Pastor Bob DuPar
May 13, 2008

Journal Entry


Scripture

1 Samuel 13:23-14:52; John 7:30-53; Psalm 109:1-31; Proverbs 15:5-7.

Observation

1 Samuel 13:14 describes a side of Jonathan we don’t often hear about – the warrior. Most discussions about Jonathan usually relate to his friendship with David. But, in this verse, you have Jonathan and his armor-bearer mowing down 20 men in a half-acre space. Sounds like a scene from Braveheart!

You can just hear the sarcasm in Jonathan’s voice in 1 Samuel 14:43 when he responds to his dad (Saul), “I merely tasted a little honey with the end of my staff. And now I must die?” And, earlier in 14:29 when Jonathan openly speaks his mind about his dad’s strict oath, “My father has made trouble for the country.”

I love it when (in John 7:32-46) the Pharisees send temple guards to arrest Jesus and the guards come back empty-handed. The Pharisees respond, “Why didn’t you bring Him in?” And, the response is priceless: “No one ever spoke the way this man does!” I’m sure that’s just what the Pharisees wanted to hear. What a blow to their egos!

Finally, I love the simple line in Psalm 109:28 “they may curse, but You will bless,” because it so perfectly describes and reminds us of God’s power to bring about His blessings in our life despite whatever opposition we encounter.

Application

Once again the lesson: Don’t make dumb, impulsive, promises/oaths before considering the ramifications. May God’s presence in us – the words He speaks through us – give pause to our enemies, causing them to reflect on the power and glory of God.

Prayer

“God, my prayer is similar to Peter’s words in 1 Peter 2:15, ‘Help me to silence the ignorance of foolish men by doing what is right, by carrying-out Your will.”