Coming to Your Census ∙∙

Coming to Your Census ∙∙

David said to Joab and the army commanders, “Take a census of all the tribes of Israel – from Dan in the north to Beersheba in the south – so I may know how many people there are.” – 2 Samuel 24:2

2 Samuel 24:10 But after he had taken the census, David’s conscience began to bother him. And he said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly by taking this census. Please forgive my guilt, LORD, for doing this foolish thing.”

What is An Adult?

Adulthood can be defined by one word: responsibility. The defining characteristic that separates a child from an adult is the ability to take personal responsibility for one’s actions and their consequences. Unlike children, who often seek to shift blame or hope for someone to rescue them from their mistakes, adults understand that accountability lies squarely on their shoulders.

When faced with wrongdoing, an adult acknowledges their error, takes ownership, and strives to make amends. Their guiding principle is simple: “It is up to me.”

Spiritual Adulthood

Spiritual maturity mirrors this concept of responsibility. A spiritually mature child of the King seeks to live according to the Father’s standards. They recognize their sins, confess them, and seek forgiveness and cleansing. Their credo is: “It is up to me to strive to do and be all that the Father desires for me.”

David’s Census: A Misstep in Responsibility

In the United States, a census is conducted every ten years to determine the population and adjust representation in the House of Representatives. Similarly, David decided to conduct a census, but his motives and actions were flawed.

Why were his actions wrong? The census ordered by David was neither for determining national citizenship nor in response to a divine command. Instead, it was conducted for an entirely different and misguided purpose. David’s actions were inappropriate because the census was intended as a military assessment to measure the strength of his forces. The results revealed that 1.3 million soldiers were available for battle (2 Samuel 24:2).

The Purpose of a Census in Ancient Israel

In ancient Israel, conducting a census was not inherently wrong. The Torah provided clear guidelines for taking a census (Exodus 30:11-16). It was often used to collect funds for the sacrificial system, later referred to as the temple tax (Exodus 38:25-28; Matthew 17:24-27).

David’s census, however, was not for temple purposes. It was a military census, pure and simple. David was counting the strength of his military forces, driven by pride and a lack of trust in the Father. The purpose and intent behind David’s action made it offensive to God.

The Commander-in-Chief of Israel

The Lord God Almighty is the supreme Commander of Israel’s armies. The kings of Israel were expected to trust in His power and provision, not in the size or strength of their military forces. Unlike human leaders, the Father didn’t need a census to know how many soldiers there were; He already knew. The authority to order such a count belonged solely to Him, not to David.

By ordering this military census, David showed a misplaced trust in human strength and numbers rather than in the Lord’s divine power. Throughout Israel’s history, victories in battle were always credited to God’s intervention rather than to the size of the army. For example, in Gideon’s victory over the Midianites (Judges 7), God deliberately reduced the number of soldiers to make sure the victory was seen as His alone. David’s decision to take the census revealed he was trusting in the size of his army instead of in the Lord.

David’s Actions Revealed Three Major Flaws:

  • Lack of Trust: David showed a failure to rely on the Father’s leadership and provision.
  • Pride: David’s census was driven by hubris, as he aimed to boast about his military strength. It became a matter of personal pride and bragging rights, rather than trusting in the Father.
  • Temporary Shift in David’s Heart: he momentarily moved away from humble dependence on God.

REFLECT & PRAY

Napoleon lost the Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815. Instead of risking being captured by the Bourbons, Prussians, or Austrians, he surrendered to the British, knowing they would be tough but fair.

Father, You are just and merciful. I often find myself in desperate situations. I take full responsibility for my wrongful actions and surrender myself to You.

INSIGHT

The Certainty of Judgment

Trouble was on the horizon, and judgment could not be avoided. While the Father is faithful and just, offering forgiveness to those who confess their sins (1 John 1:9), He does not always shield us from the consequences of our actions. As Scripture reminds us, we reap what we sow. Yet even amid judgment, the Father often reveals His deep kindness and mercy, as clearly asserted inHabakkuk 3:2: “In your anger, remember your mercy.”

In David’s situation, the Father sent the prophet Gad to confront him and deliver a message of divine judgment.

2 Samuel 24:11-13


“The next morning, the word of the LORD came to the prophet Gad, who was David’s seer. This was the message:


‘Go and say to David, “This is what the LORD says: I will give you three choices. Choose one of these punishments, and I will inflict it on you.”’
So Gad came to David and asked him, ‘Will you choose three years of famine throughout your land, three months of fleeing from your enemies, or three days of severe plague throughout your land? Think this over and decide what answer I should give the LORD who sent me.’”

The Father let David decide his own punishment, giving him three choices:

  • Three years of famine throughout the land
  • Three months of fleeing from enemies
  • Three days of severe plague throughout the land

This scenario was reminiscent of the game show Let’s Make a Deal, where contestants had to choose among options with unknown outcomes. But this wasn’t just a game. The stakes were high, and David’s choice would have major consequences for the country.

David’s Response: Trust in the Father’s Mercy

Despite David’s occasional lapses in judgment, his response in this instance reflected the heart of a spiritually mature leader. He demonstrated a deep understanding of the Father’s character and placed his trust in His boundless mercy.

2 Samuel 24:14: “I’m in a desperate situation!” David replied to Gad. “But let us fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is great. Do not let me fall into human hands.”

David willingly placed himself and his people under the Father’s judgment, confident that divine justice, though severe, would be accompanied by mercy. In contrast to the often unpredictable and harsh nature of human justice, the Father’s justice is consistently righteous and fair.   

The Consequences of Sin

The Father sent an angel of destruction, initiating three days of plague that claimed many lives. Overcome with guilt and grief, David witnessed the devastating consequences of his sin. As the angel approached Jerusalem to strike, David interceded on behalf of the people.

2 Samuel 24:17: “When David saw the angel, he said to the LORD, ‘I am the one who has sinned and done wrong! But these people are as innocent as sheep, what have they done? Let your anger fall against my family.’”

David’s heartfelt plea revealed his profound love for the people of Israel, whom he compared to innocent sheep. He fully acknowledged his responsibility for the sin and accepted that he alone deserved the punishment. Though he had not foreseen the widespread suffering his prideful decision would cause, David now embraced the weight of his actions.

In this moment, David shifted from the role of a selfish, prideful king to that of a selfless shepherd. He was willing to bear the consequences himself rather than allow the innocent to suffer for his wrongdoing.

The Father’s Mercy

David’s heartfelt repentance and intercession moved the Father to show mercy.

Ezekiel 18:32: “I take no delight in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD.”

2 Samuel 24:16: “But as the angel was preparing to destroy Jerusalem, the LORD relented and said to the death angel, ‘Stop! That is enough!’”

The Father granted a pardon, bringing the destruction to an end. The punishment already delivered was deemed sufficient, and the plague ceased. This merciful act highlighted the Father’s loving and compassionate character, even in the midst of judgment.

A Sacrifice That Costs Something

Before the story concludes, we see another glimpse of David’s heart and his devotion to the Father. The prophet Gad instructed David to build an altar on Araunah the Jebusite’s threshing floor. As king, David could have simply taken the land, but he insisted on purchasing it.

2 Samuel 24:24: “No, I insist on buying it, for I will not present burnt offerings to the LORD my God that have cost me nothing.”

David recognized that genuine sacrifice entails a high cost. True worship and devotion to the Father should not be trivial or merely convenient. By its very essence, sacrifice demands the relinquishment of something valuable.

David’s census serves as a reminder of the dangers of pride and misplaced trust. True strength and provision come from the Father, not from human resources or achievements. It emphasizes the consequences of sin, the Father’s justice, and the depth of His mercy. While judgment is certain, the Father’s heart is always inclined toward forgiveness and restoration. David’s willingness to accept responsibility for his actions and his refusal to offer a worthless sacrifice reflect the qualities of a man after God’s own heart.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯6-04-2

© Dr. H 2026

Bible Rubble ∙∙∙

Bible Rubble ∙∙∙

I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. – Matthew 16:18

Daniel 3:17-28

“If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king.

“But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.”

Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with wrath and ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual.

Then, these men were tied up in their trousers, coats, caps, and other clothes and cast into the midst of the furnace of blazing fire.

Then Nebuchadnezzar, the king, was astounded and stood up in haste; he said to his high officials, “Were it not three men we cast bound into the midst of the fire?” They replied to the king, “Certainly, O king.”

He said, “Look! I see four men loosed and walking about in the midst of the fire without harm, and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods!”

Then Nebuchadnezzar came near the door of the furnace of blazing fire; he responded and said, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, come out, you servants of the Most High God, and come here!” Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego came out of the midst of the fire. The fire had no effect on the bodies of these men, nor was the hair of their heads singed, nor were their trousers damaged, nor had the smell of fire even come upon them.

Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own god.”

A Remarkable Discovery Amidst Tragedy

In times of profound sorrow and chaos, the Father often reveals His presence in extraordinary and unexpected ways. Such a moment occurred in March 2002, during the final stages of clearing the south tower’s remnants at Ground Zero. Amid the devastation, a firefighter uncovered a remarkable artifact: a Bible fused into a chunk of steel and concrete, shaped like a heart.

Shocked and in awe, the firefighter immediately took his discovery to Joel Meyerowitz, a photographer and archivist tasked with documenting the aftermath of the World Trade Center tragedy. Reflecting on the encounter, Meyerowitz described the moment, saying, “This shredded, burned, and rubble-covered Bible came to me from the loving hands of a fireman.”

A Testament to Preservation

How could this be possible? How could the fragile pages and cover of the Scriptures withstand an inferno so intense that it melted steel and crushed concrete into rubble?

This extraordinary preservation reflects the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three young Jewish men who were thrown into a blazing furnace and emerged completely unharmed. As described in the book of Daniel, only the ropes binding them were burned away by the flames, while they remained unscathed.

Could it be that, in a similar act of divine intervention, the Father sent His angel to protect His open Word during the fiery destruction at Ground Zero?

This story carries a deep dual message. First, it stands as a testament to the Father’s miraculous power to preserve His Word, a promise He has faithfully maintained throughout history.

Matthew 5:18: “I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father gives us tasks that, as ordinary humans, we often find difficult, intimidating, and against our nature. Sometimes, they can seem almost impossible. As modeled by the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross, forgiveness is one of the most challenging. Every child of the King knows the words He spoke while hanging on the cross in Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

Father, I desire to be a forgiver who forgets completely, releasing every offense and wrong.

INSIGHT

A Personal and Profound Message

The second message of the preserved Bible at Ground Zero holds a profoundly personal and intimate significance, one that deeply resonates with every child of the King.

Joel Meyerowitz, the photographer tasked with documenting the aftermath of 9/11, was rendered utterly speechless when his eyes fell on the visible Bible verses on the exposed page. The passage, taken from the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically addressed the theme of retaliation. The words of the Lord Jesus Christ, as recorded in the King James Bible, stood out in red letters:

Matthew 5:38-39

Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

A Nation’s Collective Anger

In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, a wave of collective anger swept across America, with many consumed by an intense desire for retribution, echoing the national outrage experienced after Pearl Harbor. The impulse to retaliate is not confined to catastrophic events; it often emerges even in far less significant challenges. In such moments, the innate human tendency to strike back, seek revenge, and assert a sense of justice readily takes hold. This reaction, though instinctive, reveals a deeply ingrained aspect of our fallen DNA.

The Law of Retaliation

The natural inclination to seek retribution finds its roots in the ancient Lex Talionis, or “The Law of Retaliation.” This principle, which dates back to the Code of Hammurabi, is also reflected in the Mosaic Law. The Lord Jesus Christ references this law in His teaching, quoting the familiar phrase:

Matthew 5:38-39

“You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’
But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also” (cf. Exodus 21:23-25; Leviticus 24:19-20; Deuteronomy 19:21).

The “Law of Talion” fulfilled a dual purpose: it upheld the injured party’s right to seek justice while imposing limits on retribution to ensure it remained proportional to the offense committed. This legal framework maintained the principle of addressing wrongdoing while curbing the potential for excessive or unjust vengeance.

A Higher Standard

In contrast to the Law of Talion, which emphasizes proportional justice, the Lord Jesus Christ calls His followers to a higher standard of conduct. He instructs them to “not resist an evildoer.” The Greek word anthistēmi, translated as “resist,” conveys the idea of “standing against, opposing, or refusing to yield, whether through actions or words” (cf. James 4:7; Galatians 2:11; Acts 6:10). In this context, it specifically highlights the call to refrain from retaliating against those who cause harm or wrongdoing. 

Rather than adopting the posture of an adversary seeking vengeance or insisting on one’s rights as the aggrieved party, Christ urges His followers to respond with grace, forgiveness, and humility. His message challenges children of the King to reject the instinct for retribution and instead embody a spirit of love and reconciliation. 

The Father calls every child of the King to live by this higher standard, though, sadly, it is one we often resist. Instead of repaying evil with evil, He invites us to forgive, to turn the other cheek, and to entrust vengeance to Him. He implores us to let go of grudges, extend forgiveness freely, and move forward in love and peace.

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© Dr. H 2026

From Waste to Wonder ∙∙∙

From Waste to Wonder ∙∙∙

Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person. – Genesis 2:7

Genesis 1:1-2

 1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

 2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.

Psalms 33:9 For when he spoke, the world began! It appeared at his command.

The Tragedy of Edible Food Waste

Every year, the world wastes an incredible amount of edible food, exposing a global crisis of waste and inefficiency. Approximately 1.5 billion tons of food, valued at over $400 billion, are discarded annually. The United States plays a disproportionate role in this issue, discarding nearly 40 million tons (80 billion pounds) each year. This makes up roughly 30-40% of the country’s total food supply.

But where does all this discarded food end up? Most of it ends up in landfills, comprising 22% of municipal solid waste (MSW). In fact, food waste is the largest single component of U.S. landfills. This wastefulness depletes valuable resources, including water, energy, labor, and transportation, used in food production. Clearly, developing a more sustainable and resource-conscious strategy is of immense importance.

From Waste to Wonder

Global food waste is a serious problem, but what if we could turn this waste into something useful? Scientists at Rice University have developed a new method that does just that, transforming trash into treasure.

This process can convert almost any carbon-based material into graphene, a remarkable substance known for its strength and versatility. Graphene is just one atom thick, but it is 200 times stronger than steel. It has many potential uses in various industries, including advanced electronics and sustainable building materials. This innovative wonder material signifies a significant leap forward in both science and resource efficiency. It offers a glimpse of how waste can be reimagined and transformed into a valuable asset.

The Science Behind the Transformation

How is this remarkable treasure created from trash? The process starts with any carbon-based material, since carbon is a fundamental building block of all known life on Earth and comprises about 45-50% of dry biomass. This material is placed between two electrodes, where a brief but intense electric pulse heats it to 5432°F (3000 °C). At this extreme temperature, all non-carbon elements vaporize, leaving behind pure carbon. As the carbon cools, it naturally reassembles into ultrathin, highly durable graphene sheets.

What makes this breakthrough even more impressive is its speed. The entire transformation happens in just 10 milliseconds, making it both efficient and revolutionary. By converting discarded food and other waste into graphene, this innovative process offers a promising solution to the food-waste crisis in the United States. It not only reimagines waste as a valuable resource but also paves the way for a more sustainable and resource-conscious future.

A Serendipitous Discovery

This groundbreaking technique was discovered almost serendipitously. Dewey Long, a graduate student at Rice University, uncovered the process while conducting experiments with carbon. Recognizing the immense potential of this discovery, the Department of Energy awarded a grant to develop and scale the technology further.  This support ultimately led to the establishment of a startup, Universal Matter, dedicated to processing waste on a global scale, including food, industrial, and human waste.

This remarkable scientific advancement highlights the transformative power of modern innovation, demonstrating how what is often discarded as worthless can be reimagined as something invaluable. As the saying goes, “To create treasure, you first need trash.”

The Creator of All Things

While science continues to push boundaries, it is important to reflect on the ultimate Creator. While scientists may one day claim the ability to create life from dirt, just as God did, this idea brings to mind a humorous yet thought-provoking story:

A scientist confidently declares to God that he can create life from dirt, just as God did with Adam (Genesis 2:7). Gathering materials from the ground, the scientist prepares for his groundbreaking experiment. Observing with a hint of amusement, God remarks, “That’s my dirt; get your own dirt!”

This lighthearted anecdote conveys a profound truth: God not only formed humanity from the dust of the earth but also created the earth itself and all that is within it. It underscores His unmatched power and sovereignty over all creation.

REFLECT & PRAY

God’s wisdom and power are unmatched, far beyond human understanding. He speaks, and it is done. Let us never forget the greatness of the Creator, who turns the ordinary into the extraordinary and brings purpose even to what seems like waste.

Isaiah 55:8-9: “‘My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,’ says the LORD. ‘And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine, for just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”

Father, thank You for being the one true living God. No one can compare to You, nor ever will. You only have to speak, and it is done.

INSIGHT

The Power and Creativity of the Father

The infinite, eternal, and omnipotent God reveals Himself to humanity through a powerful declaration of His unmatched authority and creativity. His opening words in Scripture explain the true origin of everything, the real “Big Bang.”

Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

As stated in the ESV Study Bible, “The effect of the opening words of the Bible is to establish that God, in His inscrutable wisdom, sovereign power, and majesty, is the Creator of all things that exist.” This foundational statement sets the tone for the entire story of Scripture, emphasizing that everything started with God’s sovereign will and His creative command.

The Simplicity of Creation

The Father reveals the origins of the universe with remarkable clarity. He simply spoke, and it came into existence. The book of Genesis emphasizes this process with the repeated phrase, “Let there be,” followed by the immediate fulfillment of His command.

Psalms 33:9: “For when he spoke, the world began! It appeared at his command.”

This divine act of creation underscores the power of God’s spoken word. His voice alone was sufficient to bring forth the heavens, the earth, and all that exists within them.

The Limitations of Modern Science

In contrast to the biblical account, modern science has proposed various theories about the origins of the universe. These theories, ranging from conjectures to hypotheses and postulations, are rooted in speculation rather than direct observation or the application of the scientific method.

The scientific method, a structured process for uncovering knowledge, involves forming a hypothesis, testing it through experimentation, analyzing the results, and either confirming or refuting the hypothesis. However, when it comes to the origins of the universe, this method cannot be applied. There are no eyewitnesses, no experiments to replicate, and no means to test these theories. Consequently, scientists are left with their best estimates.

Perhaps the “Big Bang” would be more aptly named the “Big Guess.”

The formula of modern science:

Nothing + No one = Everything

God’s formula, however, is both more straightforward and infinitely more profound:

Nothing + God’s spoken word = Everything

The Creation of Humanity

God’s creative power is further exemplified in the formation of humanity. Unlike the rest of creation, which was brought into existence through His spoken word, the creation of man involved a more intimate and deliberate act. God used the dust of the earth, shaped it with His hands, and breathed life into it.

Genesis 2:7: “The LORD God formed man of dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and man became a living being.”

This act not only underscores God’s immense power but also reveals His personal involvement in the creation of humanity. Even the dust itself, used to form man, was a product of His creative work. Before creating man, God first made His own dirt.

Unmatched Creativity and Power

The opening chapters of Genesis reveal the unmatched power, wisdom, and creativity of God. While human theories about the origins of the universe are speculative and limited, God’s Word provides a clear and authoritative account of creation. God spoke, and it was done. His majestic yet straightforward way of creating reminds us that He is in charge of everything.This passage highlights God’s limitless creativity and sovereignty. While human innovation can achieve remarkable feats, it is ultimately God who supplies the resources, wisdom, and inspiration to transform the world around us.

The Greatest Test of Courage∙

The Greatest Test of Courage ∙

Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9

Joshua 1:2-8

Moses, my servant, is dead. Therefore, the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan. No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them.

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do.

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command: Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

Key Elements for Achieving Success

What are the key components of achieving success in life? Success is often built on foundational principles and strategies that empower individuals to reach their goals and find fulfillment. These core elements provide practical guidance for turning aspirations into accomplishments. These include:

  • Set clear and specific goals: Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART goals).
  • Develop a plan of action: Break down your objectives into smaller, actionable steps to keep progress manageable.
  • Work hard and stay committed: Success requires persistence, dedication, and a mindset that sees failures as opportunities to grow.
  • Continuously learn and improve: Pursue knowledge and build skills that match your goals.
  • Take calculated risks: Step outside your comfort zone, embrace possibilities for growth, and stay open to new experiences.
  • Develop a strong support network: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who believe in your potential. Find mentors or role models for guidance and wisdom.
  • Stay focused and keep balance: Aim for harmony between personal and professional life to sustain long-term success.

What is Success for the Children of the King?

For the children of the King who walk with the Father, success is not measured by worldly standards or cultural norms. Genuine success is found in aligning one’s life with God’s will and purpose. Pursuing prosperity apart from Him may yield fleeting accomplishments, but it often results in emptiness and lasting regret. Psalms 106:15 recalls a sobering moment in Israel’s history: “He gave them their request, but sent leanness into their soul.”

Psalms 106:15 serves as a cautionary reminder about ingratitude and self-indulgence. Their craving was not based on genuine need but on the desire for more. What the Father had provided was simply not enough. In the wilderness, the Israelites became dissatisfied with God’s miraculous provision of manna and demanded more (Numbers 11). While God granted their request, He also allowed them to face the consequences of misplaced priorities: a decline in their spiritual well-being, a “leanness of soul,” a deep spiritual emptiness that no material thing can fill. Although their physical hunger was temporarily satisfied, their overall spiritual condition deteriorated.

REFLECT & PRAY

Robert Ingersoll asserted that, “The greatest test of courage on earth is to bear defeat without losing heart.” Success is not always immediate, and setbacks are inevitable. However, resilience and faith in the face of challenges are what define true strength.

Father, thank You for the high standards and steps of action You have provided for success. Encourage and strengthen me to meditate upon and live by Your principles.

INSIGHT

Insight into Success and Strength

Scottish novelist George MacDonald once wrote, “Without God, any endeavor is destined to either miserable failure or a more miserable success.” For the children of the King, true success is the natural result of a life fully dedicated to the Father and grounded in the truth of His Word. When we walk in the Spirit and rely on His empowerment, good things happen, not by chance, but by divine design.

The Foundation of Success

The world’s metrics do not define the success of God’s people. Instead, success in the kingdom of God becomes a reality when we choose to align ourselves with His divine will. As Wiersbe aptly observes, “It’s one thing to say to a leader, ‘Be strong! Be very courageous!’ and quite something else to enable him to do it.”

Joshua’s strength and courage did not arise from within himself but were firmly grounded in his deep immersion in God’s Word and his consistent meditation on it. The Father’s power and authority are activated in our lives when we cultivate an unshakable trust in His promises and live in faithful obedience to His principles.

Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

This command is expressed through two synonymous Hebrew verbs: “Be strong and be courageous.” These phrases are translated as “be resolute,” “stand firm,” or “be brave.”

The Meaning of Strength and Courage

The Hebrew verb for “strong” is hazaq, which conveys the idea of “being powerful beyond the ordinary, whether physically or mentally. It means to strengthen, prevail, harden, or act with resolve.”

The word for “courageous” is amets, which indicates “the ability to confront danger or fear without hesitation. It suggests being bold, alert, and steadfast.” In modern terms, we might say, “‘Man up,’ meaning to face challenges with bravery and fulfill responsibilities heroically.”

God’s Encouragement to Joshua

The Lord repeatedly encouraged Joshua to be strong and very courageous (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9). Joshua bore the weight of his duties: leading a stubborn, obstinate people, facing the enormity of the task ahead, and being without his mentor, Moses. Yet, God did not call Joshua without also equipping him.

Joshua had compelling reasons to find strength:

  • God’s promise of victory (Joshua 1:5, 6) assured him that no one would oppose him.
  • The reliability of God’s Word (Joshua 1:7, 8) offered a trustworthy guide to success.
  • The comforting presence of the Father (Joshua 1:9) provided unwavering support and reassurance.

As T. Austin Sparks observed, “The real battle of faith is joined here. Not what we are, but what He is! Not what we feel, but His facts.”

Assurance in God’s Guidance

These promises are not about material wealth or success but about fulfilling the assignments God has given us. When we seek His counsel and guidance (Joshua 9:14), He provides the wisdom and insight needed for any situation.

In a fallen world, we will face obstacles and, at times, fall short. Yet, when we fail, we must get up, persevere, and keep moving forward until the end. Maxwell Maltz sagaciously comments, “Remember, you will not always win. Some days, the most resourceful individual will taste defeat. But there is, in this case, always tomorrow – after you have done your best to achieve success today.”

The Challenge of Obedience

One of the most challenging aspects of God’s instructions to Joshua was the command to make His Word the foundation of his life. Joshua was called to continually study and meditate on Scripture, allowing it to shape his decisions, provide direction, and strengthen him for the immense task ahead. Joshua was called to an active, ongoing commitment to align his life with God’s truth.

This challenge is not exclusive to Joshua; it resonates with all who seek to follow the Father. Every child of the King faces the ongoing struggle to keep God’s Word at the center of their lives, allowing it to guide their actions, shape their character, and inspire their goals. Through this unwavering dedication to Scripture, we find clarity, purpose, and the strength to fulfill the calling God has placed on our lives. By anchoring ourselves in His Word, we are equipped to navigate life’s complexities with wisdom and courage, knowing that His promises never fail.

Reflections on Courage

In our fallen world, we face many hurdles, and sadly, we will fall short. The absence of fear or pain does not define courage; rather, it is the resolve to press forward despite them. Genuine strength and lasting success are rooted in unwavering trust in God’s promises, steadfast reliance on His guidance, and the perseverance to face life’s challenges with faith and resilience.

Jeremy Goldberg observes, “Courage is knowing it might hurt, and doing it anyway. Stupidity is the same. And that’s why life is hard.”

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© Dr. H 2026

Do You Turn Things Upside Down? ∙

Do You Turn Things Upside Down? ∙

You turn things upside down as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! – Isaiah 29:16

Isaiah 29:13-16

And so the Lord says, “These people say they are mine. They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.

Because of this, I will once again astound these hypocrites with amazing wonders. The wisdom of the wise will pass away, and the intelligence of the intelligent will disappear.”

What sorrow awaits those who try to hide their plans from the Lord, who do their evil deeds in the dark! “The Lord can’t see us,” they say. “He doesn’t know what’s going on!”

How foolish can you be? He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! Should the created thing say of the one who made it, “He didn’t make me”? Does a jar ever say, “The potter who made me is stupid”?

The Potter’s Craft: A Timeless Art

Potters are skilled craftsmen who transform raw clay into functional or decorative pieces, such as bowls, plates, and vases. Their work involves a series of intentional choices, including selecting the clay, tools, shapes, colors, and finishes. Each decision directly affects the final product’s texture, durability, and visual appeal.

For example, the type of clay chosen influences key features like color, texture, and plasticity. Potters then shape the clay using techniques such as wheel throwing and hand building, including coiling, slabbing, and pinching. Every step of the process reflects the potter’s creative vision and skillful control, resulting in a one-of-a-kind creation. 

The Potter and the Clay: A Biblical Analogy

Pottery was an important part of everyday life in both the Old and New Testaments. It served both practical and cultural purposes.The idea that clay can shape itself would have been considered completely absurd, since clay is inert, devoid of thought or will.. It is the potter who imagines, designs, and forms the clay into what it’s meant to be. This image of the potter and clay illustrates how God has full control and authority over His creation. It highlights His role as the main designer and caretaker. Each piece is made for a specific purpose and future, according to what the Creator intended.

Isaiah 64:8: “O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.”

Lessons from Jeremiah’s Vision

The prophet Jeremiah provides a vivid illustration of the potter’s authority over the clay, Jeremiah 18:2-6:

“Go down to the potter’s shop, and I will speak to you there.”

“So, I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over. Then the Lord gave me this message: ‘O Israel, can I not do to you as this potter has done to his clay? As the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand.’”

Paul’s Perspective on Divine Sovereignty

This vivid metaphor speaks volumes, yet the apostle Paul conveys its essence with remarkable brevity. He pictures the Father as a potter who has the right to shape His creation however He wants. While Paul does not explore the tension between human free will and divine sovereignty, he emphasizes that this apparent conflict is resolved by recognizing the Father’s ultimate authority to make decisions, while humanity has no authority whatsoever. The ESV notes suggest that Paul “insists that finite human beings may not rebelliously question God’s ways, that God as a potter has the right to do what he wishes with his creation.”

Romans 9:21: “When a potter makes jars out of clay, doesn’t he have a right to use the same lump of clay to make one jar for honorable use and another for common use?”

In this context, the terms “honorable” and “common” vessels represent the “saved” and the “unsaved,” respectively. Paul emphasizes that these distinctions were predetermined before the foundation of the world, long before anyone other than God existed.

REFLECT & PRAY

Isaiah reminds us of the folly of questioning the Creator’s authority, Isaiah 29:16: “How foolish can you be? He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! Should the created thing say of the one who made it, ‘He didn’t make me’? Does a jar ever say, ‘The potter who made me is stupid’?”

Father, what serenity, peace, and confidence fill my spirit and soul when I recognize that You are the Potter and I am not. You are loving and all-knowing. You never make mistakes. Knowing my limitations and shortcomings, I place my complete confidence and trust in You.

INSIGHT

The Potter and the Clay: A Natural Order

The relationship between the potter and the clay illustrates the natural order of the world, in which potters shape and design vessels. In contrast, the clay remains passive, unable to influence its form or purpose.  

However, the apostle Paul warns that in the last days, this natural order will be upended, giving way to a world marked by chaos and widespread self-centeredness.

A World Turned Upside Down

2 Timothy 3:1-5:

“You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days, there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.

They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly.”

This passage depicts a bleak view of the world without God, described by William Barclay as, “One of the most terrible pictures in the New Testament of what a godless world would be like, with the terrible qualities of godlessness set out in a ghastly list.”

The Meaning of “Difficult Times”

The Greek word translated as “difficult” in this passage is chalepos, which appears only twice in the New Testament. Matthew 8:28 describes the “violent ferocity” of the two demoniacs from the country of the Gadarenes. In 2 Timothy 3:1, it characterizes the spirit of the age in the last days, “a time so horrendous that it is troublesome, dangerous, harsh, fierce, and savage.”

Self-Love vs. God-Love

2 Timothy 3:2: “For people will love only themselves.”

The Greek term phílautos, meaning “love only themselves,” is derived from phílos (loving) and autos (self). It signifies “a self-centered love that prioritizes personal interests above all else. This self-love can lead to narcissistic egotism.” This trait is increasingly prevalent in modern society and potentially indicative of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).

In stark contrast, the children of the King are described as philotheos – “lovers of God.”

2 Timothy 3:4: “They are lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”

The term philotheos is derived from phílos (loving) and theos (God), meaning “God-lovers.” “Those who genuinely love the Father and prioritize His will above everything, embracing it as their ultimate purpose and guiding principle in life.”

A Stark Contrast in Priorities

The contrast between phílautos (self-lovers) and philotheos (God-lovers) is striking. “Self-lovers are driven by their own desires and self-interest, while God-lovers orient their lives around the Father’s purpose.” This fundamental difference influences their attitudes, perspectives, decisions, and actions, carrying profound and eternal significance. 

Do You Turn Things Upside Down?

Pause for a moment and visualize the Father’s servant, the prophet Isaiah, confronting you face-to-face with a bony finger projected in your direction. He points out a disturbing, foolish trend in Isaiah 29:16: “Do you turn things upside down? How foolish can you be? He is the Potter, and he is certainly greater than you, the clay! Should the created thing say of the one who made it, ‘He didn’t make me’?”

Isaiah highlights how we often turn the natural order that God designed upside down. We reject His authority and wisdom as the Creator of all things. He uses the example of the Potter and the clay to show how unwise it is for us to challenge the Creator.

When we “turn things upside down,” we try to act like the Potter instead of the clay. We attempt to control our own design, purpose, and destiny, rather than trusting in God’s perfect plan. We rely on our limited and flawed viewpoint and self-love to reshape ourselves and the world around us.

Resting in the Potter’s Design 

As children of the King, we are invited to find peace in the reality of a loving Father who, like a master potter, has intentionally and carefully shaped us for His divine purposes. He molds and shapes us according to His will, and our greatest calling is to live in harmony with His perfect plan.

As children of the King, we are called to find peace in the truth of a loving Father who, like a master potter, has intentionally and carefully shaped us for His divine purposes. He molds us according to His will, and our highest calling is to live in harmony with His perfect plan.

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© Dr. H 2026