Kings

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?
   The original readers would be the Israelites who are alive after the kingdom split. There are references to Judah and Israel separately and gives the history for the rises and downfalls of each nation. So these books are written as historical accounts to the people of the cycle of their kings and the destruction they fall into, ultimately leading to their banishments from their territories at the end of 2 Kings (2 Kings 25:26).
   The reason for their banishment was their continuation of extreme idol and pagan god worship. Even though God continually warned them they still worshipped the gods of the Canaanites- Asherah, Ba'al and Molech. This was detestable to God.
   
   
2. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?
   
   
   The author of Kings is unknown but is very aware of the rise and fall of the kings and knows a lot about the stories that took place. He seems to be strategic and selective in the stories that he tells, he often talks about the spiritual significance and occurences of the stories rather than just the story itself. He picks certain stories to tell and then says something along the lines like, “The rest of the events in Solomon's reign, including all his deeds and his wisdom, are recorded in The Book of the Acts of Solomon” (11:41) or the “The Book of the History fo the Kings of Isreal” (14:19) or “The Book of the History of the Kings of Judah” (14:29)
   
   
   3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”
   
   
   The main idea of Kings is the constant cycle of kings failing to rely on the Lord for their leadership and thus not leading the people in a godly fashion. In 1 Kings 9:6-9 the Lord warns them about the land being taken away if there is idol worship/abandon Him and that's exactly the cycle begins. We see that wisdom and passion for the Lord is not necessarily a genetic thing. After David's kingship it is continually mentioned that the Kings either did or didn't have a heart like him. A list of kings fail- Solomon (11:2,6,9), Rehaboam (12:15), Jeraboam (14:8) Abijam (15:3), Nadab (15:25), Baasha (15:34), Zimri (16:19), Omri (16:25), Ahab (16:3,21:25), Jehoahaz (II 13:2), Uzziah (II 15:3), Pekah ( II 15:28), Ahaz (II 16: 1-2), Manasseh (21:5-7) and many more. They were not faithful to the Lord their God, as his ancestor David had been. And some kings succeeded King Asa (I 15:9, 15:15) and Josiah (II 17:7-15).
3. We see a lot of the kings being half- obedient and either not turning away from the sins Jeraboam had committed or following the Lord but not destroying the idols. (12:2, 22:43, II 10:31, 12:2-3, 13:6, 14:3-4, 15:4, 15:35)
   We see punishments for the sins committed in (11:39, 15:30, 16:1-4) and promises and prophesis kept (8:15&16,17-21, 56).

The Lord continually warned the people to stop what they were doing, turn back to Him. He sent prophets sent to both Israel and Judah (17:13) but they refused and He sent Israel them from His presence (17:7-23) and even still, Judah was lead in the abominations.

Josiah appointed (at age 8!). heard what was written in the book of the law and immediately understood why they're suffering so badly (II 22:13). He pledges to over the Lord and keep all the commands, he tells all the officers to remove the idols and articles used to worship the foreign gods (II 23:3-25).

But the cycle of evil kings continued and ultimately Judah is banished from the Lord's presence because of the sins of Manasseh.

Kings in one sentence- The cycle of sin, no repentance and disregard for God ends up getting the Israelites banished from their land and sent into exile.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   
   
   The purpose of these books is to show the effect of leadership on a nation and how sin and refusing to allow God to have supreme control runs people into the ground and far from His presence. It shows the need for God, not just a king. A king is okay as long as that man is searching after the heart of God and constantly humbled at His feet. Man fails so badly but the Lord always redeems when there is an eager and willing heart.
   The best leader is God. And He's an amazing co-pilot.
   
   
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   
   
   In Kings we see both sides of God's character and nature. We see His faithfulness and kindness but we begin to see his frustration and discipline. He promises good things if His commands are upheld and maintained but they aren't so there has to be a consequence (1 Kings 11:10-13, 16:1-4, 21:18-19).
   He is faithful (8:23-24, 19:18, 17:35-39), He is BIG (8:27), He knows the human heart (8:39). He is powerful (18:22-39) but also gentle (19:12). He keeps His promise made in Deuteronomy 28- verse 45 “if you don't obey the commands and decrees he has given you, all thse curses will pursue and overtake you until you are destroyed.”
   Most importantly He is quick to forgive when there is repentance (21:29). Ahab had completely sold himself to evil, more so than any other king (21:25) but the Lord was quick to forgive.
   
   
6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?
   
   
   I think the life and miracles of Elisha are a foreshadowing of the work of Jesus on the earth.
   1 Kings 4:1-7 we see provision for a barren woman and 8-17. In 18-37 we see a Shunamite woman's son raised from the dead and poisoned stew purified in 38-41.
   God continually put them in a place where they cried out and had to be disciplined and restored by HIM!
   He is more committed to us than we are to Him. We see this through the constant interaction He has with them. They sin, they fall, His disciplines, lays down the law again, brings some sort of restoration, commands them to obey the law again, and they fail again. But He was still there, even at the end when the only punishment to inflict was banishment. (II, 14:26, 17:27)

In 1 Kings chapter 8 we see that the temple was the go-to place. There seems to be an in-between, the people prayed towards the Temple God built in hopes that God would hear their prayers. In chapter 8 we see Solomon say, “May you always hear the prayer I make TOWARD this place (:29)... and pray to you here in this Temple... (:33), if they pray toward this Temple... (:35), raising their hands towards this Temple (:38), and if they pray to the Lord by turning toward this city you have chosen and toward this Temple I have built to honor your name... (:44).” It could be a far out speculation, but now we don't need the temple or a priest, we have direct access to God through Jesus. Jesus, in a way, fulfilled that need of a temple.

7. Personal Application:

Seeing the importance of putting the Lord first in all I do and not allowing the ways of the world to slide into my life in even the slightest way. We are most definitely called to be set apart and holy. To glorify Him in all we do. We have continually seen throughout all of the Old Testament the failings, and in Kings we see that it ultimately leads to their demise. How sad! To not know God, to know the BEAUTY of His law, that He gives it for the most amazing purpose, to SAVE us and keep up from being taken down by the forces of evil. What a loving and compassionate God. It's never about a set of rules to follow, but actually LIVING a life. Like, literally, living. He's given us these beautiful guidelines to abide by, the ability to commune with Him and seek His perfect counsel to keep us from being polluted. But we sometimes think our ways are better, that we can do things on our own, or “this one little thing won't pull me down too badly, I can handle this.” But ultimately we see that one little give-in leads to an avalanche.

Jesus, help us continue to see the beauty in relationship with You! Walking with you, yes, ultimately saves us in the end, but it saves us from being overcome while we're here on this earth! Would you continue to reveal yourself to us in this simple but profound ways and draw us deeper into your presence!?

8. Point of Passion: Family.
   
   
   Trying to figure out what to write for this, I scrolled back up through the rest of the document and saw the part I had written about King Josiah being appointed at age 8. “He did was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed the example of his ancestor David” (22:2) At the age of 26 he someone found the Book of the Law in the temple, told him what it said and he immediately took action.
   I think the lesson we can learn here is instilling the upright and wholesome principles in children at a young age. Like in Proverbs, when it says “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6). When we train up children in an understanding of God's character and the beauty of living a godly life, and the reason why we do it, not just shoving a list of rules and stuff down their throats the heart truths and life principles are instilled. There is hope for the coming generations, but it takes a group of radical young people who are willing to fight for what is right and pass it along!

Psalms

1. Rewrite a Psalm:

            Psalm 91:

            As I live in the arms of my Papa

I will never fail to find rest in His that place

For I know that the Lord

Is the only one who can bring peace to my weary soul and always comfort.

He is my Daddy. He keeps His promises.

He holds my hand as I walk through the dark times

And protects me from every attack that comes against me.

He envelops me in His loving embrace

And holds me until the storms have passed.

He has promised to always be there for me, to walk through the depths with me.

Because of His constant presence I do not fear anything. Because my God is with me I have victory.

I am not afraid of the tormenting spirits as I lay down to sleep,

The lies and the doubts that flood my mind throughout the day,

Or the anxiety and fears that creep in my moments of weakness.

Though everything around me seems overwhelming and those around me don't understand,

Though the torment attacks day to day,

They will never touch me.

I look around and see how far away they actually are because His light sends them away.

            As I chose to stay close to His side,

            And at every opportunity defeat the thoughts,

I have victory.

Nothing can ever come against me.

For He is always with me,

Offering His hand of strength.

He asks me to follow Him, to trust Him. To let Him walk with me.

And when I do, not even the slightest image or word can tear me down.

I have the authority to overcome all that comes against me,

I have the power to walk through each day with ease and in peace.

Simply because He loves me. He loves me!
And when I acknowledge His presence,

Understand His love for me

And move forward with courage and faith

He is faithful no matter what little strength I can muster up.

He fights for me and always will!
OH WHAT LOVE!

2. Write your own Psalm

Oh Papa, my faithful Papa!

How gracious and merciful you are!
You've never left me, you've been by my side the whole time.

In the pain and agonies when I couldn't see you, couldn't understand Your character and became overwhelmed by my circumstances you cleared the fog.

I confessed my sings, crying out for mercy.

But the heaviness lingered and the pain continued.

And You showed Yourself faithful.

You rained down truth and took the heaviness away from my heart.

Though my faithlessness and the lies of the enemy overwhelmed me, You were stronger.

You lifted me from the murkiness.

You said to me, “This pain you feel? This burden you're carrying? You weren't meant to carry this.

I freed you from your sin, I've taken all the heaviness. My heart breaks as you are overwhelmed with confusion.

Give me your cares, let me take them off your shoulders. Do you remember my cross? Do you remember what I did for you? That is far greater than any sin you could ever commit or any distance you could be taken from me!

I forgive you! Will you forgive yourself?”

You extended a hand of mercy to me.

You looked at me with tear-filled eyes and said, “Do you not know who I am?

I am your Daddy and I love you SO much! Can you embrace that? Can you rest in that? I never asked any of those things of you!

Come with me as we go to the depths. Let Me restore the years that the locusts have eaten. Let Me walk back through the pain and agony with you. Let Me bring restoration and healing to those places of brokenness.

I'm more faithful to you than you realize.”

Oh Lord. Your peace brings me to tears! All the times that I wrestled and was overcome- If only I'd looked to you! How much more beautiful those situations would have been.

Thank you for not letting go of me. For fighting for me when I couldn't fight for myself.

Thank you for bringing restoration to my heart and mind. For casting all my fears away in the light of Your glorious presence. For saturating my life with Your unconditional love.

Thank You for refining my knowledge of Your character. For replacing lies with truth.

For giving me victory.
For loving so perfectly.

What an amazing Father You are!
Let me never forget these moments of weakness where You swooped down and rescued me.

You stand over me as the heaviness tries to press down, but you take the weight. They can do nothing to me!

Continue to show me Your faithfulness! Let me never forget WHO YOU ARE!

3.) Characteristics of David in Psalms and Samuel

Dependent- Through out Psalms we see David's heart in a more intimate light. He is continually turning to the Lord and asking for direction, guidance, wisdom, insight, help, and peace. He is completely reliant on the Lord for everything He needs, no matter how big or how small. Psalm 57 he says, “I look to you for protection”, I cry out to God most High, to God who will fulfill His purpose for me”, “My heart is confident in You oh God.” And also in Psalms 142, Psalm 64, and Psalm 22.

Confident- So many tragedies and hard ships came over David. He seemed to always be being attacked by someone, accused of something or dealing with a close to home pain, but in the midst of all of it he remained confident in God. Confident in the promises of the Lord and His protection of him. Psalm 57, specifically verse 7 where he says, “My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident.”

Humble- David was not a perfect man, he made mistakes but we always see that he finds himself before the Lord in repentance and humility. In 2 Samuel 24:17, He cries out to God saying, “I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep- what have they done? Let your anger fall against me and my family.” He knows he's sinned and insists that the punishment be inflicted on him and his family, not the people. And we also see his humility displayed in Psalm 19:12-14.

Awe-struck/worship filled- David is continually declaring the goodness of the Lord, proclaiming His greatness and faithfulness. He at times seems to be in complete awe of who God is, as seen in Psalm 8. “When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers-the moon and the stars you set in place- what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them? Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor. You gave them charge of everything you made, putting all things under their authority- the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents. O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!”

faithful- The biggest issue throughout all of the Old Testament was the people falling to the worship of foreign gods. This is what ultimately brought complete destruction on the people and why the Lord banished them from their land. But see that David only worships God and refuses to worship any other gods, just as God has commanded him. “Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but you.” Psalm 5:2.

Proverbs

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?
   
   
   Proverbs is full of warnings, instructions and how to's on living a successful life. We see the words “my child”, “my son”(1:10,15, 2:1, 3:1,11, 21 4:20, 5:1, 7...) so it's likely that the text was written to the younger generation, more specifically Solomon's son, or future kings of Israel. But from all of the texts points about discipling children (see point of passion references) we can also say that it is to parents as well.
   
   
2. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?
   
   
   The text is very obvious about who the authors are; it states it before each Proverb. King Solomon (1:1), Agur (30:1), and King Lemuel's mother (31:1). The collaborator wants to pour out as much wisdom and insight as possible into all those who read. It's an instruction manual for life; it's likely that out of learning over the years he compiled this in hopes that people would learn from the mistakes others made.
   
   
3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea"?
   
   
   The main theme of Proverbs is gaining wisdom and how to do it. You gain wisdom by fearing the Lord (1:7, 29, 3:7, 8:13, 9:10, 10:27, 14:2, 26,27, 15:16, 33, 19:23, 22:4, 24:21) and committing yourself to instruction (2:1, 8:33, 8:10, 12:1, 16:20, 19:20, 22:17,23:12), And the benefit of wisdom is a long life (3:2, 3:16, 9:11, 10:27, 12:28, 13:3, 22:4).
   One repeated idea is the use of all things associated with mouth-tongue/lips/words. We see how crucial and potent, lifegiving or debilitating our words really are. (10:32, 13:3, 15:1, 15:28, 15:31, 16:24, 18:13, 21, 25:18, 26:20). We also see cautions against adultery and sexual immorality (2:16-19, 5:3-14, 7:6-27), cautions against a quarrlesome wife (19:13, 21:9, 21:19, 25:24, 27:15), nudging to take care of the poor (13:23, 14:31, 16:19, 21:13, 22:22, 28:3, 28:27, 31:8-9, 31:20).

Proverbs in one sentence- The fear of the Lord and the seeking of instruction brings wisdom.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   
   
   Proverbs 1:2-4, “ Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise.Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
knowledge and discernment to the young.”
   It's a book full of simple wisdom and practical ways on how to live a godly lifestyle. It would have been extremely beneficial for the Isrealites and showed them how to mesh normal life with godly life so as to be an example to the Gentiles around them.
   
   
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   
   
   With a Father's heart, He corrects and disciplines out of love! (3:12) He is the most perfect guide (20:24), He is the Creator of all things (3:19-20; 8:22-31,14:31; 20:12; 22:2; 29:13) and He detests immorality and sin (11:1, 20, 12:2, 15:9, 15:26, 16:5). 30:4. Goes up to heaven and comes back down, holds the wind in his fists, wraps the ocaens in his cloak, created the whole wide world. He is a God of justice (29:26), He wants to be sought out (25:2), and He exposes all hidden motives (20:27).
   
   
6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?
   
   
   We see the repeated phrase, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom..” in Proverbs. And in the rest of the Old Testament books we've learned that fearing the Lord/obeying His commands leads to life. The simplest truth of salvation is revealed over and over in this book. Through the simple, life applicable statements of Solomon and the other authors we see the ways God wants us to live. And it's because we know the Lord's wrath and justice, what happens when we don't obey, but also knowing the grace and love that He has bestowed on us we are driven to His love.
   
   

7. Personal Application:
   
   
   Fear of the Lord is yes, obedience and living a godly lifestyle. But it's also, more importantly trusting Him and His ways. Trusting that He asks these things of us so that He can be the center of our lives. Trusting that through that and living in accordance with His will we will always know His heart and be so in tune with His plans for our lives. Our obedience comes from a place of love and adoration for who He is and His goodness, not an obligation or sacrificial duty that must be completed under the hand of an oppressive governor.
   Living the life He has called us to is so simple when we see it that way. What a JOY it is to live a life worthy of His calling! No longer can the enemy hold it over me and say, “God's just using you as His little minion.” NO! It's my JOY to lay my life down for HIS glory! To live as His vessel on this earth. Pouring out joy and love and doing my best to honor Him with every action. And it's okay if I don't do it perfectly; He doesn't expect that of me. His only requirement is a heart that's eager to do it's best. :)
   
   
8. Point of Passion: Family.
   
   
   Wisdom REJOICED at the creation of the human family! (8:31) Wisdom knows how imperative the family structure is to the prosperity of society. When wisdom- a fear of the Lord reigns in the home God is honored and light exudes from within that structure. Wisdom knew that when a family relies on pure wisdom and Godly insight the world can be changed and she rejoices in the potential.
   Apart from the obvious conclusion of passing down these life-applicable, timeless truths to children we see a few other direct commands to family.
   In Proverbs 15:27 we see that greed brings grief to a whole family. Stay away from greed! Greed, lust of money and other objects brings downfall to a family. Instead we should focus on giving! Let giving me the motto of our families. Giving of our time, wealth and love. Giving is the most joyous opportunity we have.
   In 12:7 it says that the family of the godly stands firm. A family rooted and grounded in the knowledge and love of the Lord stands firm through all of life's trials.

Disciplining of children is a common thread throughout Proverbs. It even says that physical discpline won't kill them! (23:13-14) It says to not discipline children is to hate them “Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.” (13:24) If you don't, you will ruin their lives (19:18). Direct them on the right paths and when they're older they wont leave it (22:6), discipline produces wisdom (29:15), and brings peace of mind (29:17).

Samuel

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?
   
   
   We see that Samuel was most likely written to the people after David's time because we see the birth of Solomon (chapter 12).
   
   
2. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?
   
   
   Because the texts opens with Samuel's detailed story and him appointing both Saul and David as king, most assume that Samuel was the author and someone took over after his death (chapter 25). This would also make sense because we see some stories that seem misplaced, out of order chronologically which would attest to there being more than one writer. “Saul gets rejected as king in ch.15 (as he had in ch.13), Samuel arrives in Bethlehem to anoint David in the first half of ch.16, David gets called to Saul's side to play soothing music to calm him, a David unknown to Saul shows up to fight Goliath in ch.17, and then Saul rewards David at the end of the chapter. Then early in ch.18, Saul keeps David in his court, which he'd already done at the end of ch.16.” (http://parablemania.ektopos.com/archives/2005/05/chronology_in_i.html they explain it better than I can :)
   
   
3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”
   
   
   The main theme of this book is showing the Isrealites that there is no king other than the one true King. Yet they ask for a king to rule over them. Samuel had been raised up as a leader/prophet (I, 3:19-20) and was guiding the Israelties but was growing old. He appointed his sons as their judges, but the people weren't content with that. They wanted a king to judge them “like all the other nations have” (I, 8:5). Samuel sought the Lord's counsel and He told him to do everything they commanded him to do; they weren't rejecting him, (I, 8:12) they were rejecting God. Samuel told them how a king would rule them, exactly what would happen, but they still chose earthly counsel over heavenly counsel (I, 8:9). God gave them what they asked for and Samuel told them that God would continue to honor their decision to have a king as long as they didn't turn to idol worship. And that's where the story goes down hill (moving into 1 and 2 Kings).
   King Saul is the first king raised up in response to their plea and David was raised up after him because of his disobedience and failure to maintain the word of the Lord. (I, 13: 7-12, 15:7, 15:12, Throughout Samuel we see a contrast of David and Saul. We see all of the mistakes Saul makes, but instead of crying out to the Lord for mercy he is overcome with jealousy, takes matters into his own hands and becomes one of the most vial leaders of all times. He tries to kill David when he finds out that David has been called to the throne in place of him.
   Where as David always seeks the Lord, even in his life riddled with sin he cries out in repentance and seeks wisdom from God on how to handle situations. He trusts the Lords character and nature and relies solely on Him to provide all that He's promised. Even when he knows he's appointed to be King and has the opportunity to kill Saul and immediately take the thrown he knows the Lord provides in His timing and he waits. Even Saul thanks him! (I, 24:17-21). He even committs adultery with a woman and then murders her husband to hide his sin (II Sam 11). But God still loves him!
   Because of his persistence in chasing God he was called a man after God's own heart. His heart was seeking after the ways of God, we see him crying out for mercy, seeking guidance from the Lord ( I, 23:2,4 II, 2:1, 5:19, 21:1) and walking in simple obedience. He clung tight to the character of the Lord. God protected him and allowed him to be redeemed.
   Through the lives of these two men we see how to lead and how not to lead. In II Samuel 23:3 & 4 David states, “... the one who rules righteously, who rules in the fear of God, is like the light of the morning at sunrise, like a morning without clouds, like the gleaming of the sun on new grass after rain.”

God is still very serious about not worshipping other gods and setting himself apart as reverent. In 1 Samuel 5 we see the story about the god Dagon. The Philistines had captured the Ark of the Covenant and put it inside a temple next to an idol of the god Dagon. The citizens went in the following morning and the idol was face down in front of the Ark so they picked him up and put him back in his place. The next morning the same thing happened. And in Beth-shemesh 70 men looked into the Ark of the Covenant and the Lord struck all of them dead (I, 6:19).

One sentence- God rewards those who are after His heart.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   
   
   I believe the primary reason this book was written was to show what a good king looks like and how things go well and in your favor when you obey His decrees and commands.
   
   
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

Like in all the other books of the old testament we see that God is a jealous God, fierce and wrathful-Dagon (I, 5), looking in the Ark (I, 6:19). But He looks at the heart, He doesn't judge from the outside. Even though sin is prevalent and He knows people will fail He still chooses them for the purity and reverance of their hearts (I 13:14, 16:7). for those who live in reverance to Him and seek to honor Him in all they do He is extremely faithful. He constantly gets David out of situations he would regret (I 24:4-7, 25:29-31), He saves him from his enemies- ( II 4:9, II 23:5), but also hands him over to them (23:9-12). He strengthens (I 17:37, II 5:10, II 22:40) and He never changes His mind (I 15:28, 28:17).
In 2 Samuel 22 we see the character of God depicted in a very descriptive way through David's song.


5. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

I believe that in a way, God giving the people David was a huge act of redemption. In 2 Samuel chapter 7 we see the covenant God makes with David. He knows how David is actively pursuing His heart and He knows that this is the best leader the people could have, even if He knows they won't fully see the goodness He has given them. This is a huge act of mercy, grace and redemption.

And in 2 Samuel 14:14 we see a profound statement by a woman from Tekoa. She says, “... All of us must die eventually. Our lives are like water spilled out on the ground, which cannot be fathere up again. But God does not just sweep life away; instead, He devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from Him.” Whoa! What a perfect statement. In our sin we separate our selves from Him, but out of His grace and mercy so freely given He always pulls us back to Him. When we make a mistake or do something against Him He jumps on the opportunity to teach us, to show us, IN LOVE, what we did wrong and use it for the greater good!

7. Personal Application:

Failure shows us our need for God.

The biggest personal application for me in Samuel is simply the reliance David had on the Lord. In the last year and a half I've continually found myself in places of not knowing what to do, completely overwhelmed by the situations I'm in. But when I've laid aside all the concerns, my own opinions and desires and sought the Lord's perspective I always overcome with great triumph and have so much more peace. The way David pursued the heart of the Lord is amazing and I hope and pray that I would be a woman after God's own heart! Oh to be known as someone who only seeks the will of the Lord. Who faces trials, opposition, tragedy and ovecomings humbled at the feet of the Lord. What life we find there! God, make me into a woman who knows You so intimately, who knows Your character and only moves out of the revelation and knowledge of who You are!

8. Point of Passion- Family:
   Though David was an amazing king and leader, searching after the heart of the Lord we see how he pretty much abadoned his role as father. King David has several children mentioned in Samuel- Absalom, Solomon, Tabar, Amnon and Adonijah. We see him lacking in the ability to disciple and instill strong values in his children.
   It starts with David committing adultery with Bathsheba. The result of this was her getting pregnant and then the baby dying. We see that his daughter Tamar is raped by his own son (Tamara's half-brother), Amnon. Then we see Absalom command the death of Amnon because of the rape. As a result, David lost Absalom, who had to flee from Israel and find sanctuary in Geshur, the land ruled by his grandfather, Talmai.

What?! Mahem is going on within His whole family!

What do we see here? We see the need to focus on the family first and foremost. Your family is your legacy, they have been entrusted to us. We pour all wisdom and knowledge into them. Fortunately, we see in Proverbs that Solomon did in fact receive a lot of wisdom from his father, but what happened to the others? I'm not quite sure. But we definitely see the need for an active father. Without it, havoc wrecks the home and the children fall to sin and immorality.

I think the most beneficial piece we can gather is from the story of Absalom.

Under the law, Amnon should have taken Tamar to be his wife, and she begged him to but Absalom told Tamar to keep the matter within the family, with intentions of handling the situation on his own. The law would have let him off, but Absalom took matters into his own hands and gave him punishment where punishment was not fully deserved. Absalom eventually gets David in on the murder of Amnon without David even being aware of it. David is deeply grieved by the actions of Absalom.

How do we avoid these scenarios? Passing down values, instilling truths and being active in the family life. Don't focus so much on the job you're involved in, but focus on your family. They are the next generation. What one generation ignores, the next generation embraces.

Ruth

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?

We do not know when the book was actually written, but we know that the story took place during the reign of the judges so the Israelites reading would be living during that time or just after.

2. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?

We can't figure out much about the author from the text but we know that they had a purpose in writing the story. They obviously found value in some part of it and it was important enough to include in the Bible. They do point out the significance of her being the one who redeems the family line and thus the line of David and Jesus. This is of great significance and that may be one of the biggest purposes in writing this story.

3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”

I believe the main theme of this book is love. After the death of her husband, Ruth's love, commitment and faithfulness to her mother-in-law Naomi (1:8-10) leads to her finding new love with Boaz and the family line being restored. We see Boaz's unconditional, pure and welcoming love for Ruth. From the very first time he sees her, knowing who she is, he cares for her and sees that she is given all she needs (2:8-9, 14, 15b-16).

We see commitment a lot as well. Knowing that she had nothing to offer her daughter-in-laws, Naomi gives Ruth and Orpah, permission to leave, to go back to their gods and their people, but Ruth refuses. She fully commits herself to Naomi saying, “16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. 17 Wherever you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord punish me severely if I allow anything but death to separate us.”

Ruth is extremely committed and it's recognized by Boaz twice (2:11-12, 3:10-13) and he also recognizes that the people of the town know she is a virtuous woman (2:11)

One sentence- A story of family redemption through pure and faithful love.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   It shows the Israelites the importance and the ability to welcome non-Israelites into their lineage and inheritance. It's not about who you are or where you come from, it's about what you do and your submission to the Lord. Ruth submits to Naomi and Naomi's God, thus she takes a place amongst the Israelites and because the purity of her heart leads to the redemption of the family line, years later, David, one of the most prolific men of the Bible is birthed.
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   We see the character of God depicted through Boaz. He treats Ruth, a Moabite, with nothing but love. She has submitted to His ways and lives with purity of heart. (2:8-9) God is most concerned about the state of the heart.
   “May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” We see that God is trustworthy to provide and Ruth knows this. And we see that Boaz trusts that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

As previously mentioned, we see Moabite committing to God and becoming part of the chosen people. God doesn't care about where you've come from or what what you've done, but He focuses on the heart. Have you laid aside everything of your former life and found rest and peace in Him? Have you obeyed His commands. We see this as an open door for all who want to follow Him.

Once she was taken into the home of Boaz the elders and people declared, “We are witnesses! May the Lord make this woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, from whom all he nation of Israel descended!” He uses a Moabitess to birth the lineage of David and Jesus!

7. Personal Application:

Seeing the dedication and purity of Ruth's heart spoke deeply to be. I'm sure if there were more written about her character and more stories about her life she would most likely fit the characteristics of Proverbs 31 woman. She was hard working, thankful and obedient. She trusted in the Lord and was of humble stature. She left her mother and father and went to live amongst complete strangers to ensure that her mother-in-law was cared for. Boaz blessed her saying, “May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” May she be rewarded for her faithfulness! Oh, that the Lord would make me a woman of deeper passion, deeper love and deeper faithfulness both to Him and to the people in my life.

8. Point of Passion:

The book of Ruth is all about a family and how a family should work together and stick together to provide all they can for their members. From the beginning we see Elimilech taking the leadership role in his family and leading them out of Bethlehem to Moab to avoid the famine that had struck. When Elimilech and his sons die, the daughter in law Ruth commits herself to Naomi and finds a way to provide food for Naomi and herself. We see extended family coming alongside each other when Boaz helps Ruth out with collecting the wheat, and when he fulfills his obligation as one of the family redeemers and commits to her.

What can we learn from this? Family sticks together no matter the difficulties, they support, comfort, serve, love and provide for each other when a need arises. There's no backing down and they have each other's backs. What would our society look like today if we clung to these principles instead of jumping ship when something tough came along or a there was a need that needed to be met?

Judges

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?

From the text we know that this was written to the Israelites before Israel became a kingdom.

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?

From the text we can gather that the author knows a lot about history of the people, the geography of the area they are in and details about what's going on in the area. He seems to be very hands on and heavily involved or knowledgeable in the goings on of the community.

3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”

The main idea of Judges is the cycle that the Israelites follow-Blessing from the Lord, fall to idolatry and sin, suffer the consequences of their actions, repent and turn back to God, and then are delivered by the judge of the time (2:7-19). This happens six times in the book of Judges.

They didn't know Him; there was a generation that seemed to have not been told about who He was. They fell away and couldn't remember. But it wasn't about the laws, it was about their hearts. God saw that for them, the depths and the heart convictions weren't there. He wasn't as much concerned about what they were doing, but was deeply grieved because they didn't know Him.

During the book of Judges, God appoints 12 judges- Othniel , Ehud, Shamgar, Deborah, Gideon, Tola, Jair, Jephthah, Ibzan, Elon, Adon, Samson. These Judges lead the people into battles, saw victories over enemies and continued to direct the people in the ways of the Law.These men and women were appointed to judge the people based on the Law. I believe this was partly so that the people would be given the opportunity to make their own choices. God was giving them the opportunity to choose their lifestyles. Would they choose His ways or their own? This also taught them to see what it was like to have God as their King.

One sentence- A cycle of broken people choosing to fall away from God, crying out for mercy, suffering consequences, being delievered and finding the Lord.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   To show the Israelites what it means to be governed and ruled by God. And it also shows them what it looks like when a nation gives in to worship of other gods and idolizing self above Him, they receive punishment.
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   All in all we see a faithful God. He is captivated by His people. Even in the midst of their pain and sing He hears their cries and answers quickly (6:7). He again shows that He is much bigger than the other gods (6:25-26) and again proves to them that they shouldn't trust in the things He can so easily destroy.
   He is grieved by their misery (10:16). They continually fall away, sinning and worshipping foreign idols, and He has to allow them to suffer the consequences for their actions, but He is greived by their misery. He loves them and He doesn't like to see them suffering.
6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

He always pulls us back, always restores and always answer despite our failures and sins. His love is extravagant; He places things in our paths to teach us in a way that couldn't happen unless we were relying on Him. He shows us the dependence we must have on Him and that it's from a place of love that He rescues.

7. Personal Application:

God gives us the opportunity to seek Him and walk according to His will or to choose our own way. But He has put so much effort into teaching us and training us in the way we should go, but when it comes to a time of solo flying will everything that He's done for us and shown us actually stick or will we turn to our own strength and understanding?

8. Point of Passion:
   We see a generation lost in the years that have passed. The value of the Law and the testimonies of God through the exodus have not been passed down properly and thus the cycle gets worse. I see an extreme value in men and women being so grounded in knowledge of the word and clinging to the promises, teachings and miracles of the Lord and being sure that they are passed on to their children and their children's children. But there has to be away to communicate it and have it stick in their hearts so that they never stray. The biggest way I know to do this is to live by example and always bring every situation back to the Lord, allow the children to participate in the on goings and hear from the Lord themselves. It's crucial that as parents they work together in unity and greater understanding of God and His ways. Walking in humility, grace towards their children and modeling discipline after that of the Lord. Teaching them what is expected, showing them how to do it and allowing them to make choices. I think THE most important thing a parent can teach their child is that ultimately they are in the Lord's hands, He has amazing things for them and they can trust Him.

Joshua

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?

The book of Joshua was written to the people of Israel who were walking out the fulfillment of the Lord's promises. We see that it was written fairly close to the occurrence of the time of the events because the author writes “To this day...” several times

2. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?

We see that the author is a man of detail, he knows a lot of details about the past law and what was spoken directly to Moses. From this we can gather that it must have been either Joshua or Caleb writing the text because they were the only two over the age of 20 that survived the massacre of the Israelites (Numbers 20). And because the rest of the text is all about Joshua's interaction with the people and the Lord specifically talking to him I'd say it is safe to say that the author is Joshua. But obviously, the last chapters about his death would have been written by someone else.

Joshua has only ever known war. And we see him continue to live in a “go-get-em” mentality. “Here's the problem, here's the enemy, here's what God's said, let's go wipe them out!” And he does it. Unlike Moses he doesn't put up with the whininess or lack of faith the Israelites sometimes have. He always responded in a “just do it” sort of way. In Joshua 18:3 he asks the people, “How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?”

Though he was very different than Moses in his style of leadership we see that he called by the Lord (1:1-9, 3:7) and is highly respected amongst the Israelites (1:16, 4:14) Even though Joshua is a man of war and has earned the respect of the people we still see hints as to a slight timidity in him. The Lord continually tells him, “Be strong and courageous..” (1:6,7,9)

3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”
   The main idea of Joshua is the conquest of the lands they have been promised. The Lord has said, “here are your lands, here's how to conquer them, and here's what to do when you've got them.”
   Some repeated ideas in Joshua are fear, failure to commit, war and remembrance.
   Fear is woven consistently throughout the entire book; whether it be fear of the enemies, fear of uncertainty or enemies being fearful of the Israelites but God continually warns His people, “Do not fear!”
   The Israelites continually committed themselves to the covenant but then broke it.

We see a lot of war and the Israelites going in to take the lands that they had been promised.

And again we see the Lord bringing up the issue of remembrance. Remembering all that He had done for them and him asking them to set up memorials in places where He provided amazing things for them (Crossing the Jordan- chapter 4)

Joshua in one sentence- The book of Joshua is a story about the people of Israel taking the land God promised them and allotting the new land to the different tribes.

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   This book shows the fulfillment of the Lord's promise to the Israelites as they war their way to victory over the lands they have been given. We see battles, wars, treaties and a written record of the lands given to each tribe. It's a final testament to the faithfulness of the Lord and is written for the Israelites to look back on and see the journey and fulfillment that their ancestors walked out.
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   He continually provides big signs and wonders for His people. Again we see Him parting a swelled river to allow His people to cross. He seems to like to do things that the people can't deny or forget. (Joshua 3-4) And He also likes to be honored and remembered (4:2-3). In all of the battles that the Israelites face (in obedience) we see Him show Himself as a defender and that He is in control of all the other nations. He says, “I've given this to you...” or “I've provided this for you... Go in and take it! I'll protect you!” (6:1-5,8:1,10:8,11:6). Because of this, the nations around them lived in fear of God (2:9-11) And in every battle He constantly reminds Joshua and the people to not fear or to not be afraid of the people they will face (1:6,7,9,18, 8:2, 10:8) And again, like in the past books we see that He is a God who does not mess around, there must be obedience and no other idols or gods amongst them. In Chapter 7 the Israelites are defeated by the men of Ai because of the sin of one man and God demands that he be brought to justice (7:15)
   And most of all He is a God who keeps His promises (21:45) “Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true.”
6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?
   Something that caught my eye as we read through Joshua was the mention of “then all the Israelites- foreigners and native-born alive...” (8:33) and the inclusion of Rahab (6:25) with the people. Even those not of Hebrew decent were welcomed into the kingdom if they gave themselves in offering to the Lord and followed the ways of the Israelites and the commands God had given them. His ways are for all people, not just the chosen ones, but they must submit to His authority and chose to live a life of holiness just as we see in the New Testament.

7. Personal Application:
   I think one of the biggest takeaways for me in reading this book is the fact that He fights for us. He's prepared the way, we just have to step into it with great faith that He's already won the battles for us and be obedient to His every word.. His power is on our side even when we fail, we disobey and sin. His love and promises still abound in full force. He's gracious and loving, compassionate and slow to anger.
   There are some things in my life that I hesitate on out of fear, but I need to constantly remember that if I'm in His will, if I'm honoring Him in everything I do then He's always for me. He's preparing the way, and blessing the paths I'll step on to.
   Another thing that rocked me was the teaching from Steve Gregg. When he talked about the strategies used in the battles all being different and each time the leader had to seek the counsel and guidance of the Lord to win. All too often in my life I seek the counsel of other people, of the way things have happened in the past. I read books, seeking insight and knowledge from every source other than the Lord and I always fail; it never works. It's not about a technique, method or a rule. It's about how the Lord is wanting to work in YOUR situation. Every situation is different and each situation is to be used for His glory and we don't know what that looks like. We can't contrive that answer on our own, in order for Him to truly be glorified we have to lay down our own preconceived ideas about what works and how something should be done and get His perspective and His instruction.

8. Point of Passion: Family.
   There is so much to learn and apply to family from the book of Joshua. For one, from all the past books, I've seen men of different standings and statues used for the Lord's glory. This is a good reminder when dealing with others, and especially raising children- each person is gifted in different areas, the Lord speaks to them in different ways and they are individual and unique people with flaws and troubles, but the Lord has created them and called them for a specific purpose. Moses was of Hebrew decent but raised in the home of Pharaoh, he had a different mentality and standing in society, he had weaknesses in speech and leadership, but God called Him and equipped Him for a greater purpose. Joshua was a man of war, we see this all the way back in Exodus 17 when he lead the people into battle against the Amalekites. The way he conversed and carried himself was far different than Moses, but he was still used for the greater good of the Kingdom.

A simple teaching to cling to is the act of remembrance. Taking time within the family and encouraging others to remember the things that the Lord has done. To continually praise Him, honor Him and adore Him. We see where the Israelites lost sight of who God was and what He had done in their lives. This caused them to fall to the sins of the times and lose focus on the God who had redeemed them and called them by name! When we lose focus of God, His promises and the truths of His character we begin to fall away to the things of this world. But when we focus on the truth of God and we focus on having a heart of praise and thanksgiving we transform hearts, families, communities and nations.

Deuteronomy

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader?

We see that they are preparing for their final trek and are in need of some reminders of where they've come from, all that they've walked through and what the Lord has asked of them. The book is full of Moses regurgitating all of the laws and commands and reminding them of how Holy the Lord is and of how set apart they are called to be.

1. What do you see in this book that tells you about the author?

As I read through Deuteronomy I began to see Moses as a parent. He's releasing them onto greater things, like a parent can't go to college with their child he can not go with them, but he's hoping and praying that they will cling to all that he's taught them and reminded them of. He's raised, disciplined, loved and watched these people over the last 40 years, he's their spiritual father. He constantly reminded them to obey God, to remember who they were and the promises that the Lord had for them- not to lose faith! We see this in Deuteronomy and again in 8:11-18. It's almost as if he's saying, “You're going out into the big, real world where people are mean, it's tough, life isn't always easy and I'm not going to be there for lead/teach you anymore. But you've got the one who protects, guides and loves you so much more than me- DON'T FORGET HIM, PLEASE!”

As before we see him as an intercessor, yes, but like a parent doing his best, but always going to the Lord on behalf of his children.. crying out for their lives, for wisdom on how to lead them in his own human weakness. How wise!

3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what is a one sentence summary of the “main idea?”

I think the main theme of this book is summarized in chapter 7 verses 7-8. “The Lord did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations! Rather, it was simply that the Lord loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors. That is why the Lord rescued you with such a strong hand from your slavery and from the oppressive hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt.”

It was simply that He loved them and did all these things for them.

Read Chapter 4:32-38. WHOA!

Another big theme in this book is it all comes down to a choice (11:26). He's given them the commands- they bring life, He's reminded them of His promises, He's shown himself faithful and He's warned them of what happens if they don't obey-death. Now it's up to them to choose to walk according to His will. We see that obedience comes from a love of who He is. Will they choose to revere Him and love Him?

He continually asks them to destroy the idols and all those who do not do the things He has require. He says He is the only God and they should not allow anything unclean to influence them. (7:2,16,25 13:1-5, 9-15). He is the only one worthy of praise! (10:21).

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength (6:4,11:13,22).

If you love him, you'll obey Him. “22 “Be careful to obey all these commands I am giving you. Show love to the Lord your God by walking in his ways and holding tightly to him.” (11:22) And then He'll provide everything for you. (6:5, 7:9, 10:12, 11:13-15, 14:18)

Deuteronomy in one sentence- “Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God.” -Micah 6:8

4. What is the primary reason this book was written?
   I believe the primary reason this book was written was to re-establish the covenant God made with the Israelites, for them to accept it as their own, vow to live by it and be prepared to go into the Promised Land with a strengthened and refreshed mindset.
   
   
   
   
5. What does this book show about the character and nature of God?
   So much!
   He is concerned about all the peoples of the earth (4:19), He is a devouring fire and a jealous God (4:24, 5:15), He is easily accessible (4:29b), He is merciful and faithful (4:31), He is moved by obedience (5:29), He guides (5:33), He lavishes love (7:9)! He is a teacher and discipliner (8:3b), He provides power and strength to overcome (7:21, 8:8b). He never sways or changes His mind (10:17), He provides for basic needs (15:4), He appoints leaders (18:15-20).

He loved them and did all these things for them. Yes, He got angry, yes he was frustrated, yes he wanted to kill them at times, but He chose them, He loved them and He had made a promise. He doesn't break promises. (7:7-8, 9:22-29)

6. What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

In 9:4-6 we see an illustration of His grace. It is not because we are good that He chose to give us freedom, we are far from it! The Israelites deserved death, and some of them got that, but He continued to cling to His promise because He loves.

When reading back in Leviticus I had a revelation of how beautiful His laws are, and it again hit me while reading Deuteronomy. This was all part of His redemptive plan. To place laws and commands to set us apart, to make us holy and righteous. We see that it's impossible to please God; we're human, we make mistakes (as evidenced by the Israelites), but His grace continued to abound though there were consequences along the way. The Israelites needed a high priest to intercede for them, something needed to be killed in order to make them clean, they could not access God on their own, but how beautiful to lean on Him! And then He give us Jesus! Wow! He knows we can't live up to all of the holiness, it's impossible. So, in His love and mercy He gives us the means by which to approach Him.