Scripture Union Daily Guide 11th June 2020
Topic: Divinely Occasioned Transfer of Loyalty
Opening Prayer: Open my eyes O Lord that I might behold wondrous things from your word in Jesus name.
Scripture: 2 Samuel 3:6 ─21
Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow? • What is God revealing to me in this passage?
Today’s passage begins with a worrying situation, as in many nations (v.6). One notable factor for prolonged civil wars in many nations arise from the roles of political and military leaders, who for selfish motives, uphold misguided loyalties like Abner (v.8). They usually do not pursue the common good of the people (vv.9b,10,17–19) that would facilitate a healthy social integration and enhance development. Compare this to the role of the Military in last election in Nigeria.
List some deeds of Abner as a leader that may be considered bad examples to be avoided (vv.6, 7, 8a); and the good examples worth emulating (vv.9–12, 17–19, 21). What do you think of David’s demand for the restoration of his betrothed wife, as a precondition for any proposed pact with Abner (vv.13–16)? Social justice is essential for meaningful social integration and peaceful coexistence.
The strong and may be, even intimidating influence of leaders like Abner (vv.11,17–19) in any community can often blind them from realizing that, “The Most High God is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and sets over them anyone he wishes” (Daniel 5:21b, NIV).
Practice/Word Application
• So What? Rather than fan embers of factions and rivalry in the family, church and the larger society, thereby hindering healthy social integration and development of our communities, let us pray for God’s sovereignty in the affairs of our nation, and build bridges that facilitate reconciliation of warring factions.
O praise the Lord
1. Precious blessings we receive,
When on Jesus we believe,
And are walking in the Spirit day by day;
When His Word is our delight,
And our path is growing bright,
While by faith we learn to trust Him and obey.
Refrain
O praise the Lord, for He is good;
O praise the Lord, our God above,
For He keeps us every hour,
And upholds us by His power,
While we dwell within the sunshine of His love.
2. Precious blessings that descend,
When before His throne we bend,
And the glory cloud is resting o’er us there;
Every heart with joy is filled,
Every wave of sorrow stilled,
While we feel the hallowed bliss of answered prayer
Prayer Points
• Lord, help me to be loyal to what is acceptable to you.
• Pray for Human Rights organizations to take interest in the persecution of Christians.
• Offer a prayer of faith in line with Genesis 12:2
Read the Bible in one Year
Jer. 20–21; Matt. 24:1–28
Scripture Union Daily Guide 11th June 2020 – Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.