“If you say so,” said the king. “I’ll do what you think is best.” And so he stood beside the city gate as the whole army marched out by hundreds and by thousands. Then the king ordered Joab and Abishai and Ittai, “Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.” The whole army heard what the king commanded the three captains regarding Absalom. The army took the field to meet Israel. It turned out that the battle was joined in the Forest of Ephraim. The army of Israel was beaten badly there that day by David’s men, a terrific slaughter—twenty thousand men! There was dazed and confused fighting all over the place—the forest claimed more lives that day than the sword!
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21 Days
2 Samuel depicts the ascension and reign of King David following the death of Saul and Jonathan. David united the kingdom, established Jerusalem as the capital city, and extended the territory of Israel. At the crescendo of the book, God promises David that "your throne shall be established forever" (2 Samuel 7:16). Despite David's wickedness, God ultimately fulfills his promises to David through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
28 Days
This is the tenth installment of a Bible reading plan following the lectionary pattern, featuring daily readings from the Psalms, Old Testament, and New Testament. This month includes a daily reading of God's covenant with David from 1 Chronicles 17, intended to frame our understanding of the overarching Gospel narrative in which 2 Samuel plays a vital role. Each day also includes devotional primers to prepare your heart and mind for meaningful engagement with the Scriptures.
24 Days
By the end of this study, we pray that you will know God’s voice better, that you will know when and how he speaks, and feel compelled to obey. As we study Scripture, we will discover that God’s plan cannot be thwarted regardless of who is in power. The point of the original monarchy found in 1 and 2 Samuel, illustrates that from the beginning.
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