Christ. 38). Hezron and Ram were ancestors Perhaps author C. S. Lewis got the idea of Boaz, who married Ruth the Moabite for Aslan from the title ascribed (Ruth 4:18–22). Bezalel was the to Jesus in Revelation 5:5. craftsman who was empowered by the Holy Spirit to build the The genealogy in today’s passage (Ex. 31:2–5). God had “filled him narrows the focus to the line of Judah. with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, This reflects the author’s interest with understanding, with knowledge in David and his kingdom. David’s and with all kinds of skills” in artistic ancestor Jacob had predicted: “The craftsmanship (Ex. 35:31). scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, This history of redemption would have until he to whom it belongs shall come been especially significant for the original and the obedience of the nations shall audience of this book. Chronicles was be his” (Gen. 49:10). Jacob’s prophecy probably written during the second or describes the future preeminence of third generation after the return from the tribe of Judah as well as the advent exile in . Still coping with the of the Messiah. consequences of divine discipline and struggling with disappointment over the One interesting feature of this list is new normal, no doubt some still wished the theme of redemption, which is they could return to an earlier golden age evident in the backstory of some of (see Hag. 2:3).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US God can redeem our failures and mistakes. Be Would you pray for our Customer encouraged today by the reminder of God’s Service Center staff as they promise. Review this verse to focus your heart on answer hundreds of phone calls every day on Moody’s Chicago God’s faithfulness: “‘For I know the plans I have campus? Ask the Lord to give for you,’ declares the L‹ŒŽ, ‘plans to prosper you them grace, patience, and and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a kindness to welcome everyone future’” (Jer. 29:11). who calls (800) DL MOODY.

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MONDAY JULY These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. 3 Revelation 3:7

The Family of David Situation comedies from the 1950s and The fact that the author of Chronicles 60s such as Leave It to Beaver and does not highlight the dysfunction Father Knows Best idealized family life. of David’s descendants is not an Today’s shows often depict far-from- attempt to hide a tragic family history. perfect families. Their story would have been familiar to his audience from other biblical David’s family was certainly not ideal. histories. In a way, they were living Few of his offspring matched his with the consequences of that failure. success or equaled his faith. Many of Instead, ’s treatment of David’s descendants forsook the Lord. history throughout this book reflects a In this section the author of Chronicles theological purpose. One aim is to draw traces the line of David down to his attention to God’s faithfulness to the own day, ending with the children of promises made to David generations Zerubbabel and their descendants. earlier. The capstone of these promises The names Zerubbabel gave to some is found in Jesus Christ, who is heir of his children express his faith in to David’s throne. When the angel God’s goodness. Hananiah meant Gabriel announced the birth of Christ, “God has been gracious.” Hasadiah he promised: “The Lord God will give meant “Jehovah has been kind.” him the throne of his father David, and Jushab-Hesed meant “May kindness he will reign over Jacob’s descendants be returned.” The name Shelomith may forever; his kingdom will never end” mean “at peace” and has been found (:32–33). In Revelation 3:7 Jesus in Jerusalem on an ancient seal dating holds “the key of David,” a symbol of back to postexilic times and may refer the Messiah’s authority and power. to Zerubbabel’s daughter.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We claim the promises made to David when Janet Stiven, VP and general we place our trust in Jesus Christ. We have the counsel, requests your prayers for confidence that we too can share in the blessing the Lord’s protection and blessing in all legal matters at Moody. of forgiveness (see Psalm 32). This is the blessing Also please pray for her team of Christ’s righteousness credited to us by faith at the Legal department: Amber (Rom. 4:6–8). You too can claim it by taking God at Adames, Cassandrea Blakely, His word. Trust in Jesus today! Emmy Koh, and Ryan June.

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TUESDAY Pray continually. JULY 1 Thessalonians 5:17 4

The Prayer of Jabez A few years ago the small book The Perhaps she expected this child to do Prayer of Jabez became a runaway hit. the same. It sold nine million copies and made the New York Times bestseller list. The Rather than lead a life of dishonor and book also sparked criticism from some pain that his name seemed to predict, who accused its author of promoting a Jabez asked for God’s hand of blessing. kind of prosperity gospel. He framed his request in two parts. First, he asked God to enlarge his Jabez and his prayer are included in territory. This is not stated as a demand today’s genealogy. A careful reading but as a plea that reflected God’s indicates that the point of this prayer is promise to give Israel the land. Second, not to provide a formula for guaranteed he asked God to keep him from harm success or prosperity but to give so that he would be “free from pain” testimony to the redeeming power (v. 10). The language could refer to of God’s grace. At his birth, Jabez’s physical pain or emotional sorrow, and mother gave him an unfortunate name, probably both are in view. apparently a kind of pun based on a similar sounding Hebrew word for The secret to the success of this prayer pain (v. 9). It might have reflected her is not found in some magic formula experience with a difficult birth. The of wording but in the God to whom it statement in the text that Jabez was is addressed. Its tone is one of faith, “more honorable than his brothers” which recognizes that the answer is could, however, point to an additional dependent upon God’s power and reason for her pain. Apparently Jabez’s His will. brothers brought shame to the family.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Perhaps an obvious application of this story is not Thank the Lord for the freedom to give your child a name that they will later regret! we have to broadcast God’s Word But the ultimate application is to trust God enough over the airwaves. Specifically, pray for the ministry of Moody to share your deepest fears and desires. Don’t be Radio’s WMBW, serving eastern afraid to ask for His blessing and His protection. Tennessee, and its staff: Jason Be as specific as you like in your requests and McKay, Meredith Sexton, Paul leave the outcome to Him. Martin, and Brent Manion.

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WEDNESDAY Without faith it is impossible to please God, because JULY anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. 5 Hebrews 11:6

Belief and Unbelief In 1 Chronicles 5, the Chronicler focuses one hand, there are deeds of faith on those who settled on the other side mentioned. In verse 18 to 22 we learn of the Jordan: the tribes of Reuben, about a military campaign against the , and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Hagrites, Jetur, Naphish, and Nodab, According to Numbers 32, the tribes of who were Arab and Ishmaelite tribes. Gad and Reuben asked Moses if they The Chronicler ascribes the victory of could settle there when they saw that the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe the land was good for raising flocks. of Manasseh to prayer. Moses initially objected because he thought the proposal showed an On the other hand, in verses 24 to 26 unwillingness to go into the land God the Chronicler reminds his readers that had promised to Israel. Moses was also the half-tribe of Manasseh was carried afraid that granting their request would into exile by the Assyrians because dissuade the other tribes from obeying “they were unfaithful to the God of their God’s command to possess the land. ancestors and prostituted themselves Half of the tribe of Manasseh decided to the gods of the peoples of the land, to join them. whom God had destroyed before them” (v. 25). This is the writer’s reminder that The genealogy begins on a note of position and power are not the most shame by mentioning Reuben, who critical factors for success in God’s “defiled his father’s marriage bed” (v. eyes. Instead, faith and obedience 1; Gen. 35:22; 48:16–22). As a result, make all the difference. When these Jacob reassigned the rights of the tribes relied upon God and acted in firstborn to Joseph’s sons. The record faith, they succeeded. When they forgot that follows is a mixed one. On the God, they failed.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We don’t get credit today for past acts of faith. Dr. James Spencer, VP and Every new day brings its own trials that demand dean of Moody Bible Institute, our reliance on God. His mercies are “new every welcomes your prayers for the Undergraduate School faculty and morning” (Lam. 3:22–23). Why not celebrate this staff on our Chicago and Spokane today by singing or listening to the song “The campuses. May they be refreshed Steadfast Love of the Lord Never Ceases.” You can for the upcoming new semester find video with the lyrics on YouTube. at Moody.

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Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, THURSDAY holy and pleasing to God—this is your true JULY and proper worship. Romans 12:1 6

Priestly Duties In many religious traditions, priests are incense in connection with all that was not only a spiritual vocation but also a done in the Most Holy Place, making separate social caste. For instance, the atonement for Israel, in accordance with Hindu Brahmins are both at the highest all that Moses the servant of God had level in the social hierarchy and also the commanded” (v. 49). In David’s time priests responsible for administering a priestly order of musicians was also religious rites in the temples and formed to aid in worship. Some of the studying the sacred texts. Monks in the are attributed to Asaph, Heman, Jain religion do not run the temples or and Ethan (Psalms 50; 73–83; 88–89), social society, but they are set apart for who are mentioned in verses 33 and 39. a life of poverty and self-denial. The fact that Heman is connected with Israel’s priesthood was drawn from the Samuel the prophet in verse 33 is a tribe of Levi, descended from the third reminder that the role of music in Old son of the patriarch Jacob. Those who Testament worship was both instructive served as high priest (vv. 4–15) were and prophetic. Its purpose was not descended from , the brother to create atmosphere but to proclaim of Moses. The priestly clans were God’s word. descended from Gershom (sometimes referred to as Gershon), Kohath, and Music should serve the same purpose Merari, who were the three sons of Levi. in the church’s worship. Through singing we both make music “to the The priests “presented offerings on the Lord” and teach one another (Eph. 5:19; altar of burnt offering and on the altar of Col. 3:16).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Through Jesus our High Priest, all believers have Please support Moody Bible been granted direct access into the Father’s Institute’s Pastoral Studies presence, offering their lives as a living sacrifice faculty in prayer. Ask the Father to provide professors Winfred in gratitude for God’s gift. This does not earn your Neely, Michael Boyle, and Pamela salvation; it is simply your way of saying thank you MacRae with patience and insight for what Christ has done. What will you do today as they train the next generation to offer your life in thanksgiving to God? of church leaders.

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FRIDAY JULY You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession. 7 1 Peter 2:9

A Kingdom of Priests Some churches give lavish com- One way that God provided for those pensation packages to their pastors, who served His people under the Law complete with multimillion-dollar of Moses was to assign the priests cities mansions, private jets, and a budget for in which to live. Scattered throughout luxury clothes. Other churches insist Israel, these Levitical cities salted the that the pastor receive no financial land with those who provided biblical compensation at all, even if it is a instruction and spiritual care to God’s full-time vocation. Some are bound by people. Six of these cities also served denominational guidelines for ministerial as cities of refuge where those who had salaries; others try to make sure their unintentionally killed someone could be pastor can earn a median income for the safe from retribution until the case was area in which the church is located. adjudicated.

Interestingly, New Testament teaching Unlike the rest of the tribes who about providing for the church’s pastors received land as its inheritance, Israel’s is rooted in the Old Testament rules for priests had the promise that God taking care of the Levitical priesthood: Himself would be their inheritance and “Don’t you know that those who serve would provide for them. He provided in the temple get their food from the for their daily needs by allowing them temple, and that those who serve at to eat food from the sacrifices and to the altar share in what is offered on share in the tithes that God’s people the altar? In the same way the Lord has brought to the tabernacle and temple commanded that those who preach the (cf. Num. 18:20–21). This kind of gospel should receive their living from provision was not charity but was due the gospel” (1 Cor. 9:13–14). for their service.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How does your church fulfill this biblical Again, join us in thanking the responsibility? Are the provisions adequate? Lord for the godly character and Is there more that might be done? Check your dedication of the Undergraduate School Pastoral Studies faculty: church’s annual report or ask one of the church’s Laurie Norris, Kirk Baker, John leaders to get a better understanding of this Koessler, and Craig Hendrickson. aspect of your congregational responsibility. Pray that the Lord would provide for all their needs.

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SATURDAY No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior JULY escapes by his great strength. Psalm 33:16 8

God’s Mighty Army A children’s Bible song sung for years The first recipients of this book could in Sunday school and Vacation Bible not have helped noticing the difference School goes: “I may never march in the in their circumstances compared to infantry / Ride in the cavalry / Shoot the these earlier days. They had no military artillery / I may never fly o’er the enemy might. The scope of the land they / But I’m in the Lord’s army! Yes Sir!” inhabited was significantly reduced. Those who had returned to Jerusalem In this section, the Chronicler records must have felt like aliens in their own the genealogy of the tribes of Issachar, land. “By anyone’s standards, the fifth Benjamin, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, century was hardly a golden age for the and Asher. The author emphasizes people of God,” Old Testament scholar the military strength for several of the John Sailhamer explains. “Their future tribes. There’s no specific timeframe as a kingdom and a distinct people of given here, and some of the numbers God, in fact, seemed bleaker at that seem to date from the time of David. In moment than perhaps ever before.” the genealogy of Ephraim he mentions another notable military leader, The author’s purpose was not to the son of Nun and Moses’ successor discourage them by pointing to a (v. 27). Notable women are also glorious but unrecoverable past but to mentioned, including the daughters of remind them of the power and glory of Zelophehad, who were one of the first God. And though their circumstances to request inheritance rights for women, were different, their mighty God and Sheerah, “who built Lower and remained the same. He had raised up Upper Beth Horon as well as Uzzen mighty warriors before and He could do Sheerah” (vv. 15, 24). it again.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This view of the past served as a reminder that As you pray today, please join Ken they were still the same people of God and heirs Heulitt, chief financial officer at of the same promises. Are you facing a difficult Moody, asking God for wisdom in money management and change in circumstances today? Remember the budgeting matters as Moody God of your past is also the God of your present endeavors to be a good steward of and your future. Jesus promised: “I am with you all the resources entrusted to us, always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20). for the growth of God’s kingdom.

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SUNDAY There is the little tribe of Benjamin, leading them, JULY there the great throng of Judah’s princes, and there the princes of Zebulun and of Naphtali. 9 Psalm 68:27

A Short History of the Tribe of Benjamin Karl Vaters, church pastor and author placing special emphasis on Gibeon of The Grasshopper Myth, calls small and Jerusalem. Jerusalem shared a churches “the next big thing.” Vaters border with Judah and Benjamin. The believes “small churches are uniquely chapter concludes with the family of poised to meet the needs of Millennials , setting the stage for the narratives and perhaps turn the tide on the trend that follow which describe the rise of the unchurched.” of David and the establishment of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Today’s passage focuses on the tribe of Benjamin, described as “little” in The story of Benjamin is mixed. It Psalm 68. This tribe was descended includes tales of victory as cities were from Jacob’s youngest son. At the time built and giants defeated, but there of the first census it numbered 35,400 is an underlying note of warning. The and by the second census had grown original audience would have known to 45,600 (Num. 1:37; 26:41). When Saul that Saul’s reign began with promise was chosen to be Israel’s first king, he but ended in tragedy. noted that Benjamin was “the smallest tribe of Israel” and he was from least An old hymn asks, “Does the place significant clan in that tribe (1 Sam. 9:21). you’re called to labor seem too small Benjamin distinguished itself by siding and little known? / It is great if God is with David when the Northern tribes in it, And He’ll not forget His own.” God revolted against him. is not daunted by small size or limited resources. As the refrain of this song In chapter 8, the author mentions declares, “Little is much if God is in it.” several locations within Benjamin,

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Little is much if God is in it—but He must be in Today, we invite you to pray for the method as well as the motive. As the stories Moody Aviation’s director, James of Saul and David demonstrate, small size is no Conrad, and his administrative assistant, Jan Seiersen, as they obstacle, but our failure in the areas of faith and plan programs for the upcoming obedience will be. Ask God where and how He school year and prepare to wants you to exercise your faith today. The sphere welcome the students back to may be small, but the effect will be great. Moody’s Spokane campus.

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There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor MONDAY free, nor is there male and female, for you are all JULY one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 10

No Outsiders Most people who do genealogical temple and prohibited them from taking research are hoping to learn interesting part in the shares of the offerings that details about their family background. were due the priest until the legitimacy They may hope to find a link to some of their claim could be proven (Ezra famous person or event in the past. 2:61–63). Nehemiah shared this Others want to know more about concern. He was prompted by God to themselves. A few may be looking for assemble the returnees for the purpose their parents or long-lost siblings. of validating their genealogical record (Neh. 7:4–5). The list in 1 Chronicles 9 For those descended from the tribe of includes priests, , gatekeepers, Levi, genealogy was critical because temple servants, and musicians. this family tie was a prerequisite to serving in the temple. Genealogy was An important change that has come also important for the rest of those who with the advent of the gospel: “So in returned to Jerusalem; accurate records Christ Jesus you are all children of were necessary in order to claim family God through faith, for all of you who property. Some who returned were were baptized into Christ have clothed unable to show that they were truly yourselves with Christ. There is neither descended from Israel (Ezra 2:59). Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for Some of the returnees who were you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. descended from Levi could not locate 3:28–29). Our demographic distinctions their family records and were excluded don’t disappear, but they do not limit or from the priesthood. This prevented define the scope of the gospel, which is them from serving in the reconstructed available to all regardless of genealogy.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The promises of the gospel are not limited to a Our students are busy with short- particular family, caste, tribe, nation, or gender. Its term mission trips, summer jobs, offer of grace extends to everyone. This also holds and local church work. Remember them in your prayers and ask true of the privileges of the gospel. It provides that God would give them a time equal access to God for everyone who belongs to of refreshment and renewal this Christ. Whatever your family background, you can summer before they immerse serve Christ with boldness and effectiveness. themselves in study.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 15 READ 1 CHRONICLES 9:3510:14

TUESDAY I regret that I have made Saul king, because he JULY has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions. 11 1 Samuel 15:11

Death of a King Britain’s King Edward VIII shocked the events in detail but instead focuses world when he gave up the throne in on the tragic final collapse of Saul’s order to marry his lover Wallis Simpson. kingdom. The author is clear about In his abdication speech, the king what brought Saul’s end. It was not the declared, “I have found it impossible to military failures Saul suffered that were carry the heavy burden of responsibility his ultimate undoing but his refusal to and to discharge my duties as king as I rely upon God: “Saul died because he would wish to do without the help and was unfaithful to the L•–—; he did not support of the woman I love.” Israel’s keep the word of the L•–— and even first king lost his throne under even consulted a medium for guidance, and more shocking circumstances: Saul did not inquire of the L•–—. So the was stripped of his divine authority and L•–— put him to death and turned the was eventually slain because of his kingdom over to David son of ” unfaithfulness to the Lord (10:13). (10:13–14).

The tragic events described in today’s Viewed through the lens of faith, passage were the culmination of a Saul’s story actually ends on a positive spiritual decline that began shortly note. When Israel’s first king proved after Saul was anointed king. Although unworthy, the Lord provided another. his reign began with admirable Israel had initially demanded a king like humility, Saul’s subsequent behavior all the other nations had. When that demonstrated an inability to trust God, king failed, the Lord replaced him with combined with a reckless disregard a better one, who was “a man after his for His word (1 Sam. 13:6–14). The own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14). Chronicler does not review these

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US David was not perfect, but he did differ from Saul in Please join Greg Thornton, senior both character and practice. Many leadership books VP of Media, asking God to bless today focus on skills and strategies. As important Moody’s media ministries, Moody Radio and Moody Publishers. May as these may be, they are no substitute for godly the Lord use these ministries for character. Take time to pray for your church’s His glory across the globe! leaders today. Ask God to help them be people of faith who hold God’s word in high regard.

16 TODAY IN THE WORD READ :19

WEDNESDAY Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not JULY on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 12

How to Build a Better Leader Writing in the Harvard Business Review, Similarly, the military success that Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic suggested enabled David to capture the Jebusite when it comes to leadership success, fortress that would eventually be known self-confidence is overrated. Low self- as the was “because the confidence is better because it causes LŽ‘’ Almighty was with him” (v. 9). the leader to be more self-critical, can be a motivation to work harder, and Experience, skill, and opportunity can suppresses natural arrogance. contribute to effective leadership. But none of these can substitute for God. But in our passage today, we discover Without sensitivity to God’s guidance, the key factor that made David a better our experience and natural ability may leader than Saul. It wasn’t primarily a lead to a false sense of confidence. We matter of skill or level of confidence. might think we are leading well, when David’s success was a result of his in reality we are drifting away from reliance on God. The Chronicler shines God’s purposes. The secret to David’s a spotlight on two major events in success was his dependency on God. David’s career: when Israel accepted David was responsive to God’s word him as their leader, and when he and dependent upon God’s power. established his capital in Jerusalem. Neither of these events was a result of David was a better leader than Saul, David’s personal brilliance or natural but not a perfect one. He sinned, too. leadership ability. According to verses The difference was that Saul covered 1 through 3, all Israel came together his sin and tried to save face. David to acknowledge David as their king submitted to God’s evaluation of his because of what the Lord had said. behavior and repented.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Rather than focusing on your self-confidence, ask Larry Beach operates the the Holy Spirit to examine your level of reliance Copy Center on Moody’s on the Lord. Where do you need to submit to God Chicago campus. Please thank God in prayer for his faithful today? Write these verses on a notecard: “Trust in service as he helps Moody’s the LŠ‹Œ with all your heart and lean not on your ministries with high-quality own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, brochures, flyers, invitations, and he will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5–6). and other printed materials.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 17 READ 1 CHRONICLES 11:10 47

THURSDAY JULY Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 13 Ephesians 6:10

God’s Heroes In his book The Hero with a Thousand The accounts in this section all share Faces, Joseph Campbell contends two characteristics. First, they had bold that the form of hero stories in many faith. Each of those mentioned acted cultures is the same no matter where it bravely despite overwhelming odds. is told. This basic story line is found in Courage is not the absence of fear but fantasy epics and many novels. the determination to act in the midst of fear. Faith is the expectation that Today’s passage describes the God will accomplish His will through accomplishments of “the chiefs our action (and sometimes in spite of of David’s mighty warriors” (v. 10). it). David’s mighty warriors not only Jashobeam raised his spear against acted heroically, they showed that they 300 opponents (v. 11). Eleazar stood possessed a heroic faith. his ground and defended a plot of ground against the Philistines when the Second, these accounts reflect the rest of the army fled from the enemy mutual devotion that was felt by (vv. 12–14). Three men broke through David and his men. David’s warriors the Philistine lines to bring water to were devoted to their king, willing to David. (vv. 15–19). Abishai became as risk their lives on his behalf. David in renowned as the three men who did turn was devoted to his men. He did this and had the honor of acting as not take their sacrifice for granted. their commander (vv. 20–21). Benaiah is Instead of seeing it as a tribute to his credited with several feats (vv. 22–25). own leadership, David viewed their The remainder of chapter 11 lists the courageous acts as something that names and background of David’s should be offered to God. “mighty warriors.”

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Most often our battles are “not against flesh Dr. Junias Venugopal, provost and and blood, but against the rulers, against the dean of Education, appreciates authorities, against the powers of this dark your prayers for the upcoming academic year. Petition the Lord world and against the spiritual forces of evil in for a year that will challenge, the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:12). In order to live inspire, and equip Moody’s courageously for God, we require time in prayer in student body in their training His Word. Commit to living boldly for the Lord! for ministry.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD READ

FRIDAY Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit JULY through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3 14

Unity and Leadership Some Christians speak of community as warriors went to great lengths to join him if it were the company of the believers there, fording the Jordan when it was at in rose-tinted hues with the sound of its highest. Others from Benjamin (Saul’s violins swelling in the background. But tribe) and Judah (David’s tribe) also often our experience in the church joined him there. David accepted them reflects a different reality. When with a word of warning that prompted Ephesians 4:3 commands the church to one of his mighty men to speak guard the unity of the Spirit, we should prophetically (v. 18). Amasai not only be warned that conflict is a common pledged full loyalty to David but also experience in the church. predicted that he would be successful because of God’s help. There were also Support for David’s leadership grew latecomers who defected to David late over time and came from a variety in Saul’s reign. These men from the tribe of sources. Some followed him of Manasseh probably came because immediately after he was banished they saw the handwriting on the wall. from Saul’s presence. These capable Saul’s time was running out. They threw warriors could fight with both bow in their lot with David once they realized and sling and were from Saul’s own his kingship was inevitable. tribe. They joined him at , a town located in the Negev region of Judah. This chapter closes by describing David’s coronation in Hebron in idyllic Another group from the land of Gad terms. People came from far and wide joined David prior to his sojourn at to celebrate. Food and joy were in Ziklag. When David was hiding from Saul full supply. God’s people were united in the wilderness, this group of fierce behind their new king.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Even with God’s help, the path to unity was not Would you uphold in prayer easy for David. The same is true for us. Is there a Moody’s board of trustees today? conflict in your life today that threatens the unity Ask God to encourage them by His Word and strengthen of the church? What steps do you need to take to them by His Spirit as they serve keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of Moody with their experience, peace (Eph. 4:3)? It may be as simple as a note or time, and resources. phone call.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 19 QUESTION AND ANSWER by Dr. Michael Rydelnik, Professor of Jewish Studies and Open Line Host

The Scriptures teach that the Why did Jesus curse a fig Messiah will be the Prince of tree for not having fruit when Q Peace, but Jesus said, “Do Q it was not even the season not think that I came to bring peace for figs (Mark 11:12–25)? This seems on the earth; I did not come to bring selfish and vindictive. peace, but a sword” (Matt. 10:34). How can Jesus be called the Prince of The answer to this surprising Peace and promise that His coming action is found in the horti- will result in war? A cultural background of fig trees in the . Typically, the fruit There are several elements to on a fig tree precedes the leaves. The understanding this unexpected passage says that the tree was in leaf, A passage. To begin, the Lord so it would have been natural to find Jesus knew that His words would be unripe fruit on it. These figs would not viewed as controversial. Second, the be as flavorful as ripe figs but they were word sword is figurative, not literal. The still edible. By having leaves with no Lord was not saying He would bring fruit, the tree demonstrated that it was war; rather, He would bring division. barren. So it was entirely appropriate Third, the context is about family for it to wither at Jesus’ command since relations, not different nations. Faith it would never bear fruit. in Jesus as the Messiah would bring division to families: “For I have come to But there was an additional purpose turn a man against his father, a daughter to be derived from this cursing of the against her mother” (Matt. 10:35). fig tree. Immediately after the Lord Jesus cursed the fig tree, He went to Finally, this passage is predictive, not the temple and cast out the money prescriptive. It foresees that faith in changers for their hypocrisy. The fig Jesus will divide families but does not tree represented the danger of religious demand that it do so. For example, my hypocrisy. To show off great religiosity own faith in Jesus caused my father (to be in leaf) without the genuine fruit to disown me despite my desire to of faith will lead to condemnation. It was maintain our relationship. But I could not selfish and vindictive to curse the not restore a relationship with him fig tree. The Lord Jesus was removing without giving up my faith in Jesus. a barren, worthless tree and giving a Jesus called me to love Him even more valuable lesson to His followers about than my own father (Matt. 10:37). religious hypocrisy at the same time.

20 TODAY IN THE WORD Jesus the Messiah would respond to humble faith from anyone, Jewish or Gentile.

Wasn’t the Lord Jesus the Lord Jesus was born a year or supposed to be the perfect two earlier, sometime between 6 ‚.ƒ. Q model of love? Why did He and early 4 ‚.ƒ. Matthew and Luke call the Canaanite woman a dog (Matt. both place the birth of the Lord Jesus 15:21–28)? near the end of the reign of Herod. So the Lord Jesus was born somewhere At first glance, it does seem between 6 and 4 ‚.ƒ. rude to compare this woman A to a dog. But Jesus’ words , the ancient Jewish historian, actually are gentle. He used the word records that Quirinius became governor kunarion, which means “puppy, house after the Romans removed Herod’s pet,” not the word kuon for “wild, pack son, Archelaus, as king in ‡.ˆ. 6, and dogs.” Moreover, Jesus was expressing he carried out a census (or registration) God’s divine priority, not bigotry. As of his entire domain early in his the Messiah of Israel, He needed to governorship (see Luke 2:1–3). On minister to the Jewish people first. the surface this appears to contradict Finally, the woman did not take offense Matthew’s account. A good explanation but rather accepted God’s divine is to translate Luke 2:2 in a slightly priority. In the end, the Lord Jesus different way. The key word is proton, commended her faith and healed her translated “first,” as in “This was the first daughter, showing that the Messiah census that took place while Quirinius would respond to humble faith from was governor of Syria.” When this anyone, Jewish or Gentile. word is used adverbially, it can mean “before.” That’s the way it was used in What year was Jesus born? John 15:18, when the Lord Jesus said According to Matthew, Jesus that the world “hated me first.” Luke’s Q was born before Herod the point was that the Lord Jesus was born Great died (4 †.‡., cf. Matt. 2:1–23) and during a census, requiring Joseph and according to Luke, He was born when Mary to travel to their familial town; but Quirinius was governor of Syria, a this census is not to be confused with position Quirinius took up around Œ.Ž. the more well known census conducted 6–7 (see Luke 2:2). ten years later by Quirinius. Luke’s desire to be precise (see Luke 1:3–4) Matthew makes it clear that caused him to differentiate the census the Lord Jesus was born while at the birth of Jesus from the later one. A Herod ruled. He died in 4 ‚.ƒ., so most Bible students surmise that

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 21 READ

SATURDAY JULY It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. 15 Hebrews 10:31

Holy Is the Lord Sixty years ago people often dressed for commentator Michael Wilcock says. church in their “Sunday best.” Men wore “His attitude toward the thing should a jacket and tie or a suit. Women wore a have been as reverent as his attitude dress and sometimes gloves and a hat. toward the person.” Reverence for God Today in most churches casual dress is is important—it is the focus of the first the norm. Does this say anything about petition in the Lord’s Prayer (Matt. 6:9). our view of what it means to come into God can be our friend, but He is not the presence of God? a buddy.

David learned a hard lesson about ’s tragic death was intended to God’s holiness when he determined to make an important point. God’s holiness move the ark of God from Kiriath Jearim is not to be trifled with. Similar to other to Jerusalem. David’s initial attempt to instances of divine judgment, like the move the ark ended in tragedy when destruction of Achan’s household or Uzzah was struck down for touching the death of Ananias and Sapphira, it. The judgment may seem harsh, but it drove home a forceful truth to the those who transported the ark failed whole community (see Joshua 7; Acts to obey the regulations outlined in 5:1–11). God’s aim was not to drive His Scripture (Ex. 25:12–15; Num. 4:5–15). people away. This is evident from the Because the ark represented God’s subsequent blessing that came upon presence, it had to be treated as a Obed- the Gittite when the sacred object. ark remained with him for the next three months. If Uzzah’s death was “The fate of Uzzah is a fearful warning a warning, Obed-Edom’s blessing was against over-familiarity with God,” an invitation.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US True holiness is not a matter of wearing a suit or a Pray for Steven Mogck, executive tie but of being “clothed” with righteousness. This vice president and chief operating is only possible if we clothe ourselves with the officer, and his teams in the Operations division on Moody’s righteousness of Christ. Hebrews 10:19 tells us that Chicago campus. Please also we can come into God’s presence with confidence pray for the Lord’s guidance and if we draw near “by the blood of Jesus.” Have you wisdom in Steven’s numerous drawn near? You can do so now by faith. leadership responsibilities.

22 TODAY IN THE WORD READ

SUNDAY But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, JULY and all these things will be given to you as well. :33 16

Success and the Will of God One challenge facing the American Second, the expansion of David’s colonies after they declared indepen- family was evidence of David’s growing dence from England was establishing prosperity. Even the opposition of the commercial viability of the fledgling the Philistines gave David a kind of nation. John , a signer of the legitimacy, since it meant that they Declaration of Independence and viewed him as a viable threat. The fact second president of the United States, that the Lord answered when David went to Amsterdam to obtain a loan inquired of Him is the third proof that so the new country could pay its war God was behind his rise to power. debts. He found that the bankers were David’s predecessor Saul knew that reluctant to grant the loan until the God had removed His hand of blessing Dutch parliament formally recognized from him when he inquired of God “but the United States as a country. the L’“” did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets” (1 Sam. 28:6). In 1 Chronicles 14, the author highlights three indicators of David’s success. The mode of David’s victory in verses 13 First, David received support from through 16 was proof of divine support Hiram, the king of Tyre. This Phoenician as much as the victory itself. The port city was an important center for advance of David’s men was masked shipping. By supplying cedar logs and by the sound of wind in the tops of the craftsmen to build David’s palace, Balsam trees. Not only did God give Hiram was doing more than engaging David the plan, He enlisted the support in a business transaction. He was of creation itself in David’s cause. acknowledging the legitimacy of David’s rule.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Most people believe the secret to success is a Our Donor Resource Management combination of optimism and persistence mixed staff process donor receipts and with a dash of luck. Surely anyone can succeed provide research and analysis of our friends’ financial support of if they try hard enough! But God was the key Moody’s ministries. Thank you for to David’s success. Are you hoping for success praying today for DRM’s Amelia today? Then seek God first. He will show you what Mendez, David Kocourek, Kyella true success looks like. Gilliam, and Patricia Fletcher.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 23 READ 1 CHRONICLES 15

MONDAY Depart, depart, go out from there! Touch no JULY unclean thing! Come out from it and be pure, you who carry the articles of the LORD’s house. 17 Isaiah 52:11

Sacred and Profane Arvo Pärt is a modern composer July 15). But David learned his lesson. whose choral works include “I Am On his second try David made certain the True Vine” and “The Woman with that biblical guidelines for transporting the Alabaster Box.” In a review in The the ark were followed (v. 2). No one but Guardian, Tom Service said the success the Levites would be permitted to touch of Pärt’s work was due to more than the ark. David also explained why their style and the use of familiar chords: first effort had failed so badly: “It was “Pärt told me that what he wants his because you, the Levites, did not bring music to express is ‘love for every it up the first time that the L“”• our God note’, and in turn, communicate the broke out in anger against us. We did spiritual power that he sees as music’s not inquire of him about how to do it in essential purpose. Pärt is too modest the prescribed way” (v. 13). to say that he has achieved that, but for the listeners who love his music, it’s an The church’s worship is not subject to irrefutable truth.” The success of Pärt’s the same restrictions associated with work reflects a hunger for the sacred in the . But this does a world that too often delights mostly in not mean that we should ignore the the profane. difference between sacred and secular. In our case this difference is reflected David learned the difference between in lifestyle. Those who belong to Christ the sacred and the profane the hard should stand out because their lives are way when his first attempt to move the marked by holiness. ark to Jerusalem ended in tragedy (see

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In 2 Corinthians 7:1, the apostle Paul urges Please add to your prayer list us to “purify ourselves from everything that the rest of the Donor Research contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness Management team: Ruth Velaer- Wheeler, Samuel Slennett, Sean out of reverence for God.” Ask the Lord to examine Wiedenfeld, and Sharon Cluff. you and convict you where your life is profane and Thank God in prayer for their hard encourage you where it is sacred and bringing work, diligence, and team spirit. glory to Him.

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TUESDAY Everything should be done in a JULY fitting and orderly way. 1 Corinthians 14:40 18

Organization and Worship Styles of church worship often fall to be cleansed from sin. Fellowship along a continuum between “high offerings (sometimes called a peace church,” which is formal and prescribed, offerings) were a voluntary expression and “low church,” which tends to be of thanksgiving that pointed to the need more free form. The terms describe for a restored relationship with God. differences in worship practice such as the use of liturgy or the kind of clothing This installation ceremony also included worn by those who lead worship. a psalm of thanksgiving led by Asaph, a composite drawn from Psalms 105, 96, The style of worship described in and 106 (vv. 8–36). Once the ark was today’s passage is closer to high-church in place, David made arrangements for worship, revolving around prescribed its regular ministry. He assigned this sacrifices, ceremonies, and festivals. It responsibility to Asaph, Obed-Edom, is not surprising that prior to bringing and their associates (vv. 37–38). the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem, David had to make arrangements for its The specifics of the church’s worship placement. Its arrival in its new home are not as prescribed as the worship was accompanied by burnt offerings we read about in the Law of Moses. and fellowship offerings (v. 2). Burnt Yet congregational worship, whether offerings were offered by the priest it is high church or low church, does alone and entirely consumed by fire on require organization. In 1 Corinthians the altar. Fellowship offerings involved 14:40 the apostle Paul directs that when a shared meal between the offerer God’s people come together as church and the priest. Burnt offerings were “everything should be done in a fitting a reminder of the worshiper’s need and orderly way.”

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US What does your church do to see that its worship Please include in your prayers is carried out in a fitting and orderly way? The next vice president Anthony Turner and time your church meets for worship, take note of all his team at Student Enrollment Services. Ask the Lord to help the elements that require planning and organization. them in all the detail-oriented work Consider asking your pastor or worship leader how they do reviewing and analyzing you might use your gifts in worship, whether through applications, and thank Him for assisting, praying, or contributing. bringing godly students to Moody.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 25 READ

WEDNESDAY For no matter how many promises God has made, JULY they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 19 2 Corinthians 1:20

The Promise Keeper In “The Puppy Song” Harry Nilson sings, this promise reveal that this was not a “Dreams are nothing more than wishes literal house or building but a dynasty. / And a wish is just a dream / You wish Moreover, the Lord promised further to to come true.” Some people view the establish the kingdom of one of David’s promises found in the Bible this way— sons: “He is the one who will build a merely something that they hope will house for me, and I will establish his happen. Perhaps they feel that God’s throne forever” (v. 12). While Solomon promises have failed them, or they was the one who built the temple David have mistaken their own wish for God’s had envisioned, God’s promise went promise. far beyond anything David imagined. The eternal nature of the kingdom God’s prophet initially mistook described in these verses indicates David’s personal desire for the will of that this is a messianic promise, which God. The king wanted to honor God would be ultimately fulfilled in the by building a temple. Nathan made person and work of Jesus Christ. a snap judgment, based perhaps on David’s past track record of success. Instead of being embittered by the Why shouldn’t God be with him in this fact that God had changed his plans, initiative? The Lord had other plans and David responded with humility and corrected the prophet’s thinking that gratefulness. He closed his prayer night. The Lord had not asked anyone of thanksgiving with an affirmation to build Him a temple (vv. 4–6). of God’s promise (vv. 23–27). The word Amen means “so be it.” David Instead, God promised that He would essentially concluded his prayer with build a house for David. The details of a long Amen!

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How can we trust a promise? It depends upon who Please pray for Mollie Bond and makes the promise. If the promise comes from God, Amyra Rodriguez in Foundations then it is more than a wish and stronger than a hope. and Corporate Relations who reach out to various organizations If the promise comes from God, it is a certainty. You and ministries through grant can explore God’s promises by reading a book such proposals. May the Lord’s hand be as 199 Promises of God (Barbour), available to order on everything they say and write online or from your local bookstore. on behalf of Moody.

26 TODAY IN THE WORD READ 1 CHRONICLES 18

THURSDAY The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but JULY victory rests with the LORD. Proverbs 21:31 20

Victory Belongs to the Lord The God of the Bible is a God of peace. warned: “I will set my face against you One of the nation of Israel’s promised so that you will be defeated by your blessings was the promise of peace— enemies; those who hate you will rule not an emotional state but a political over you, and you will flee even when circumstance (Lev. 26:6). This meant no one is pursuing you” (Lev. 26:17). it was necessary to defeat Israel’s God was not offering to act as Israel’s enemies (cf. Ex. 23:27). secret weapon. Their promise of victory was not an unconditional promise— David’s military success was partial obedience was also required. fulfillment of God’s promise of peace. Victory was a necessary corollary to the Jesus also came with a promise of promise to settle Israel in the land. This peace. He is the promised Messiah reflected God’s sovereign authority. Not sent to “guide our feet into the path of only do all nations on earth ultimately peace” (Luke 1:79). At His first coming derive their origin from Adam, but God He reconciled us to God “by making also “marked out their appointed times peace through his blood, shed on the in history and the boundaries of their cross” (Col. 1:20). At His second coming lands” (Acts 17:26). His peace will extend even further. Jesus will come again as the one who But Israel’s promise of peace was not is called Faithful and True: “With justice automatic. By failing to listen to God he judges and wages war” (Rev. 19:11). and refusing to keep His covenant, In God’s war against sin and injustice Israel forfeited the peace that had been Jesus will be the ultimate victor. promised to them. In that event the Lord

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you want to experience the peace of God? Good stewardship of our The only way to find it is through Jesus Christ: resources, time, money, even our “My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the lives, is a calling of every Christian. Our Stewardship department world gives. . . . In me you may have peace. In this headed by vice president Jim world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have Elliott exemplifies this calling at overcome the world” (John 14:27; 16:33). Moody. It’s our privilege to pray today for Jim and his team.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 27 READ 1 CHRONICLES 19

FRIDAY Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute JULY you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 21 Matthew 5:11

Adding Injury to Insult American frontiersman and congress- treating David’s men in this way man Davy Crockett was attending an and his nobles also insulted David. exhibition in Washington. Pointing to one of the monkeys on display, he The same is true for us when we noted that it resembled a particular are insulted because of our faith in member of Congress. When he turned Jesus Christ. Jesus told His disciples: around, Crockett realized that the “Whoever listens to you listens to me; man he had just described had been whoever rejects you rejects me; but standing behind him. “I suppose I ought whoever rejects me rejects him who sent to apologize,” Crockett said, “but I don’t me” (Luke 10:16). As a result, Jesus also know whether to apologize to you or tells us to rejoice when we are insulted the monkey.” and slandered because we belong to Christ (Matt. 5:11–12). We are blessed In today’s passage Hanun’s insult when we are insulted for Jesus’ sake. amounted to an act of war. Since Hanun’s father Nahash had supported We should also note the reason for David, he sent a delegation to express rejoicing. It is not because we enjoy sympathy when he learned of Nahash’s insult and rejection. Who does? Rather, death. The presence of David’s envoys we rejoice because of what it implies amounted to a request to continue the about us. As 1 Peter 4:14 explains: “If peaceful relationship he had enjoyed you are insulted because of the name when Nahash ruled. Instead, Hanun’s of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit nobles accused David’s emissaries of of glory and of God rests on you.” Insult being spies. They seized David’s men and rejection because of Jesus means and sent them back in shame (v. 4). By there is evidence of Christ in our lives.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Jesus’ command to rejoice does not give us As our chief marketing officer, license to be callous when someone says Samuel Choy brings experience, something unpleasant about us. Some criticism passion, and energy to heading Moody’s marketing initiatives. is deserved! Have you received criticism from He will appreciate your prayers someone? Ask God to help you discern where the today for his teams’ efforts to grain of truth lies in the complaint. Then ask for expand the outreach of Moody His grace to deal with it. Global Ministries.

28 TODAY IN THE WORD READ

SATURDAY Above all, love each other deeply, because love JULY covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 22

Victory in the Midst of Defeat Oliver Cromwell once told a painter speaks of ’s victories over the commissioned to do his portrait: “I Ammonites and Philistines. The reason desire you would use all your skill to has to do with the writer’s purpose paint my picture truly like me, and not in this section. The fact that the next flatter me at all; but remark all these chapter describes David’s “great sin” roughnesses, pimples, warts and of numbering the people is proof that everything as you see me, otherwise I the author is not trying to whitewash will never pay a farthing for it.” Similarly, David’s record. The focus of this section the Bible does not airbrush its heroes is on David’s military victories. but rather depicts them “warts and all.” The fact that David experienced With this in mind, notice what the so much military success at what Chronicler does not mention in today’s was arguably the lowest point in his chapter. The opening statement of spiritual life should sober us. Success verse 1 will be familiar to anyone who and prosperity are not proof of God’s knows the story of David, as it surely acceptance or of our spiritual health. would have been to the writer’s original Success can make us arrogant. In our audience: “In the spring, at the time prosperity we can be less aware of our when kings go off to war, Joab led out need for God. Is it possible that David the armed forces.” This is how 2 Samuel misinterpreted God’s blessing? Did 11 begins the account of David’s sin with he come to believe that he could do . But instead of describing no wrong? David’s fall, the Chronicles account

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US David’s experience of victory in the midst of Please keep our Integrated spiritual defeat should encourage us. God does Marketing Communications staff not abandon us, even when we fail Him: “If our in your prayers as they help all our ministries create and print their hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater marketing materials. Today, please than our hearts, and he knows everything” (1 John pray for Julia Baad, Katherine 3:20). Even at our lowest, God continues to care Madonna, Kevin Mungons, Larry for us and provide for our needs. Bohlin, and Linda Piepenbrink.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 29 READ

SUNDAY JULY Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. 23 Proverbs 16:18

Pride Goes Before Destruction Many banks and investment companies Lord was angry with Israel and “incited have a feature on their websites that David against them.” God and Satan provide a 360-degree snapshot of all had different agendas. Satan’s intent your assets and liabilities. Subtract was destruction. God’s aim was divine your liabilities from your assets and the discipline. resulting figure is your net worth. As a result of his rash action, David was David’s census of Israel seems to have asked to make a terrible choice, and had a similar intent. This was probably his decision led to a plague in which David’s attempt to calculate all the seventy thousand men died (vv. 12–14). military resources at his disposal (v. 3). A If it had not been for God’s own merciful census was not absolutely forbidden in intervention, the plague would have Scripture. The Law of Moses prescribed destroyed Jerusalem. that a ransom be paid to the Lord for each person counted (Ex. 30:12). The The sight of the angel of the Lord nature of David’s sin in this instance positioned between heaven and is not entirely clear. Did he count the earth, with a drawn sword extended people without collecting the required over Jerusalem, prompted David to ransom? Or was it something else? intercede for Israel and the plague was halted (v. 16). In a mysterious Certainly spiritual forces were in play conjunction of judgment and mercy, as well. According to verse 1, Satan was the spot where the destroying angel the one who incited David to take this ceased his terrible work also became action. Interestingly, the account of this the location of the temple David’s son incident in 2 Samuel 24:1 says that the Solomon would build.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Having been forgiven through Christ we are Please continue to give prayer “being built together to become a dwelling in support to the IMC staff: which God lives by his Spirit” (Eph. 2:22). You may Cheyenne Lehto, Elena Mafter, Jamie Janosz, Anneliese Rider, be living with the consequences of your own sinful and Rhonda AuYeung. May their choices or those of someone else. Consecrate service at Moody lead to their those circumstances to God. He will build upon spiritual growth and may it be a the ruins. blessing to Moody’s donors.

30 TODAY IN THE WORD READ

MONDAY By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation JULY as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. 1 Corinthians 3:10 24

A Wise Builder Novelist Rex Stout built a fourteen-room (vv. 14–19). The materials described in house in Danbury, Conn., and invited verses 14 through 16 are an indication famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright to of how large an undertaking this see it. After touring the house Wright was. It was not enough, however, said: “A superb spot. Someone should to have funds, materials, and skilled build a house here.” craftsmen. Their most important step was to prepare their hearts by devoting In 1 Chronicles 22 the Chronicler themselves to seeking the Lord. describes the great lengths that David and his son Solomon went to in order to If you have been joined to Christ, then prepare for the building of the temple you are part of an even greater building in Jerusalem. The planning began with project. This too is a temple, but it is David, who had originally envisioned one made of “living stones” (1 Peter the project. He made “extensive 2:5). As a part of God’s building project, preparations before his death” (v. 5). we are being made into a dwelling First, he prepared his son Solomon for place for God, and through the ministry the task. This included communicating of the Holy Spirit we also take part in the vision for the project (vv. 6–10), construction. As each member of the praying for Solomon (vv. 11–12), and body of Christ exercises spiritual gifts, advising him (v. 13). the church is strengthened. Like David and Solomon we too must be careful Second, he collected the needed funds, how we build. We too must devote gathered materials, and mobilized those heart and soul to seeking the Lord who would actually carry out this work our God.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Have you asked God to show you where you In conclusion to our prayers for fit into His building project? One way to do this the IMC team, please mention is to find where you experience the most joy in Lynn Gabalec, Rachel Hutcheson, and Nikita Cunigan, as well as serving Christ. Ask God to help you discover what Brian Regnerus and Ava Roller you were made for! If you already know, ask your from Public Relations. Pray for pastor where your interests and abilities might fit good teamwork, creativity, and in the church’s ministry. inspiration for their work.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 31 READ 1 CHRONICLES 23

TUESDAY JULY We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. 25 Romans 12:6

One Mission, Many Ministers In his book Christ Plays in Ten Levi, Aaron’s sons were distinguished Thousand Places, Eugene Peterson from the rest of the Levites because recounts the story of the fourth-century of the nature of the ministry assigned church father Gregory of Nyssa whose to them (v. 13). The nature of Levitical brother Basil had arranged for him to be ministry changed with the construction made bishop of Cappadocia. “Gregory of the temple. Instead of having the objected,” Peterson writes. “He didn’t responsibility for the transport of the want to be stuck in such an out-of- tabernacle, they assisted the priests in the-way place. His brother told him he their duties (v. 28). didn’t want Gregory to obtain distinction from his church but to confer distinction These arrangements reflect both a upon it.” Finding our place in God’s division of labor and a difference in building project can be a challenge rank. The Levites role was to serve the because we do not always share God’s priests. They could not do what the view of what our assignment should be. priests could do, and the priests relied upon the Levites to fulfill their important David’s concern as he neared the end task. Many of the tasks assigned to the of his reign involved much more than Levites must have seemed mundane: gathering materials for the construction putting the showbread on the table; of the temple. He also took steps to baking, mixing, and measuring for the organize temple worship and hand the grain offerings; and often standing in reigns of leadership over to his son. place. One of the duties of the Levites First Chronicles 23 focuses on the was to thank and praise the Lord Levites who were organized by family. morning and evening. Although technically descended from

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The church has a multitude of those who serve. Our Library provides services our Not all have the same gifts but each gift comes students need to make the most from the same source: “All these are the work of of their education at Moody. Its staff—April Nelson, Ashley Smith, one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them Blake Walter, James Preston— to each one, just as he determines” (1 Cor. 12:11). welcome your prayers as they And all are engaged in the same mission. Serve provide print and online resources the Lord with your gifts with joy! for use in the classroom.

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Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer WEDNESDAY in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to JULY them, just as God has called them. 1 Corinthians 7:17 26

Accepting God’s Assignment O. Henry’s short story “The Gift of the assigned their positions by lot, it is Magi” describes how Della Young sold not implying that this was a matter of her luxurious hair to buy her husband chance. The determination of the lot Jim a platinum watch fob, and Jim sold was considered an indication of God’s the golden watch he had inherited from will (see Prov. 16:33). Ultimately the his father and grandfather to buy Della Levites, like the priests, were assigned a set of expensive tortoise shell combs. their position by God. Each gave up what was dear to them in order to provide a gift for the other. We too receive assignments from God. We do not get to pick and choose our As we’ll see, the Levites were to use spiritual gifts from a menu. God selects their gifts to serve God and others. them for us. The diversity of gifts that But first, notice how our chapter today we see in the church is the work of reads a little like an organizational the Spirit, who chooses how He will chart! The first nineteen verses describe distribute the gifts within the body of the “divisions of the descendants of Christ (see 1 Cor. 12:11). Aaron” (v. 1). The order in which they entered the temple of the Lord had Our call is to use our gifts—and our been assigned by God through Aaron lives—sacrificially to serve God and (v. 19). The priests did not decide this for others, even being willing to give up themselves—they were to submit to God. our treasures to bless others. We are called to “live as a believer in whatever Verses 20 through 24 list the rest of situation the Lord has assigned to the descendants of Levi. Note that in them, just as God has called them” verses 5 and 31 when the Levites were (1 Cor. 7:17).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Many aspects of our lives are beyond our control, Again, please pray for the Library and they are a context in which we must show staff on Moody’s Chicago campus: ourselves to be followers of Jesus Christ. If you Christine Cherney, Christopher Ullman, Joy Houser, Kimberly are struggling with how God has ordered your life Padrick, and Nicole Tochalauski. today, express thanks to Him for His wisdom and We praise God for the knowledge, sovereign power. Ask for strength to face your diligence, and professionalism this circumstances. team brings to their service.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 33 READ

THURSDAY JULY Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. 27 Ephesians 5:19

What Kind of Music Does God Prefer? The term worship wars described the This probably does not mean military conflict many churches experienced with commanders but chief officers among worship style. It might be more accurate the Levites. If this is an army, it is an to describe these disagreements as army of musicians! music wars, since they mainly had to do with musical style. The worship Another interesting feature of this wars may have died down, but our passage is the connection between differences remain. Some people this ministry of music and prophecy prefer a contemporary style featuring (v. 3). We often don’t think of music a band and the latest songs. Others as a mode of prophecy. When the favor traditional hymns accompanied by church sings and makes music from organ or piano. But does God prefer a the heart to the Lord, however, it is an particular style of music? expression of its life in the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). As the church worships through If He does have a preference, the Bible music, it proclaims the word of Christ does not say which style it is. What is in a diversity of forms through psalms, clear from Scripture is that music has an hymns, and spiritual songs (Col. 3:16). important place in the church’s worship. This is reflected in today’s text, which In other words, worship is not merely lists those assigned to be musicians in mood music. It is a mode of instruction. temple worship. One curious feature of By it we speak to God and to ourselves this passage is its statement that David at the same time. If this is true, then the made these assignments with the help message of the music is as important as of “the commanders of the army” (v. 1). the style.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We’re unlikely to resonate with every style the Please uphold Moody’s president, church employs in its worship—but we can benefit Dr. Paul Nyquist, in your prayers from the message expressed in song. Pray for your today, asking God to grant Dr. Nyquist insight and wisdom church musicians and worship leaders as they for the decisions he faces every select music for congregational worship. And if day as a leader. Pray also for his you don’t appreciate the music, ask God to grant special assistant for community you the patience to listen to its message! relations, Roy Patterson.

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FRIDAY I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my JULY God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. Psalm 84:10 28

Doorkeepers for God Many churches have greeters at the of the treasures stored in its treasury entrance to make visitors and regular (26:27–28).” attenders feel welcome. They try to make sure that everyone who comes The New Testament describes the through the church’s doors is met with church as a temple (1 Cor. 3:16–17; a smile and a handshake. cf. Eph. 2:22). But its treasures are not made of gold and silver; rather, they The focus in our reading today is on are a matter of God’s grace. As each the divisions of the gatekeepers. Their individual member carries out his or presence was more than cosmetic. her ministry, we act “as faithful stewards They ensured that the temple and its of God’s grace in its various forms” precincts were secure. This chapter (1 Peter 4:10). Stewardship is the work of also lists other Levites who were placed a servant. Like those who stood at the “in charge of the treasuries of the temple gate or tended to the treasury, it house of God and the treasuries for the is not in itself glorious work. No doubt it dedicated things” (v. 20). was tedious at times.

“The point of the passage is that Psalm 84:10 may have the gate- David organized a well-guarded keepers in mind: “I would rather be a Temple with twenty-four guard-posts doorkeeper in the house of my God manned day and night,” commentator than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” John Sailhamer explains. “That This one waits patiently outside the need for security at the Temple is temple, hoping to be near God. The understandable, not only in light of the psalmist reminds us of the privilege of Temple building itself, but also in light God’s presence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When you know Jesus as your Savior, Scripture Ann Meyer in Health Services says you are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (John 14:17). is there for our students and Instead of drawing near to Him at the temple, His employees when they need medical advice or assistance. presence has come to us in the Person and work Today, please commit to prayer of the Holy Spirit. Because God has drawn near to her service at Moody’s Chicago us, we can approach Him boldly in prayer, with a campus, asking God for strength sincere heart in full assurance of faith (Heb. 10:22). and health as she helps others.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 35 READ 1 CHRONICLES 26:2827:34

SATURDAY JULY The authorities that exist have been established by God. 29 Romans 13:1

God and Civil Government In a sermon preached at New Covenant David’s administrative structure Baptist Church in Chicago in 1967, included military commanders, tribal Martin Luther King Jr. urged: “If a man is leaders, those who oversaw his called to be a street sweeper, he should properties and storehouses, as well as sweep streets even as a Michelangelo counselors. David’s leadership was a painted, or Beethoven composed spiritual matter, but it also had a civil music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He dimension. Part of his shepherding should sweep streets so well that all the responsibility was to tend to the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to government of his people. say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.’” Scripture teaches that civil government is a reflection of common grace. Civil Every functioning community requires government serves the common good. administration. Our text today provides One of its benefits is protection. But us with a list of many of the officials this kind of administration comes with who assisted David. Some were legal a cost. This is why paying our taxes is functionaries whose responsibility was a Christian obligation. For this reason to judge cases from the Law of Moses Paul admonishes us: “Give to everyone and who probably served outside what you owe them: If you owe taxes, Jerusalem (26:28–29). Others were pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; made responsible for “every matter if respect, then respect; if honor, then pertaining to God and for the affairs of honor” (Rom. 13:7). the king” (26:32). They might have been responsible for the collection of tithes and taxes.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US In addition to paying taxes, you should also pray In July our Facilities staff repair for our leaders: “I urge, then, first of all, that and prepare the Moody campuses petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving for the upcoming school year. During this busy time, please pray be made for all people— for kings and all those for Facilities division manager in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet in Chicago, Bill Bielawski, and lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Tim. 2:1–2). his team: Erik Hultquist, Jim Remember them in your prayers today. Miedema, and Ryan Kristofek.

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SUNDAY Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, JULY we will live and do this or that.” James 4:15 30

When God Changes Your Plans Dietrich Bonhoeffer observed, “We the palace officials, the warriors and all must be ready to allow ourselves to the brave fighting men” (v. 1). be interrupted by God. God will be constantly crossing our paths and Since this is a story about how David canceling our plans.” This was the misread God’s intent, you might think lesson that David learned when he that the author would want to keep it initially had it in mind to build a temple under wraps. Why let everyone know for God. that David was wrong? But there is much more to this story than David’s If you have been paying attention, mistaken idea. Ultimately it is a story you probably noticed that this is the about God’s faithfulness. The Lord set third time this story has been told. aside David’s plan because He had a The first was in 1 Chronicles 17, which better plan of His own. described David’s experience. The second occurrence is 1 Chronicles 22, The reason David’s story is repeated where David recounts these events to in 1 Chronicles is not to highlight the his son Solomon. In today’s passage, king’s mistake but to underscore God’s David tells the story to “all the officials promise and Solomon’s responsibility. of Israel . . . the officers over the tribes, The Chronicler does this to remind the the commanders of the divisions in the returned exiles of their obligation to God. service of the king, the commanders The covenant made with David included of thousands and commanders of a condition that Solomon did not meet hundreds, and the officials in charge of (vv. 7–9). The return of God’s people all the property and livestock belonging to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the to the king and his sons, together with temple were evidence of God’s grace.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This account of David’s charge to his son Solomon Would you support in prayer the was more than a glance back at a greater time. service of Paul Santhouse, vice It was a reminder of God’s enabling power. Does president of Publications, and his teams at Moody Publishers? your church look back to a golden age when Ask the Lord for discernment things seemed to be better? Instead of seeing it and foresight in all operational, as a record of what you have lost, try to view it as financial, and editorial decisions. measure of what God can do today.

MOODY GLOBAL MINISTRIES 37 READ

MONDAY Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness JULY to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 31 2 Corinthians 8:11

Finishing Well While competing in the Olympic an offering to the L–—˜ for the work on marathon in Mexico City in 1968, the tent of meeting, for all its service, Tanzanian runner John Stephen and for the sacred garments” (Ex. 35:21). Akhwari suffered an injury and finished As the people consecrated themselves last. By the time he finally crossed the to God for the work, David dedicated finish line, the sun had set and many the project and consecrated his son of the spectators had already left the Solomon in prayer. David’s prayer is stadium. When asked why he had marked by humility and the recognition continued, Akhwari replied, “My country that success comes from the Lord (v. 12). did not send me 5,000 miles to start the race; they sent me 5,000 miles to finish David correctly recognizes that the race.” success is a result of the grace of God. This project had begun with The closing chapter of 1 Chronicles careful preparation and an impressive includes David’s challenge to God’s willingness to see it through, yet David people to support Solomon in the also asked God to “keep these desires completion of the temple: “The task is and thoughts in the hearts of your great, because this palatial structure is people forever, and keep their hearts not for man but for the L–—˜ God” (v. 1). loyal to you” (v. 18). The response of the assembled leaders is reminiscent of the reaction of God’s This is a fitting conclusion to our study people to Moses’ call to contribute of 1 Chronicles. We have seen that this for the construction of the tabernacle: book is more than a list of names. It is a “Everyone who was willing and whose record of God’s continuing faithfulness heart moved them came and brought to His people.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We make plans and expend effort but it is really Concluding our studies of the God who accomplishes the work. How can you book of 1 Chronicles, let’s take be sure that you will follow through in your time to reflect on what God taught us about ancient Israel—and commitment to Jesus Christ? The answer: You about us—this month. Let us thank need to depend on God’s Spirit. The one who Him in prayer for holding our lives called you will also keep you. God will enable you in His hands and ordering our to finish well. steps as we walk with Him.

38 TODAY IN THE WORD WHY IS CHANGE SOSO HARD?HARD?

Don’t you wish you could just snap your fingers and be spiritually mature? That the gulf between where you are and where you want to be wasn’t so wide?

MOMENTUM oers a powerful way forward. Revealing the hidden path to change found in the Beatitudes, it teaches:

• What each beatitude actually means

• How they work together to give momentum

• Practical ways to mature in each one

If you want help overcoming sin, growing in godliness, and getting closer to God, this book is for you. And if you’ve lost hope that you can change, this book is especially for you. You can make progress, starting today.

Find it at your local or online bookstore

or buy directly from Moody Publishers ® by calling (800) 678-8812 or at moodypublishers.com. ® Listen to a lively exchange of ideas on current news stories and issues. Join Janet Parshall and respected guests on this fast-paced program to discuss relevant topics in light of God’s Word.

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