3 The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me:When one rules over people in righteousness, when herules in the fear of God, 4 he is like the light of morningat sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightnessafter rain that brings grass from the earth.‘ - P146
5 If my house were not right with God, surely he wouldnot have made with me an everlasting covenant, ar-ranged and secured in every part; surely he would notbring to fruition my salvation and grant me my everydesire. - P146
David‘s last words are recorded. He recalls the Lord‘s Spirit revealing that onlyhe who rules in the fear of God can rule well. - P147
David knows that if his housewas not right with God, God would not have made an everlasting covenantwith him. - P147
David‘s mighty warriors are listed: Josheb-Basshebeth, Eleazar, andShammah. They fought valiantly and killed many Philistines in battle. - P147
A person‘s last words reveal a great deal about their life and legacy. Themain theme of these final words from King David is that godly leadership matters. - P148
In this passage, David shares what God has taught himabout leading in righteousness and the fear of the Lord. - P148
He compares itto a bright and beautiful sunrise on a cloudless morning with nothingbut blue skies overhead, like new growth after a welcome rain. Whata vivid picture of the legacy left by those whose lives and leadershipare rooted in an unshakable trust in God! - P148
But godly leaders must alsobe supported by loyal, valiant followers. The tales of David‘s mightywarriors remind us of this. - P148
Whether God has placed us in a position ofleadership or in a position to support a leader, let us bless one anotherwith the gifts and the strength God has given us. - P148
Dear Jesus, thank you for the Holy Spirit, who speaks to us and helps us knowand obey You. - P149
Help us to continue listening and obeying Him so we may alwaysbe right with You. In Your name, amen. - P149
Jamaica‘s Christian heritage makes its church the best-resourced amongst the Caribbeannations. Local leaders are now heading the Jamaican church, Bible schools, and seminaries.
- P148
However, Jamaica still struggles with a high rate of crime. This may be because althoughmany profess to be Christians, they do not gather in churches and do not live in accordancewith Scripture. - P148
The church continues to partner with the government to counter the violenceand crime that plague the nation. - P148
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