Old Testament reading: 2 Samuel 7-9
Two notes of interest in today’s reading. First, we learn that consulting with one’s preacher is not the same as consulting with God. Recognizing the blessings of God in his own life, David sought to do something good for God, namely, build Him a house. Expressing to Nathan his wish to honor God, Nathan encouraged him to “do all that is in your heart, for God is with you” (7:3). However, Nathan had spoken out of turn and without divine authority. That very night, the Lord rebuked Nathan and sent him back to David to tell him not to build a house for the Lord. Why? Because God had not authorized or commanded it! Though Solomon would later credit God with commending David for his good heart in the matter (cf 2 Chr 6:8), we again see that we are not at liberty to serve God as we choose, expecting Him to accept it because of good intentions. Second, I am encouraged by David’s usual fidelity and how deeply he loved Jonathan as seen in his treatment of Mephibosheth, Jonathan’s only remaining son (ch 9). As soon as he was established as king, David remembered and executed the covenant that he had earlier made with Jonathan (cf 1 Samuel 20:14-16). He restored to Mephibosheth all the land that belonged to his family and gave charge to Ziba and his household to take care of it. Mephibosheth was given a place at David’s table all of his days while receiving the proceeds from the property restored to him.
New Testament reading: Luke 8-9
Who is my brother? Luke 8 further reveals the cleavage between Jesus and his earthly family and his dedication toward those who expressed their faith in Him by obeying the word of God. His family had already accused him of being insane (Mark 3:20), and later we will read of how his own brothers did not believe in him (John 7:1-5). An oft overlooked lesson is the need to give priority to our relationships within the body of Christ. Too often, family members defend their sinful kinfolk to the point of severing their relationship with the local church. By His example Jesus shows us how important it is to align ourselves with those who hear the word of God and do it. This does not mean we abandon our disobedient loved ones, but earthly relationships should always take a back seat to the spiritual.
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