Monthly Archives: February 2013

God will ransom

Psalm 49 Some see a contrast here between the wicked who go to Sheol when the die, and the faithful who go to God.  But that is not what the psalmist declares.  He states that “no man” can give to … Continue reading

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bad choices, future consequences

2 Chronicles 22 The bad choice to collaborate with the house of Ahab continues to bring destruction upon Judah, long after that choice was made.  Counselors from that family lead Ahaziah to commit the same kinds of sin.  After he … Continue reading

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walking around Zion

Psalm 48 The city of Jerusalem stood as a symbol of God’s greatness, and also encouraged worshippers to contemplate his goodness, love and constant guidance.  Just a simple walk around the city would give a lasting impression of the character … Continue reading

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with no one’s regret

2 Chronicles 21 The tragedy of a compromised life is accented here by the description of Jehoram’s eight year reign. His attempt to mix the religious practices of Judah with those of the surrounding nations led to warfare, a plague … Continue reading

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all nations under God

Psalm 47 This psalm celebrates a truth that has yet to be fully realized – the truth that God will be honored not just by the people of Jacob, but by all peoples.  The fact that the LORD subdued people … Continue reading

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our eyes are on you

2 Chronicles 20 Judah is once again being threatened, and this time Jehoshaphat calls on the nation to fast and he leads them in prayer to the LORD.  The odds are so much against them that their only hope is … Continue reading

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the ender of wars

Psalm 46 This psalm is especially suited to sing during times of international strife and global war.  It speaks of the nations raging against one another, and kingdoms tottering. During times like these, it is good to look to the … Continue reading

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bringing them back

2 Chronicles 19:4-11 Having been warned not to seek reunification with Israel, Jehoshaphat sets his sights on strengthening the ties of Judah with their God.  He appoints judges, but these judges were not autonomous rescuers as in the book of … Continue reading

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forgetting our people

Psalm 45 These words are mostly addressed to the newly crowned king, praising him because God has blessed him with greatness.  But the later verses (11-17) are addressed to the king’s bride.  She is advised to forget her people and … Continue reading

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boundaries crossed

2 Chronicles 18:1-19:3 In the complexities of this story, it is hard sometimes to remember the moral that the chronicler puts to it.  The prophet Jehu addresses Jehoshaphat after he had returned from battle.  Ahab had been killed as Micaiah … Continue reading

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