RTW 2022

David made Hebron his capital, and ruled as king of Judah for seven and half years.
2 Samuel 2:11

Friends, yes…. this is the correct verse for today’s lesson, even though it is from yesterday’s reading. Hang in there with me.

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“Some invite Jesus to reign over a small area – like “Hebron.”” – David Guzik

When we allow Jesus to reign only in the “Hebron” of our heart there will be:

• Continued chaos and discord
  As the war between the house of Saul and the house of David went on, Abner became a powerful leader among those loyal to Saul.  
  2 Samuel 3:6
• Senseless loss
  So Joab and his brother Abishai killed Abner because Abner had killed their brother Asahel at the battle of Gibeon.  
  2 Samuel 3:30
• Grief
  Then David said to Joab and all those who were with him, “Tear your clothes and put on burlap. Mourn for Abner.” And King David himself walked behind the procession to the grave.  
  2 Samuel 3:31

Reasons/Excuses for a Hebron Heart

I think

• God’s standards are restricting. However, God’s standards release me to a life I’ve only dared to dream of.
  So I will live in freedom, because I do my best to know your instructions.
  Psalm 119:45 (ERV)
• I know myself better than God knows me. However, God created and knows me better than anyone.
  Lord, you have tested me, so you know all about me. You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know my thoughts from far away. You know where I go and where I lie down. You know everything I do. Lord, you know what I want to say, even before the words leave my mouth. You are all around me—in front of me and behind me. I feel your hand on my shoulder. I am amazed at what you know; it is too much for me to understand.
  Psalm 139:1-6 (ERV)
• I want to hold on to what I believe is a secret part of me. However, nothing is a secret from God.
  For nothing is hidden that will not be disclosed, nothing is covered up that will not be known and come out into the open.
  Luke 8:17 (CJB)
• I have trust issues and don’t truly believe God. However, He can and will work everything out for my good.
  Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.
  Proverbs 3:5-6 (AMPC)

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2 Samuel 3:9

Apparently, it was common knowledge that God had promised David the throne. I wonder when people began to know it was a promise.

There’s really no reason/excuse good enough for not surrendering completely to God. He is so trustworthy, loving, kind, merciful, long-suffering, and gracious. Whatever I give up, pales in comparison to what I gain when I surrender.https://youtu.be/VCQDYA_Vr0U