May 22

Today's Reading
2 Samuel begins at the inception of David as king. Notice how David didn't fall into the temptation to rejoice over Saul's death. Proverbs teaches that we are not to rejoice when our enemy falls. This was an Amalekite -- remember that Amalek in the Old Testament symbolizes the power of our flesh -- who came with this news (and he lied about killing Saul). David grieved for Saul and God honored him.
The case of General Abner will take up many verses in this book. As we begin to learn of him, we see that David's decision to honor the people of Jabesh-Gilead didn't result in their immediate allegiance. Abner was still loyal to Saul and Ishbosheth, though weak, became king for a while.
John. Over and over again, Jesus ascribed his words and actions to the Father. His power was the connection to the power source. Ours, too!
Jesus replied, "My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light." (John 12:35, 36 NLT) While Jesus' words here were specifically about How coming arrest, trial and execution, they have great meaning for us today. If He gives you light, walk in it as soon as you receive it. The nature of life is that it contains seasons as bright as day and others like moonless nights. In those dark seasons, we must hang on by faith to what we received in the light.
Psalms. What the Psalmist couldn't fully comprehend was that "he who comes in the name of the Lord" would also be "the sacrifice" bound with cords to the altar. For you and me to "get" this, I think it helps us to remember the way Abraham bound Isaac with cords to the altar. Our sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving are not to be fleeting words we sing in the emotion of worship services as much as they are to be the firm statements we declare during the greatest trials of our lives.
Proverbs. Clearly, greed is an acceptable American sin. But it brings grief and destroys spiritual passion in people and churches.
What you you think as you read today, Climbing Companion? Questions?