Monday, March 25, 2013

WANT WISDOM?

Suggested Reading: 1 Samuel 18

Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion).

 

Here is a spear and shield carved into what was a mantle in the ancient city of Philippi, Greece.

GOOGLE MAPS – To see where the photo was taken, click HERE.

 

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 18:14

And David behaved wisely in all his ways, and the Lord was with him.

The Lord promises wisdom to all who ask Him for it. James 1:5 gives us this guarantee. Here is a New Testament reading for today (James 1:1-12). David not only behaved wisely himself, but he taught his son Solomon wisdom (Proverbs 4:1-9). Saul’s successes caused him to become arrogant. David’s successes brought him closer to God. Saul lived for self. David lived for God. Because Saul lived for himself, he became jealous of David. Saul’s focus was not on God’s future purpose for Israel, but on protecting his own position. Many leaders have fallen into this trap over the years. There are at least three lessons to be learned from today’s reading: (1) God will fight our battles. (2) We don’t have to strive to further our own cause. (3) Serve God wholeheartedly.

PRAYER FOR TODAY:

Lord God, Your Word teaches me that “He who wins souls is wise” (Prov. 11:30b). You’ve called me to be a soul winner. Therefore, I pray for wisdom to be given to me so that I may win someone to You. I believe Your Word and I believe that when I engage someone in conversation, I will speak wise words. I pray this through Jesus Christ, Amen!

100 PERSONAL WORDS:

From personal experience I know that when I’ve not prayed first for wisdom, I’ve done more harm than good. My passion is to win souls to Jesus. After He had given “living water” to the woman at the well, she brought the people of her village out to meet Him. As they approached, Jesus said to His followers, “Lift up your eyes, and look at the fields, for they are already ripe for harvest” (John 4:35b). I’m deeply moved as I think of that scene. Jesus was so very wise. This precious woman had been married to five husbands, and at that point she was living with a man who was not her husband. Jesus didn’t condemn her. He quenched her thirst with living water. His Words are that “living water.” He changed her life forever! I’m drinking every morning and throughout the day by thinking of His Words which I’ve read earlier. Read with me if you have time from John 7:37-38.

Yours for winning souls to Jesus,

David

P.S. God surely gives our telephone prayer partners soul-winning wisdom. Feel free to give someone you want to bring to Jesus the toll free telephone number 1-866-273-4444. Every day and every night, without fail, precious people are being led to Jesus on those phones. If you need someone to pray with you about any concern, feel free to call. As the promotional announcement on the 100 Huntley Street telecast says, “We’re here for you!” For anyone who might want to help us out by becoming one of our telephone prayer partners, here is some info.

P.P.S. Yesterday’s blog had a picture of a poster signed by Mickey Rooney. Tomorrow, God willing, I’ll tell you about the wisdom which brought Mickey to Jesus. He called our prayer lines.

 

David and King Saul, as depicted in the current TV miniseries THE BIBLE, which is airing this month on The History Channel.

10 thoughts on “Monday, March 25, 2013

  1. The images of David and Saul are an amazing contrast of strength and torment! David knew true north and stayed the course. Saul was a fence sitter, never fully comitting himself to God’s plans. I too pray for wisdom and understanding. To rest knowing God is on our side and with every prayer, granted or not, knowing He is in control of our future. Philippians 2:13 (NIV) “For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose”.

  2. Oh, David, your message this morning has just filled my heart with complete hope and love for all souls to be glorified by the living waters of Jesus. John 7:38 is the verse on a beautiful print with a backdrop of a splendid waterfall, which was sent to me, as a gift of God’s grace, from 100 Huntley Street, many years ago. It has remained, in the redwood frame, on the wall, at my bedside, ever since.

    James 1:5-8: If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

    The writing of the Holy Bible is so prolific and profound! The living Spirit of God flows through us. Whatever we seek, ask in faith, and it will be granted; remain strong; do not sway back and forth in doubt. Stand tall on the solid rock of Jesus! David showed he was a perfect living example. And David behaved wisely in all his ways, and the Lord was with him 1 Sam 18:14. It could not be more clear!

    Wishing fellow saints a blessed and most prosperous day!

  3. When I think of David’s strength of character, it was born out of weakness and humbleness of spirit. When I think of King Saul, I imagine a boastful, hot-tempered character (somewhat like King Henry Vlll). Like the woman at the well, the example that you provided this morning for us David, God was with her for she was humble and teachable; isn’t that what God really wants, humble and teachable saints? A great lesson for us all this morning, God is with the humble whom He protects and makes strong of character, not with those who seek might and greatness, for to these He will bring low.

    Psalm 18:2
    The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength in whom I trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

  4. These blogs have said it all this morning. Saul started out well but did not finish well. He and King Herod sang the same song, “I’ll have my all” rather than “I surrender all.” Both were afraid of loosing their kingdom. Thank God for the gift of discernment as I believe there is and will be great deception in these last days and it can start out in small ways through the airways. The Word and the Holy Spirit can keep us on track. Matthew 24:24 says: “For there shall arise false Christ’s, and false prophets,and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” I have that same picture framed and hanging on the wall above my computer, Beverlee. It’s a beautiful sunny day in the Maritimes today. Thank you, David for reminding us of the real heart of God, to win souls. Have a blessed day.

  5. Hi David:
    What an awesome picture! What a difference between two men, one haughty and self-centered and the other humble and meek. Great lessons to be learned. I am so inspired, excited and look forward to your daily blog, David. The Word of God is powerful, it is truth and it is right, it exposes, sifts analyzes and judges the thoughts and purposes of our heart. As I read, I pray that the Good Lord will continue to mould me and make me and bring me to His completeness; for He is the Potter and I am the clay. Also for wisdom and understanding, and a spirit of discernment that I will not be deceived by sin.
    When you have found a good thing, you are excited to share it and that’s my desire.

    David, keep up the good work; A dear servant of God. I pray the Good Lord continues to sustain and strengthen you.

    LaVerne

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