The Power Behind the Throne

Solomon son of David established himself in his kingdom; the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great. 2 Chronicles 1:1 NRSV

In the First Book of Chronicles, the establishment of the Israeli monarchy up through King David's rise to power was told.  The Second Book of Chronicles follows what happens after David's death, including the building of the temple and the eventual dissolution of the kingdom, the monarchy and the people.

Here in verse one we see the new king but we also notice who is the true power behind the throne.

Solomon established himself but it was God, who was with him, who made him "exceedingly great."

As we journey through II Chronicles we will notice when God is not with a monarch and how that makes the ruler exceedingly bad if not downright evil.

So, we immediately know that if God is with us, we too can be made exceedingly great.

How well are you established in your own kingdom?

Do you truly believe that God is with you?

In what ways has God made you exceedingly great?

God, we ask for your constant presence and guidance. Keep us from pushing you away or being distracted by the world. We want to be exceedingly great in your eyes. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims

The Lord Left Him

She let him fall asleep on her lap; and she called a man, and had him shave off the seven locks of his head. He began to weaken, and his strength left him. Then she said, "The Philistines are upon you, Samson!" When he awoke from his sleep, he thought, "I will go out as at other times, and shake myself free." But he did not know that the Lord had left him. Judges 16: 19-20 NRSV

He did not know that the Lord had left him.

Do you even believe the Lord is with you now?

What does that feel like for you?

Is there anything in your life that you must keep to have the Lord with you?

Is there anything in your life that would have to be removed for the Lord to leave you?

What would you do if the Lord left you?

Would you know if the Lord had left you?

What would that feel like?

How in your life do you depend upon the Lord?

God, may we depend upon you and your Spirit at all times. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Statement of the day: God is with you!

Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims