This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we move from the Pentateuch into the second section of the Old Testament, the Historical Books.
What Is 2 Samuel? The book of 2 Samuel is a history of David’s reign as king of Israel and his relationship with God. Though flawed and sinful, he was still described as “a man after God’s own heart.”
How 2 Samuel Fits Into the Story: As God established a king in Israel, He also established a new covenant with David—one that would find its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Though 2 Samuel displays plenty of examples of leadership failures in Israel, God displays His mercy and grace through His promise to use this broken nation to bring the Savior into the world.
Reflection Questions:
1. How is God’s promise to David in 2 Samuel 7 fulfilled in Christ?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
MAURA, I’m giving you a hug from across the pond. I am walking to work right now I just read your comment. I’m going to be praying for you dear sister. If somehow we could connect I would love to talk to you. Next month in July Will mark for years that I was in your shoes.
I have heard others say that Jesus can be found in every part of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation. It’s one of those things that my head took in, but not really my heart. This study…y’all, I am speechless at the sovereignty and creativity of our Heavenly Father. Now my heart is beginning to understand that from before the creation of the world Jesus has always been Plan A. I can find Him in every part of Scripture. The verses this morning brought me to tears at the love and tenderness God had for David and that He has for me. I look at the ways God is allowing me to work for Him and all I can do is echo David’s words. “Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?” (2 Sam. 7:18)
Molly, I am so glad you checked this out. I love you, sister!
Contouring to dive deeper into the Old Testament seeing the rising and downfall of Israel based on their walk with the LORD, is so similar to my walk. God is always consistent with me but I stumble and fall, yet he picks me up with grace and mercy.
@SHARON SCHEIBENPFLUG I am praying with you for my wayward children. I will add to my prayers the request that I see it in my lifetime. God has been so faithful to me over the years and so I trust Him with my precious children as well, even though they are following the world and believing lies. They also grew up in a Christian home, as pastor’s kids and missionary kids. AS I read through the OT, I see so much of their rebellion in the Bible and I am comforted by God’s power to turn around those who are lost and going the wrong way.
@Maura praying for you as you navigate your relationship with your husband. I went through a very difficult time in my marriage and was on the brink of leaving for years. God has been faithful to us and we were able to walk through the fire and come out stronger on the other side, but it took many years, many days filled with tears and prayer. It was a hard road to walk. I am so sorry for what you are going through and will faithfully pray for you to have peace and wisdom. God was near to me the whole time and I am so grateful for the relationship that I now have with my Lord and Savior!
Though flawed and sinful, he was still described as “a man after God’s own heart”. How many times have I failed God, my Lord Jesus. Yet He continues to love me and you. I was so moved by this, this morning. So thankful to my Jesus though he went through a painful death it wasn’t in vain. It was for you and I so that we may live with Him forever someday.
Dear Maura, I am praying for you in this hard, hard season. I have been there and it is not a fun place to be. I just kept to a close friend, talking to her daily for encouragement, journaling to my God, and tuning in to Klove music nonstop. You will get through it! I also found that if I used texting as communicating it kept the emotion at bay a little better.
Hi! I have two questions from today’s reading in 2 Sam, if you all don’t mind. First, where was the ark in the time of Judges? Couldn’t the people see God’s power through it and then had evidence enough to do right and obey?-2 Sam 7:6 And the other question is about the key verse-2 Sam 7:11b. Is it saying that the Lord will establish David’s royal line (culminating in Jesus) or build His Temple through David’s son (Solomon)? Or is it both? Thanks!