Honor

Proverbs 27:11
Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad,
that I may answer him who reproaches me.

Honor your parents. It is as simple as that.

Regardless of your upbringing. Regardless of weather they were the picture perfect home or the worst of situations, bring them honor. Be wise. Not only do we attempt wisdom to serve God but also to serve our parents. To give them the opportunity to stand tall.

Because of our belief in Christ, we believe All people deserve love and forgiveness. It is hard some days when I hear my mom or my husbands dad gloat over the lives we now lead. I hear pride and confidence. I want to say, wait a minute. We are this way because of God, we are this way because we chose a different way and have been blessed in our lives.

Then I remember, for that moment they stand with their heads held high. We can stand with our hearts held out to them in hopes that they have a glimpse of Gods power in our lives and that brings them happiness.

I pray there will come a day that I will stand with my head held high because of the amazing people my children will be. If I had a hand or if it is all for Gods glory, I will be honored. Whatever path my life takes and whoever will speak against me, I can still look to my children for the people they will be.

I pray that I to am that glimpse of hope and joy to my mom and my dad. Regardless if they deserve the credit, they deserve the honor.

Please continue to pray for Denise P this week

Harmonious

Proverbs 10: 31 (Amp)
The mouths of the righteous (those harmonious with God) bring forth skillful and godly Wisdom, but the perverse tongue shall be cut down [like a barren and rotten tree].

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. Regardless of how you spent your time, with Easter egg hunts, family bbq's or watching the Masters, I hope you found time to reflect on the sacrifice made for you. I hope you found time to celebrate in the Resurrection of our Lord.

Verse 31 is a good one for today. I could point out to you the power and words, yet again. But, I want to focus on something else. Something you may have overlooked. The promise in this verse.

Matthew 3:10"The axe is already laid at the root of the trees; therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

Have you ever been in the midst of gossip, of lies and deceit from someone close to you or maybe not so close? Do you wonder, Why Me? Do you ask God what you did to deserve the cruelty? It can be very difficult to see the light through the tunnel of gossip and perverted words.

Forgiveness and Redemption are promised to us, but so is judgement and accountability. What you do not see today, may be seen in the everlasting. While we are in the midst of our struggles and fighting the injustices of this place, hold close the promises of being adopted into God's family. It is easy to get lost in the here and the now. Maybe, next time (and there will be a next time), someones words tear at your life and pride you can find a glimpse of hope. Being in harmony with God isn't painless but it does promise you justice.

1 John 4:4-6 You are from God, little children, and have overcome them;because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak as from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

Heavenly Father~Thank you for this day. Thank you for the sacrifice. Thank you for the power that overcomes death. Continue to work in my life Lord. I desire a life focused on the promises of your word and not on the words of this world. Give me the power to discern those that are speaking in your wisdom and those that defile. ~In Your Precious Name.

Please pray for Janice J this week

Upcoming event: I (Angela) will be teaching at my first women's retreat. I am so excited and would like to invite anyone who may be in the Knoxville area or would like to travel here. It is May 8th and 9th. Email me through womenofworship1@gmail.com and I will get you the information.

Sport

Proverbs 10:23
Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool,
And so is wisdom to a man of understanding.

This seems like an appropriate verse for April Fools Day. I hope you are being kind and not pulling any crazy stunts.

It may be one thing to pull a prank or tease your friends into believing you have won the lottery for the day, it is entirely another to make a sport of people. Many people are game players. Putting the pieces into place in order to get their way. Little thought to the misdeed or long term consequences of their trickery.

I have been known to do this very thing myself. Yes, me. How about you? Ever guilt someone into getting something you wanted? Have you ever played "games" in a relationship to either get in better or get out of it entirely? Ever talked someone into doing something you were suppose to do? This list could go on.

We can be in such a hurry to get our way that we don't always consider the wiser way to go. Sometimes we can manipulate situations for our instant gratification and not see the consequences to others, or even ourselves. Next time you catch yourself telling a "little" lie that seems harmless, remember you are called to choose a wiser way.

Please continue to pray for Becky G this week.

Foolish

Proverbs 10:14
Wise men store up knowledge,
But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand.

It seems there is a running theme in this weeks Proverbs. Knowledge, wisdom and our mouths. Today, I read this and think that maybe there are times we shouldn't say whatever it is we want to say.

How true. Sometimes our own best advice can be to the ruin of our friends or ourselves. I recently had an experience where being helpful turned into something distasteful. A group of wonderful godly women that I know were meeting together for prayer. I don't know if you have ever been in a prayer group that went from prayer requests to gossip but it happened to us. And once we got started it consumed us. By the end of our meeting it was hard to even remember what the prayer requests were because we had lost all focus of our purpose.

Instead of holding back all of our knowledge of a situation and just lifting someone in prayer, we told everything. I was so disappointed afterwards. I know we are better than that but lost our perspective. My heart still aches for those that we talked about.

I can't change the part I played in that situation. I can change what happens next time.

Heavenly Father~ Praise you for the changing of the seasons and the way the warm spring air has started to change the flowers and the trees. You know my heart Lord and that I wish to honor you in my life. Show me Lord when I become foolish with my words. Show me when I should be storing knowledge. Lord, I desire to be more obedient to your ways...to know you intimately through your Word and live a life that is responding to your greatness.~In Your Heavenly Name

Please continue to pray for Sam Y this week.

Lacking

Proverbs 10:13 (NASB)
On the lips of the discerning, wisdom is found,
But a rod is for the back of him who lacks understanding.

If you don't mind bearing with me...I am going to get on all of our cases for a minute. As Christian Americans, we spend a lot of time going to church, serving God, loving people (now these things aren't bad) and spend very little time in relationship. Even Jesus took time to be alone with God, to be fed and grow deeper roots. Isn't Jesus our example? How much time do you spend in your Bible? How much time do you spend praying (alone, and not while doing something else)?

As a society of people we have been taught for generations that we are not smart enough to understand God's Word. Have you ever said that....I just don't understand it, it is to hard to read, I just don't think that way, I'm not smart enough, I grew up in church and I know enough, I didn't grow up in church and I just don't get it.......Okay, people....time for a reality check.....Do you believe that the Bible is the divine Word of God? Do you believe that God has promises for you? Do you think your pastor, teacher or parent can create for you an intimate relationship with God?

The same Spirit that rose Christ from the dead is the same Spirit sent to you to help you, guide you and give you discernment. You hold God's love letter to you in your hand and He wants you to read it. Where else are you going to find wisdom? In the msg v13 says "...the shortsighted needs a slap in the face" Ouch!! How do we becoming discerning if we don't know what it is we are suppose to be looking out for?

I have been reading an amazing book and everything in it has challenged me to the very core of my faith. The other night I was reading along and in the midst of the authors words he says "I am sorry this is so long", in reference to the amount of scripture he was using to make his point. Isn't that just how we work. In the midst of the teaching and learning too much of God's Word needs to be apologized for. Makes me sad.

Heavenly Father~ I praise you for the abundance of Grace and Mercy that even today falls on me as I know that I keep our relationship at arms length. Grow a hunger in me Lord to know your Word, to know your promises. Remind me that in all of my faithful works that I must quench my thirst with your Word and not the words of others. Lord, take the thoughts from my head that tell me I am not smart enough or I already know enough. Forgive me for not putting the treasure of time in your court. ~In Your Precious Holy Name

Please continue to pray for Sam Y this week.

Timing

Proverbs 10:5
He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son,
but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

I am starting to think that Solomon was a pretty smart man. In the last five days he has reminded me of my own character and how it reflects on my family. He also tells of the importance of wisdom and hard work. These principles seem simple enough.

Why do you think the world puts so little importance on our character? What ever happened to integrity, timeliness, and wisdom? I find it bewildering when I think how intelligent we are as a society and yet put very little importance on who we are as people.

Heavenly Father~ Thank you for the opportunity to explore your word. I thank you for the challenges and the self examination the Proverbs bring to my life. I thank you for the many blessings that are abundant in my life. I pray for your guidance and wisdom in all I do in this life. ~In Your Precious Name.

I hope you enjoy this worship song, it is one of my new favorites....
Deluge: Open Up The Sky



We are hoping to update the many prayer requests. Please forward any requests and praises you would like to share to be added to an updated list next week. Thank you for your continued prayer support.

The O's of God, Day 1

The O's of God

Day 1

Omnipotence- a theological term that refers to the all-encompassing power of God.

Omnipresence- a theological term that refers to the unlimited nature of God or His ability to be everywhere at all times.

Omniscience- a theological term that refers to God's superior knowledge and wisdom. His power to know all things.

Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

Job 12:13 "To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his.

Dear Lord, I pray today that you will be praised. That eyes will be open to your amazing ways. That hearts will be softened to receive you. Please forgive us for not always remembering all your qualities. Thank you that these qualities are real and that even when we forget it doesn't make them less real. I pray that this week, we will understand you more and be closer to you in all we do, say, think. Thank you.

Please pray for Kathy L. as you go through your week.

Understanding

Day 1

Understanding: "to be prudent, act wisely, give attention to, ponder, prosper"

tebunah: the act of wisdom/understanding, it is used 42 times in scripture...

Understanding is rarely used without the words wisdom or knowledge. One description from Wikepedia says "...knowledge is the simple awareness of bits of information. Understanding is the awareness of the connection between the individual pieces of this information. It is understanding which allows knowledge to be put to use...."

We will take a look at a lot of the aspects of understanding in scripture. I don't know that I can define it with a tangible word for word description. I can tell you that it is an important part of our lives and an important step in growing in grace. If you want your roots to go deep, it goes farther then just the reading and "knowing". You need to put the pieces together and find out how they apply to you, your life and your relationship with our Lord and Savior.

Colossians 1:8-12
8and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.
9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously
12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

Day 2

Out of curiosity, how many self-help books do you own? How many Christian living books? How many have you read? I can tell you my book shelves are full with many I have read and many that are book-marked for the someday I get back to it. I have an incredible thirst for knowledge. I love to read and learn. I like to believe that in all of my book smarts and knowledge I find a better understanding of my faith and who I am in Christ.

I have found that there are differences in finding answers to questions and getting understanding. I have questions, a lot of questions. Thank God for Google (most of the time). The thing I find with understanding is that it takes it to the next level. As a Christian I know that God is the Creator. I didn't understand the greatness of calling Him Creator until the birth of my first daughter. All of the pieces and parts working together to form a beautiful child. Add to that the experiences of standing beneath the great Redwood trees or floating on the Mississippi. Our God is amazing and my understanding of His amazing creativity is still very small.

Proverbs 1:1-7
The Usefulness of Proverbs
1The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:
2To know wisdom and instruction, To discern the sayings of understanding,
3To receive instruction in wise behavior, Righteousness, justice and equity;
4To give prudence to the naive, To the youth knowledge and discretion,
5A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,
6To understand a proverb and a figure, The words of the wise and their riddles.
7The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Day 3

Proverbs 2:2,3,6..
2Make your ear attentive to wisdom, Incline your heart to understanding;
3For if you cry for discernment, Lift your voice for understanding;
6For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Why do I need understanding?

What will I get with understanding?

Where do I get understanding?

I love the Proverb above, mostly because it reminds me that it is not with my mind, but with my heart and worship and relationship with the Living Word that I will find the understanding that I seek.

We would love to hear from you. If you have had an experience where wisdom and knowledge went to the next level to understanding would you share it with us, add it to the comments at the end of this blog. If you would like to share your answers to these questions, please share those too.

Day 4

"Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything."~2 Timothy 2:7

"We know that we are of God, and that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one. And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ This is the true God and eternal life." ~1John 5:19-20

Really?! Everything?!

Yes, for all of you doubters out there. God has been there, seen it and wrote a book about it. He gave you a living spirit that guides you, protects you and helps you. He Created all of the beauty that surrounds you for goodness sakes. I know he wants you to understand the love he has for you. I know He has given you freedom through His grace and mercy. I understand that we are new, born again, because of His sacrifice and our faith.

Day 5

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ~Jeremiah 29:11

God's Word is full of amazing promises. Including the one in Jeremiah that has been written in thousands of graduation cards this past month. God has plans for you. God wants to give you hope, a future.

It is easy as Christians to walk around wondering why we are going through the trials It is frustrating to struggle when we have the Spirit of God living inside of us. It becomes even easier to become bitter and resentful in today's world when we rarely wait for anything. Our impatience in a grocery store line carries over into our faith.

What if you need a little wisdom, a little knowledge and a little experience before you can carry out the plans God has for you? What if God wants you to get understanding so that you can do His will in your life?

"The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with all your acquiring, get understanding." ~Proverbs 4:7

Heavenly Father~Praise your Name for all of the blessings and abundance and health that you have pored into my life and the lives of those around me. Thank you for your beauty and strength. Forgive me for all of the time I spend reading and googling and gaining knowledge from places other then you. May I spend more time desiring your knowledge and understanding not only with my mind but in my heart and in my worship. Remind me Father that in the midst of my everyday life that you are giving me the opportunities to know you and understand you in my experiences. May my life be a poring out of your love and beauty. ~In Jesus Precious Name.

Esther

Day 1

Esther: Her name may derive from "Ishtar," The Babylonian Goddess of Love or from the Persian word for "star". Her Hebrew name, "Hadassah," means "Myrtle"


Her Character: An orphan in a foreign land, she displayed great courage in the midst of a crisis. Prior to risking her life for her people, she humbled herself by fasting, and then put her considerable beauty, social grace, and wisdom in the service of God's plan.

Her Sorrow: To learn that her husband, the king, had unwittingly placed her life and the life of her people in jeopardy.


Her Joy: To watch mourning turn to celebration once the Jews enjoyed relief from their enemies.


Key Scripture: Esther 1-10


Subject to foreign powers after the Exile, God's people must have felt among the weakest elements of society. But weaker even than a Jewish man exiled to a foreign land was a Jewish woman. And weakest of all would have been a young orphan of Jewish descent. God had once again employed one of his favorite methods for accomplishing his purposes: he had raised the weakest of the weak, placing her in a position of immense strategic importance.


But it had been up to Esther to decide whether she would play the part God offered. Like Moses, she chose to identify with God's people even if it meant risking her life to do so. And even though exile was punishment for Israel's long unfaithfulness, God showed that he was still with his people, delivering and protecting them in surprising ways, turning the table on their enemies through a series of stunning reversals. Earthly powers were at work to kill and destroy, but a heavenly power, far greater in scope, was at work to save and preserve.


Day 2


The Festival of Purim

When Haman threw the lot or the pur to discover what day would be the best day to annihilate the Jews in Xerxes' kingdom, he unwitingly established a festival called Purim, when, instead of annihilation, the Jews celebrated their deliverance. Esther and her cousin Mordecai jointly worked to overturn Haman's plot, and when they were successful, sent out a proclamation to all the Jews living in Xerxes' kingdom to "celebrate annually the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration" (Esther 9:21-22)


Adar 14 and 15. Adar was the last month in the Jewish calendar, our February/March. Josephus, the first-century Jewish general and historian, claimed that Jews all over the world celebrated the festival of Purim in his day, and it continues to be a popular festival for Jews today.


Worship and fasting typically make up the first day of the festival. The entire book of Esther is read aloud, and the congregation respons with "Let his name be blotted out" each time Haman's name is read. The children in the group respond to Haman's name with noisemakers and rattles. On the second day of the feast, rejoicing and celebration break out. Food, music, dramas and plays, special songs, and recitals all add to the festive mood. People give gifts to each other and also make sure they don't forget to give gifts of food to the poor, as that was a special wish of Mordecai (Esther 9:22)


Like the Passover, the Feast of Purim celebrates divine deliverance. Saved from Pharaoh's rule and slavery in Egypt and delivered from the destruction planned by Haman, the Jews celebrated a deliverance that only God could have orchestrated. Previously doomed, they were now delivered. As believers, we too have something to celebrate. Instead of a Moses or an Esther, God sent his own Son to deliver us, saving us from the terrible destruction of sin and death. Surely, that's reason enough to celebrate.


Day 3

Read the entire book of Esther, in one sitting if possible.



Esther's royal position was no accident. She was in a position of influence for a very specific purpose. Your position in life is not an accident either. What do you think God might have for you to do right where you are, right now?



Have you ever had to be brave like Esther in order to step out and do the right thing? What were the circumstances? What was the outcome?



How have you been delivered like the Jews in this story? How do you celebrate your deliverance?

Day4

Esther 4:6-16
6 So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the open square of the city in front of the king's gate. 7 Mordecai told him everything that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury for the destruction of the Jews. 8 He also gave him a copy of the text of the edict for their annihilation, which had been published in Susa, to show to Esther and explain it to her, and he told him to urge her to go into the king's presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.
9 Hathach went back and reported to Esther what Mordecai had said. 10 Then she instructed him to say to Mordecai, 11 "All the king's officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that he be put to death. The only exception to this is for the king to extend the gold scepter to him and spare his life. But thirty days have passed since I was called to go to the king."
12 When Esther's words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: "Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
15 Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish."

Esther 5:1-8
Esther's Request to the King
1 On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king's hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. 2 When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter.
3 Then the king asked, "What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you."
4 "If it pleases the king," replied Esther, "let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him."
5 "Bring Haman at once," the king said, "so that we may do what Esther asks." So the king and Haman went to the banquet Esther had prepared. 6 As they were drinking wine, the king again asked Esther, "Now what is your petition? It will be given you. And what is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted."
7 Esther replied, "My petition and my request is this: 8 If the king regards me with favor and if it pleases the king to grant my petition and fulfill my request, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then I will answer the king's question."

Esther 7:1-4
1 So the king and Haman went to dine with Queen Esther, 2 and as they were drinking wine on that second day, the king again asked, "Queen Esther, what is your petition? It will be given you. What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be granted."
3 Then Queen Esther answered, "If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request. 4 For I and my people have been sold for destruction and slaughter and annihilation. If we had merely been sold as male and female slaves, I would have kept quiet, because no such distress would justify disturbing the king.

Esther 8:1-8
1 That same day King Xerxes gave Queen Esther the estate of Haman, the enemy of the Jews. And Mordecai came into the presence of the king, for Esther had told how he was related to her. 2 The king took off his signet ring, which he had reclaimed from Haman, and presented it to Mordecai. And Esther appointed him over Haman's estate.
3 Esther again pleaded with the king, falling at his feet and weeping. She begged him to put an end to the evil plan of Haman the Agagite, which he had devised against the Jews. 4 Then the king extended the gold scepter to Esther and she arose and stood before him.
5 "If it pleases the king," she said, "and if he regards me with favor and thinks it the right thing to do, and if he is pleased with me, let an order be written overruling the dispatches that Haman son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, devised and wrote to destroy the Jews in all the king's provinces. 6 For how can I bear to see disaster fall on my people? How can I bear to see the destruction of my family?"
7 King Xerxes replied to Queen Esther and to Mordecai the Jew, "Because Haman attacked the Jews, I have given his estate to Esther, and they have hanged him on the gallows. 8 Now write another decree in the king's name in behalf of the Jews as seems best to you, and seal it with the king's signet ring—for no document written in the king's name and sealed with his ring can be revoked."

Day 5

Could you imagine how Esther must have felt when she found out that not only her people, but herself were going to be put to death because of Haman. She must have known immediately that her husband could fix the situation. But take a moment to consider how she decides to handle this.

First, she asks her cousin and people to pray and fast for her. Then she goes into a time of prayer and fasting herself.

When conflict arises in your home or family how do you handle it? Esther is a great example to us. Taking her predicament to the only One who could truly prepare the way for her. Esther could have run straight to the king begging for her life and the lives of the Jews. She probably could have made her argument in her defense, yelling about the injustice that was about to occur. And gotten herself killed in the process, doing not a single person any good.

Her patience amazes me. She was slow to react. Relied on her God. Deprived herself of food and water, putting herself in the presence of God first and seeking His guidance.

How many times have you been too quick to react in a situation? I know there have been many times I have stood my ground, argued my defense in a situation and not accomplished a darn thing. I know none of my situations had to do with the destruction of myself or an entire group of people, but at the moment they may have seemed just as important to me. I wonder, if I had been slow to anger, sought my Lord in fasting and prayer, would He have prepared the way for me? Of course He would have.

Maybe next time, I will think of Esther, take a deep breath then take it to God. I have a feeling that my case will be heard if God has already prepared the hearts of the people involved and He will give me the words to say. In the end I will glorify God, not just be “right”.

Queen of Sheba

Day 1

Her Character: A pagan queen, she prized wisdom above power. She appears to have been intellectually gifted, with a good head for business and diplomacy.

Her Joy: That her quest for wisdom was rewarded beyond her expectations.

1 Kings 10:1 - 13
1 Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to test him with hard questions. 2 She came to Jerusalem with a very great retinue, with camels that bore spices, very much gold, and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was in her heart. 3 So Solomon answered all her questions; there was nothing so difficult for the king that he could not explain it to her. 4 And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, the house that he had built, 5 the food on his table, the seating of his servants, the service of his waiters and their apparel, his cupbearers, and his entryway by which he went up to the house of the LORD, there was no more spirit in her. 6 Then she said to the king: “It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. 7 However I did not believe the words until I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half was not told me. Your wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame of which I heard. 8 Happy are your men and happy are these your servants, who stand continually before you and hear your wisdom! 9 Blessed be the LORD your God, who delighted in you, setting you on the throne of Israel! Because the LORD has loved Israel forever, therefore He made you king, to do justice and righteousness.”10 Then she gave the king one hundred and twenty talents of gold, spices in great quantity, and precious stones. There never again came such abundance of spices as the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon. 11 Also, the ships of Hiram, which brought gold from Ophir, brought great quantities of almug wood and precious stones from Ophir. 12 And the king made steps of the almug wood for the house of the LORD and for the king’s house, also harps and stringed instruments for singers. There never again came such almug wood, nor has the like been seen to this day. 13 Now King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba all she desired, whatever she asked, besides what Solomon had given her according to the royal generosity. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.

Matthew 12:42
The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here.

Day 2

Gift Giving.

Four and a half tons of Gold. A camel could carry about two hundred pounds when traveling through the desert. This would equal forty-five camels who were required to carry just the gold that the Queen of Sheba presented to Solomon.

Most of the personal meetings in ancient cultures included gift giving. A gift was given to the host or hostess when visiting someone’s home. Even chance encounters in the desert included gift exchanges (Gen. 14:18-20) It was a way to express submission to someone who was in a superior position. Or given as a way to gain favor or bribe someone in a superior position.
Some of the gifts are staggering in scope. The gifts Abraham’s servants gave to Rebekah and her family (Gen. 24:53), were the bride price or dowry as part of the traditions surrounding marriage. One of Solomon’s wives received an entire town from her father as a wedding gift (1 Kings 9:16). Jacob offered Esau a herd of 550 animals as a reconciliation (Gen. 32:13-15). The Israelites gave gifts to God after their victory over the Midianites, consisting of thousands of animals and gold and silver jewelry weighing over 420 pounds. (Numbers 31:51- 52)
So many gifts were given to Solomon that in his time silver was “as common in Jerusalem as stones” (1 Kings 10:23 - 27) The most famous gifts in the Bible are the ones given by the Magi to the child Jesus. (Matthew 2:11)

In the New Testament, gifts are also written as an expression to God. Whatever gift, big or small, as long as it is done with a generous and cheerful heart. Jesus praised the widow that gave two small coins because she displayed her heart of love for God by giving all she had. (Luke 21:1-4) He even contrasted her with the others who gave a small amount of their wealth, often with a grudging attitude. The condition of our hearts when we give is the most important to God. (2 Corinthians 9:7).

No thank-you note is required, just a life of gratitude to God for the gift of eternal life through his Son. (Romans 6:23)

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift. (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Day 3

1 Kings 10:1 -5, 10
1 Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to test him with hard questions. 2 She came to Jerusalem with a very great retinue, with camels that bore spices, very much gold, and precious stones; and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was in her heart. 3 So Solomon answered all her questions; there was nothing so difficult for the king that he could not explain it to her. 4 And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, the house that he had built, 5 the food on his table, the seating of his servants, the service of his waiters and their apparel, his cupbearers, and his entryway by which he went up to the house of the LORD, there was no more spirit in her.
10 Then she gave the king one hundred and twenty talents of gold, spices in great quantity, and precious stones. There never again came such abundance of spices as the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon.

What two things did the Queen of Sheba know about Solomon?

Think of one famous person. What made that person famous? If you could meet one famous person, who would that person be? What person can you think of who is famous because of “his relation to the name of the Lord?

What does the Queen of Sheba’s gift to Solomon tell you about her nation’s wealth? Why would she bring such extravagant gifts?

What’s the most extravagant gift you’ve ever given to another person? To God?
What’s easier for you to give: a gift you can buy or a gift that requires that you give something of yourself?

What questions do you think the Queen of Sheba asked of Solomon?

If you could have an audience with Solomon, what one question would you ask him?

What two things about Solomon most impressed the Queen of Sheba?Do you now anyone whom you think is truly wise? What impresses you most about the person?

1 Kings 10:6 - 9, 13
6 Then she said to the king: “It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. 7 However I did not believe the words until I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half was not told me. Your wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame of which I heard. 8 Happy are your men and happy are these your servants, who stand continually before you and hear your wisdom! 9 Blessed be the LORD your God, who delighted in you, setting you on the throne of Israel! Because the LORD has loved Israel forever, therefore He made you king, to do justice and righteousness.”
13 Now King Solomon gave the queen of Sheba all she desired, whatever she asked, besides what Solomon had given her according to the royal generosity. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.

From everything you have read about the Queen of Sheba how would you describe her?
Is there anything in her character that you wish were true of you? What can you do to develop yourself in that area?

Day 4

Her legacy of prayer
1 Kings 10:8 - 9

Reflect on 1 Kings 10:1 - 13

Praise God for his generosity.

Offer thanks for God’s wisdom working through others.

Confess any tendency to trust too much in your own wisdom without seeking godly counsel.

Ask God to pour out wisdom on leaders in the church and in the government so that his ways are honored in your family, community and nation.

Day 5

Lift your heart

Think of the gifts that the Queen of Sheba lavished on Solomon. This was a tangible acknowledgement of his greatness. Solomon was only a man. What can you lavish on the One who is far greater than he? You can be generous with your praise, telling God everything you love about him. You can be generous with your time, going out of your way to help those in need. You can be generous with your trust, acting and praying in a way that shows your confidence and reveals your heart regarding God’s goodness and power. You can be generous with your money, giving what you can from your small hoard. This week, don’t be stingy. Think of at least one extravagant way to express your awe and your affection for God.

Jesus, everything I’ve heard about you is true, but I didn’t believe it until you showed yourself to me. Then I realized I hadn’t been told the half of it. Your wisdom, mercy, power, and kindness exceed everything I’ve ever heard. How happy are the women who belong to you! I praise the Father for delighting in you and placing you above everything and everyone. Because of the Lord’s eternal love, he has made you our King.

The Wise Women of Abel

Day 1
The Wise Woman of Abel
Her Character : Rather than passively waiting for someone else to save her city, she had the wisdom and courage to act quickly and decisively.
Her Sorrow: That her city, though faithful to the king, was besieged by his army because it had been infiltrated by a rebellious leader.
Her Joy: That she was able to successfully intercede for the town, thus averting disaster for many innocent people.

2 Samuel 20:14 - 22
14 And he went through all the tribes of Israel to Abel and Beth Maachah and all the Berites. So they were gathered together and also went after Sheba.15 Then they came and besieged him in Abel of Beth Maachah; and they cast up a siege mound against the city, and it stood by the rampart. And all the people who were with Joab battered the wall to throw it down. 16 Then a wise woman cried out from the city, “Hear, hear! Please say to Joab, ‘Come nearby, that I may speak with you.’” 17 When he had come near to her, the woman said, “Are you Joab?” He answered, “I am.” Then she said to him, “Hear the words of your maidservant.” And he answered, “I am listening.” 18 So she spoke, saying, “They used to talk in former times, saying, ‘They shall surely seek guidance at Abel,’ and so they would end disputes. 19 I am among the peaceable and faithful in Israel. You seek to destroy a city and a mother in Israel. Why would you swallow up the inheritance of the LORD?” 20 And Joab answered and said, “Far be it, far be it from me, that I should swallow up or destroy! 21 That is not so. But a man from the mountains of Ephraim, Sheba the son of Bichri by name, has raised his hand against the king, against David. Deliver him only, and I will depart from the city.” So the woman said to Joab, “Watch, his head will be thrown to you over the wall.” 22 Then the woman in her wisdom went to all the people. And they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and threw it out to Joab. Then he blew a trumpet, and they withdrew from the city, every man to his tent. So Joab returned to the king at Jerusalem.

Dear Lord, I only dream of being called the wise woman of my town. Please work in me to be ready to recieve your gift of Wisdom. I used to think that being smart is wise, I know that it takes more than that. A heart of bravery and rightfulness. Self-control and obedience. So Father, I ask today that you work in each of us to give us these qualities in our characters to fight the battle ahead. I ask that you be glorified in our lives, actions and hearts. Praise you for what you have purposed in our lives and for giving us the desire to be the wise person of our town, home, workplace, small group, Moms club, friendship, relationship. Wherever we desire to be more like you, I pray that we make it happen by focusing on you and your great love.

Day 2

In this passage, the wise woman turned to her fellow citizens, urging them to act. In just moments, a mans head came careening over the wall. Disaster was averted. The men in this story appear to behave only in conventional terms: mobilize the army, build a siege ramp, violently smash the city walls, squelch the rebellion. But the woman looked for another solution, one that would keep the peace and spare lives on both sides. Because she acted wisely and well, interceding on behalf of her people, innocent lives on both sides of the city walls were spared.


Okay, Lord, this one was for me. I had to ask myself if I would avert disaster or behave as the men in this story. I don’t always choose to think of everyone else in time of trouble. What a great life it would be to be known as the Wise Woman of anywhere? I don’t think people typically put the word wise with the thought of me. Lord, I ask that I continue to seek your will in my life. I know that you will determine the gifts and when you will give them, but how wonderful it would be if I had wisdom. So Lord, I am guessing that there are many reading this right now that also want to be wise in their actions. Please will you show us what we need to do and help us to hold our tongues when it is not the right time.

Day 3

Read Samuel 20:15 - 22 ( see day 1)

In your own words, describe what you think it migt have been like for a mother with several small children within the city walls of Abel.While it is unlikely that you or your family have ever been in this situation, many households today are held captive by abuse, financial misfortune, grief, or illness - whether physical or mental. Do you know someone in a similar situation? A child? Another Woman? A teen? What can you do to help? Are you in one of these situations? Who can you go to for help?

What do Joab’s words reveal about his reaction to this brave woman (20:17)
Have you ever been in a situation where the wise thing to do also required bravery? Did you do it? Why or why not?

What might have given the town of Abel the reputation described here? What does this tell you about its inhabitants?
Where do you go when you need answers?
What is your reaction to what the town of Abel did with Sheba? Do you think the bargain they struck with Joab was a good one? Why or why not?

The facts of this story are physically brutal and disturbing, but the facts of life for many today in our society are just as brutal. How can you be a wise woman in your corner of the world?

Okay, so this may be far off, but I read this and think of safety and refuge. Where do you go to be safe. Sheba apparently did not make the right decision in his wanting to hide from Joab’s people. To be wise would be to know where and when to take refuge. Many times women who suffer from depression or grief do so because they have taken refuge in their hearts and soul instead of leaning on God and other women who can carry their burden. A while back, I attended a girlfriends night out and the facts were presented about how important it is that we all carry one-another’s burdens and fellowship with other women. I encourage you to look at things a bit differently today. Do you know someone that really needs to see God’s love? Can you be used today? Can the Lord actually use you to reach out to someone who has taken refuge into their heart and souls and need to be released from that very thing today? Are you needing to be released? I encourage you to let someone know if you need prayer and help, to be released from bondage.

Lord, I ask at this very moment, you give us an opportunity to be used by you. Bring to our remembrance someone who needs freedom from their pain. Let us pray for them and somehow let them SEE you through us. In your word, you show us that you have used the least of the least to do mighty things. You have given each of us a purpose. Help us not to be too busy or blinded today with the things and tasks at hand, help us to see those around us who need you today. I know this very thing is a stretch for most women, you made us Lord, so give us a challenge today to be a link to your BODY in our part of the World. Many of us are from different areas, so I pray specifically for the areas of Florida, Tennessee, Indianapolis, Jordan, Iowa, Texas, Nevada, Washington, California, Africa, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Missouri. May we affect your kingdom in a mighty way today.

Day 4

Her legacy of Prayer

3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, 4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; ~Proverbs 2:3 - 6~

Reflect on 2 Samuel 20:16 - 20
Praise God for his wisdom, which far surpasses anything we might imagine.
Offer thanks that true wisdom has nothing to do with intellectual ability but everything to do with humble dependence on God.
Confess any laziness that keeps you from searching out God’s wisdom for your own life.
Ask God to help you treasure his wisdom so that you are willing to actively seek it out.

How many of you were used by God yesterday? Did you seek out opportunities to be a blessing in someone’s life? Did you hear his soft whisper of nudging to be an encouragement to someone who needed it? I hope many of you slowed down enough to be used. I had several opportunities to hear his whisper, at times I would think “no, that is not it” then remember that I did not want to miss the opportunity. Funny how I fit it all in to my usually chaotic schedule. I believe I was used most during a 10:30 pm phone call. Praise God that I was willing and able to answer that call. If you have a story of yesterdays events, please let us know, it encourages us and it also glorifies God.

Day 5

Lift your heart

Wisdom has nothing to do with how many “gray cells” you possess. You can be smart as a whip but still full of foolishness. Take a few moments to reflect on this passage from the book of Proverbs (3:13-18):
13Happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding [drawing it forth from God's Word and life's experiences],
14For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold.
15Skillful and godly Wisdom is more precious than rubies; and nothing you can wish for is to be compared to her.
16Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand are riches and honor.
17Her ways are highways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.
18She is a tree of life to those who lay hold on her; and happy (blessed, fortunate, to be envied) is everyone who holds her fast.

This Mother’s Day, why don’t you ask for something far more valuable than any earthly thing, ask for wisdom in your life. Here are a few ways you can cultivate this gift from God:
Pray for it, remembering it is a gift from God, your creator.

Read and meditate regularly on Scripture
Surround yourself with wise people - listen and learn from them. (consider meeting regularly with a spiritual director or a mentor-ship program in your church)
Make quick obedience a hallmark in your spiritual life; it leads to wisdom.

Okay, so this crazy thought came to my mind just now (yes another one) and because I can, I will bounce it off you. God is the source of wisdom that brings life, wealth, honor, and peace. He is so powerful, yet seems to be able to manage all existence, it is a true revelation that he knows all that has happened and all that is to come, so why do we worry again? It is not going to help us in any way. We should spend each and every moment praising God that we were in His plan to begin with and rejoice no matter where or what or how or why, because he knows it all and if we are called to be more like Christ, then we must remember that His will is the ultimate one and we will struggle through life until we decide to fully submit ourselves to our God and His plan. Okay, so I know I should have come to this realization earlier and maybe I am not quite expressing it correctly, but take a moment to consider his vastness, every working part of the entire universe is his and he definitely cares about it working properly so that his will can be completed. Man, I have never felt so empowered to go out there and share his love and make sure people know that they might as well give in, there is no other way around it. When we realize that only one person can be in control and it can’t be us, since we know so little compared to our God, I think we might stop sweating the small stuff and start being a body of believers that affect the world for His will. Okay, so that is that. ,

God, I am in awe today of this new revelation and I pray that somehow my words will melt away and whatever it is that you are trying to use me for today will become clear to all who are reading this and that they will read your words. You can heal our body and minds, why not our writing. So thank you for your grace and your love and for creating me. I praise you for trusting me with your creations. I pray right now for a rising up of your Spirit within our souls and I pray for wisdom and time for each of us to meditate on your word. I pray for obedience in our lives so that we may complete your will and our purpose here on earth. I pray that those who are wise will overwhelm us in our lives with their presence and I pray that you will be glorified in all we do. I pray that we treat wisdom like Gold, for it is a gift from you and you are our King. Amen.

Abigail

Day 1

Her name means “ my Father is Joy”

Her character: Generous, quick-witted, wise. She is one of the Bible’s great peacemaker’s.

Her Sorrow: To have been mismatched in marriage to her first husband.

Her Joy: That God used her to save lives, eventually making her the wife of David.

Key Scripture: 1 Samuel 25:2 - 42.
A certain man in Maon, who had property there at Carmel, was very wealthy. He had a thousand goats and three thousand sheep, which he was shearing in Carmel. 3 His name was Nabal and his wife's name was Abigail. She was an intelligent and beautiful woman, but her husband, a Calebite, was surly and mean in his dealings.
4 While David was in the desert, he heard that Nabal was shearing sheep. 5 So he sent ten young men and said to them, "Go up to Nabal at Carmel and greet him in my name. 6 Say to him: 'Long life to you! Good health to you and your household! And good health to all that is yours!
7 " 'Now I hear that it is sheep-shearing time. When your shepherds were with us, we did not mistreat them, and the whole time they were at Carmel nothing of theirs was missing. 8 Ask your own servants and they will tell you. Therefore be favorable toward my young men, since we come at a festive time. Please give your servants and your son David whatever you can find for them.' "
9 When David's men arrived, they gave Nabal this message in David's name. Then they waited.
10 Nabal answered David's servants, "Who is this David? Who is this son of Jesse? Many servants are breaking away from their masters these days. 11 Why should I take my bread and water, and the meat I have slaughtered for my shearers, and give it to men coming from who knows where?"
12 David's men turned around and went back. When they arrived, they reported every word. 13 David said to his men, "Put on your swords!" So they put on their swords, and David put on his. About four hundred men went up with David, while two hundred stayed with the supplies.
14 One of the servants told Nabal's wife Abigail: "David sent messengers from the desert to give our master his greetings, but he hurled insults at them. 15 Yet these men were very good to us. They did not mistreat us, and the whole time we were out in the fields near them nothing was missing. 16 Night and day they were a wall around us all the time we were herding our sheep near them. 17 Now think it over and see what you can do, because disaster is hanging over our master and his whole household. He is such a wicked man that no one can talk to him."
18 Abigail lost no time. She took two hundred loaves of bread, two skins of wine, five dressed sheep, five seahs of roasted grain, a hundred cakes of raisins and two hundred cakes of pressed figs, and loaded them on donkeys. 19 Then she told her servants, "Go on ahead; I'll follow you." But she did not tell her husband Nabal.
20 As she came riding her donkey into a mountain ravine, there were David and his men descending toward her, and she met them. 21 David had just said, "It's been useless—all my watching over this fellow's property in the desert so that nothing of his was missing. He has paid me back evil for good. 22 May God deal with David, be it ever so severely, if by morning I leave alive one male of all who belong to him!"
23 When Abigail saw David, she quickly got off her donkey and bowed down before David with her face to the ground. 24 She fell at his feet and said: "My lord, let the blame be on me alone. Please let your servant speak to you; hear what your servant has to say. 25 May my lord pay no attention to that wicked man Nabal. He is just like his name—his name is Fool, and folly goes with him. But as for me, your servant, I did not see the men my master sent.
26 "Now since the LORD has kept you, my master, from bloodshed and from avenging yourself with your own hands, as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, may your enemies and all who intend to harm my master be like Nabal. 27 And let this gift, which your servant has brought to my master, be given to the men who follow you. 28 Please forgive your servant's offense, for the LORD will certainly make a lasting dynasty for my master, because he fights the LORD's battles. Let no wrongdoing be found in you as long as you live. 29 Even though someone is pursuing you to take your life, the life of my master will be bound securely in the bundle of the living by the LORD your God. But the lives of your enemies he will hurl away as from the pocket of a sling. 30 When the LORD has done for my master every good thing he promised concerning him and has appointed him leader over Israel, 31 my master will not have on his conscience the staggering burden of needless bloodshed or of having avenged himself. And when the LORD has brought my master success, remember your servant."
32 David said to Abigail, "Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me. 33 May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands. 34 Otherwise, as surely as the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, who has kept me from harming you, if you had not come quickly to meet me, not one male belonging to Nabal would have been left alive by daybreak."
35 Then David accepted from her hand what she had brought him and said, "Go home in peace. I have heard your words and granted your request."
36 When Abigail went to Nabal, he was in the house holding a banquet like that of a king. He was in high spirits and very drunk. So she told him nothing until daybreak. 37 Then in the morning, when Nabal was sober, his wife told him all these things, and his heart failed him and he became like a stone. 38 About ten days later, the LORD struck Nabal and he died.
39 When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, "Praise be to the LORD, who has upheld my cause against Nabal for treating me with contempt. He has kept his servant from doing wrong and has brought Nabal's wrongdoing down on his own head." Then David sent word to Abigail, asking her to become his wife. 40 His servants went to Carmel and said to Abigail, "David has sent us to you to take you to become his wife."
41 She bowed down with her face to the ground and said, "Here is your maidservant, ready to serve you and wash the feet of my master's servants." 42 Abigail quickly got on a donkey and, attended by her five maids, went with David's messengers and became his wife. 43 David had also married Ahinoam of Jezreel, and they both were his wives. 44 But Saul had given his daughter Michal, David's wife, to Paltiel son of Laish, who was from Gallim.

Day 2

Dear Lord, this day I am struggling to present this devotional from my heart. There is so much that needs to be said here. Abigail’s life and example are something to strive for. I pray that I am able to present a clear picture of who she was and how we can look upon her example and learn from it. Please speak through me, help me to teach this today.

Little to laugh about. That is a picture of Abigail’s marriage to Nabal. Her father could not have know that this wealthy man had a domineering attitude and would endanger his daughters well- being. Abigail soon discovers that fools and ruin often keep close company. Abigail knew who David was, most everyone did. Nabal was too busy caring about himself and his own fortunes that he had no idea. Nabal nearly spit in their face when David’s men came for provisions. Not realizing it was because of David that Nabal’s flocks had prospered. Foolishly insulting the regions most powerful man, Abigail was forced to take immediate action. Thanks to a servant, also aware of the great danger Nabal had put them in, notifying Abigail of their situation. As Nabal’s wife, she must have suffered his arrogance daily. Not wasting any time going to her husband, who undoubtedly would have messed things up even more, she loaded up the best of provisions along with gifts for David’s men and took them to David’s camp. Immediately falling to the ground and pleading to David, Abigail made one of the longest speeches by a woman recorded in the Bible. Thanks to her speech, David erased his anger in remembrance of his success and replied graciously. Abigail’s wisdom had spared David from sinning, reminding him that vengeance belongs only to God. After this encounter, Abigail found her husband celebrating his fortune, having no idea what his actions could have done. She found him playing the fool once again, completely oblivious to danger and drunkenly presiding over a festival banquet. Waiting until morning, when he was sober, Abigail told her husband what had happened. His hear immediately failed him, within days, he died.

Arrogance, greed, and selfishness had conspired to rob Nabal of any good sense he might once have possessed. Abigail’s humility, faith, generosity, intelligence, and honesty made her wise. Rather than putting others at risk by an unguarded tongue, her gracious words saved lives. Abigail and David married shortly after the death of her ill-suited husband. Abigail rose above her circumstances to change the course of events. Scripture does not say it, but we can see that she was a good wife to Nabal. It was God, not Abigail or David, who paid Nabal back for his arrogance and greed.

Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with your husband. Where do you stand. In the gap? Does your wisdom spare others from sinning, or does it cause an uprising? Do you respond graciously and cautiously, or do you fly off the handle? I know what I do, and I know what I need to do. Lets contrast the characteristics.

Ungodly - arrogance, greed, selfishness, unguarded tongue, foolishness.
Godly- humility, faith, generosity, intelligence, honesty, wisdom.

Are we protecting our relationships and allowing God to do his job. God is the only one who should judge. We are, through our actions, to rise above the circumstances and be an example to all who see us. Had this story been about me, I can’t say as though it would have the same outcome and example. Instead I am thinking it would be a lesson of the unguarded tongue.

Lord, I thank you for your wisdom and guidance. Please speak through these words and change our hearts and actions. I thank you for this example. I am not sure that there could be a better time in my life to receive this lesson. I am open to your guiding, please guide us all into a loving, gracious relationship with those we love.

Day 3

Read 1 Samuel 25:1 - 13

How does this description of Nabal and Abigail set the stage for what is to come?
These verses reveal what a mismatched couple Nabal and Abigail were. How do women in Abigail’s position cope? (if you are or know someone, now would be a good time to reply to all and share your story of hope or desperation)
Compare David and Nabal’s words, what do they reveal about each man?
What do others words tell you about them? What do your words reveal about you? ( ahhhhhhh, watch my tongue)

What does Luke 6:27 - 31 have to say about how you should react when you’ve been wronged?

Read 1 Samuel 25:14 - 42

How was the relationship between Abigail and the servants in the household?
What did they think about their master, Nabal?
Are you more like Abigail or Nabal to those who are in your care? How about co-workers, children, husband and extended family and friends?
How do you react when someone in authority makes a bad choice? How about your husband? (geeesh, I am really getting something out of this)
How should you react when the decision affects you? Others in your care?
Do you respond like David or Nabal or both? In what circumstances?
Why do you think that David was so quick to ask Abigail to marry him? Was he attracted to her? Did he feel responsible for her? Did he admire her?
What David’s do you have in your life? What Nabals? What can you learn from this devotional to better prepare you for these relationships in the future?

Day 4

Her Legacy of Prayer

David said to Abigail, “ Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, who has send you today to meet me. May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands. “ - 1 Samuel 25:32 - 33

Reflect on 1 Samuel 25:2 - 42

Praise God for calling you to be a peacemaker in your family, neighborhood, and world.

Offer thanks that God knows every challenge facing your marriage or relationships.

Confess any bitterness you may have harbored about your marriage or relationships.

Ask God to use your relationship with your husband or friend to strengthen your character and increase your faith.

Day 5

Lift your heart

If you haven’t yet made a commitment to pray daily for your husband, do so today. Set aside a few minutes to surrender your marriage to God, specifically asking him to bless your spouse. Try to refrain from focusing on your laundry list of complaints and instead pray for the needs you know your husband has. Ask God to shape your marriage relationship and use it for his purposes. Relinquish any desire you may have to control your husband; instead, ask God to work in his life. For help in forming the habit, read The Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie Omartian or When He Doesn’t Believe by Nancy Kennedy.

Note: For those not married, of the Male Gender, or not ever going to marry again, this is for you to. Make a commitment to praying for your future husband, pray for your wife, Stormie Omartian has a book The Power of a Praying Husband (my husband is currently enjoying this book and I am reaping the benefits) and if you’ve had some pretty bad experiences with some Nabal’s in your life and you never want to marry again, remember that God wants us to be happy, so make sure to pray for a companion in your life, such as a great friend.

Father, please help me to be courageous and loving. To watch my tongue and to help, not hinder, my husband, children, family and friends. Help me to use kind words and continually pray for God’s intervention in their lives. Amen