April 9, 2024 - 1 Chronicles 14-16

David brought the ark into Jerusalem and built a house for himself.  And though David was now settled in Jerusalem, the times were anything but calm.  Enemies surrounded Israel, particularly the Philistines.  The Chronicler reports, “And David inquired of God, ‘Shall I go up against the Philistines? Will you give them into my hand?’ And the Lord said to him, ‘Go up, and I will give them into your hand.’  And he went up to Baal-perazim, and David struck them down there” (14:10-11).  A couple thoughts:  1) David was wise in seeking God’s counsel, as we are wise when we do the same.  2) When the Lord answered, unlike Gideon (remember the fleece?), David obeyed immediately and experienced a great victory.

The ark was brought into Jerusalem and placed in the tent of meeting.  David and Asaph, along with his brothers, sang:  “Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!  Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!  Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice!  Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! . . . Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” (16:8-11, 34)  David, who had suffered so much, knew there is joy in remembering God’s faithfulness to us.  We don’t do that enough.

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,

When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,

Count your many blessings, name them one by one,

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one;

Count your blessings, see what God hath done;

Count your blessings, name them one by one;

Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.   --Johnson Oatman, Jr. (1897)