King David Series: The Reputation of God

Message 21 February 2016 King David Series # Reputation of God

This day will the Lord deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcasses of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel (Isaiah 17:46).

Whose Reputation was at stake?

The story of David’s encounter with the giant Goliath of Gath is the story of his deep concern for the welfare of the people of God. He was upset that the armies of God were being defied (1 Samuel 17:26).  That concern is another attitude that marked him as a man after God’s heart. He was not ashamed of God and identified with the people of God. God’s reputation rests on what happens to his people. It is tied up to his people.  Often they prayed, 'Lord what will the heathen say about God when they see what has happened to his people.'  The people of God comprise his armies in human form.  Anything defying God’s army is defying God. David was concerned for God's reputation, not his own. For this he was willing to put his life and imminent kingship on the line.  God's glory was more important than his own comfort.  David called out to Goliath his purpose '... that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.' It is through their testimony that all people know.  God’s reputation is crucial to reaching the HARVEST. God's reputation comes from the exploits of his people.  

No man was found

The Philistines had taken territory that belonged to Judah and were threatening to take more from God’s people (17:1)  And  posed a challenge: "Choose a man and have him come down to me. If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us." (1 Samuel 17:8b-9)

For forty days Goliath daily tormented, terrified, and tore the armies of Israel to pieces inside. They trembled and looked helpless. They were completely disgraced. No man was found. There was only a boy ready to face up with  the challenge. ‘What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel?’  Forty is a number for judgment. The enemy may seem to be having his way but its only for season. The fortieth day has come. When judgement day arrived it did not take an army or a  big budget to stop him. The boy from the sheepfold had faith in God. He refused to accept that the armies of God could be  defied. His sheep cote experience inspired David as he faced Goliath. He had overcome in personal issues and time came to face national issues.

No man was found. David had learnt obedience in non-impressive tasks. He obeyed his father to take provisions for his brothers and that connected him with his defining opportunity. God looks at the heart not the physical stature nor formal training nor social status. He used David to show how desperate the situation was. Saul thank God for his insanity allowed the untrained boy to face the giant. He used David to show that even the most ordinary, unimportant, despised and marginalised can overcome if they trust the Lord. Eliab despised him and the little flock he kept. Yet the little flock taught David the lessons for giant killing. Saul did not know David nor his father had David had played the harp for him in the Palace (Samuel 17:57 – 58). Goliath looked down on him and said ‘am I a dog that you come at me with sticks?’ (17:43a). God however honoured David’s faith. The battle was not for the strong and the swift but for the believing. David did not know what he was walking into but he was ever ready – in season and out of season. When he understood what was going on, he decided enough was enough and it was time to enforce God’s authority and reclaim and keep what was theirs.. David had learnt to be fearless. ‘The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine 1 Samuel 17:37). If God calmed storms in the past and he will calm them today and tomorrow.

David stepped out in faith. For you also the battle is the Lord’s and the victory is yours. If God is in control it is well. While you may not always win in faith you can never lose. What looks like a defeat in your eyes, may just be a victory in God’s eyes.

David removed the disgrace

David’s walk in the valley of Ela towards Goliath could be the valley of death he wrote about in Psalm  23. He feared no evil because God was with him (Psalm 91). God to him was the Lord of hosts – one beyond measure, commander of innumerable soldiers, fighter of battles and giver of victory. He refused Saul's armor.  He took five stones as a sign of grace and wisdom. . Maybe his sheepfold experience required several attempts. He however made it with one stone and wearing no armor.

Goliath declared curses to David. David in returned decreed something against Goliath., He would give his flesh as  meat for beasts of fields and birds of air. In forty days the valley of Ela echoed a different voice. He retorted, excuse me. Don't starve the beasts and birds. Not just you but the Philistine army will be their meat. And the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here including Israel which was trembling, will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves (1 Samuel 17:45-47; 2 Chronicles 20:15. He also recognized the covenant God had with his people when he asked who the  uncircumcised Philistine was to challenge them.  This shifted  the momentum and the rest was history.

Application

You and I are fighters in the Lord's army. The enemies of God are still posing the same challenge to the people of God. David faced Goliath.  What issues are you facing? Unless you arise to stop them they will not disappear. The enemy will continue to kill steal and destroy. Bring the fortieth day to pass. When you make choices remember that the challenges you face are not financial. They are not marital. They are not social. They are not political. They are not intellectual. They are  nothing but God's reputation on the test.  God’s reputation is at stake. Preserve it before your personal pride.

Cultivate a strong relationship with God. David did not just meet regularly with God but walked with God. He did not just mark his Bible but was marked by his Bible. What will the lord do for you in face of  your situation. What will you say of the Lord? David also noted:

 "No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love....We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." (Psalm 33:16-18, 20)

"I do not trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; but you give us victory over our enemies, you put our adversaries to shame. In God we make our boast all day long, and we will praise your name forever." (Psalm 44:6-8)

For by You I can run upon a troop; And by my God I can leap over a wall (Psalm 18:29).

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa 

King David Series: The City of God

Message 28 February 2016 King David Series # The City of God

Nevertheless, David took the stronghold of Zion: the same is the city of David. 2 Samuel 5:7

David had a heart after that of God. He established Jerusalem as the capital and  center of worship by fulfilling a long dreaded assignment. The promise and instruction of God in Deuteronomy 7:1 was to cast out nations hostile to God including the Jebusites and possess all the land God had given. This was despite the nations having been mightier than the people of God. Later in Judges 1:21 and Joshua 15:16 we read that while some land had been possessed the Jebusites  that inhabited Jerusalem were not driven out. They occupied a naturally  fortified place being on a mountain and  surrounded by hills.   The Jebusites therefore managed to resist attempts to capture the city. At the time David challenged them they mocked the children of Israel claiming that even their blind and lame could defeat the Israelite army (2 Sam 5:6-10).

David however occupied Jerusalem through a stealth approach where they advanced against the Jebusites through a gutter or water tunnel and attacking the city from inside. That way David captured the fortress of Zion. He built in it together with a house for himself.  From it he continued to grow great because the Lord was with him. David loved the city of God. To him loving the city was more than loving the people. It was to bring to it the rule of God and influence its authority structures, systems, symbols, culture and character.   Cities were associated with something. In the early church for example,  Athens was associated with wisdom, Rome known for military power and Venice for its trade and wealth. David changed Jerusalem and established it as a spiritual center for God with significance from antiquity to eternity. A foreshadow of the eternal city of God in the book of Revelation. It was known as the city of God - the seat of God’s throne and presence among his people and the eternal center of God’s rule. ).  It was the city hosting the house of God whose construction David initiated as well as the ark of God that David brought back to the center of the nation’s life.

The name Jerusalem (teaching of peace) comes  from Salem (peace) or shalem (peaceful). The Bible has earlier references of the King of Salem in Genesis 14:18. Also, Abraham lived in tents longing for an eternal city(Hebrews 11:10).  Jerusalem became known also as Zion because it was built on Mount Zion. Zion grew to signify the highest. David also named it as the city of David for his part in conquering it from Jebusites. A city the nation of Israel associated with their victory. It was the city from which divine help was found therefore a city of ‘no more need’.   Losing the city later to the Babylonians was a catastrophe of immense proportions. It was the singular longing of the people of God (Isaiah 52, Psalm 126).

Historically the city has not always enjoyed peace. Apparently it has been more Zion (parched place) one dried out from heat. The city enjoyed peace and prosperity until it was destroyed by the Babylonians and its people were taken into captivity. It was rebuilt through Ezra and Nehemiah. Again Jerusalem was destroyed and had to be rebuilt during the Roman Empire. After which it was destroyed again  in 70 AD and its people were scattered without a nation. Attempts to make some cities such as Rome the city of God have failed and will fail in the end. Today Jerusalem has become the symbol of religion for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. The question of whose it is fuels the conflict between Israel and Palestinians. The current city will be destroyed and  finally most resilient city to exist will rise again with the second coming of Christ as the New Jerusalem that never passes away.

Jerusalem is more than just a geographical location. It is an eternal principle that lifts up God's people into greatness. Augustine distinguished between the eternal City of God and the temporal City of Man. The following highlights three ways in which Jerusalem is spiritually significant. Jerusalem has a fulfilment a belonging  and a longing. 

 >> An ideal reality. Jerusalem is not only a place in the Middle East but a position in Christ,  the hope of glory. Jerusalem  is symbolic of the people of God at their best. Jerusalem is fulfilled as a current reality in Christ. A place and concept where people of God live with Him. A place were the son of David is king and provides freedom from bondages (Luke 4:18). The church is the ultimate community of all Gods people. Jerusalem means the church in its ideal state, in its destined glory and glamor. It is a symbol of the highest aspirations of Gods people. It represents God’s dreams and wishes for his people. It is the habitation of those highly favoured by God. Those who enjoy His ultimate blessing. That is what puts songs of Zion on the heart of all believers truly hungry for God. In Psalm 126 they wept when they remembered Zion but Jesus came so that we can sing and rejoice  when we remember Zion.

>> A belonging, an identity. Jerusalem is a way of thinking and engaging life . It is something you can experience – putting God first before everything else. It is a kingdom mentality. Knowing that this world is not home. You belong to God’s domain and are His possession. The city is Gods dwelling place.  It is His city and all who live in it are His. He brings peace and order into their lives. He protects and provides for them. A place for God and the redeemed living together. In Jerusalem God rules and the redeemed rejoice. They experience the heavenly Jerusalem on earth. God is the center of power and all. His desire fulfilled - that they be with him and enjoy his presence.  That they be righteous. Being so close to Him  that the city of God becomes the city of the redeemed. That they lack no good thing. That they enjoy peace and wellbeing. That they be powerful and resilient. That they no more shed tears of sorrow and suffer shame. That his promises to them be fully fulfilled.

>> A longing. In a future sense Jerusalem is destiny longed for (Revelation 21:1-2). It inspires hope as the heavenly city the eternal new Jerusalem where God rules. It is a type of Christ not in a manger not on the cross but on the throne. Everything has knees and every knee shall bow. The city that Abraham was looking for. The city which has foundations whose architect and builder is God (Hebrews 11:10). John caught a glimpse of it (Revelation). It was the capital of the universe. It will be the beautiful place where God not only live with his people but in his people. For the city was the bride (church) adorned for her husband (1 John 3:2).

Exhortation

Which city will you belong to? It’s a choice you cannot avoid. The city of God or that of the world.  The city of God’ is populated by people who know Jesus Christ as their saviour and hope for the New Jerusalem. It is time to take over the strongholds. Your place is occupied and you have to dislodge the enemy. As we engage life we need to be stirred inside that Jerusalem belongs to us not the Jebusites.   David took the remaining stronghold. As a believer you have had conquests, but there is a lot still remaining to be conquered and many promises yet to be fulfilled. If you have a heart for God as David you cannot be complacent. You cannot afford to settle. You are not satisfied until you take over what remains. What remains is often the most fortified yet the most significant. The best is what the enemy holds on to the longest. As believers we have the Spirit of Christ. We live in the Davidic order and the same stronghold capturing anointing David enjoyed is available to us. It might seem like there is no way but with God all things are possible. With Him we know no defeat. With God there is a water tunnel with which to conquer. ‘Nevertheless David took the stronghold’ (2 Samuel 5:7). In other words he did so against all the odds he faced – they looked formidable. David’s secret was God’s presence. ‘And David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him.’ (2 Samuel 5:6, 7, 9, 10).

God will come through for us He will show you today the gutter or water tunnel to use for the impossible to happen. He will strengthen your faith and wisdom.

May the Lord bless you from Zion; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. May you live to see your children’s children— peace be with you and family. Psalm 128:5-6

Pray for the Zion effect over your life and family 

Pray for the Zion effect over your church

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa 

Stepping Up II:Crude Situations

Message 10 January 2016 Stepping up # Crude Situations

And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste place: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.  Isaiah 58:12

This is the first day at a new church venue. We are in a new place and it looks good for use. When we visited the first time however we almost wrote this place off. Everything was in a mess. You won’t believe but it was akin to a dumping site that had recently hosted a whirlwind. The paint on the walls badly needed refreshing. Some windows were broken. The venue was also south of the city when we had wanted to remain north of the city. Work was put in to clean up, re partition, paint, etc and now the place is totally transformed. 

The lesson is that God’s answer sometimes comes packaged in crude forms and situations. Don’t shun crude – imperfect, incomplete, needy situations. When crude situations come, face them even though they bring change and uncertainty. God appears in them in marvelous ways. By running from them you may just run from an opportunity to see Jesus taking a walk on water to help you also walk on water.  In crude situations be alert for opportunities to be lifted up. In crude situations keep your eye on potential. Crudeness requires some working on before you can enjoy the value of something. Crude situations call for unusual perspectives, choices and steps. We are in a season of year start prayer and fasting. Ability to sort out crude situations is a result of the right fasting (Isaiah 58). That is exactly what is required to face crude situations. Extreme situations demand extreme measures.

1)      Context

In Isaiah 58:1-14 the people of God were in a crude situation and their fasting did not help. They were puzzled why things were going wrong when they had done right and even fasted. ‘Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not?’ God sent a word through Isaiah to warn and explain what was going on. Isaiah was to make sure the word was heard – ‘cry aloud with a voice like a trumpet’. The problem was not their fasting but the manner in which they fasted.

2)      The right reason to fast.

Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loosen the strings of wickedness tying people up, to undo the heavy burdens weighing them down, to free people from oppression, to break every bondage to ungodliness, to show compassion to the poor and afflicted (Isaiah 58:6, 7, 10). This is exactly what Jesus full of the Holy Spirit came to achieve (Luke 4:18).

3)      The condition for effectiveness

>>Show compassion to those without privileges you have such as those without shelter and food (Isaiah 58:6, 7, 10). Some churches have a good tradition of praying for those without food, the sick, etc 

>>Take away the yoke, pointing fingers and speaking sinfully (Isaiah 58:9). Keep the word of God on your mouth (Joshua 1:8).  Run the race casting away sin and weights (Hebrews 12:1-2). Take responsibility. The hands so busy you can’t raise a finger.

>>Enter His rest in crude situations (Isaiah 58:13).  Do not turn away in choices and actions from the Sabbath and honor God. In the terms of the New Covenant there is a place of rest. A place of total trust, knowing that God is in complete control, and on time.  A place of freedom from self-effort and self-interest. A place of peace, and grace. Seeking to please and lean on God that is how to honor him. Jesus died to give you rest. Relying on one’s  own effort neutralizes prayer and fasting. It tramples Jesus' blood and stifles his wish. His yoke is easy and his  burden is light (Mathew 11: 30)   When you have a dream from God,you don't have to struggle to force it to happen. You don't have to be worried or frustrated, wondering if it's ever going to come to pass. When you have the promises of God deep in your heart the Bible says you will "enter into the rest of God". A place where you know ,beyond doubt, that  God is going to see you through. He will he bring your dreams to pass!

4)      The result of fasting

>> Then shall thy light rise in obscurity and break forth as sure as day break (Isaiah 58:8, 10). Morning light breaks forth gradually but surely. Joy comes in the morning

>> Thy health - spiritual, physical, emotional, financial, marital, mental, etc shall spring forth speedily

>> Righteousness shall go before thee (v 8, Psalm 23, Mathew 6:19). You will follow righteousness. You walk into righteousness.

>> The glory of the LORD shall be thy rear guard. You will leave behind you a testimony, God’s presence, impact, confessions, positive comments.

  

>> Thou will call and the LORD shall answer (Isaiah 58:9). He will reveal his presence when you call. He will show up. He will say ‘Here I am’, the answer many don't expect yet covers all questions. What a sweet assurance and source of peace (Philippians 4:6). 

>> The LORD/ Jehovah will guide you always (Isaiah 58:11, Psalm 23). He shall satisfy your soul in drought and you will be like a watered garden/tree planted by streams of water (Psalm 1) and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. A spring that will not run dry. You will thirst no more (John 4, 7:37) 

>> Those belonging to you shall build waste places. They shall refine crude situations. They shall redeem and restore them (Isaiah 58:12). They will repair the broken and restore the paths. The benefits of seeking God will go beyond you. Ignite the fire for God in others (2 Timothy 2:2). You will raise up the foundations of many generations.

>> Then you will delight yourself in the LORD (Isaiah 58:14). You will be so satisfied and happy. You will be lifted up to the next level. You will be positioned to view the earth with aerial advantage. Made to sit in heavenly places and gain an aerial perspective. Positioned beyond fear. The lions that roar at you will be like the caged lions roaring at a zoo.

>> Then you will be fed with the inheritance of Jacob – the blessings of Abraham (Deuteronomy 28).

The mouth of the Lord has spoken it. The Rhema power has been released to guarantee every promise in Isaiah 58. God’s word is so powerful that it is eternal Heaven and earth can pass away but the word of God will remain forever (Hebrews 11:3).

5)      Exhortation

Things can turn around when you seek God in prayer. Don’t shun crude – imperfect, incomplete, needy situations. They package opportunity to step up. Sort them out by faith and prayer. Be like God who brings order to chaos. He creates something from nothing. You were a mess but he restored you. Your heart was broken and he put it together. You were lost and he reclaimed you. He makes somebodies from nobodies. You can do the same by his strength (Philippians 4:13). 

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa 

Stepping Up I: Check point

Message 3 January 2016  Stepping up I # Check point

As you face the New Year with new challenges and new opportunities remember God's promise.

For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies,  and will give you VICTORY! Deuteronomy 20:4

Where are we going?

This year’s theme is stepping up to the next level. Prophetically the move to a new church venue is not just a change of physical address but a shift of levels.

We are an Antioch type of church [Explain from Acts 11 and recast  Vision, mission, values].  The unique goal of God is making disciples. Everything else is either a strategy or an impediment. We are stepping up in effectively implementing the discipleship strategy that makes disciples that make disciples that make disciples.  Church growth comes from its ability to attract and retain members. Retention comes from what done for the members. A growing church is marked by love for God and is seen by what it does for non-members and outside its church walls/facility. The mark of a great church is not in its seating capacity but its sending capacity.

Why are we so confident?

  

God is willing, able and faithful. He watches over his word to perform it. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for  I believe  God , that  it  shall be  even  as  it was told  me (Acts 27:25).

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

You crown the year with your goodness and your paths drip with fatness. Ps 65:11. 

For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies,  and will give you VICTORY! Deut. 20:4

Sing, O barren, thou that didst not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, thou that didst not travail with child: … For thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left; and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited. Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed…  Isaiah 54:1-4

We know whom we have believed and have a Rhema word.  Logos brings awareness of God  and convicts (Hebrew 4:12) and Rhema converts or brings the experience (Mathew 4:4; Romans 10:17). Logos contains power and Rhema releases power. Logos speaks of the unseen and Rhema speaks the unseen into being. Logos is the word with God and Rhema is a word from God - that which is or has been uttered by the living voice, the word spoken by God.

In  the beginning  was  the Logos, and  the Logos was with  God , and  the Logos was God (John 1:1).For the Logos is quick, and  powerful , and sharper  than  any  two edged sword, piercing  even to  the dividing asunder  of soul  and spirit, and  of  the joints and  marrow , and  is a discerner  of the thoughts and  intents  of the heart (Hebrews 4:12)

Jesus answered, It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every Rhema that comes from the mouth of God (Mathew 4:4). So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Rhema of God (Romans 10:17). And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Rhema of God (Ephesians 6:17). Through faith  we understand  that the worlds were framed  by the Rhema  of God , so  that things which  are seen  were  not  made  of things which do appear.

God speaks before he acts because it is by speaking that he executes. His presence and power follow his speaking. What God spoke is the reason, explanation or basis for his action. His word therefore precedes his action. When God opens his mouth you better get ready. That is why Rhema brings peace. He speaks to give you peace about the future and to uplift you to match its demands. You need the hand of his Rhema to step up. His promises believed will lift you up to the next level.  When step up in faith you lock into/ ride on Gods step for you to bless, elevate and direct you.  When you trust and obey God’s step becomes yours. He amplifies your small step and seed action.

What about the Check Point?

For a successful journey one has to be careful about what to embrace and refuse for the journey. A check point is a point on a journey where you cannot go through with certain things. In a race it is the point where you are required to let go of the weights and encumbrances before you can proceed (Hebrews 12:1-2). Before you proceed into the new year God is saying stop, go through your luggage  and answer the questions - ‘Do you have travel papers and what is in your bag?’. Or take your bags through my x-ray machine of the Word. The following contraband can’t escape his machine and you cannot proceed with it if you want to step up to the next level.

>>Wavering between two minds

The word of God identifies wavering as an enemy of faith and fruit (James 1:6, 7). Donnie Mcclurkin sang ‘I have got my mind made up. I have my heart set. I've got my mind made up and I won't turn back because I want to see my Jesus someday.

>>Fear

Have faith in God. The river is flowing you need the turbines of faith. Trust the promise and courageously step into the future - For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies,  and will give you VICTORY! Deuteronomy. 20:4. You have his presence, defense and victory. Forget the things in the past and look forward to the new thing God wants to do. Faith is for navigating the unseen realm for it is the substance of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Things that are seen are temporal (2 Corinthians 4:18). If not satisfied with what  you have seen so far your hope is in things that are unseen.

>>Being Negative

Guard against negative thinking, negative attitudes, negative confessions and murmuring. Instead of speaking the word of God and affirming his promises in all situations of life. . It is a misplaced focus that majors on the minuses.  Always saying ‘yes but the problem is..’, It’s too hard’, ‘It’s all I have’, Do we have the money’, ‘we have done it before’,

>>An evil eye

An evil eye and its company that defile a person listed in Mark 7:21, 22 need to be laid aside. An evil eye is one that sees with the intend to do evil. An eye that is full of self and pride. An eye bend on seeing the wrong, the giants, the past failures,  the impossibility, the weaknesses, the bad and other things that God is not focusing on. To the contrary a righteous eye is an eye of faith that seeks God and sees opportunities, possibilities a way where there is no way. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 If God is on my side who can be against me. Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world.

>>Unforgiveness

You cannot affords not to forgive. Unforgiveness cuts off the supply line with God.

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. (Mathew 6:14-15)

>>Avoiding  Responsibility. 

The symptom of this problem is blaming others. One who takes responsibility is busy providing answers,  filling the gaps and offering their strengths to cover apparent weaknesses. Irresponsibility says ‘ Why are they failing to make it work’. Responsibility asks ‘How can I help make this work.’ Responsibility is finding one's place and playing one's part faithfully. 

Let’s therefore lay aside the contraband and step up in God’s wonderful plan. 

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa 

King David Series: Bringing Back the Glory

Message 7 February 2016 King David Series # Bringing Back the Glory

Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul." (1 Chronicles 13:2-3)

David established a new capital city in Jerusalem to unite all the tribes. He moved it from Hebron which was associated more with the tribe of Judah. David demonstrated a heart after God by bringing back the long neglected ark of the covenant to the new capital. This move was as deep as bringing the presence of God back. It was as healing as bringing back the glory of God that had departed a generation earlier.  When the ark was captured by the Philistines in 1 Samuel 4:22 Phinehas wife lamented, "The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God was taken." Since then no one had not taken steps to bring the ark back.  Under Saul, worship of the Lord had languished and priests at Nob were all killed except Abiathar (1 Samuel 22:18-19). The glory had departed so much that Saul had to resort to seeking guidance from a witch (1 Samuel 28).  But under David worship was restored and the fear of Philistines was vanquished.

For David bringing back the Ark was a priority after retaking Jerusalem. The ark had been lost a generation before (1 Samuel 4-6). The ark defended itself while with the Philistines. Their big idol dagon was left with a testimony of failing to stand in the ark's presence. They stationed it in Ashdod, Gath, and Ekron, but as long as they kept it, sickness followed (1 Samuel 5). So no Philistine city wanted it. Finally, after seven months, they returned it to Israelite territory on a new cart pulled by two cows. Back in Israel territory it was first at the priestly city of Beth-Shemesh then was moved to the house of Abinadab in the city of Kiriath Jearim (1 Samuel 7:1).

David did not give up. He brought together "the whole assembly of Israel," and won their buy in (1 Chronicles 13: 2-6). They had best intentions but did not do it God’s way at first (1 Samuel 6:7,1 Chronicles 15:13). Without inquiring of the Lord, they used the method of the Philistines of putting the ark on a new cart pulled by two cows. A humiliating experience for David but he did not give up. However the ark stayed at the house of Obed Edom for three months. In the short space of time he and everything he had was so blessed it was noticeable. He made correction by making sure only the levites carried the ark (1 Chronicles 15:2, 3). Also some animal sacrifices were offered ( 1 Samuel 6:12-13).

David brought a new flavor. The way David brought back the Ark from the house of Abinanab signaled the arrival of a new way and flavor of worship in Israel - Dancing before the Lord. On the second time that he succeeded to bring the ark back to Jerusalem. They did so with musical praise,  great rejoicing, shouting and dancing. "He appointed some of the levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, to make petition, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel.... They were to play the lyres and harps, Asaph was to sound the cymbals, 6 and Benaiah and Jahaziel the priests were to blow the trumpets regularly before the ark of the covenant of God." (1 Chronicles 16:4-6). The tabernacle of the ark was a tent a structure simpler to the tabernacle of Moses. The process also was simpler characterized by musical praise and worship. This was a fore taste of the dispensation of Christ when the presence of God is associated with the sacrifices of praise not animals (Hebrews 13:5, 2 Samuel 6:17; Acts 15:16).

David danced so much that his wife Michal was ashamed and despised him. When he returned home he came to bless his house (1 Samuel 6:20). People who praise bring back blessings home. She however complained that he had uncovered himself before the slave girls. Understandably much of her life she had known palace decorum, wealth, protocol and class. David explained that it was class that cost Saul his kingship and it was his unrestrained  sheep cote undignified joyful  expression of  love for God that had won him favor with God (6:21). After all his audience in worship was neither his wife nor the slave girls and other people  but before the Lord who chose him and looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).  His example became an eternal lesson on the attitude that will bring the presence of God into a situation. The lesson is an attitude of selfless worship from the heart -- and with hands, feet and all. It is the key to fruitfulness. For despising worship Michal had no children to the day of her death (2 Samuel 6:21-23).

David had carried the presence of God in the ark of praise and worship all his life in the palaces as well as in the wilderness. ‘I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips ( Psalm 34)’ was his motto. David came up with Psalm 34 when he pretended to be insane before Abimelek, who drove him away, and he left. Praise was David’s secret to everything. It was his life strategy. He had just left home was afraid for his life and now the reception before the Philistine king made him feel like he had just jumped from the pan into the fire. This was certainly, not an easy time to praise anyone. But he burst into praise to God. He did it with actions and spilling of saliva as a mad man but through Psalm 34, as well as Psalm 56,  sang his heart out to God as an anointed man. The account in the book of Samuel highlights what he did and leaves out what he said. That we find in the Psalms.  I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise will continually be on my mouth (Psalm 34:1). Times are not always favorable and to bless the Lord at all times it means when chips are up and when down. For praise to be continually on the mouth it means there is no room for murmuring, complaining. Or anything else. The mouth is designated and already occupied.

What you praise becomes bigger because by praising you get closer to it. Praise brings God’s throne into the situation and equations of life. He inhabits or enthrones the praises of his people. Praise is the preoccupation in His presence. The book of revelations shows this truth vividly. God is the overwhelming consciousness. When you praise God your perspective is elevated.  You gain a new view of God magnified and the giants you faced dwarfed.   It levels your mountains. Your  lions become amusements at zoo. God's presence is heaven on earth. It is what distinguishes the people of God. The most assuring promise from God is 'i will be with you'. 

Will you bring back the Ark into your life and situation today? Bring back the glory of God. Bring his mighty presence by a heart of worship and joyful praise. Make praise a life style. Be like David who had Psalms for all situations whether they be of homelessness, danger, depression, celebration, hunger, hardships, or other.

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa 

King David Series: Love for the House of God

Message 17 April 2016 King David Series # Love for the House of God

After the king was settled in his palace and the LORD had given him rest from all his enemies around him, he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.  2 Samuel 7:1-2, Ref. 1 Chronicle 21, 22:1

Desire is a strong feeling of wanting something or wishing for something to happen. Desire is the quest in every person for improvement and growth. It is the mother of dreams and destinies. A desire draws a person towards it. Without desire there is no hope. Without desire there is no passionate action. It is therefore crucially important where you place and direct your desires. 

What marked David as a man after the heart of God? David had a singular desire for the wellbeing of God’s house and to experience it. This was one way David proved his heart was after God’s heart. He loved God with deep passion.  He loved God’s presence, God’s city and God’s house. He composed and sang love songs to the Lord that now comprise much of the Book of Psalms. He was open about his love for God’s house.

LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth. Psalm 26:8

One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. Psalm 27:4

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. Psalm 122:1

Whatever you desire for God he will in turn give you much more. He will give you according to his terms. Whatever you give from earth be it desire, trust, service  or praise he brings back to you in heavenly form and  measure. This truth is clearly demonstrated by David in 2 Samuel 7.  Since being king he had repossessed Jerusalem the city of God  and was overjoyed to have brought back the ark of the Lord to the city.  David now desired to build a house for the Lord. With the help of King Hiram he had completed his own house of Cedar  (2 Samuel 5:11). He was unhappy to live in such a beautiful house of Cedar when God’s ark was in a tent. He sought a way to honour God for all that he had done. He had spent years in desert caves and camps fleeing. So he carried this strong desire and shared with Prophet Nathan who gave him the go ahead. But shortly after Nathan made correction and declared to David, "The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for you." (7:11c)

What David desired for God, He declared for him. He desired a house for God and God gave him a house in his terms. He said you will not be the one to build me a house. Your son will do so. However I am not seeking a house. No house can accommodate me.  Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. ‘I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling (7:5-7).’ I have never asked for a house of cedar because I am more interested in being with my people than being in a house. I want to be a house to them than to seek a house for myself.  Oh that God’s people would also be more interested in being in His presence than to be in a church building.  

It is as if God said –

When I bless you it's not just giving you a job, car, TV or other gadget. It is Sozo – salvation, total well being. I operate in a realm beyond measure. I give to the fullest and uttermost (Hebrews 7:25; John 10:10; Galatians 2:20). Instead of you building me a house I will build you a house.

To you a house is structures made of Cedar. You don’t know a house. ...let me show you a house. Try my dictionary. A house is a structure of ruler ship.  A house is to give you a great name and  to give you a dynasty that knows no end. Because you want me to rule I will let you rule.  One so strong its unstoppable. My desire is not a house for myself but dominion for you. A house is a space where you have authority to rule. You are thinking of a physical house but I have in mind a figurative house of a dynasty and descendants ( 2 Samuel 7:27-29).

It is as someone who promises to give a golf club – the golf ‘stick’ and instead receive a golf club – the place with a golf club house and golf course with all that comes with.

David wanted to build something temporary but got something eternal. He wanted to build something earthly but got in turn treasures of heaven. He wanted to build a material house but got in turn a spiritual house.

  

It was in the context of David’s love for the house of the Lord that the Davidic covenant was pronounced. A fore taste of the New Covenant of Father – son relationship between God and his people (1 Chronicle 17:13, 14. A covenant of grace where he will not take away his mercy as he did with Saul because of the Son of David, Jesus Christ, the one who was so zealous of the house of the Lord that he drove out the merchandisers (Mathew 21:13).

David was so keen to honour God by building a house for him that before he died he made the necessary preparations for Solomon to use in building God a house. He drew up the plans and sourced building materials. When he bought a piece of Land from Arauna and built an Altar on it. He declared it the place for God’s house. ‘Then David said, This is the house of the LORD God, and this is the altar of the burnt offering for Israel (1 Chronicles 22:1). And David commanded to gather together the strangers that were in the land of Israel; and he set masons to hew wrought stones to build the house of God.’  A significant place, for the house would be a place of forgiveness. Lives were saved and the curse was broken.  The house of God by its location was a place and attitude of learning and depending on God’s strength instead of on number of soldiers and chariots.

You can also desire to build the house of God and will be amazed at what God will do. You can participate by serving and giving faithfully in your local church and the extension of His kingdom everywhere. You can never outdo God at anything good. You will not only receive a dynasty promise but will experience it. David was amazed by what God promised. http://bible.com/37/2sa.7.18-22.ceb Then King David went and sat in the Lord ’s presence. He asked: Who am I, Lord God, and of what significance is my family that you have brought me this far? But even this was too small in your eyes, Lord God! Now you have also spoken about your servant’s dynasty in the future and the generation to come, Lord God! 

Note:
Psalm 132:3-5

Message by Dr. Kurai Chitima.

Faith Ministries – Johannesburg Faith Life Center.

First Floor Dhando House,

66 Eloff Street Extension,

Village Deep,

 Johannesburg,

South Africa