Just For a Closer Walk

Kings and dynasties are significant to the study of history.  In the case of Israel, an equally significant study would be of the prophets to both the northern and southern tribes.  Who were the prophets, and how can we find out more about them?

What happened to Israel after the glory days of Solomon?  Unfortunately the party didn't last for long.  Some kings were good, but many were evil.  And anytime we allow the wickedness of the flesh to dominate our life or culture, we're in a bad spot.  Christ came so that might have life abundant, but the enemy comes only to kill, steal, and destroy.

"Your descendants will be more numerous than the sand on the sea shore."  Was this promise to Abraham ever fulfilled?  Yes!  During the glories years of the reign of King Solomon, Israel truly experienced the reality of a land "flowing with milk and honey."

"Man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart."  What was the difference between King Saul and King David?  King Saul LOOKED like a king, but David LIVED like a king.

"We want a King!"  Saul was the full embodiment of what the people were wanting - someone who looked good and could lead them in military strength.  We would be wise to be careful what we ask for.  Looks and strength do not, in themselves, create a leader worth following.

Even when we think God's voice is sparse or distant, He's working to bring beauty from rubbish, order from chaos, revelation from obscurity.  Join us as we pick back up with our Old Testament recap!

The people of Israel had successfully taken possession of the Promised Land, but what did they do with it?  Worship God faithfully and bless the world around them?  Sadly, no.  The book of Judges records some of the darkest days in Israel's history.  But even unpleasant history is useful history to know.  With any luck, we can learn from the mistakes of the past and make better decisions in the future.

The Israelites were out of Egypt, but Egypt was still in the hearts and minds of the Israelites.  It took 40 years, countless miracles, and an entire generation to die in the wilderness before the Israelites could complete a journey that would normally take about 11 days.  Be strong, take courage, trust and honor God.  Choose today whom you will serve.  

It took less than a year to get the Israelites out of Egypt, but it took 40 years to get Egypt out of the Israelites.  Join us as we continue our recap of the Old Testament in preparation for a New Testament study.

"Those who fail to study history are doomed to repeat its mistakes."  What happened when a new Pharaoh came into power that didn't know the history and heritage of the land he ruled?  He began to demonize his allies.  May we learn from his mistakes.