Down an Unfamiliar Road

EXCHANGE RESENTMENT FOR CONTENTMENT –

David learned a lot by letting his anger and vexation go before they took root in his heart. He knew that a calm mind does more good in ten minutes than a raging mind does in ten hours. Too often when an argument or conflict erupts, people start trying to undo what started it in the first place, while they’re simultaneously attempting to figure out how the avoid the same thing in the future. Rather than frustrate ourselves during those moments, simple choose the option that best fits the situation. But most of all trust God to do His part so you won’t end up trying to do it all for Him.

“Be patient, let God deal with those who upset you; and don’t become frustrated when they always seem to have an advantage. People like that soon run out of motivation and drop like autumn leaves. Show the LORD Eternal that you trust Him completely by going on and doing what’s right; relax and be content with what you already have. Be thankful that you are one of the LORD’s favorites and He will see to it that all the things you really want will be yours. If you really trust the LORD and let Him handle things, He’ll work things out for your good. Believe me, He will make sure that by living right you will be a light to others, and the way you handle things will be a beacon for others to follow. So be patient and wait for the LORD Eternal to act, don’t become frustrated over those who get by and become successful by scheming and dishonesty. Again, don’t let anger and frustrations get you down, it will only end up hurting your own progress. I’m telling you, these spiteful people will end up losing everything, and when you go by their house you’ll say, ‘That’s where they use to live’. God promised that the humble will inherit the earth, and those who have an appetite and thirst to do what’s right will enjoy prosperity.” Psalm 37:7-11

Reflection: A store owner in a small town had identical twin sons. They worked for their father in the store until he died, then they took over. Everything went well until one of the twins left a dollar bill on the cash register to walk outside for a second. When he returned, the money was gone. “Did you see that dollar bill on the cash register?” he asked his twin. The twin replied, “No I didn’t.” But his twin brother kept questioning and would not stop. “Surely you must have seen it!” the brother pressured his twin. Tempers rose. Resentment set in. Before long, a bitter chasm divided the twins. They decided they could no longer work together. Since the co-owned the store, they built a wall down the center of the store space, with each one having their own entrance. For 20 years hostility and bitterness simmered, spreading to their families and the community. One day a man from out of state came in. He asked the man behind the counter, “How long have you been here?” The man replied, “All my life.” The customer went on, “Twenty years ago I was a hobo and rode into town in a boxcar. I hadn’t eaten for three days. I snuck into this store from the back to steal some food and saw a dollar bill on the cash register. I put it in my pocket and walked out. All these years I haven’t been able to forget that. I know it wasn’t much, but I had to come back and ask forgiveness.” The stranger saw tears well up in the eyes of this middle-aged man. “Would you please go over to the store next door and tell that same story to the man there?” the twin brother said. After doing so, the stranger was amazed to see these two middle-aged men embrace and weep in front of the store. So often it’s little things that divide people – words spoken in haste; hurried criticisms; and unfounded accusations. Once divided, they may never come together again. David offers a solution; let go and let God provide the answer. Refuse to carry bitterness around so you can regain the energy needed for building bonds with those you love.

RESIST RAGE AND RESENTMENT –

Even though David tried to be understanding, Ahithophel’s wicked deed was not easy to put out of his mind; it burned like a hot iron in David’s soul and he knew that if he left it there it could easily become a raging fire. David realized that if he allowed this to happen, it could easily lead to doing something out of anger, which would foster resentment, which could lead to revenge, that would make him no better than Ahithophel. David wanted to be what God made him, not what others wanted him to be or would make out of him if he gave into such temptation.

“Don’t become infuriated because bad people succeed, and don’t become envious of those who get ahead by cheating; they’ll end up like withering leaves on a tree. Trust completely in the LORD Eternal for everything; live the way you should; be content with what the LORD Eternal has given you and remain loyal to Him; yes, get excited about His blessings, and He will see to it that you get what you really want. If you let the LORD Eternal handle what irks you, the following will happen: He will make your honest way of living beam like a lighthouse, and your purpose in life shine like the sun at noon. So be patient, wait for the LORD Eternal to act; don’t become frustrated because people who shouldn’t prosper, do so by scheming and committing fraud. Let go of your anger, get rid of your frustration; it will only end up hurting you. I tell you, such evil minded people end up losing everything, but those who rely on the LORD Eternal have everything to gain. Give it some time, and you’ll see these people with evil hearts fade from the scene; you’ll ask about them but nobody knows where they’re at. But those who have remained humble will prosper and enjoy a good life. ” Psalm 37:1-11

Reflection: Visitors to Egypt still marvel at the pyramids, and stand in awe as to how those ancient Egyptians built them. They did not possess huge cranes or motorized moving machinery back then. So archaeologists believe that they used logs as rolling pins and built long ramps which allowed them to transport those huge stones up to the top. This required moving one inch, one yard; one hour, one day; one week, one month, one year, at a time; until the job was completed. Often believers become discouraged when their plans move along at a snail’s pace, while the world and their evil ideas take root overnight and grow like Jack’s bean stalk in the old fairy tale. But David was convinced that it wasn’t how fast the progress, but where the path led and eventually ended. He saw no need to compete with these evil doers. Why get into a race with someone if you know the road they’re on is headed for a cliff? Too often believers become frustrated and disheartened because they see godless sinners getting ahead so easily while they struggle just to catch up. Stick to what God has given you to do and the world will certainly take notice when His favor brings you success.

BRUISES CAUSED BY BETRAYAL – 

One of David’s boyhood friends was Ahithophel the Gilonite; the grandfather of Bathsheba. David trusted him as one of his closest advisers. Perhaps as retribution for David’s tryst with his granddaughter Bathsheba, and to keep their second son Solomon from becoming king, Ahithophel joined David’s other son Absalom in his rebellion. As a matter of fact, he even asked Absalom for 12,000 men so he could sneak up on David and kill him so the people would swing to Absalom’s side. David learned that sometimes you cannot trust some people, even when they call you friend.

“Deep down in my heart I know what sin can do to someone who loses total respect for our One True God. They get so mixed up that can’t even see how despicable they are. Furthermore, you can’t believe a word they say because they’re only giving excuses for their bad behavior. They lay on their beds at night thinking up ways to hurt people and cause trouble. But O LORD Eternal You are the exact opposite; You are as faithful and trustworthy as the sky is high; neither the tallest mountain nor the deepest valley can compare to Your kindness and the way You treat people, O LORD Eternal, because everyone benefits from the way You care. It’s hard to explain how precious the steadfast love of our One True God is; for it is available to everyone who seeks His help. When they go to Your house they get fed, and their souls are refreshed. For in You is eternal life and the truth that sets us free. Continue loving those devoted to You, and shower blessings on those who want to live right.” Psalm 36:1-10

Reflection: British painter and engraver William Hogarth received a request to paint the portrait of a nobleman who was regarded by others as being just plain ugly. In keeping with his artistic style, Hogarth depicted the subject with the utmost frankness and realism. When the nobleman saw the portrait he refused to pay for it, and a bitter debate ensued. After repeated requests for payment went unanswered, Hogarth finally sent the nobleman a letter letting him know that a well-known showman who specialized in exhibiting freaks and monstrosities had expressed interest in the portrait. The nobleman quickly paid and then burned the portrait. It’s well known that many people do not see themselves or their actions as others do. Sometimes they are blind to how hurtful their words or deeds can be. As the old saying goes, an enemy cannot betray you, only a friend. Betrayal involves a treacherous act towards someone who trusts you. But regardless of how much turmoil it brought, David refused to harbor a grudge. Instead, he focused on the goodness and loyalty of his God and Savior. He did not want to become like them, he only wanted to be more like God.

BEING REAL MEANS ACCEPTING REALITY –

From the time David killed Goliath he became the object of contempt as well as celebration. There were those who rejoiced over his victories, and those who regretted his valor. He found himself running from the same man who offered him his armor to fight the giant, and for whom he played the harp to sooth his spirit. David realized this was not a dream, it was for real! He refused to live in denial that this was happening, just because he didn’t think it wasn’t supposed to be this way. He also knew that no matter what King Saul was doing, it was up to him on how he responded. So it took real faith to cope with this reality, instead of trying to pretend everything was alright.

“O LORD Eternal help me so I don’t have to put up with my critics single-handedly and fight these battles all by myself. Grab Your shield and armor and help defend me; pick up Your spear and javelin and point them at my accusers as You assure my safety by declaring, ‘I am your Deliverer!’ Let these people who are attacking me be disgraced for what they are doing, and humiliated because their plan to discourage me didn’t work out. For when they were sick I fasted and prayed and carried a heavy heart for them to be healed. When people saw me they thought I was part of their family or one of their closest friends; I had as much compassion for them as I would my own mother. But when I started suffering they actually got together and laughed about it; believe it or not these ingrates started bad-mouthing me, and I have no clue as to why they are so adamantly against me. So I ask You, let those who’ve made fun of my difficulties end up being embarrassed and disappointed and let those who said they were better than me be ashamed and humiliated. But for those who rallied to my side, let them stand up and cheer; let them say over and over, ‘To God be the glory, because He brought you through victoriously!’ Yes, I will tell everyone far and wide how fair and just You are, and won’t stop praising You as long as I live!” Psalm 35:1-3, 13-15, 26-28

Reflection: As he was leaving his office one evening, a young executive found his CEO standing in front of an office machine with a piece of paper in his hand. “Listen,” said the boss, “this is a very sensitive and highly classified document; my secretary has gone home, can you make this machine work?” The young man took the piece of paper, turned on the machine, inserted the document and hit the “Start” button. “I just need one copy,” said the CEO. The young associate turned beet red because the machine involved was the paper shredder! Let’s just say, the reality of the moment hit him like a baseball bat. David did not experience the same odd situation, but similar principles were involved. One of the most significant insights related to the dilemmas we face each day is this: All of us proceed through life coping with the real world while we try to build our fantasy world. This often forces us to decide between the way things exist and the way we want things to be, or think they ought to be. No doubt we’ve all heard the phrase, “Reality check.” God does not offer answers and give guidance for our fantasies. He knows we must deal with real issues, so He gives real advice for real challenges. In other words, it’s time for all believers to “Get real!”

PRETENDING CAN BE YOUR ENDING –

While trying to get out of the situation he found himself in by acting like a mad man in the court of King Achish, David learned more about how lying in jest just to get what one wants, can boomerang. While trying to entice King Achish to help put him out of King Saul’s reach, David attempted to gain sympathy by pretending. So with spittle running down his beard David scratched a crazy message on the castle gate that read: “Achish king of Gath owes me 100,000 gold coins, and his wife owes me 50,000.” But this caused Achish’s wife and daughter to go into hysteria, so instead of giving him a safe place to hide Achish kicked him out of the palace. It was a hard lesson, but one David would never forget.

“I will never stop praising the LORD Eternal; praise for Him will always be the first thing out of my mouth. And I won’t stop testifying about the LORD Eternal; I want everyone going through difficult times to be encouraged and keep going. Why don’t you join me in magnifying the LORD Eternal; let’s exalt Him together for who He is. Listen everyone, let me tell you what it’s like to show respect for the LORD: ‘If you want to live a good life and be prosperous, then don’t slander or become known as a back-stabber. Don’t be mean; make friends and live in peace. For the LORD watches what His children are doing, and is ready to respond when they ask for help. And He puts His arms around those who are convicted of their wrong doing; yes, He is more than willing to forgive those with a repentant heart’.” Psalm 34:1-3, 11-15, 18

Reflection: Here is a suggestion on how to apologize sincerely after you realize you’ve hurt someone: “When you are ready to apologize, don’t just say, ‘I’m sorry,’ and leave it at that. Explain why are you are apologizing. Prove to the other person that you understand what you did. It could be as simple as, ‘I’m sorry that I didn’t take out the garbage even though you asked me nicely to do so several times,’ or something broader like, ‘I’m sorry that I’m such a bad listener, and I always cut you off before you finish talking.’ With that said, don’t apologize sarcastically in a meaningless, generalized way such as, ‘OK, I’m sorry that I’m so imperfect, and can never live up to your expectations, and I’m sorry for being born, and for being the worst person on Earth.’ Obviously that will just make things worse.”

David learned the hard way that you don’t prepare for a difficult situation after it takes place, any more than one gets ready for a flood after the waters crest; or someone begins to stock up for a hurricane after the wind peals shingles off the roof; or after the forest fire has encircled the cabin blocking any exit route. David is offering advice on how to be spiritually prepared to prevent possible tragedies by avoiding their causes. In other words, even though you don’t know the bridge collapsed, or the hillside slid down blocking the highway. When conditions yell, “Caution,” don’t continue speeding, pretending that you’re an exception to the rule because this only happens to others. No, follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and He will guide you to a safer place.

The next time you hear someone say that the stories in the Bible are mostly, if not all, myths or allegories, just asked them for evidence proving them to be myths and allegories. No matter how much they beat around the bush, keep asking them for evidence proving these are myths. When they finally realize that they have no such evidence, then you can say to them, “Since you have no proof that these stories in the Bible are myths, then I am not obligated to produce any evidence they are not myths.” It’s a matter of trying to describe the indescribable using describable objects and terms. When it comes to explaining miracles, the secular mind uses acts of nature, whereas the spiritual mind uses acts of God. In the end, it all boils down to this: do you have faith in the word of man, or do you have faith in the Word of God? – Dr. Robert R Seyda

WHO IS YOUR GOD –

The well known evangelist from India named Ravi Zacharias, tells this story in his book “Deliver Us From Evil.” When Ravi went to Vietnam in 1971 his interpreter was a fine Christian young man named Hien Pham. After Ravi left he did not have further contact with Hien for the next 17 years. Then one day Hien called him and shared that he was now out of Vietnam. When Ravi asked how did he escape, Hien told him this story. He was arrested by the Communist authorities and charged with helping the Americans during the war. While in jail, he was not allowed to read anything except Communist propaganda. As time went on, he began to soften against this godless doctrine and as a result he started doubting his own Christian beliefs. He wondered if those who taught him Christian doctrines had somehow deceived him. So he decided to stop praying and cease thinking about Christianity from then on. But the very next day he was assigned to cleaning the prison toilets. As he emptied the trash cans, he noticed a piece of paper with English writing on it. He quickly put it in his pocket. Later on after his roommates had fallen asleep, he used a flashlight to read the paper. As he began to read he was overcome with emotion by what it said:

“And we know that in all things God work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose…What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: ‘For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.’ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Hien was weeping as he finished reading. So he silently cried out to God, asking forgiveness. He discovered later that a camp official was using pages from a confiscated Bible as toilet paper. For some unknown reason Hien was soon let out of prison. That’s when, along with some friends, he began to make plans to escape. By the time they were ready to make their escape, some 53 people had joined the group. But just days before their departure, four Communists agents showed up and interrogated him about the rumored plot. Hien vehemently denied it and was let go. But his dishonesty troubled him and he became disgusted with himself. So he vowed never to lie again. The escape date was reset, and just before they were getting ready to leave the same four men came back and started questioning him again. This time he confessed to the escape plan. To his great surprise, they wanted to escape too. So at the appointed time all 58 people boarded a boat and sailed away. However, they soon ran into a fierce storm. At first Hien thought God had arranged all this for them to escape, but now he began to doubt because it looked like they would sink and be lost at sea. But he would quickly discover God had in fact planned it, by making sure that these four Communist men who joined them were well trained seamen, and with their talent and abilities they were able to weather the storm and land safely in Thailand. From there, Hien was able to make it to the United States. There may be some who would scoff at this and say it was just good luck or timing, but for those of us who believe that God guides us and knows every step, this was no coincidence. So the next time things don’t go your way, think about this story and it may help you keep the faith.

DON’T GIVE UP ON GOD, GIVE IN TO GOD –

What happened when David found himself in the palace courts of the Philistine Abimelech while trying to hide from Saul’s henchmen, can be found in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Although referred to as Achish king of Gath, to the Philistines the word “Abimelech” meant the same thing as “Pharaoh” to the Egyptians, and “Caesar” to the Romans. It is one of the most interesting events in David’s life. But it’s how he expressed himself when it was over that is refreshing. He found out that what you say in the midst of a conflict can change after it’s over, when God helps you see what the battle was all about. So we should never quit in the middle of the fight when we know that God is fighting for us.

“I’ll never stop praising the LORD Eternal, it’s the first thing out of my mouth. I will constantly brag about the LORD Eternal so those who are under pressure will be encouraged. So join me in magnifying the LORD Eternal, and exalting Him for who He is. When I needed Him most, He was there to help me out; this released me from the bondage of fear. This will help anyone to look up toward heaven with a smile on their face, instead of a frown. It sure worked for my miserable soul, for when I called out in distress He listened and brought me peace of mind. I found out that His angels stand in a circle around those who worship Him, and see to it that they are victorious. So I encourage you to try it and you’ll see just how good the LORD Eternal is. Count your blessings if you have learned to truly trust in Him. That’s why I encourage all His saints to look up to Him; because those who worship Him will have His blessed assurance in time of need.” Psalm 34:1-9

Reflection: It took the great British Prime Minister Winston Churchill three years to get through the eighth grade because he kept failing the English test. Nevertheless, many years later when the German Nazis stood ready to capture England and put it under Hitler’s rule, Churchill was asked to give the commencement address at Oxford University, on Wednesday, October 29, 1941. In his speech the former student who had trouble passing English uttered a phrase that gets quoted over and over again throughout the English speaking world: “Never give in. Never give in. Never, never, never – in nothing, great or small, large or petty – never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense.”

As David lurched from one dangerous encounter with Saul to another, he constantly dealt with grief and frustration. Yet he felt such loyalty to God’s will for his life that he would rather die than fail in his responsibility. Some may feel that the way David handled every situation was questionable, but one thing is for sure, he never lost faith that God remained in charge of his life. In other words, David never gave up and excluded God from any of his decisions, and neither should we. 10/24/12

LOOK WHOSE SMILING –

David finally experienced the joy of having his sins washed away; the ugliness of his disobedience being transformed into the beauty of forgiveness; and having the door to his heart opened once more to express his joy in the Lord. He could hardly contain his excitement and wanted everyone to join him in praise and honor to the King of kings. It was like coming out of a cold, dark isolated cave into the bright sunlight shining on a beautiful meadow full of flowers and trees. He had just experienced the difference between pretending to trust God not to hurt him, and genuine trust in God’s amazing grace.

“Let believers everywhere give the LORD Eternal a rousing, standing ovation; after all, it’s only right for believers to applaud Him this way. Break out the musical instruments; yes, sing songs of praise to Him with stringed instruments, as you serenade Him with a new song and shout for joy. For the LORD Eternal backs up everything He’s ever said and guarantees everything He’s ever done. Look around you and you’ll see the effects of His passion for what is right and what is just. For by the word of the LORD Eternal the universe was formed, and all the galaxies instantly appeared at the sound of His voice. Count your blessings if you live in a nation that acknowledges Him as their One True God and LORD Eternal; yes, count your blessings if you are the people He chose to be His very own. For the LORD Eternal looks down from heaven and keeps His eye on every human being. Yes, from the place where He lives He gazes intently on earth’s inhabitants. He simultaneously knows exactly what’s on each person’s mind; He knows exactly what each one of them plan to do. That’s why we can hardly wait for the LORD Eternal to return, because He’s our companion and protector. Yes, because of who He is, our absolute trust is in what He’s done, and our hearts rejoice. So let us bask in Your steadfast love, O LORD Eternal, since our hope is only in You.” Psalm 33:1-6, 12-14, 20-22

Reflection: Many years ago a sailing ship was caught in a fierce Atlantic storm. The passengers on board held-on for dear life as it rose high on the waves and then came crashing down, and many hid away in their cabins, hoping and praying the storm would stop before they sank. However, while many were swaying back and forth as they tightly gripped the rails, they noticed a young boy who remained as steady as could be; the huge white-capped waves smashing up against the side of the ship didn’t seem to bother him at all. Finally someone yelled out to him, “Son, why are you so calm, aren’t you afraid of this storm?” Looking cool and collected the young lad answered, “No, I’m not scared, because my daddy is the captain!” While some believers get caught up looking for marvelous signs and great wonders resulting from faith that can move mountains, others listen for testimonies about how God woke someone up at just the right time; or inspired someone to call a friend at just the right moment; or gave someone the right thing to say in a critical situation that saved a life. Simple faith seems to get lost as people line up to fill auditoriums to see or hear about another miracle. Yes, the creator of the universe is used to doing big things, but He’s also our heavenly Father. Often it’s the little, small, minute, precise acts of obedience, faith, and confidence in Him that have changed people and altered the course of entire nations.

SAYING SORRY ISN’T ENOUGH – 

David learned a lot about what it meant to be truly sorry for doing something as rebellious as ordering a census when the Law of Moses forbid it under such circumstances. But just saying he was sorry was not enough, he found out there must be genuine repentance; an honest confession that he was wrong, admit that he knew he was wrong, and to accept the responsibility for being wrong. God only deals in truth and honesty, He has no interest in someone trying to play games or fool Him. If the psalmist could not be honest with himself, how could he be honest with God? God does not forgive and wipe away sins based on insincere admissions.

“Count your blessings if your sinful behavior has been forgiven and your sins have been washed away. Yes, count yourself blessed if the LORD Eternal no longer holds your sins against you because you really meant what you said. At first I wasn’t going to admit anything, but I felt so convicted it made me sick to my stomach and I couldn’t get it out of my mind. Day and night I struggled with my conviction until I was exhausted; I was so out of energy I felt like the dry ground does during a summer drought. Finally, I admitted my sin to You, O LORD Eternal; I had no interest in continuing to pretend it didn’t happen. That’s when I decided to pour out my heart to You, and You instantly forgave me. So I tell all the saints to confess their sins to You as soon as they feel conviction, so they don’t let it drown them in unforgiven sorrow. For You will keep it to Yourself; You know just how much we can bear. You made it possible for me to rejoice in gladness when the burden was finally lifted. So let me explain this to everyone so they can see the best way to handle confession, based on my own experience. Don’t act like a stubborn horse or mule who can only be led by yanking on their bit and bridle. People with this kind of attitude are only asking for more grief, but those who put their full trust in the LORD Eternal will be embraced by His undying love. So let those who have been forgiven praise the LORD Eternal with enthusiasm; yes, let those whose hearts have been made right shout for joy!” Psalm 32:1-11

Reflection: Hardheadedness and stubbornness can be very destructive. Like the two farmers who lived next to each other near Valleyview, Alberta, Canada. Farmer Paul had trouble with farmer Oscar’s cattle coming over and grazing on his land, so he offered to build a fence if Oscar would split the cost. But Oscar refused, and so Paul went ahead and built a fence anyhow. One day Oscar came over to let his neighbor Paul know how much he appreciated the fence by saying, “I’m glad now we have a fence.” But his neighbor Paul barked back, “What do you mean, ‘we’! I had the property surveyed and built the fence two feet inside my line at my own expense. So if any of your cattle come up to the fence, they will already be on my property and I’ll shoot them.” Oscar knew Paul meant exactly what he said, so to keep his cows from being shot he built a fence along his property line. Oscar and Paul both died, leaving a double-fence, only two feet apart, running for about a half mile, as a monument to the high price of their stubbornness. David’s mule-headedness in not confessing his disobedience right away cost him dearly. Not only in terms of physical, mental, emotional, psychological, and spiritual suffering, but the alienation that resulted between himself and God, as well as his people. Don’t let unconfessed and unforgiven sin weigh you down; don’t allow it to impede your walk with God and smother your peace and joy with others. It isn’t worth it.