Scripture Union Daily Guide 27th July 2020 – He Who Exalts Himself
TODAY’S TOPIC: HE WHO EXALTS HIMSELF
OPENING PRAYER: Dear Lord, make me more like you through the power of your word as I meditate on it.
Introduction to 1 KINGS
The books of First and Second Kings were originally one book, written in the 6th Century B.C. Together they cover the reigns of the kings of Judah and Israel from the death of King David to the end of the kingdom of Judah and the fall of Jerusalem.
As God’s people continuously disobeyed God’s law, he sent his messengers, notably Elijah and Elisha, to woo them back to himself. Their refusal to respond brought political and economic instability and finally led them into exile. The story is particularly relevant to our continent in these days of economic and socio–political turmoil.
SCRIPTURE: 1 Kings 1:1–21
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• Is there any warning for me to heed?
TODAY’S OUTLINE: DAILY GUIDE 27TH JULY 2020 DEVOTIONAL
It was the custom then that an old man derives comfort in his twilight years from a young lady like Abishag, but that did not necessarily make it God’s will for David. See God’s warning for Israel’s kings in Deuteronomy 17:17. Abishag was later to become a source of trouble (chapter 2:21–25). Nathan, the prophet, played a significant role in the succession issue.
Remember he was God’s messenger to David and not one who feared to speak the truth at all times (see for further study below). It may be necessary for Christian leaders to play such a role during a time of political crisis in the life of a nation. Such a Christian leader would, however, have gained respect from all parties. Also, such interventions must be done prayerfully. There was nothing wrong in Adonijah’s desire to be king since he was one of the princes. What was wrong in the way he went about pursuing his ambition according to vv.5, 10 and 18? There are two warnings in v.6.
Adonijah’s fellow conspirators included not only a military commander but a man of God as well (v.7). Even priests can be misguided by politicians if they are not constantly alert to the will of God. For further study: See where else Nathan appears in Scripture –– 2 Samuel 7:1–17 and 12:1–15 and write in your notebook what lessons you can learn from his life.
⁂ Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Practice/Word Application
• Reflection: “He that wants to be great, let him first be a servant”
Today’s Prayer
• Teach me Lord, when and how to seek after what I consider my just entitlement.
• Thank God for His love which He has demonstrated in diverse ways of salvation, health, provisions, safety, etc.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with 1 John 5:4
Read the Bible in one Year: Psalms 46–48; Acts 19:21–41
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Scripture Union Daily Guide 26th July 2020
