Pause to Play

2 Samuel 22:36

“You gave me Your shield of victory; You stoop down to make me great.”

Music is not all about sound. The beautiful melodic patterns are mostly formed in the inclusion of pauses and holds.  We have the rest symbols, equal to the duration of its counterpart notes; the breath mark, assisting in the production of a smooth phrase; and, the fermata, directing a sustained hold longer that its note value. Some markings are required, others are suggestive. Soloists have the liberty of choice, while a conductor decides for his choir, depending on their abilities and his interpretation. Okay, so that’s the music educator in me. What am I pointing here? Rest, whether short or held long, instructed or at will, for aesthetics or survival (haha!), is what makes beautiful music. A complete package. A perfect cycle.

This song of David in chapter 22 is music in its truest sense. We may not have the notation in print, but its inclusion to the book of Psalm meant this was a part of Israel’s repertoire for praise. The lyrics wonderfully knitted notes and rests together. The first four verses resounded in his declaration of praise to God His deliverer, followed by the heavy beats of his enemies confronting him with death. Next we see his solo performance at the temple face to face with the audience of One, followed by the thundering voice of the Almighty, scattering the enemies with His power and presence. Then we see heaven’s curtains open, taking him from centerstage for the intermission. All quiet, but far from over. David takes this time to reflect on Act One. Oh yes, he did see the Conductor’s pleasure that he kept His every cue. Act two has bigger challenges, but grander because God brought him to the heights. He cascades toward his enemies, they were crying for help but no one to save them. The entire hall was awed and many were dumfounded. David ended with a fermata of praise - - exalting God for His unfailing kindness to him and his descendants forever.

Life rests sound the same. Some offs are for vacation, others because of unemployment. Sometimes we’re grounded, other times for our personal retreats. Some have the luxury of beauty rest, others are just glad to find a bed. It is but part of the natural process, and a necessary one. It refreshes, refuels and revives us anew. But it’s definitely not a stop. It may seem to end a phrase, but it intends to prepare us for the next. We may sing solo at times, or taken aside for the intermission, but it’s part of His grand plan. What we do during those breaks is the point here. David did not use it to sleep, or blame his co-actors, or complain about the props, not even pack his bags. Every second he devoted to prayer and praise. It’s what kept him fired up and ready for the next act. It’s why he was rewarded with victory. It’s why we God made him great. Still on hold? Just breathe and praise the Lord :>

All the Best. Nothing Less.

2 Samuel 24:24

But the king replied to Araunah, ‘No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.’

When we were planning for Rilian’s 5^th birthday, top consideration is the boy’s preference. And so we knew it has to be the beach. When you live in Cebu, you have two options: the long drive or the luxurious reserve. Checking our finances gave us two options too: this celebration or the savings allotted for the sofa. Now you have to understand the homemaker in me. In our six months stay here, we already hosted three times, not to mention we had two cancellations. Thankfully, the house owner lent us three old, red monoblock chairs for the sala. Function, yes. But RED?!! Did I tell you one big wall here is painted green? hahaha :> Ok, so that’s the arte in me. Sofa or Rilian? Is that even a choice? Of course I chose my kid’s delight. Even if it meant back-to-zero on our savings, and be thrifty again :> All the best for our son.  Nothing less.

When God told David to build an altar in the threshing floor of Araunah, he had two options: as king, he could ask someone to make the arrangements for him, or go there himself. Let’s set some background first: In this last chapter, God’s anger burned against David for ordering an account of all his fighting men. It was clearly pride at work. Even his not-always-godly commander Joab saw its vanity.  For why would you need numbers if your heart’s intention is to offer it to the all-knowing God who made it happen? When the report finished, David was conscience-stricken and readily repented. But God’s wrath was already at his door. He was given three choices for punishment: three years of famine, three months of enemy pursuit, or three days of pestilence. The land just had a famine in chapter 21 and he wouldn’t want to fall in the hands of men. That left him with three days of plague. As if referring to David’s headcount instruction from Dan to Beersheba, God’s angel took that route too. And for counting the greatness of his reign, he paid a significant number too. David took responsibility for the plague and so we understand why he chose to go to the threshing floor himself. Arriving there, he was offered an option to have the land for free. But that would make it Araunah’s offering and not his. How could he even call it a sacrifice if it wasn’t from something he valued?  And so he bought the threshing floor for fifty shekels of silver, built an altar in behalf of the land, and the plague stopped. Little did he know that the same land would soon house the temple of God. It had to be costly.

We often quote and sing and pray that we’ll offer our lives to God. In reference to David’s costly sacrifice, and in light of the high price of the Cross, how much really is the worth we say we’re offering? Let’s say, you’re a singer and you want to offer Him your voice. If you don’t push to perfect your skills to its highest potential, then you’re just returning the raw gift entrusted to you. If not even a cent was added to it, to pay for your voice lessons for example, how then can that be costly to you? If all we commit to and involve ourselves in are those within our comfort zones and schedules and budget, where’s the sacrifice there? When we spend our personal devotion in our spare time, when we give to the needy after clearing our books first, when we forgive only when we’re ready and feel-like-it, are we not  offering cheap? We say we love God and that He deserves our all, then, is what we’re doing now towards achieving premium level? Check again. It has to be the best. Nothing less.

Tired and Frozen

2 Samuel 23:10

‘But he stood his ground and struck down the Philistines till his hand grew tired and froze to the sword. The Lord brought about a great victory that day. The troops returned to Eleazar, but only to strip the dead.’

Today is Febias entrance exam day. Brings back memories. And yes, I'm one proud alumna. My five year stay inside its premises not only shaped me for ministry, it also strengthened me for life. Classroom instructions, countless readings and chapel services well provided me with biblical inputs and insights, plus of course those competent professors who inspired me with their excellence and experiences.  But what really sets the school apart is the wisdom behind the required dorm residency. It perfectly defines consistency and character. A platform to practice what is preached.  It not only reflects whether lifechange transpired, it also provides the reason why some were next called to great exploits, while others never even made it to finish. Privileged to be a dorm monitor in my time, I witnessed that distinction firsthand. Given the same requirements and responsibilities, and having comparable personal and relational issues, one part of Sharon Hall maintained  time management, self-discipline, consideration for others, and deep devotion to God, while the other part skips library time, crams a lot, delays room cleaning, complains aloud, and oversleeps. Don’t ask me which side I belong. I do have my regrets too, hahaha :>

Just before the closing rites of the book of Samuel, we find a list of David’s mighty men.  Although most were unmentioned in the earlier accounts, they were never forgotten. God saw it fit to honor their fights and faith in the end, specifically after David’s last words, for us to see that his successful journey is not without help. We should never fail to recognize those unsung heroes behind our God-given success. Their faithful prayers, warm encouragements and timely affirmations did win a lot of battles on the side. Shammah protected that field full of lentils, probably for their supplies; Josheb-Basshebeth  took eight hundred in one spear, that’s one load off from David; and Eleazar defied the Philistine ranks, supporting David in his convictions. But what is extraordinary with the Three is that they fought these battles while everybody else was retreating. They stood their ground alone and despite the odds. Eleazar’s hand was mentioned as striking the enemies till his hand froze to the sword. They never gave up and did not let go. Plus their hearts were right with God and He brought about a great victory through them.

Many people wonder why life is unfair and that they seem to be always down here while others are enjoying up there. What they fail to see is what took place behind the curtains while they were just gazing there, forever wondering. I sometimes envy excellent pianists, but maybe if I could adjust my envy to their long hours of practice, alone in a room instead of hanging out with friends, then maybe I’d get somewhere, right?  We wish our names would be famous and be inspiring, but how come we’re first to leave the workplace, absent during trainings, unmindful of our co-workers, and silent with our convictions? God strengthens those that are fully committed to Him. He sets ablaze those that are already fired up for Him. We don’t wait for a win, we fight - - though it's tiring, till we're frozen --  and God will honor us with that win. 

Under and Over

2 Samuel 23:3, 4

The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me, ‘When one rules over men in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth’.

Historical fictions in film or as mini series captures me. My little girl was even named after the actor that played Julius Caesar in the two-season television series Rome :> I guess it’s the student in me that dreamt for books to come alive instead of having to read several chapters for a class that doze you off to sleep. But books have the facts, novels just the drama. The 2007 Tudors was one series where Tris and I would google up info almost after every episode. Henry VIII’s break with the Catholic  church over its refusal to grant divorce from Catherine of Aragon was pivotal and controversial I would want to get my facts straight. Yes, this was the king who declared himself as the king Supreme Governor of the Church of England. He’s the absolute power. Lord over all, answerable to none.

Israel’s greatest king lived and believed otherwise. Being the anointed ruler over the people gives the premise that he is under the One who declared the appointment. Responsibility and accountability clothes his reign. That is why even as king, he takes joy (and time) being Israel’s ‘singer of songs’. He may have a truckload of administrative issues to attend to, a full week with six OTs maybe, but he never forgets the Lord’s day. Inside the temple, he is God's subject, like everyone else. David acknowledges his every word and decree and judgment as from God, and relays it to the people through the Spirit. He is not guided by whims or preferences, but in complete reverence to God, he rules in righteousness. Under God, Over the people. Choosing these as his last words meant it was of utmost importance. His will is for his successors to uphold theocracy. His picture of a great kingdom is not that of gems or fine garments or cedar walls, for such would only elevate a handful of royalties, not to mention its vulnerability to thieves and moths. His vision is ‘the light of the morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth’, for such reflects the work of our One Creator, giving life and abundance to all.

All of us in one way or another have been given a trust. A parent, teacher, supervisor, group leader, older brother, or just assigned for the day - - we are called not just to lead but to stand in the gap. We are channels through which His standards and character flows. Prerequisite to success is being connected to the God as the Source. Responsibility without accountability will drain you up. We are limited beings. Without being fed, how do you expect to meet another’s hunger? No expert knows everything. Guess who holds all wisdom unfathomable?  Now accountability without responsibility is a contradiction of terms. Should we praise but not share? Having known and received His riches and grace, should we bury it under ground and expect pleasure from God? Should we give the reason we’re not gifted enough? Were 5, 2 and 1 the point of the parable? David started as a shepherd boy. We start where we are. Under and Over. Together, and in that order.

Age Does Matter

2 Samuel 21:17

“But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him, saying, ‘Never again will you go out with us to battle, so that the lamp of Israel will not be extinguished.”

I have been a Vacation Bible School teacher since first year high.  Back then and even many summers after, I’ve always been the fun, energetic, all-out ate. From preparing visual aids to doing skits, sharing bible stories to leading songs and games, plus a lot other assignments here and there, I can fairly say I did well and still had a lot of energy to spare. Five weeks ago was reality check. Eighteen preschool kids in a well-provided, very conducive room, with two teeners and the kids’ yaya’s as extra hands, (being a mother of two was a felt-advantage too) - - ‘This is easy’ said the confident me. Yes I did pray of course. So that’s faith plus experience plus steadiness, not to mention preparedness and mastery - - and I’m all set. After three long hours of that first day, I slouched alone in a corner, drained, disappointed and disillusioned. And it hit me: I forgot to factor in AGE!!  Twenty plus years difference is that big difference.

I never knew David had another fight with a giant after Goliath. But the closing verses of chapter 21 had an account. Here we see the still-brave and bold hero-turned-king leading his men to another fight with the Philistines.  Seeing Ishbi-Benob from afar brought back memories of his feat with Goliath. Both were from Gath, possibly from the same Rapha line, so maybe he’s seeing a resemblance other than the height. Then there’s the heavily-weighed armor, although this newbie’s spear was just half as that of their old champ. David's confidence on being a seasoned warrior, possibly designing a tried-and-tested strategy himself, and with God on their side, ‘This is easy’ - -could be his thoughts. But in the middle of the game, he became exhausted.  The freshie-giant saw an opening and with his new sword on hand, he rushed towards his sought-after trophy. Praise God Abishai was there as his extra hand, rescuing him from sure death. David’s men swore to him never to go out in battle again. His place is to guide them now, in wisdom and as inspiration. Verse twenty-two proves he accepted that lot, meaning his age too. And so we hear the names Sibecai, Elhanan, Jonathan, and Abishai - - four Israel’s giant-killers, all David’s men. One old hero producing four.  Age does really matter. It can even multiply!

I’m in the process of admitting thirty-six belongs to the old age stratum. I’m sure those forty-ish peeps wouldn’t agree either. But the grooves are at the tip, laps have more catch breaths, I’m minding my health, and I don’t oversleep. More are calling me Tita now instead of Ate - - grrrr! hahaha :>  I know I’m getting there, but not yet 'there'. A few more steps maybe, but a lot to praise and pray for:  Time to praise God I had years on the battlefront, seeing His deliverance before my very eyes; time to still enjoy the present and fight the remaining wars set for me; and, time to pray and discover whom God will send my way to pass on the legacy I myself have received. God has made everything beautiful in its time. We remember Him in our youth, we rest in Him as we grow old, we return to Him at the end of it all. His grace abounds at all age, and where He is, praise is present!

Just One

2 Samuel 20:6

David said to Abishai, ‘Now Sheba son of Bicri will do to us more harm than Absalom did. Take your master’s men and pursue him, or he will find fortified cities and escape from us.’

When Rilian happened (haha!), everything changed. Long hours of sleep became history, formal attires and gatherings were taken aside, going out with friends was a luxury, and movie night outs were just out of the question. Zero. Poof. Gone. The replacements? Sleep equals tricks and schemes to get him to sleep so we could have one; fashion meant bringing that baby bag, wearing his carrier, and tying my hair up because there’s no time to blowdry; going out was always a major production, sometimes a disaster, or worse, postponed indefinitely; and movies were in dvds, usually a choice between Barney and Backyardigans. Amazing how that little tot turned our world around. But it’s not all complaints. The joys of parenthood exceeded the discomforts. His smiles were picture perfect, watching him sleep was understanding peace, and every moment, priceless! Yes, just one little boy and we’re literally upside down. Last week marked our fifth year with him… and the saga continues :>

The whole chapter Twenty vibrates the impact of one on the lives of many. One troublemaking Sheba causing dissension to the kingdom; David favoring one tribe making the rest desert him again; Joab’s personal vendetta in the midst of national security; one wise woman interceding for the whole city of Abel; and the cut-off head of Amasa to disperse the entire army. It’s rare to find so many people play lead in one chapter alone. Each has his own cause, and each caused an effect.  Some opened danger, some stirred anger. A lady brought rest, while many found rest. Yes, these were mostly individuals yet they had the power to save or scatter a kingdom. Who says majority wins? They'll say, "I'm one. But I can take the majority!'

Let us be mindful that our every action produces a ripple effect. ‘For just as through the disobedience of one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one Man the many will be righteous’ (Rom.5.19). It offers us choice. One word of praise or one that causes pain? One sin that brings in shame or one controlled self for our family’s and His’ name? One life lived for God and for others, or one stuck in solitude and selfish gains? What would it be? “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Love Lolo, Love Lola

2 Samuel 19:33

‘The king said to Barzillai, ‘Cross over with me and stay with me in Jerusalem, and I will provide for you.’

Today I thank God I had years spent with my Lolo and Lolas. Almost half of my life, we stayed in my mom’s ancestral home (my family’s still there), while summertimes were always long trips to my dad’s side. Both my parents were firstborn (my dad, in gender at least) and so I’m part of the novelty set: favored and protected, haha :> That also meant I was old enough by the time they’re nearing their deathbeds. Their old age was marked with lessened hearing, weak bodies, and coughs here and there. Doubly difficult because my lolo had cancer, my lola’s diabetic, and my other lola had lung problems. But my memories with them were not all sickness and pain. I’d never forget how my lolo’s OC-ness and diligence made him painstakingly disassemble an entire fan just to clean it. Just last Holy Week, when my neighbor gave me a rice cake, I felt I went back to tasting my lola’s homemade puto and bibingka. And I’d forever cherish the moments I sat down and listened to my lola sharing her lovestory and giving me tips as well.  Sometimes I wish I had more time with them. I could have had better stories to share.

Barzillai. I have never heard his name in all my years in Sunday School and even inside Febias. I twice committed to read the Bible from cover to cover and I have no memory of him. Obviously, I missed his twelve-verse story. But David did not forget his deeds. Barzillai was the eighty year old, wealthy man, who along with Shobi and Makir (not popular to us either) sent beddings, bowls and bread to David in the desert. Ain’t grandparents’ welcome greeting always, ‘Have you eaten?’ Our elders have always been on the giving side. Always seeking our comfort, always mindful of our cares. He was there to send David off on his way back to Jerusalem. Barzillai had the excuse of age and physical discomforts not to be there. But it was his joy. Old age shouldn’t keep people from taking part in important events. I’m sure it warmed David’s heart to see him there sharing his victory, remembering he was also present during his struggles.  In gratitude, when God favored David to have his throne back, he invited him to go up and stay with him, so he could provide for him. He was not even his relative! And he’s wealthy enough to get himself a personal nurse. What benefit could a king get from an old man anyway? But God taught David to show respect to the elderly in reverence to the Lord. To rise in the presence of the aged as tradition obliged the Hebrews. And although his offer was not accepted, he granted Barzillai’s wishes to take his servant instead while he return to his hometown. Shouldn't we also listen to what our seniors want and honor their wills? The account ended with the king kissing him and giving him his blessing, as honor befits every old man.

It’s not yet grandparents day, but in light of Mother’s Day, especially now that my generation more likely have senior citizen mothers, I do hope we pay them honor and respect, not just due them, but in obedience to God’s will. Leviticus19:32 strongly says, ‘Show respect to the aged; honor the presence of an elder; fear your God. I am God.’ God signed it Himself! He commands it. As children, it is our responsibility. Not the church, not some institutions, not our relatives. We are called to care for our parents in their old age. How can we expect other people to treat them with dignity when we, their own children, wouldn’t sacrifice some inconveniences for them? And who says it is all burdensome? Ain’t older wine better and the forest trees more majestic? They have so much wisdom to share and lots of love to give. Don’t worry, our time will come soon and when the tides' on us, wouldn’t we want to be treated likewise?

Payback Time

2 Samuel 19:22, 23

“David replied, ‘What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? This day you have become my adversaries! Should anyone be put to death in Israel today? Do I not know that today I am king over Israel?’ So the king said to Shimei, ‘You shall not die.’ And the king promised him on oath.”

In her tender age of two, my little girl knows she can’t win against his big brother. She quietly resigns when he’s first to take hold of a toy, moves aside when he’s first to choose a disc to play, and looks from behind when he’s first to ask for the iPad. There’s no way she could outran and overpower him. But she can outsmart him. Like a predator on the lookout, she waits for her brother to let down his defense  -- his pee break for example -- and before he can even realize it, she already had the grab. Kjaran even wakes up earlier than everyone or hurriedly finishes her meal to have that priority number. She’s so funny, witty and amusing. I just don’t know if it’s because of her genes or gender, haha :>

From approximately 976 to 972 BC, David and his men were outcasts because of Absalom. I could say it’s the second lowest point of David’s life, the first being his sins to Uriah. Physically, he had zero comforts and the psalm even mentioned him gravely ill in bed, and emotionally, his son betrayed him and soon died in the hands of his trusted men. But he took it all in. As we all would when our past guilts haunt us. He fully surrendered to God’s justice. But not the Zeruiah’s. In their hearts, Joab and Abishai kept a list of the insults they heard and the inconvenience they suffered from their enemies. And so when they had the chance, even if it’s against the king’s wishes, they took Absalom’s life.  When they had their power back, at the sight of the Shimei, regardless if his posture was repentance, death was their verdict. David rebuked them for these. First, God has already avenged their cause. Shall they repay vindication with further vengeance? It’s but an insult to God’s finished work. Second, God has been merciful in forgiving David of his sins.  Shall he not be first to forgive others? Third, God has granted them favor and be restored back to the people. Shall they instill terror to the welcome party? These brothers were rebuked for thinking that reinstatement meant power back for pay back.  David wanted them to see that they’re merely favored to be back to give back.

When I was growing up, I hated my dad and my uncles for lording over the family’s television set, watching their favorite basketball or boxing matches. I vowed to myself that when I’m old enough, I’d buy my own set, lock it in my room and have the time of my life. It never happened, haha! But the attitude lingered. Bitter brags of ‘Wait til I’m better, or prettier, or smarter than all of you’ were quite beyond a handful. Praise God He knows better than answer those vain hopes. His purpose in lifting us from people’s insults and deep pits is not so we could get even or push them down. Isn’t freedom and favor enough? Isn’t gratitude the best payback?

Ready for the Bad News?

2 Samuel 18:33

“The king was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept. As he went, he said, ‘O my son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you – o Absalom, my son, my son!’

  

Being a mom changed my movie-life. First, I never thought I’d come to a point of choosing a film on the basis PGs and GPs instead of plots and actors. Second, I can’t believe our discussion last night about the third installment of Transformers ended with Tris and I alternating roles as fanatics and babysitters. And third, I have never been this overly affected by family-themed flicks as I am now. I can understand the pain if we’re talking about my kids getting hurt. I just never thought I’d cry so hard for another’s.  Somehow, I think, parents feel for each other. 

And I feel for David here. Losing a son is heartbreaking. Weeping is an understatement. I dare not imagine it soon happening to me. It will surely crush my heart. ‘No parent should have to bury their child’, said Theoden in LOTR’s The Two Towers. But it wasn’t David’s first time. His first son to Bathsheba died at day seven. But he did not weep for him AFTER.  The account said upon realizing the child is dead, he got up, washed himself, worshiped the Lord, then comforted his wife. We do not find it here. The only similarity with the two deaths is that both sons were born out of adultery, and both died as consequence to those sins. The former because of David’s deliberate disobedience, the latter indirectly because he failed in disciplining Absalom. What was missing? The crucial marker is what he was doing BEFORE his son’s death. In chapter 12, David was in all humility bowed down at the Lord’s feet, admitting his sins, knowing God’s justice but still begging for mercy. Chapter 18 gives us no account of him praying at all. Because if he did, even if it wasn’t written down, he would have acknowledged that it was God’s justice at work. Then we would see him make an altar to worship, and Joab would not need to rebuke him for not encouraging his men.

One online dictionary defined acceptance as a person’s agreement to experience a situation, to follow a process or condition, without attempting to protest or resist. It doesn’t mean we are forgetting the loss or we won’t feel grief, but is about understanding what has happened as God’s call. Prerequisite to acceptance is seeing who He is and knowing our place. He is sovereign God and we are but sinners, deserving death but privileged with grace. Bad news is actually irrelevant when we come face to face with God. Everything serves His good purposes. That’s what prepared David’s heart in accepting his baby’s death. Worship is what will free us from fear of what’s ahead, even enable us to encourage another amidst personal pains. Yes will still cry, but not as one without hope. Not like those without God. Preparedness or panic? Just like prevention or cure, it can spell a lot of difference.

Because I Said So

2 Samuel 16:23

“Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God. That was how both David and Absalom regarded all of Ahithophel’s advice.”

Parenting is power. We dictate house rules, we can withhold privileges, we can command our kids to our will, and yes, we can even make mistakes and pretend it never happened. One time, my boy challenged me with a ‘why’ when I told him to keep his toys. My first-in-mind, unguarded, unedited reply was ‘Because I said so!’ I did bit my tongue after. But the proud me was unwilling then to admit I was wrong. Our kids should obey us not because we said so. It should be because God said so. We have to make sure our house rules are based on His rules of order, responsibility and diligence. Not because we hold the authority as parents. We are merely God’s stewards of our children. We don’t dictate. We implement. That makes us under His rule as well.

Ahithophel was the highly regarded adviser of King David. Although his name means brother of foolishness, his wisdom was considered equal to God’s word. Absalom made sure he was on his side when he conspired against his father. David could have been threatened as well for he prayed specifically and even sent Hushai to frustrate Ahithophel’s advice. Some believed this man was Bathsheba’s grandfather taking advantage of the situation for his personal vendetta against David. It could also be that his eye is on the throne thus his volunteering to lead twelve thousand men to strike David himself. If he could bring the mighty David down, he sure can overthrow the son. But whether if it was for his reputation or his ambition, he was obviously never pro-God. For the sake of power, his ill-advise to Absalom were adultery and murder. We may call him a strategist or a politician, but please, never wise. He could not even manage his own disappointment when Absalom called for Hushai’s second opinion and voted for it. Either he knew defeat was coming, or he just can’t bear this disgrace to his pride. It was not wisdom that hanged him in his hometown. His foolishness deceived him to thinking his wit can manipulate these kings. He overlooked the fact that David and Absalom and himself were just stewards - - all under the rule of One.

In our inexperience and limitations, we oftentimes seek experts to help us get across. We attend seminars and read their books to make us thoroughly informed and well rounded. We bank on their success stories and the testimonies of their followers. We see them as authority figures. But hopefully not the final authority. We have to be like the Bereans who took time (everyday!) to find out for themselves if all that the apostle Paul was preaching were true. They’d only follow him if he truly follows Christ. Professionals, professors, pastors, even parents are all stewards of His wisdom. We don’t say yes to them because ‘they said so’. We seek their advice and obey their disciplines only when God said so. It is no wonder why God commanded the ancient Jews to diligently teach His word to the children. It is a prerequisite to all practice, our reference in all reviews, and a standard for us stewards. Our end goal is not for them to obey us, but to obey Christ. Because He said so!

*P.S. 

Don’t take my word for it, check the Word yourself :>

The Big Picture

2 Samuel 16:10

But the king said, ‘What do you and I have in common, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David’, who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’

Years back, there was nothing in my veins that ticks for war movies. I remember frowning when my uncles brought home ‘Platoon’ and ‘Born on the 4^th of July’ for our betamax afternoons. But marriage changes people, haha :> When Tris introduced me to ‘Band of Brothers -HBO Series’, I was hooked. You wouldn’t believe I’m even reading the book! Their disciplines, camaraderie and unquestioning compliance are exemplary. They need not hear from the top why they have to hold a line, or attack this post, or make a retreat. They need not see if other battalions are equally dedicated or soon failing or still alive. Each soldier just believed his part contributes to the whole picture. And it did. I wish they could all still hear our thanks for what they did.

David’s barefooted march from the palace to the desert was a glimpse of Jesus’ way to the Cross. They were both betrayed by a loved-one, people were weeping as they passed by, those near them tried to act in their defense, and insults were publicly hurled at them. But our kings here knew better than repay evil for evil. Both acknowledged it was the will of God for them to take this cup. They trusted His good heart and His sovereign plan. And so they rebuked those standing in the way of what they have to go through. Meekness clothed them beautifully. Like jars of clay who do not lose heart because of the treasure they hold within. They continued along the road, despite the showers of dirt, and soon arrived at their destination. Exhausted? yes. Victorious? Yes!

Joseph (the Dreamer) line was unforgettable, ‘You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’ Our shortsightedness and impatience as a people moves us to readily put up defense and hurl back insults to all unfair treatments we receive. Even those arrows directed elsewhere we accuse of hitting us. Years back in CAT, we heard the words ‘Obey first before you complain’. How about 'Confirm first before we complain'? Can’t we just hold that temper a bit and give room for context? And even if we’re withheld the big picture of why He’s allowing our sufferings, does that mean there’s none? Joseph kept his integrity, David his calm, Jesus His righteousness. They honored God in their afflictions. They hoped in Him 'til the end of the line. The big picture they held fast in their hearts. Exhausting, yes? But we can be victorious. In Christ, it's a big yes!

It’s a Fake

2 Samuel 16:3-4

The king then asked, ‘Where is your master’s grandson?’ Ziba said to him, ‘He is staying in Jerusalem, because he thinks, ‘Today the house of Israel will give me back my grandfather’s kingdom.’ Then the king said to Ziba, ‘All that belonged to Mephibosheth is now yours.’

Now that my kids are fast growing up, the dynamics of parenting has leveled up too. My soon five year old boy can now understand expectations thus repetitive instructions are little by little withdrawn. My little girl can now carry out simple chores and so I let her help me keep the house in place. Attending to them separately is manageable. How they relate to each other is a challenge. Many times in a day, I’d hear cries and complaints, and I’d see pointing fingers and power struggles. There’s always a toy or a book or a clay or a cookie to fight over with. They even argue who should stay in my right or left during naptimes. Months before, it has always been the older one who gets the spank. Somehow I forgot how bad it felt to be unfairly treated. Somehow Kjaran got used to the routine and used it to her advantage. She may be first and loud-est to cry, but it doesn’t make her always the victim. You'll be amazed how she makes that fake cry. Now God is teaching us to take time to sit down with them and focus more on asking what really happened before passing the verdict. We have to be fair. We are their first model of God’s justice and grace.

Somehow, David forgot fairness in this chapter too. Physical exhaustion and emotional stress have blurred his judgment and that’s a no-no to any justice system. He should have at least delayed the verdict until both sides were heard. Here’s what happened: on his way to he-knows-not-where, David was greeted by Ziba, the steward of Mephibosheth’s estate. He had a string of donkeys for the king’s household, overflowing loaves of bread and fruits for his men, and wine for the exhausted. It was a good gift no wanderer could resist. When David inquired about Jonathan’s son, Ziba faked a story and said his master betrayed the king. This may have tingled David's ears considering he already have a list of backbiters on hand. Readily he issued all Mephibosheth’s property transferred to Ziba’s name. No inquiries, no court proceedings, no second thoughts. He fell into the cunning, opportunist’s trap. A decision David will regret later.

God’s justice calls us to make sound judgments based on facts not feelings. Bribery knows full well how kind words and generous gifts are difficult to ignore. Even my two year old girl sees that a warm embrace can soothe a fiery mom. How much more are the seasoned manipulators! Sadly, because of our bad experiences with deceit, our society’s inclination moved to the other extreme of trusting no one. How many times have we doubted those children begging for bread? Didn’t we always ignore and play deaf to special offers and solicitation letters? To us they are all under one big umbrella ruled by sin and syndicates.  But I wonder, how many of them were genuine and really needy? Like David whose situation limits him from further inquiry, we too don’t usually have the luxury to know people’s sincerity.  Praise God His wisdom and discernment are available for us. But like all disciplines, there are principles to learn and practice sessions are necessary. Isn’t that how they distinguish real money from the fake? 

At All Cost

2 Samuel 15:21

“But Ittai replied to the king, ‘as surely as the Lord lives, and as my lord the king lives, wherever my lord the king may be, whether it means life or death, there will your servants be.”

It was God-orchestrated that my week would center on one word: sacrifice. Holy week was a given. The whole world took time to observe the passion of the Christ. TV channels, FB links, text messages - - all revolved around His willful, obedient death on the cross. Hosting three guests in our home was no exception to deviate from the theme. Right after we brought them to Magellan’s cross, we witnessed hundreds of devotees lined up for a long walk ahead. Seeing parents with their small kids, pregnant women, even old men in wheelchairs reiterated the sacrificial journey they intend to take part in. God continued to speak. A glimpse of sacrifice here and there. ‘To death’ was Buck’s line in Ice Age 3 that my kids were watching. First chapter of Ambrose’ Band of Brothers highlighted on total comradeship. In Enemy at the Gates, one Russian baited himself to expose the position of his sniper-friend’s target. In our holiday-spent-at-the-pool, one cousin gave up her swimsuit for the other to make a pass. Then yesterday, we had to miss Sunday service in consideration to other kids who might get infected with Kjaran’s might-be-measles, and to attend to her of course. Thank God for livestream we’re still able to hear an Easter message.

And now I’m reading about Ittai. He’s one of the Gittites who were foreigners in Israel, exiles from their homeland. David took them in just one day (or a few years maybe) before Absalom’s conspiracy. It’s understandable for them to promise allegiance to the king when he’s still firmly holding the scepter. But now that he’s dethroned, benefit level crashed below zero level. The Gittites had a choice. Exactly why their action belongs to this category. David made it clear it’s a wander-ful journey ahead. But once more, they declared loyalty. We expect that with David’s household. ‘Til death do us part’ was their vow. We’re glad the priests and his officials sided with him. It was in gratefulness and for good old times sake for sure. But from strangers? No one would count it against new employees if they wouldn’t show up for work in the heat of labor unions or bankruptcy. It’s not their fight. So why did Ittai stayed? Read again: “As surely as the Lord lives”.  It was an oath of faith to God Himself. Ittai believed in God’s sovereignty and eternity. He believed not just in David. He trusted in David’s God.

Today, loyalty comes with an x-deal. I’ll stay in the company if I’m well compensated. I’ll retain church membership if I’m well attended (or if it’s still well attended :<). I’ll keep this relationship as long as I’m well treated. Where has the phrase ‘I’ll be here because God wants me here’ gone to? No wonder only a few embrace sacrifice because they felt it wasn’t part of the deal. Jesus submitted to the call of suffering in obedience to the Father’s will. If we believe God placed us in that company for a reason greater than financial security, we won’t mind giving more hours without pay. If we believe it’s the church God wants us to belong, we’d continue to serve even if we feel it’s more convenient and they’re more creative there in the bigger churches. If we believe God ordained our relationship with this person, we won’t untie the knot because of character flaws or communication issues. The Lord lives! We say yes to sacrifice not just because there is hope and joy ahead, but because He is calling us to obedience here and now. Yes we have to count the cost, but with Him on our side, we can go at all cost!

What's Your Ambition

2 Samuel 15:4

“Then Absalom would add, ‘If only I were appointed judge in the land! Then everyone who has complaint or case could come to me and I would see that he gets justice.”

It’s the popular noontime show question for kids. The common rapport-springboard for teachers too. I remember having varied answers myself. My generation’s usual slumbook entry was to be a doctor, an astronaut, or an engineer. 'What's Your Ambition?' I think today’s kids would post they’d want to be on tv, or go abroad, even sing to us McCoy’s billionaire song. As we grow up, many would be more realistic and shift gears based on economic strata, the workplace demand, and non-quota courses, haha. A handful, more determined others, will disregard boundaries, even willing to break rules to reach those dreams. Is that what we really want our kids to embrace? To have personal dreams? To see wealth and fame at the top ladder? To be ahead of everyone else?

Absalom was everyone’s favorite. Highly praised for his appearance, royalty in his blood, flattery on his tongue. This dream guy has big dreams. Bigger than him. He wants to be on top, now. Like a prodigal son who couldn’t wait for his father’s death, he wants his inheritance now. And like Satan, he was not content in just being God’s subject, he wanted the glory for himself. And so he planned to dethrone his father, the one who deserves gratitude for calling him back from banishment. He disregarded all respect and relationship. His eye was on his ambition. He stirred up discontent and used it to exalt himself. He became the exact opposite of the only verse I know about godly ambition: to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, to work with your hands. He was there at the city gates, bragging about how better it would be if he’s the one sitting as judge, cutting off the line that connects the king to his people’s concerns, and doing nothing as prince of the land. And yes, he got what he wished for. As all determined people could achieve. Now let’s see if he’s really up to his promise of attending to e-v-e-r-y complaint. Let’s see if there’s joy climbing up the ladder at the expense of his father weeping and walking barefoot. Let’s see if there’s blessing without God on his side.

What’s your ambition? Is it God-given, parent-ordered, or self-directed? Of course God can use our parents to guide us and our passions to stir us. Yes it was His design and desire that we push for excellence, to overcome obstacles, to be the best we can be. But not at the expense of others. Not without process. Not for our own glory. Our ambition in life should always come from Him, through Him, and for Him. I pray and hope we parents would teach our kids the best response to this ambition question: to be who God wants me to be, when He wants, where He wants. To see God at the top ladder, the Head of everyone. Say it with me: my goal is His glory! Now that's worth aiming for :>

Who's Deciding For You?

2 Samuel 14:21

“The king said to Joab, ‘Very well, I will do it. Go, bring back the young man Absalom.”

Are women really fickle-minded? That we say one thing and in a second does another thing differently? That we are so ruled by our emotions? That we’re so indecisive, unpredictable and unreasonable? We go to a department store and exhaust all its racks for hours for the right shade, the exact size, the best deal possible and yes, still go home without a buy. We agree to a date but would readily cancel it for a pimple pop or a hairdryer malfunction, haha :>

Tris sometimes gets irritated, oftentimes amused, whenever he gives me the floor to decide where to eat and what to order and I’d make a total shift, mood included, at his slightest comment or suggestion - - which I solicited by the way. Yes, we can get away with it. But it doesn’t mean we’re right.

Joab’s scheme to bring the banished Absalom back to Jerusalem was successful. He used a witty, wise woman of Tekoah to pretend as a widow and persuade the king to give his word of protection for his treacherous son. He knew how David longed for his son and he worked around that affection to manipulate him to a decision. What pushed David more was the argument that it was God who allowed Absalom to continue to live, despite his sins, meaning mercy is still applicable to him. Joab further added it was also the pulse of the people to have this handsome young man around. And so David gave his order to fetch his son from Geshur. But he did not let him come to him. The law has been clear about murder. In not serving justice, David had to make it appear he’s not blind to his son’s crime. But even if he’s sincere in teaching his son a lesson here, there was no mention that he inquired of the Lord for HIS, not his, decision. God has already given his piece to them. David could have at least begged Him for pardon and mercy. It wasn’t his call. Not even the king was above God’s law. The chapter ended with David giving in again to Joab’s word, who was himself trapped in Absalom’s wishes. Now ungrounded and grip-loosened, David himself paved the way for the soon conspiracy of his son.

In arriving at a decision, who’s voice sound loudest to you? David consulted his feelings, and it felt right. He interpreted the situation, and it looked logical enough. He listened to the people, and they sounded… majority. He forgot Who dictates it all. He lost grip of God’s standard and so was easily swept by the dictates of everyone, including himself. We all are, not just women, indecisive, unpredictable and unreasonable because we are limited. We want but we don’t know what’s best for us. That’s why He gave us His Word and His Spirit to guide us. That’s why He invites us to a relationship with Him. That’s why we have to pray. Yes, we can choose to get away with life without Him. But we’ll never make it right. He alone can.  

Your Choice

2 Samuel 13:32

“But Jonadab son of Shimeah, David’s brother, said, ‘My lord should not think that they killed all the princes; only Amnon is dead. This has been Absalom’s expressed intention ever since the day Amnon raped his sister Tamar.”

I do have lazy days. Sometimes a treat after a full week, and sometimes just to break free from responsibilities. It’s my rebellious ME-times. Sleep indulgence, zero-nutrient meals, plates piled up, cityville for hours, messed house, kids watching tv all day, and no one takes a bath, hahaha!! And usually when the clock strikes 5pm, I rush around to patch things up in prep for my husband’s coming home from work. I’d feel guilty, unnecessarily stressed and overly disappointed. So different when I choose discipline. I’d start early with God’s word, prepare the house for the day, write this blog, spend quality time with my kids in homeschooling and supervised dvd watching, facebook peeks and play during lunchhour, attend to my curriculum writing assignment while the kids take their naps in the afternoon, prepare myself and the house for our family nights, and end the day thanking God for a full day. The obvious difference was how I chose to start my days: God or Me.

God orchestrated that I start this week with this chapter. Holy Week is meant for us to remember His death because of our sins, and David’s family life here was experiencing death because of sins as well. His son Amnon raped his half-sister Tamar, and Absalom had him pay for it with his life. In both instances, they used their unsuspecting father as accessory to their crimes. This royal family’s downfall started with that one night stand with Bathsheba. ‘The sword will never depart from your house’ was God’s judgment. David’s sin weakened his hold to discipline his sons. And so Amnon fell in the same snare. He lusted over his beautiful sister and was deaf to her pleadings, disregarding his, her and the family’s honor, and defiant of God and His law. Lust proved unsatisfying and it did cost Amnon his life. To think he could have been next in throne. What a foolish exchange! Absalom took another route. He did not make one loud flare up. Instead he chose to nurse his seemingly no-big-deal bitterness for two years until it grew to his brother’s murder, making him flee and be far from his family and all royalty for three years. Maybe he was hoping his father would exercise justice. To God’s grief too, he did not. In not choosing discipline, by default, David brought death to his sons. What a fatal exchange :<

John 10:10 reads, ‘The thief only comes to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.’ If there’s one visitor you’ll welcome into your home, who will you choose, the thief or Jesus? We all knew how sin will ruin our lives: illicit relationships, disobedience to parents, insubordination to our leaders, lying to our friends, even laziness at home. But how come we still choose to be blinded with its temporal, deceitful pleasures? Is it worth exchanging our peace, joy, family, and integrity with? We do have a choice. Everyday. Forgiveness or Bitterness? Repentance or Rebellion? God or Ourselves? Life or Death? I pray we all take time this week to reflect on our choices and His. The Cross was a choice. He died that we might live. Isn't a full life with Him better than sin's empty offer? What's your choice.

Hate the Sin!

2 Samuel 12:13-14

“Then David said to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ Nathan replied, ‘The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the Lord show utter contempt, the son born to you will die.”

My firstborn son knows that whenever he stepped off the line, he will receive a spank. Then we’ll talk about what happened, I’ll ask him to say ‘sorry’, and we’ll end with the reaffirming hugs. It was quite working well. Until my little girl disrupted the pattern. As soon as she realize I’m on my way for the discipline, she’ll run to me with her tight little hug and sweet sounding ‘sorry mom’ - - many times over. I have to confess my heart did a lot of meltdowns and broken rods. I know what you’re thinking. High time to think it through. And God just said today is the day.

Here’s what happened: David sinned, Nathan rebuked him, David repented, God forgave, punishment was laid down, David begged, still the child died, David got up, God gave another child. Here’s what a soft mom like me usually see: he repented of the sin, he knew the lesson, he begged not to do it again - - therefore I forgive and forget.  Here’s what God has to say: I will forgive because you repented, but I will still punish because you sinned. That is why Jesus had to pay the penalty for our sins. He had to serve God’s justice. David’s sin created a foothold for the enemy to scorn the name of God. A child’s disobedience challenges God’s wise order and righteous character. Withholding the discipline weakens his ground, making him more insecure than loved. Here’s a wise ruling: always forgive the child, and always punish the sin. They have to see it separate, but both dealt with.

The March 12 incident in Willing Willie where a six year old boy was repeatedly asked to perform a stripper dance created a viral noise in the internet, compelling government agencies to make a move, advertisers to pull out, even international anti-child abuse advocates to rally and push for tougher laws. Heated discussions on the hosts unreprimanded issues in the past resulted to his further abuse of the stage. Another point of concern is the how the parent’s tolerance of the issue has created a distorted concept of morality for the child. This is one loud picture where apologies will not suffice. We have to forgive the sinners, but the sin has to be dealt with. We have to push it. It is a scorn to God’s righteous rule not to.  

Enough Is Enough

2 Samuel 12:8,9a

“I gave your master’s wives house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you the house of Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you more. Why did you despise the word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his eyes?”

My two year old little girl loves to eat. Every morning when she wakes up, even with eyes still half-closed, her feet will bring her to the table asking for milk and ‘eat’. Many times during the day, in between her one toy to the next, she’ll ask for some cookies. If I’ll say there’s none, she’ll run down a list of other possible to-munch like ‘bwed’, ‘koleyt’, ‘ships’, ‘doodles’ then back to cookies again. During mealtimes, even when her plate is still four to five spoonfuls to finish, she’ll call out ‘more ha, mom’. If I say, ‘that’s your last’, she’ll readily blurt out ‘bwed?’ Hahaha. It’s hard to resist her charms. But sometimes I just have to say ‘No’ to for her to understand schedules and satisfaction and to mind our savings of course, haha. Enough is enough.

God has given David more than enough. He acquired all of Saul’s power and possessions, that is, the whole country and his whole house. Everything at his disposal. What else could he need? He even had his own wives and concubines to begin with. Not that God approved of it of course. It was David’s choice. But just like Adam and Eve, having a perfect garden doesn’t guarantee satisfaction. Covetousness will always tempt us to crave for more, even those not rightfully ours to take and taste. The prophet Nathan pictured it as a rich man taking the one ewe lamb that belonged to the poor man. It has no regard for others. A spoiled brat playing deaf ears to any reasoning. Worse than poverty is greed. Excuses might be found for a thief who steals because he is starving, but what excuses does an adulterer have? God said, “If all this had been too little, I would have given you more.” It is not just unsatisfying, but an insult to provide for ourselves elsewhere. His kingdom operates on a relationship that we receive from His table. We ask and He gives. For how can we give praise if it’s not coming from His hand? How dare we imply that His best is wanting when we never find time to ask Him to fully satisfy us? Is it really not enough or we’re just not looking enough?

God has given us more than we could ask or imagine. Stop looking at the our neighbor's fence on how they may seem to be more blessed than us. They may just be differently blessed, or they could have sought more. James 4 says ‘We do not have because we do not ask’. Even if David did ask for Bathsheba, he will not receive, because it is on a wrong motive. God as a parent delights to satisfy our cravings. But He will say No when it will do us more harm that good. Enough is enough.

David as DiCaprio

2 Samuel 11:14,15

“In the morning David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it with Uriah. In it he wrote, ‘Put Uriah in the front line where fighting is the fiercest. Then withdraw from him so he will be struck down and die.”

In the 2010 movie Inception, the wife of Di Caprio’s character Dom Cobb, jumped out of a window because she thought the reality she lives in was still a limbo and only death again can break her free. Since it was Dom who performed inception on her, he feels he’s the cause of her death. Since then, she manifested in all his deliberate dreams, a threat disrupting his missions, the guilt deep down his level five subconscious. Face to face with his dark shadow was a choice, either deceive himself to a happy ending, or forgive himself and live the painful truth. I wish the wobbles of his totem meant it fell over after the black screen. Otherwise, we can expect Inception 2.

David was himself in a multilayered state here. His one-night-stand with Bathsheba created a series of schemes that brought him deep down with his deceits. The first layer was Uriah’s pull out. It was a lame script for David to ask this guy how the soldiers were. Lamer to send a gift after him. No wonder Uriah did not buy his urging to go home. The second layer was a drinking session with Uriah. David was here the chemist concocting a sedative to stabilize the situation. Like many people, he thought alcohol could make people forget thus solving their problems. What David failed to remember was that it he who did the implant to his soldiers to keep themselves from women in time of war. The third level was desperate. Joab was sure wide eyed in disbelief receiving a note, handed by Uriah himself, for a sabotage. He who kept his hands from slaying the guilty Saul was now giving an order for the murder of one innocent, offended man. His totem was spinning at the end, and he doesn’t even care. Israel’s dream king was living a nightmare.

The dreamers in Inception have a system of ‘kicks’ for them to wake up to reality. God did provide kicks for David to surface back. He gave Uriah the code of war script to remind David of his responsibility, and twice did He cause Bathsheba’s husband to sleep at the palace entrance to refer that his army are camped in tents. God will not give up on us even at our darkest nights. His faithfulness is committed to show us the way back.  Our guilt may lead us further down but God is still there to offer us a choice: a  happy-ending-dream-state lie, or His forgiveness amidst the painful truth. I wish you'll choose to make your totem fall over after that black screen. Post-credits scene will surely show God running to welcome you home. Part 2 would be your story anew. Time to wake up now :>

Hats On

2 Samuel 11:1

“In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king’s men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem.”   

I can’t believe I finally had a working weekend! I know it may seem odd to most of you who usually have you work on weekdays and rest on weekends, but for people like me who literally grew up in church, it’s always the other way around. Moving to Cebu felt like living in another time zone where I had to adjust my body clock, to zero, haha. There were no choir rehearsals, no program meetings, no workshop teachings - - nothing on my usually-filled-up-schedule. It was homecoming to be in a room of vibrant volunteers. Deadlines, duties, delegation, demands, even stressful lines like ‘what happened?’, ‘who’s in charge of that?’, ‘where are they?’ welcomed me too. It’s good to have my hat back. I’m just so God-grateful :>

The opening lines of this chapter is quite an odd picture of David too. We've always known David for leading his men, or winning this war. I can’t remember ever reading David enjoying spring break, or David and his lazy walk in the rooftop. It was so unlike him. Worse, so unlike for a king. It was clearly his hat to fight against Israel’s enemies, to keep the plunder for the temple project, to extend their land borders. It was his wiring, his training, his calling. If the palace just needs a king seated on the throne, even Mephibosheth could do it. There was no mention of any pressing need in Jerusalem for him to stay. Joab’s ability to lead is not enough reason for him to delegate either. It was his hat. It was the purpose of his crown. But he turned it the other way around. He was that day the man after his own heart.

Each one of us has been designed distinctly for His purposes. Our personality, experiences, education, and expertise are all God-ordained to work in harmony to His will. And it is only in a relationship with Him we can find meaning to our hats. Turning off that connection is allowing other frequencies to broadcast. They’ll not sound bad. What’s wrong with spring break? But in time of war? What’s wrong with social networking. But during office hours? Nothing wrong with soaps or psps. But all day? Nothing wrong with traveling. But if you’re Jonah and God said towards Niniveh, other routes will lead you to a fish belly. David’s downfall is next. Be sure what you’re doing now is what you should be doing, not what you feel like doing. Ours is the hat, God holds the crown. We don't mix-'n-match. It’s not our call. It has always been His.