Reading for today: I Samuel 22:6-10 and Ephesians 1:15-16

“Will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, and make you all captains of thousands and captains of hundreds?”  I Samuel 22:7b

Saul has drifted so far from the Lord that jealousy has gripped his heart.  When we stray from the Lord we lose power over our flesh.  If you have drifted from the Lord, draw near to the Lord and He will draw near to you.

Reading for today: I Samuel 22:1-5 and Ephesians 1:11-14

“…in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,…” Ephesians 1:13b

When Daniel was cast into the den of lions in Daniel 6 the King sealed the stone with his own signet ring.  No one can disturb the seal of a king without his authority!  Upon salvation the King of Kings sealed you with the Holy Spirit of promise!  You are His, and no one can snatch you out of His hand!

Reading for today:  I Samuel 21:10-15 and Ephesians 1:7-10

“Now David took these words to heart, and was very much afraid…”
I Samuel 21:12

When fear grips our heart we can lose our faith and courage.  Perhaps you, like I, have been in a situation with unbelievers and the opportunity to share your faith arises but you remained silent. “Fear of man is a snare” (Proverbs 29:25).  We need God’s perfect love which casts out fear.

Reading for today: I Samuel 21:7-9 and Ephesians 1:3-6

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing…having predestined us to adoption as sons…”
Ephesians 1:3-5a

God certainly has “blessed us with every spiritual blessing!”  The biggest blessing we possess is mentioned in verse 5, adoption!  Imagine, no fatherless children in heaven!  Imagine, we can go to heaven and be with our Lord and FATHER!  Why?  These verses mention that it’s “for His pleasure,” because He loves YOU!

Reading for today: I Samuel 21:1-6 and Ephesians 1:1-2

“So the priest gave him holy bread…” I Samuel 21:6

Jesus comments on David eating the showbread when the Pharisees made an issue of the disciples plucking ears of corn on the Sabbath.  In Matthew 12:7, Jesus quotes to the Pharisees, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice” (Hosea 6:6).  Let’s be merciful and not quick to judge others like the Pharisees did; so concerned with making sure the laws are carefully followed, yet unable to extend mercy in a unique situation.  Let’s not overlook the opportunity to extend mercy when the situation arises.

Reading for Today: 1 Samuel 20:41-42 and Romans 16:21-27

“As soon as the lad had gone, David arose from a place toward the south, fell on his face to the ground, and bowed down three times.  And they kissed one another; and they wept together, but David more so.” 1 Samuel 20:41

This was genuine affection between friends.  They had been through so much together and their emotions were flowing freely.  Don’t be afraid to share real emotions with people you care about.  Think about calling or visiting someone today who needs to know how much you love them.

Reading for Today: 1 Samuel 20:35-40 and Romans 16:17-20

“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to
the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.” Romans 16:17

There are so many seemingly innocent people who teach doctrine contrary to the Word of God.  Be very careful!  Satan is a master deceiver and would love to divide believers with slick-sounding half-truths.  Stay in the Word every day to protect
yourself from becoming a victim.

Reading for Today: 1 Samuel 20:27-34 and Romans 16:1-16

“So Jonathan arose from the table in fierce anger, and ate no food the second day of the month, for he was grieved for David, because his father had treated him shamefully.”
1 Samuel 20:34

Wouldn’t it be great to have a friend like Jonathan?  He loved David so much, to the extent that he protected him from his own father.  Jonathan also felt sincere grief as a friend would because Saul treated David so badly.

Reading for Today: 1 Samuel 20:24-26 and Romans 15:22-33

Focus on: Romans 15:30-31

Paul knew his life was in real danger.  He counted on the prayers of fellow believers.  We need to remember to pray for missionaries around the world who risk their life to proclaim the message of Christ.

Reading for Today: 1 Samuel 20:17-23 and Romans 15:14-21

“And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation…” Romans 15:20

Paul wanted to share the gospel with those who had never heard it preached.  When was the last time you shared the gospel with someone?  Many people in our country have never heard the true gospel.  Think of someone today with whom you can share this good news!