The Three Mighty Men

The Three Mighty Men

1 Chronicles 11:17-18: David remarked longingly to his men, “Oh, that I would love some of the good water from the well in Bethlehem!” So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well and brought it back to David. But David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out before the LORD.

When a football team wins the Super Bowl, the teammates carry the coach out on their shoulders.

When a smart student gets perfect grades, he wins awards.

When a wise person makes a great speech, we give her applause.

What did David do when three of his men did something incredible?

You find the story in today’s reading. David, before he was king, often fought the Philistines. He gathered around him many fighting men who were loyal and strong. One day, he simply mused by the fire and commented how he’d love some water from the well in Bethlehem, his home town. Three men were listening. They barged right into enemy territory, grabbed a pitcher and took the water from under the Philistines’ noses.

When they returned to camp, David was astounded. He probably congratulated the men on their courage and love. But then he did something that was perfect. He poured out the water as an offering to the Lord.

When someone does something well, what is the right response? Congratulate them, yes. Give them awards – sure. But first, thank God. He made it possible.

Prayer: Lord, may I always remember you are the one to praise. Amen.

TO BE CONTINUED:

The writing in this blog is available as a book on Amazon.com under Mark Littleton, Through the Bible Devotions, at http://www.amazon.com/Through-Bible-Devotions-Genesis-Revelation/dp/0784714746/ref=sr_1_38?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1406490323&sr=1-38&keywords=mark+littleton

God’s Glory

God’s Glory

 

Exodus 24:17: The Israelites at the foot of the mountain saw an awesome sight. The awesome glory of the LORD on the mountaintop looked like a devouring fire.

 

What would it look like if God suddenly appeared on the street, or in your classroom, or at the front of the church? What do you think it would be?

 

A ball of fire?

 

A thick cloud or fog?

 

A giant face?

 

A bolt of lightning?

 

A planet?

 

God did appear to people long ago. Not himself, but his glory. What is his glory? It’s the aspect of God that makes him most impressive, most powerful, most beautiful in our eyes. In Israel’s day, his glory was like the verse above describes – a consuming fire on top of the mountain. That’s a fire that burns up everything in its path. It’s totally awesome and inspiring. No one can stand before it.

 

One day, the book of Revelation (Rev. 22:4) says we will see God’s face. No one has any idea what that will look like. But it will be an awesome moment, don’t you think?

 

Something to look forward to in heaven!

 

Prayer: Lord, I’d like to see you, but let others see you in my life. Amen.