Year: 2024

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历代志上 第十章|Book of 1 Chronicles 10

【扫罗王朝败亡的反思】

主讲：林国晶传道

26/06/2024

引言：

扫罗王朝的失败为我们提供了深刻的教训和反省，使我们能够常常检视自己的生命，确保我们是否活在神的应许和祝福当中。

一、失去神的同在（历代志上 10:1-5）

以色列人被非利士人全然征服，扫罗的最后阵地基利波山失守。扫罗在这场战役中以失败告终，他的三个儿子被杀，自己也选择伏在刀上自杀。失去神的同在是扫罗悲剧的根本原因。因此，我们要不断寻求和保持与神的亲密关系，不要让任何事物妨碍我们与神的联系。

反省：我们是否在生活中经常感受到神的同在？如果感到神的同在逐渐远离，我们需要重新审视自己的信仰生活，恢复与神的亲密关系。

二、失去神的祝福（历代志上 10:6-7）

以色列百姓曾执意要求以人为王（撒母耳记上 8:19），希望获得安全感。然而，随着扫罗和他三个儿子的死亡，扫罗的王朝也结束了。百姓纷纷弃城逃跑，失去了应许之地中最肥沃的部分，光景比立王之前更糟。然而，神的国度没有失败；人的危机实际上是神所带动的转机。

反省：我们是否把安全感建立在人的能力上，而非神的应许？我们需要依靠神的祝福和引导，而不是倚靠自己的力量和智慧。

三、神的名被羞辱（历代志上 10:8-10）

扫罗的首级被钉在大衮庙中，尸身被钉在伯·珊的城墙上，军装被放在亚斯她录庙里。非利士人这样做的目的，是要证明他们的偶像胜过了以色列的神。

反省：我们的行为是否在荣耀神的名？还是因为我们的失败和不忠，使神的名受到羞辱？我们需要谨慎自己的言行，确保它们能荣耀神。

四、善行仍被记念（历代志上 10:11-12）

在扫罗刚刚作王的年代，他曾拯救基列雅比人。如今扫罗遇难，基列雅比的勇士有恩必报，冒着生命危险将扫罗和他儿子的尸身从非利士人手中夺回。虽然扫罗一生的大部分时间是失败的，但他的善行仍被记念，并在合适的时间得到回报。

反省：我们是否在生活中行善，帮助他人？即使我们有时失败，善行仍会被神记念，并在适当的时候得到回报。

五、干犯了耶和华（历代志上 10:13-14）

“干犯耶和华”原文是“背叛耶和华”。这是指扫罗私自献祭的事。此外，扫罗没有遵守耶和华的命令，灭绝亚玛力人，并且求问交鬼的妇人。因扫罗没有遵行神的旨意，以致他面对神的审判。

反省：我们是否在遵守神的命令，还是在关键时刻选择了自己的方式？我们要凡事求问神，做合乎圣经的决定，过顺服遵从神的生活。

总结：

弟兄姐妹们，我们看到扫罗的一生何等可悲。他的个人失败导致家庭破裂、人民受苦、神的名被羞辱。他被神拣选为王却背弃神，失去了神赐的福气。因此，我们应当凡事求问神，不可倚靠自己的聪明，要做合乎圣经的决定。求神教导我们明白祂的心意，过顺服遵从神的生活。

1 Chronicles 10 Reflections on the Defeat of the Saul’s Kingdom
GK611 Morning Devotion
26/06/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Stella Ling

Introduction:

The defeat of the Saul’s kingdom provides us with profound lessons and reflections so that we can often examine our lives to ensure that we are living in the midst of God’s promises and blessings.

1. Loss of God’s presence (1 Chronicles 10:1-5)

Israel was completely conquered by the Philistines and Saul’s last stand at Mount Gilboa was lost. Saul ended the battle in defeat, with his three sons killed and himself choosing to commit suicide by falling on the sword. The loss of God’s presence was the root cause of Saul’s tragedy. Therefore, we must continually seek and maintain an intimate relationship with God and not let anything get in the way of our connection with Him.

Reflection: Do we often feel God’s presence in our lives? If we feel that God’s presence is gradually moving away, we need to re-examine our faith life and restore our intimacy with God.

2. Losing God’s blessing (1 Chronicles 10:6-7)

The people of Israel had insisted on having a king (1 Samuel 8:19), hoping to gain a sense of security. However, with the deaths of Saul and his three sons, Saul’s kingdom came to an end. The people abandoned their cities and fled, losing the most fertile part of the Promised Land, and the light was worse than it had been before the establishment of the king. However, God’s kingdom did not fail; the crisis of man was actually a God-driven chances.

Reflection: Are we basing our security on man’s ability rather than God’s promises? We need to rely on God’s blessing and guidance rather than on our own strength and wisdom.

3. God’s Name Humiliated (1 Chronicles 10:8-10)

Saul’s head was nailed in the temple of Dagon, his body was nailed to the wall of Beth Shan, and his armor was placed in the temple of Ashtaroth. The purpose of the Philistines in doing this was to prove that their idols were superior to the God of Israel.

Reflection: Are our actions glorifying God’s name? Or are we dishonouring God’s name through our failures and unfaithfulness? We need to be careful with our words and actions to make sure they glorify God.

4. Good deeds are still remembered (1 chronicles 10:11-12)

In the days when Saul was a new king, he had saved the people of Gilead and Jabesh. Now that Saul was shipwrecked, the warriors of Jabesh Gilead were gracious enough to return the favour, risking their lives to retrieve the bodies of Saul and his son from the Philistines. Though Saul was a failure for most of his life, his good deeds are still remembered and rewarded at the right time.

Reflection: Are we doing good deeds and helping others in our lives? Even if we fail at times, good deeds are still remembered by God and rewarded at the right time.

5. Interfering with the Lord (1 Chronicles 10:13-14)

The word “transgressed against the Lord” means “betrayed the Lord”. This refers to Saul’s private sacrifices. In addition, Saul did not obey the Lord’s command to exterminate the Amalekites, and questioned the woman who had given herself to the devil. Because Saul did not do God’s will, he faced God’s judgment.

Reflection: Are we obeying God’s commands, or are we choosing our own way at critical moments? We need to ask God about everything, make biblical decisions, and live lives of obedience to God.

Conclusion:

Brothers and sisters, we see how sad Saul’s life was. His personal failures led to the breakup of his family, the suffering of his people, and the dishonouring of God’s name. He was chosen by God to be king but turned his back on God and lost the blessings that God had given him. Therefore, we should inquire of God in all things and not rely on our own wisdom, but make biblical decisions. Pray that God will teach us to understand His heart and live a life of obedience to Him.

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历代志上 第九章|Book of 1 Chronicles 9

【重新开始的美好盼望 】

主讲：丘均发传道

25/06/2024

引言：在基督里可以重新开始

一、被掳因犯罪不忠于神（V1）

犹大人被掳到巴比伦，是因为他们犯罪不忠于神！神使用巴比伦人作为刑罚百姓的工具，允许他们毁灭犹大国，并掳走神的百姓。

如果我们活在罪中，顽梗不向神悔罪，那我们必将受神的审判！因为神要照各人所行的和所做的报应他。

二、选择重新回归的子民（V2-34）

1. 回归子民的族长名单（V3-9）

这里解释了回归的以色列人中，包括了犹大人，便雅悯人，以法莲人和玛拿西人。但只记载了犹大和便雅悯两个支派的族长的名单，因为这两个支派归回的人最多。

这些回归的子民，是一群回应神呼召的信心勇士，放弃原有的产业，回到残破的耶路撒冷进行重建工作！盼望重新复国！

神是赐人‘再一次机会’的神。我们若走错方向，借着神的大能，我们可以完全地转变过来，重新出发跟随神迈向正确的方向。实际上，神每天都会赐给我们一个新的开始，时时更新我们的灵！

2.回归的祭司家族名单（V10-13）

这里记载了回归住在耶路撒冷的祭司家族，共有一千七百六十人。神保留了一千七百六十人善于作神殿里工作的人，显明了祂的主权和怜悯！这些祭司回来，就是要建殿恢复侍奉，并且建立神的子民。

若是我们的问题或不满足，是因为跟神的关系疏远了，那么只有重新拉近与神的关系，情况才会得到真实的改进！一切别的方法都是无济于事！

3.回归的利未人的职责（V17-34)

在这段经文，除了记载归回利未人的名单，也详细地介绍了他们当时的职责。因为回归之后的重点，乃是以色列人对神信仰的回归。所以，利未人在圣殿的事奉和职责，是回归中的意义之所在。

对于我们基督徒来说，重要的是与神关系的建立；这个与神关系的建立，表现在我们对神的服事、委身、感恩和颂赞。

三、扫罗后裔回归的新盼望（V35-44)

这里重复了和上一章几乎相同的扫罗家谱。扫罗是第一位以色列国王，但他非常令人失望。现在他的后裔选择回归耶路撒冷，显明了他们盼望在神能重新开始，神也给了他们再一次事奉的机会。

就像扫罗的后裔一样，神能赐予每一个信靠祂的人一个新的开始：因此，若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人，旧事已过，新事已到。(林后5:17）。

总结：

无论我们曾经怎样失败或犯错，一个新的开始是可能的！
在基督里我们都有重新开始的美好盼望！因为神可以赐给我们一个全新的生命！

1 Chronicles 9 The Good Hope of a New Beginning

GK611 Morning Devotion
25/06/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Daniel Kew

Introduction: It is possible to start over in Christ

1. Captivity due to sin and disloyalty to God (V1)

The people of Judah were taken captive to Babylon because they sinned and were unfaithful to God! God used the Babylonians as a tool to punish the people, allowing them to destroy the kingdom of Judah and take God’s people captive.

If we live in sin and are stubborn and do not repent to God, then we will surely be judged by God! For God will reward everyone according to his deeds and works.

2. The people who chose to return again (V2-34)

(1) The list of the tribe leaders of the returned people (V3-9)

It is explained here that the returning Israelites included Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh. But only the names of the tribe leaders of Judah and Benjamin were recorded, because these two tribes had the largest number of returnees.

These returning people are a group of warriors with faith who responded to God’s calling. They gave up their original properties and returned to the dilapidated Jerusalem to carry out reconstruction work! Looking forward to the restoration of the country!

God is the God who gives people ‘one more chance’. If we go in the wrong direction, through the power of God, we can completely change and start over and follow God in the right direction. In fact, God gives us a new beginning every day and renews our spirit all the time!

(2) The list of returning priest families (V10-13)

Here is a record of the priestly families who returned to live in Jerusalem, a total of 1,760 people. God retained 1,760 people who were good at working in the temple, demonstrating His sovereignty and mercy! These priests came back to build a temple, resume service, and establish God’s people.

If our problems or dissatisfaction are caused by our alienated relationship with God, then only by getting closer to God will the situation be truly improved! All other methods are of no avail!

(3) Responsibilities of the returned Levites (V17-34)

In this passage, in addition to recording the list of returned Levites, their responsibilities at that time are also introduced in detail. Because the focus after the return is the return of the Israelites’ faith in God. Therefore, the service and responsibilities of the Levites in the temple are the significant meaning of the return.

For us Christians, what is important is the establishment of a relationship with God; this establishment of a relationship with God is reflected in our service, commitment, gratitude, and praise to God.

3. New hope for the return of Saul’s descendants (V35-44)

Here the genealogy of Saul is repeated almost identically to that in the previous chapter. Saul was the first king of Israel, but he was a huge disappointment. Now that his descendants have chosen to return to Jerusalem, it shows that they hope to start over with God, and God has given them another opportunity to serve.

Like Saul’s descendants, God can give everyone who trusts Him a new beginning: therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Conclusion：

No matter how we have failed or made mistakes, a new beginning is possible!
In Christ we all have the wonderful hope of a fresh start! Because God can give us a whole new life!

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诗篇 第141|Psalm 141

24/06/2024

诗篇141

(大卫的诗。)
1 耶和华阿,我曾求告你,求你快快临到我这里。我求告你的时候,愿你留心听我的
声音。
2 愿我的祷告,如香陈列在你面前。愿我举手祈求,如献晚祭。
3 耶和华阿,求你禁止我的口,把守我的嘴。
4 求你不叫我的心,偏向邪恶,以致我和作孽的人同行恶事。也不叫我吃他们的美
食。
5 任凭义人击打我,这算为仁慈。任凭他责备我,这算为头上的膏油。我的头不要躲
闪。正在他们行恶的时候,我仍要祈祷。
6 他们的审判官,被扔在岩下。众人要听我的话,因为这话甘甜。
7 我们的骨头散在墓旁,好像人耕田,刨地的土块。
8 主耶和华阿,我的眼目仰望你。我投靠你,求你不要将我撇得孤苦。
9 求你保护我脱离恶人为我设的网罗,和作孽之人的圈套。
10 愿恶人落在自己的网里,我却得以逃脱。

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诗篇 第140|Psalm 140

23/06/2024

诗篇140

(大卫的诗,交与伶长。)
1 耶和华啊,求你拯救我脱离凶恶的人,保护我脱离强暴的人。
2 他们心中图谋奸恶,常常聚集要争战。
3 他们使舌头尖利如蛇,嘴里有虺蛇的毒气。(细拉)
4 耶和华啊,求你拯救我脱离恶人的手,保护我脱离强暴的人。他们图谋推我跌倒。
5 骄傲人为我暗设网罗和绳索。他们在路旁铺下网,设下圈套。(细拉)
6 我曾对耶和华说,你是我的神。耶和华啊,求你留心听我恳求的声音。
7 主耶和华,我救恩的力量啊,在争战的日子,你遮蔽了我的头。
8 耶和华啊,求你不要遂恶人的心愿。不要成就他们的计谋,恐怕他们自高。(细
拉)
9 至于那些昂首围困我的人,愿他们嘴唇的奸恶陷害(原文作遮蔽)自己。
10 愿火炭落在他们身上。愿他们被丢在火中,抛在深坑里,不能再起来。
11 说恶言的人,在地上必坚立不住。祸患必猎取强暴的人,将他打倒。
12 我知道耶和华必为困苦人伸冤,必为穷乏人辨屈。
13 义人必要称赞你的名。正直人必住在你面前。

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历代志上 第八章|Book of 1 Chronicles 8

【逆境中的荣耀：持续相信地跟随】

主讲：郑伟健实习传道

21/06/2024

引言：含着金钥匙的意思

一、便雅悯支派的其他后裔（V1-32）

便雅悯支派共有十个儿子，第 1 节记录了其中五个儿子。这些后裔可能分布在南北两地，有些可能居住在南方，如犹大的领地内，包括耶路撒冷、迦巴、阿挪和罗德、亚雅仑、基遍等地。尽管今天的经文中有很多名字，但我们可以选择关注其中几个人的故事，来思考神的作为。在逆境中，我们要选择经历神的荣耀，并坚定选择持续跟随祂，决不放弃。

1.户伸：被抛弃但被神记念（V8-28）

虽然户伸被丈夫抛弃，但神却极其眷顾她。她的后裔在被但支派放弃的地区大大发旺，建立了阿挪和罗德两座城市，还有亚雅仑，许多著名的族长定居在耶路撒冷。

2.示每：失去持续蒙福的机会（V19-21)

这段提到的示每很可能是比拉的孙子，基拉的儿子，就是大卫逃难时攻击大卫的那个示每。他作为耶路撒冷的一位著名族长，得到了神特别的眷顾。然而，在王遭难的时候，他却选择反对王，最终被所罗门王除掉。他有一个持续蒙福的机会，但却因着自己的看见而走向灭亡。

二、扫罗的家谱（V33-40）

1.扫罗：未能持续跟随，失去祝福

扫罗起初是以色列人中一个微不足道的人，他来自于一个平凡的家庭，没有金钥匙或权势背景。然而，神拣选他，选他作为以色列的首位王。然而，尽管扫罗得到了这个伟大的机会，他却未能坚定跟随神的旨意。最后因着自己的血气行事走入了灭亡。

2.米力巴力：虽残障无力，但蒙神恩宠

米力巴力即米非波设，自幼父亲去世，自己也瘸腿，只能在路边乞讨。然而，神眷顾他，使他得到了大卫王的恩待。

总结：

在逆境中，真正的荣耀不是起步的辉煌，而是在于你是否持续跟随神。无论我们的起点如何微弱，神都会眷顾并祝福那些依靠祂的人。因此，让我们学会依靠神，谨慎选择，因为祂的计划比我们所能想象的更美好。在逆境中，神的荣耀会在我们的生命中彰显。相信神的应许，祂会带领我们走向光明的未来。

1 Chronicles Chapter 8: Glory in Adversity: Continue to Follow with Faith
GK611 Morning Devotion
21/06/2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: IP Asher Chang

Introduction: The meaning of holding a golden key

1. Other descendants of the tribe of Benjamin (V1-32)

There were ten sons in the tribe of Benjamin, five of whom are recorded in verse 1. These descendants may be distributed in the north and south, and some may live in the south, such as in the territory of Judah, including Jerusalem, Geba, Ono and Lod, Aijalon, Gibeon and other places. Although there are many names in today’s scripture, we can choose to focus on the stories of a few of them to reflect on the work of God. In the face of adversity, we must choose to experience the glory of God and firmly choose to continue to follow Him and never give up.

(1) Hushim: Abandoned but remembered by God (V8-28)

Although Hushim was abandoned by her husband, God favoured her greatly. Her descendants flourished in the area abandoned by the tribe of Dan, establishing the cities of Ono and Lod, as well as Aijalon, and many famous tribe leaders settled in Jerusalem.

(2) Shimei: Losing the opportunity to continue to be blessed (V19-21)

The Shimei mentioned in this passage is most likely the son of Gera, the grandson of Bela, the same Shimei who attacked David when he fled. As a famous tribe leader in Jerusalem, he received special favour from God. However, when the king was in trouble, he chose to oppose the king and was eventually eliminated by King Solomon. He had a chance to continue to be blessed, but he perished because of what he saw.

2. Saul’s genealogy (V33-40)

(2) Saul: failed to continue to follow and lost blessings

Saul started out as an insignificant person among the Israelites. He came from an ordinary family without a golden key or a powerful background. However, God chose him and chose him to be the first king of Israel. Despite this great opportunity, Saul failed to firmly follow God’s will. In the end, he perished because of his own fleshly actions.

(3) Merib-Baal: Although disabled and powerless, he is favoured by God

Merib-Baal is Mephibosheth. His father died when he was young, and he himself was lame, so he could only beg on the roadside. However, God favoured him and he received favour from King David.

Conclusion：

In the face of adversity, the true glory lies not in your initial glory, but in whether you continue to follow God. No matter how humble our beginnings, God will care for and bless those who rely on Him. So let us learn to rely on God and choose carefully because His plans are better than we can imagine. In the midst of adversity, God’s glory is revealed in our lives. Believe in God’s promises, and He will lead us to a bright future.

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历代志上 第七章|Book of 1 Chronicles 7

【做个名副其实的大能勇士】

主讲：陈惠菁传道

20/06/2024

引言：

历代志上7记载了的是约旦河西、耶路撒冷以北5个半支派的家谱。5个半支派的家谱只用了40节经文来记载，真的很少。原因也许是被掳时期没有详细的记载，以至资料缺乏。从大部分支派家谱中都提到‘大能的勇士’来看，学者认为这家谱的数字很可能是来自撒下24章，大卫数点勇士的人数纪录。此外，从家谱记载的人中，更重要的是这些大能勇士中，大部分的勇士却没有记载他们任何的作为。所以就让我们从这章里记录来提醒自己，要‘做个名副其实的大能勇士’。

一、以萨迦支派（v1-5）

以萨迦和西布伦都是雅各的妻子利亚的儿子，并且所得的地业也相接。因此，学者认为以萨迦支派的人数其实也包括了西布伦支派在内。经文记载他们虽然都是大能的勇士，却没有提到任何的战绩。V4又突然冒出他们的妻和儿子众多。可见他们的勇士不打仗，却被多妻多儿给忙得团团转。

弟兄姐妹，我们会不会为许多人或事忙得团团转，可是所做的都不是神要的？甚至是不讨神喜悦的事？

二、便雅悯与但支派（v6-12）

V6-12是住在中部，便雅悯与但支派的家谱。这么多族长，又是大能的勇士，却不打仗。结果我们就看到一个萎缩的狀況。在创世纪记载了便雅憫一共有10个儿子，到了民数记是5个，这里却只剩3个儿子。V12也只提到有一個兒子戶伸。原本住中部的他们后来往北迁移，成为最早拜偶像的支派。

当人虚有其名，无所事事，又以偶像代替神时，在神的记录里是会被删减，从神的祝福也会面对萎缩的狀況。

三、拿弗他利支派（v13）

雅各临终前祝福拿弗他利出產豐富，如多產的母鹿生下美好的小鹿。摩西未死之先也祝福拿弗他利支派，足沾恩惠，满得耶和华的福，可以得西方和南方为业。可是这里只提了4个儿子的名字，连人数都没提。

支派中也有许多勇士，但在圣经中，除了士师记的巴拉与西布伦支派一同战胜迦南王耶宾的军队外，就没有其他显著的纪录。弟兄姐妹，我们希望自己只被记得是某某人的孩子罢了吗？

四、玛拿西半支派（v14-19）

这里是玛拿西居住在约但河西迦南中部的半个支派之家谱。女性在这个家谱中有重要的地位。之前在民数记我们读到西罗非哈没有儿子。女儿们为了让父亲的名在神的百姓永被纪念，要求继承父亲的产业。神应允了她们的祈求，

西罗非哈的女儿们看重被神纪念过于得着属地的好处。结果她们也在这份家谱中被纪念。这里也再次提醒，我们属灵的产业，神将来的赏赐，对神的事，我们要存渴慕恳求主的心。重视赐生命与丰富的神。

五、以法莲支派（v20-29）

v20-29这10节经文纪录了以法莲支派的一些后裔。从这一大堆的名字里，有几件事情的发生是可以作为我们属灵生命的提醒：

1.人的愚昧神的怜悯（v21b-23）

以法莲的家族后裔中记录的有男有女。以谢，以列，兄弟2人不去打仗，反而去偷牛羊。结果给人杀了，害父亲痛苦悲哀，也在外邦人中间留下了臭名声。

当我们站错位时就会做错事。结果不单是失败与羞辱，严重的话也会造成损伤或死亡。所以，不要轻看我们人生的抉择。

此外，以谢、以列，可能也看自己过高，以为单靠他们兄弟两就可以打败迦特人，结果连性命都失去。今天，有不少基督徒也会看自己过于所当看的。以为可以抵挡仇敌的诱惑，不逃避试探还找借口说是为了传福音。结果在自己的信心尚未成熟之前就被世界的诱惑所掳去。

2.智慧妇人建立神国（v24）

虽说儿子不争气，但怜悯的神却给了以法莲非常出色的女儿。v24舍伊拉巾帼胜须眉，有卓越的成就。就是建筑上下伯和仑与乌羡舍伊拉。是当时成功的建筑师。对国家社会有卓越的贡献。

神的女儿们要成为神智慧的妇人，不但在建立家室上无可指责，更要在建立神国上讨神喜悦，留下美名。

3.承接使命全家事主（v27-28）

v27约书亚承接了摩西的使命，引领以色列百姓进入迦南，得神所应许之地。战胜了亚玛力人后，他还是谦卑的默默成为摩西的帮手。是个名符其实忠心事奉神到底的勇士。他立志：“至于我和我家，我们必定事奉耶和华。” 相信这也是所有基督徒的渴慕，我们与所有家人都要一辈子，一起来忠心的事奉神。

六、亚设支派（v30-40）

v30-40 是亚设的子孙住在位于迦南地的西北部，包括迦密山以北的地区，靠近地中海肥沃的土地。在士师时代，亚设人在港口安居，过着非常安舒的日子。也因为没有完全赶出当地的迦南居民，导致他们虽然个个都是族长并且是勇士中的大能勇士，这批精锐部队在军事和政治上却相对弱势，也没有什么作为。

弟兄姐妹，在安舒的日子要额外儆醒。不然很容易掉入试探，只顾自我享受的忘了神的使命和托付。若是这样，不但完全不被神纪念，还会招来审判。

总结：

虽然在这章几个支派的家谱中都不缺乏大能的勇士，但北国以色列却是很早就亡国被掳。主前853年亚述王与亚兰联军攻打以色列北国时，亚述军的总兵力只有68，200人。然而这5个半支派，虽有23万多名的大能勇士，竟然无法抵挡远道而来的亚述军队，不止空有大能勇士的称呼，反而成了被掳的亡国奴。

今天，相信我们没有人会希望别人只记得我们是谁生的，某某人的孩子，甚至连名都忘了。作为神的儿女，我们都是神拣选的大能勇士。求神帮助我们活出命定和选召。成为名副其实的大能勇士。一生蒙福，也成为别人的祝福。

1 Chronicles 7 Be a Mighty Warrior Worthy of the Name
20 June 2024
The Morning Devotion
Speaker: Ps Deborah Tan

Introduction:

The genealogy of the five and a half tribes west of the Jordan River and north of Jerusalem is recorded in 1 Chronicles 7. The genealogy of the five and a half tribes is recorded in only 40 verses, which is really very little. The reason for this may be that the captivity period was not recorded in detail, so there is a lack of information. Judging from the fact that ‘mighty warriors’ are mentioned in most of the genealogies of the tribes, scholars believe that the number of this genealogy is most likely from the record of the number of warriors counted by David in 2 Sam. 24. Furthermore, what is more important from the people recorded in the genealogy is that most of these mighty warriors are not recorded as doing any of their deeds. So let us take the record from this chapter to remind ourselves to ‘be a mighty warrior worthy of the name’.

1. The Tribe of Issachar (v1-5)

Both Issachar and Zebulun were sons of Leah, Jacob’s wife, and had adjoining land holdings. Therefore, scholars believe that the number of the tribe of Issachar actually included the tribe of Zebulun. Scripture records that although they were all mighty warriors, there is no mention of any battle accomplishments.v4 And then out of the blue, their wives and sons were numerous. It is evident that their warriors did not fight, but were kept busy with many wives and sons.

Brothers and sisters, do we get busy with many people or things, but what we do is not what God wants? Or even things that are not pleasing to God?

2. The Tribe of Benjamin and Dan (v6-12)

V6-12 is the genealogy of Benjamin and the tribe of Dan, who lived in the centre of the country. So many patriarchs and mighty warriors, yet no war. As a result we see a shrinking condition. In Genesis it is recorded that Benjamin had a total of 10 sons, in the Book of Numbers it is 5, but here there are only 3. V12 also mentions that there was only one son, Tushin. Originally living in the centre of the country, they moved northward and became the first tribe to worship idols.

When a person has a false name, does nothing, and replaces God with idols, he will be deleted from God’s record, and his blessings from God will face a shrinking condition.

3. The Tribe of Naphtali (v13)

Before Jacob died, he blessed the tribe of Naphtali to be fruitful, as a fruitful doe giving birth to a fine fawn. Moses also blessed the tribe of Naphtali before he died, that they would be rich in favour and full of the blessings of the LORD, and that they would be able to inherit the west and the south. But only the names of the four sons are mentioned here, not even the number of them.

There were also many warriors in the tribe, but there is no other notable record of them in the Bible, except for the Book of Judges’s record of Barak’s victory with the tribe of Zebulun over the army of Jabin, the king of Canaan. Brothers and sisters, do we want to be remembered only as someone’s child?

4. The Half Tribe of Manasseh (v14-19)

Here is a genealogy of the half tribe of Manasseh who lived in central Canaan west of the Jordan. Women have an important place in this genealogy. Earlier in Numbers we read that Zelophehad no sons. The daughters asked to inherit their father’s property so that his name would be remembered forever among God’s people. God answered their prayers.

The daughters of Zelophehad valued the remembrance of God more than the benefits of earthly possessions. As a result, they too are mphasizes d in this genealogy. Here is another reminder that our spiritual inheritance, God’s future reward, and the things of God are to be done with a heart of longing and supplication to the Lord. It mphasizes the God who gives life and abundance.

5. The Tribe of Ephraim (v20-29)

These 10 verses, v20-29, record some of the descendants of the tribe of Ephraim. From this long list of names, there are a few occurrences that can serve as reminders for our spiritual life:

(1) The foolishness of men and God’s mercy (v21b-23)

Ephraim’s family descendants are recorded as both male and female. Ezer and Elead, 2 brothers, did not go to war, but stole sheep and cattle. As a result, they were killed, causing their father pain and sorrow, and leaving a bad reputation among the Gentiles.

When we are on the wrong side of the fence, we do the wrong thing. The result is not only failure and humiliation, but also serious injury or death. So don’t take the choices we make in life lightly.

In addition, Ezer and Elead, probably also thought too highly of themselves, thinking that the two brothers alone could defeat the men fo Gad, and ended up losing even their lives. Today, there are many Christians who also look at themselves more than they should. They think they can resist the temptations of the enemy, and they make excuses for vangelizing instead of running away from temptation. As a result, they are taken captive by the temptations of the world before their faith has matured.

(2) The wise woman builds up the kingdom of God (v24)

Though the son was not worthy, the God of mercy gave Ephraim a very outstanding daughter. v24 Sheerah was a woman of outstanding accomplishments. It was the building of the Lower and Upper Beth Horon and Uzzen Sheerah. She was a successful architect of his time and had excellent contribution to the society of the nation.

The daughters of God are to be wise women of God, not only in building their families, but also in building the Kingdom of God, pleasing God and leaving a good name.

(3) Taking up the mission to serve the Lord with the entire family (v27-28)

v27 Joshua took up Moses’ mission to lead the people of Israel into Canaan to receive the land promised by God. After the victory over the Amalekites, he humbly and quietly became Moses’ helper. He was a true warrior who served God faithfully to the end. He resolved, “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” I believe this is the longing of all Christians, that we, with all of our families, will serve God faithfully, together, for the rest of our lives.

6. The Tribe of Asher (v30-40)

v30-40 It was the children of Asher who lived in the fertile land near the Mediterranean Sea located in the northwestern part of the land of Canaan, including the area north of Mount Carmel. In the days of Judges, the Asherites settled in the harbour and lived in great comfort. The fact that the local Canaanite population had not been completely driven out led to the fact that although they were all tribe leaders and mighty warriors among warriors, this elite force was relatively weak militarily and politically, and did little.

Brothers and sisters, be extra watchful in the days of comfort. Otherwise, it is easy to fall into temptation and forget God’s mission and entrustment by focusing on self-enjoyment. If this happens, not only will you not be remembered by God at all, but you will also attract judgment.

Conclusion:

Although there was no lack of mighty warriors in the genealogies of the tribes in this chapter, the northern kingdom of Israel fell into captivity at an early age. When the king of Assyria and the coalition army of Aram attacked the northern kingdom of Israel in 853 B.C., the total strength of the Assyrian army was only 68,200 men. However, these five and a half tribes, despite having more than 230,000 mighty warriors, were unable to resist the Assyrian army that came from afar, and not only did they have the name of mighty warriors in vain, but they became captive slaves of the dead.

Today, I believe none of us would want others to only remember who we were born to, someone’s child, or even forget our names. As God’s children, we are all mighty warriors chosen by God. Ask God to help us to live out our destiny and election. Let us become the mighty warriors worthy of the name and be blessed in life and be a blessing to others.

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历代志上 第六章|Book of 1 Chronicles 6

【神分别为圣拣选的目的】

主讲：林国晶传道

19/06/2024

引言：

利未人的家谱以及伴随的历史，都在提醒着百姓，神的心意没有改变，神的应许仍旧在成就在以色列，神所拣选的子民当中！

一、神的应许必成就(v1-15)

从祭司的家谱，我们看见神得应许必成就。在利未人的后裔中，神拣选了亚伦和他的后裔承接祭司的职分。利未的三个儿子当中，神拣选了次子，哥辖。从哥辖的众子中，神拣选长子暗嫩的三个子女成为那一世代的领袖，即摩西（带领以色列人出埃及）、米利暗（女先知）和亚伦（第一任大祭司）。接着，就是记载亚伦的儿子，一直到被掳的约萨答。

这份家谱所关注的是大祭司职分的连续性，为了突出神的绝对主权，证明南国犹大的灭亡，并不是神丢弃他们，而是透过外邦人对他们施行的管教。至终，神必使他们回归并再次建立圣殿。

二、神彰显公义慈爱(v16-30)

我们从利未人的家谱当中看到神彰显祂的公义慈爱。这部分的家谱从哥辖次子「亚米拿达」延续。这家谱里有几个值得留意的人物：亚米拿达的儿子可拉。可拉和他一党的人在旷野挑战摩西和亚伦的权柄，结果，他们遭受神的审判死在旷野。即便可拉造反，但他的后裔中没有参与叛乱的，仍然可以继续服事神。

从这份家谱中的名字，让人看到了神公义的追讨，又显明了神长久的慈爱。

三、神配得人的颂赞(v31-48)

这段经文带出敬拜的供职。这里提到两个阶段，就是建造圣殿之前和建造圣殿之后，不管是帐幕或圣殿，都有利未人在当中歌唱赞美神。这里仔细数算了三位诗班领袖的家谱（第33-47节），篇幅甚至比祭司的家谱还长（第49-53节），似乎让我们看到将来在新天新地神的仆人永远的事奉（启22:3），就是敬拜和赞美，承认神是「配得荣耀、尊贵、权柄的」（启4:11）。

四、神拣选中的拣选(v49-53)

透过祭司的职责我们看见神拣选中的拣选。神拣选了利未人，其中神使亚伦分别出来承接祭司的职分。大祭司事奉的资格，乃在乎他是不是神所拣选的亚伦的后裔、非尼哈的后裔和撒督的后裔。

五、神要在百姓中间（v54-81)

这里描述利未人所得的地。

1.祭司的城邑(v54-60)
2.利未人城邑的概述(v61-65)
3.哥辖族的城邑(v66-70)
4.革顺族的城邑(v71-76)
5.米拉利族的城邑(v77-81)

从利未支派所得的地，我们会发现利未支派的四十八座城分散在十二支派中间。主要是要把十二支派凝聚在一起，就算他们分散在不同的地方，但是他们还是能够透过利未人，使神能借着祂的话语与百姓同在。

总结:成为神合用的器皿

弟兄姐妹，神配得我们的服事。求神帮助我们能够分别为圣，成为祂合用的器皿，成为这个世代的祭司，为这个世代代求，寻求这个世代与祂和好，也将真理表彰于这个世代！

1 Chronicles 6 The Purpose of God’s Set Apart and Holy Election
19 June 2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Stella Ling

Introduction：

The genealogy of the Levites, and the history that accompanied it, reminded the people that God’s heart had not changed, and that God’s promises were still being fulfilled in Israel, God’s chosen people!

1. God’s promises will be fulfilled (v1-15)

From the genealogy of the priests, we see that God’s promises will be fulfilled. Of the descendants of the Levites, God chose Aaron and his descendants to carry on the priesthood. Of the three sons of Levi, God chose the second son, Kohath. From the sons of Kohath, God chose three of the children of the first son, Hannon, to be the leaders of that generation, namely, Moses (who led the Israelites out of Egypt), Miriam (a prophetess), and Aaron (the first High Priest). Then comes the record of Aaron’s sons, all the way back to Jehozadak in captivity.

This genealogy is concerned with the continuity of the high priesthood in order to emphasise God’s absolute sovereignty and to prove that the fall of the southern kingdom of Judah was not God’s abandonment of them, but His discipline of them through the Gentiles. In the end, God will bring them back and build the temple again.

2. God manifests righteousness and love (v16-30)

We see God’s manifestation of His justice and love in the genealogy of the Levites. This part of the genealogy continues with Amminadab, the second son of Kohath. There are several noteworthy characters in this genealogy: Korah, the son of Amminadab. Korah and his party challenged the authority of Moses and Aaron in the wilderness, and as a result, they were judged by God and died in the wilderness. Even though Korah rebelled, his descendants who were not involved in the rebellion could still continue to serve God.

The names in this genealogy show God’s righteous pursuit and reveal God’s everlasting love.

3. God is worthy of man’s praise (v31-48)

This passage brings out the position of worship. Two phases are mentioned here, before and after the building of the temple, whether it was the tabernacle or the temple, in which the Levites sang and praised God. The careful counting of the genealogies of the three choir leaders (vv. 33-47), which are even longer than the genealogies of the priests (vv. 49-53), seems to give us a glimpse of the eternal ministry of God’s servants in the future in the new heaven and the new earth (Rev. 22:3), which will be to worship and praise, and to confess that God is“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power” (Rev. 4:11).

4. God’s election within election (v49-53)

Through the duties of the priesthood we see the election within the election of God. God chose the Levites, among whom God set apart Aaron to take up the priesthood. The qualifications for the high priest’s ministry were determined by whether or not he was a descendant of Aaron, a descendant of Phinehas, and a descendant of Zadok, whom God had chosen.

5. God will be in the midst of the people (v54-81)

Here is a description of the land given to the Levites.

1. The cities of the priests (v54-60)
2. An overview of the Levitical cities and towns (v61-65)
3. The Cities of the Tribe of Kohath (v66-70)
4. The Cities and Towns of the Tribe of Gershon (v71-76)
5. The Cities and Towns of the Tribe of Merari (v77-81)

From the land given to the tribe of Levi, we will find the forty-eight cities of the tribe of Levi scattered among the twelve tribes. The main point was to bring the twelve tribes together, and even though they were scattered in different places, they were still able to work through the Levites so that God could be with the people through His Word.

Conclusion: Become a vessel fit for God’s use

Brothers and sisters, God is worthy of our service. Pray that we will be set apart and become His vessels, that we will be priests to this generation, that we will intercede for this generation, that we will seek to reconcile this generation to Him, and that we will commend the truth to this generation!

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历代志上 第五章|Book of 5 Chronicles 1

【得胜出于神】

主讲：丘均发传道

18/06/2024

引言：

本章记述选择留在约旦河东的两个半支派：流便支派、迦得支派和玛拿西半支派的家谱和事件。这两个半支派是首批被掳的以色列人。

一、两个半支派的后裔 (V1-17,23-24)

1.流便的后裔（V1-10）

这段经文记载流便支派的后代。一开始就记载雅各的长子流便，因放纵情慾犯了乱伦之罪，失去了长子的名分和特权。接着这份家谱只提到流便的四个儿子，然后从被掳时的首领备拉追溯几代就结束了，这是要带出流便后裔被掳的结局。

对今天的基督徒而言，是警戒我们若沉迷情慾和属世享乐，不但不能被神所使用，更是会失去神的祝福！

2.迦得的后裔（V11-17）

这里只是记载了迦得的子孙是住在流便对面的巴珊地；以及从几个族长（V12-15）开始追溯前几代就结束了。

3.玛拿西半支派（V23-24）

玛拿西半支派的记载就更简单，只提到当代七个作族长的勇士，连根源也没有提及。

小结：

神应许要给以色列的美地，并不包括约但河东。但是这两个半支派贪图土地的肥沃辽阔，做了一个没看重神应许的选择，决定留在那里定居，导致他们成为第一个被掳去的。

这个决定留在神应许地之外的选择，让我们明白：人的好处不在神以外！

二、得神帮助争战得胜（V18-22）

这里提到两个支派半有四万四千七百六十名战士，而他们的敌人是超过十万，所以是以寡敌众。但是因为他们呼求神，倚赖神，神就应允他们，帮助他们争战得胜。虽然这两个半支派轻视神的应许，但神仍然是他们的神，当他们向神呼求时，神仍帮助他们打了胜仗！
我们无论做任何事，最重要是有神的帮助。并且必须承认自己是有软弱和不够的，才会真实的呼求神倚靠神帮助；这就是保罗所说：我什么时候软弱，什么时候就刚强了。（林后12:10）

三、得罪神拜偶像遭掳（V25-26）

这两个半支派在得神帮助争战得胜之后，却随从当地百姓的神明，陷入了拜偶像的罪，得罪了神，所以神就激发亚述王来把他们掳走！他们在艰难的战役中，懂得呼求神帮助，却在安逸中失败得罪神，终于遭到被掳的悲惨命运！

这段记载也是警戒我们，在困难时呼求神和依靠神很容易；可是当神祝福恩待我们以后，我们也很容易忘记神，用‘别神代替耶和华’而得罪神！这是我们要警惕的！

总结：

倚靠神就可以打败及俘掳敌人；但犯罪离弃神，就会被敌人打败和俘掳！

1 Chronicles 5 Victory Is of God
GK611 Morning Devotion
18 June 2024
The Morning Devotion Speaker: Ps Daniel Kew

Introduction:

This chapter describes the genealogy and events of the two and a half tribes that chose to remain east of the Jordan: the tribe of Reuben, the tribe of Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These two and a half tribes were the first Israelites to be taken into captivity.

1. Descendants of the two and a half tribes (V1-17,23-24)

(1) Descendants of Reuben (V1-10)

This passage records the descendants of the tribe of Reuben. It is recorded at the beginning that Jacob’s eldest son Reuben committed the sin of incest because of his indulgence in lust and lost his birthright and privileges. Subsequently this genealogy only mentions the four sons of Reuben, and then traces back several generations from Beerah, the leader during the captivity. This is to bring out the ending of the captivity of Reuben’s descendants.

For today’s Christians, it is a warning that if we indulge in lust and worldly pleasures, not only will we not be able to be used by God, but we will also lose God’s blessings!

(2) Descendants of Gad (V11-17)

Here it is only recorded that the descendants of Gad lived in the land of Bashan opposite Reuben; and that the previous generations started with several tribe leaders (V12-15) and ended.

3) Half tribe of Manasseh (V23-24)

The records of the half-tribe of Manasseh are even simpler, only mentioning seven warriors at that time, and not even mentioning their origins.

Summary：

The good land God promised to Israel did not include the east side of the Jordan. But these two and a half tribes were greedy for the fertile and vast land and made a choice that did not value God’s promise. They decided to stay and settle there, causing them to become the first to be taken captive.

This decision to stay outside God’s promised land makes us understand: Man’s benefits are not outside of God!

2. Get God’s help to fight and win (V18-22)

It is mentioned here that the two and a half tribes have 44,760 warriors, and their enemies are more than 100,000, so they are outnumbered. But because they called on God and relied on God, God answered them and helped them fight and win. Although these two and a half tribes despised God’s promises, God was still their God, and when they cried out to Him, God still helped them win the battle!
No matter what we do, the most important thing is to have God’s help. And you must admit that you are weak and inadequate before you can truly call on God and rely on God for help; this is what Paul said: For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:10)

3. Those who offended God and worshiped idols were taken into captivity (V25-26)

After these two and a half tribes got help from God and won the battle, they followed the gods of the local people and fell into the sin of idolatry and sinned against God. Therefore, God inspired the king of Assyria to take hostage of them! In the difficult battle, they knew how to call on God for help, but they failed and offended God in comfort, and finally suffered the tragic fate of being taken into captivity!

This record also warns us that it is easy to call on God and rely on God in times of difficulty; but after God blesses and favours us, it is also easy for us to forget God and use “hasten after another god” to offend God! This is what we need to be vigilant about!

Conclusion:

If you rely on God, you can defeat and capture the enemy; but if you sin and abandon God, you will be defeated and captured by the enemy!

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诗篇 第138|Psalm 138

17/06/2024

诗篇138

(大卫的诗。)
1 我要一心称谢你,在诸神面前歌颂你。
2 我要向你的圣殿下拜,为你的慈爱和诚实称赞你的名。因你使你的话显为大,过于
你所应许的(或作超乎你的名声)。
3 我呼求的日子,你就应允我,鼓励我,使我心里有能力。
4 耶和华阿,地上的君王,都要称谢你,因他们听见了你口中的言语。
5 他们要歌颂耶和华的作为,因耶和华大有荣耀。
6 耶和华虽高,仍看顾低微的人。他却从远处看出骄傲的人。
7 我虽行在患难中,你必将我救活。我的仇敌发怒,你必伸手抵挡他们。你的右手也
必救我。
8 耶和华必成全关乎我的事。耶和华阿,你的慈爱永远长存。求你不要离弃你手所造
的。

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