Definition: Now Hiram king of Tyre sent messengers to David, and timber of cedars, with masons and carpenters, to build him an house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:1. It's a really important passage about God’s protection for the people of Israel. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, God is saying that He will protect David and his people from evil. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Hiram king of Tyre…” – This refers to a powerful king named Hiram in Tyre, an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea. It's important to understand this wasn't just any king; he was a significant figure and a leader. “…sent messengers to David…” - Hiram sent people to try and help build something for David. “…timber of cedars…” – Cedars are incredibly strong and beautiful trees, often associated with royalty and majesty. This refers to the type of wood being used. “…with masons and carpenters…” – These were skilled workers who would actually build the house. “…to build him an house.” - This is the core of the verse: Hiram was sending people to construct a grand, impressive building for David. So, what’s the big takeaway? The Bible says God wants to protect David and his kingdom from any danger – whether it's enemies or evil forces. It’s a promise that He will safeguard them. Why is this important in the Bible? This story is part of a larger theme in the Old Testament about God’s plan for Israel. It shows that God wants to establish His people and protect them, leading into the story of David's rise to power and his eventual role as King of Judah. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Chronicles 14? Discuss the significance of cedars in this context? Talk about what this verse tells us about God’s plan for Israel?

Definition: And David inquired of God, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines? and wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into thine hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:10. It’s a really important passage about God’s protection and David’s role in it. Here's the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: David was asking God if he should attack the Philistines – a group of people who were moving into Israel – and whether He would let him take them over. The verse basically says, “God, I want you to handle this.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And David inquired of God…” : David was seeking guidance from God. He wasn't just asking a question; he was expressing a worry and a desire for reassurance. “…saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines? and wilt thou deliver them into mine hand?” : This is where it gets interesting. David was posing a serious challenge: Could I actually fight the Philistines? He was asking if God would protect him from being defeated. “And the LORD said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into thine hand.” : This is the crucial part! The Lord answered David’s question. He told David that God would take care of it . The word "deliver" means to rescue someone or take something away from harm. What does this mean in a nutshell? It's a statement about God's power and protection. It emphasizes that God is in control. David wasn’t being asked to actively fight the Philistines. Instead, God was handing over the task of protecting Israel to Him. Why is this important? This verse is a reminder that: God protects us: He’s not just interested in winning battles; He wants to keep us safe and secure. We need trust in God: It encourages us to rely on God's guidance and protection, even when facing difficult situations. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Chronicles? Discuss the significance of this passage within the context of the Old Testament story of David’s battle with Goliath?

Definition: So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baalperazim.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:11. It's a really important and significant passage about the importance of resisting evil and the power of God. Here’s a simplified explanation: What's Happening? A Time of Trouble: The story is set in a time when Israel was facing a serious threat – they were being attacked by people called “Baalperazim.” This name means "the place where Baal worshipers are." David’s Action: David, the King of Israel, did smote these people there. He actively fought against them. God's Reaction - A Powerful Sign: God then reacted in a really dramatic way. He said, “God has broken in upon my enemies by my hand like the breaking forth of waters.” Let’s unpack that imagery: “Breaking Forth of Waters” : This is a metaphor. Think about rain – it comes down and washes away things. The "breaking forth of waters" suggests a massive, powerful outpouring of something. “God has broken in upon mine enemies…” : This means God directly intervened to help David defeat the enemy. So, what’s the message? This verse is saying that God is actively involved in protecting us and defeating evil. It emphasizes that: We are not alone: David's actions were a direct result of God’s protection. God is powerful: He isn’t just passively allowing things to happen; he’s directly intervening to stop them. Our safety depends on obedience to God's will. It’s a reminder that we should be careful not to disobey God’s commands and turn to evil. In short, it’s a powerful statement about God's active presence in our lives and the importance of trusting in Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage (when did it happen?)? Compare it to other stories in the Bible about God’s protection?

Definition: And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:12. It’s a pretty serious warning about the dangers of sin and disrespect. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that if people become disrespectful to God – especially by worshipping other gods – they are going to face terrible consequences. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “When they had left their gods there…” This refers to a time when the Israelites were not focused on God and were preoccupied with other things, perhaps even worshiating false idols or other deities. It highlights a shift away from what truly matters – God. “…David gave a commandment…” David was a very important king in Israel’s history. This verse tells us he issued a specific instruction to him - a rule or guideline. “And they were burned with fire.” This is the shocking part! The punishment wasn't just a bad reaction – it was a complete and utter destruction. Burning with fire meant being completely annihilated, erased from existence – forever. In simpler terms: It’s saying that if people stop worshipping God and focus on things that aren't true or right, they will face divine punishment. It’s a strong warning against idolatry (worshiping idols) and any behavior that disrespects the divine. What does this mean for us today? This verse is a reminder of the importance of: Staying faithful to God: Always prioritizing Him above anything else. Avoiding temptation: Don’t stray from the path of righteousness and worship. Being mindful of our actions: Our choices have consequences, and we must live in a way that honors God. Do you want me to explain any part of this verse further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the context of this verse within the larger story of Israel’s history? Discuss what idolatry really means?

Definition: And the Philistines yet again spread themselves abroad in the valley.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:13: “And the Philistines yet again spread themselves abroad in the valley.” Basically, it means: The Philistines are still causing trouble and moving around in a certain area. Here’s a more detailed explanation: “The Philistines” : This refers to the people who lived on the coast of modern-day Israel and Lebanon. They were a group of seafaring people who eventually became part of the larger Greek-speaking population. “Yet again” : This is key! It means this isn’t a one-time thing; they’re continuing to spread themselves around. “Spread themselves abroad in the valley” : “Valley” refers to a specific area – likely near the coast of Israel and Lebanon, where they've been making their homes for a long time. "Spreading themselves" implies they are moving outwards, establishing new settlements or communities. What does this verse teach us? It’s a warning: The Bible is telling us that these Philistines are persistent and will continue to cause problems. It’s about God’s protection: The verse emphasizes that God is watching over His people and protecting them from evil. It’s a reminder that He isn't complacent and will intervene to defend His faithful. It’s a call to vigilance: The message is to stay aware of potential threats and to be ready to defend against them. In short, it's a warning about the ongoing challenges faced by God's people, urging us to remain watchful and protected. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of the Bible?

Definition: Therefore David inquired again of God; and God said unto him, Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:14. It’s a pretty powerful message about protecting yourself spiritually. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us to stay away from things that are tempting or harmful to your spiritual life. Specifically, it warns against being drawn into negative influences and situations that could damage your relationship with God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “David inquired again of God…” – This means David was feeling confused or worried about something. He wasn't just passively accepting things; he was asking for guidance. “…and God said unto him, Go not up after them…” – God is saying that you need to avoid those people or situations. It’s a direct instruction from the divine. “Turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees.” – This is the key part. It gives us a very vivid picture: "Turn away from them" : This means to avoid those who are causing you trouble, leading you astray, or tempting you with something that doesn’t align with your faith. “Come upon them over against the mulberry trees” : This is a metaphor. “Mulberry trees” represent a safe and secure place – a place of peace, righteousness, and God’s favor. So, coming over against them means to come face-to-face with those who are leading you down a path of sin and temptation. In short, the verse is telling us to protect ourselves spiritually by avoiding things that will pull you away from God. It's about prioritizing your relationship with Him above all else. Why is this important? It’s a reminder that our minds can be vulnerable – they can be influenced by worldly desires and negativity. By focusing on God, we are safeguarding ourselves against temptation and staying aligned with His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 1 Chronicles 14? Give you some examples of things that might tempt someone? Discuss how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, [that] then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:15. It's a pretty dramatic and serious warning! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “If you hear a sound of approaching enemies – like them marching or coming to attack – then you must prepare for battle.” Let’s unpack that a little further: “When thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees…” - This is a metaphor. The "mulberry trees" represent a safe, secure place – like the walls of Jerusalem or a fortified area. It's a place where God is protecting us. “[That] then thou shalt go out to battle.” - This means that if those approaching sounds are real , you need to be ready to fight. It’s not just a possibility; it’s a definite threat. “For God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines.” – This is the most important part. "God is gone forth" means God is actively moving towards battle. "Smite the host of the Philistines” refers to the Philistine people, who were a rival tribe in the area near Israel at the time. God is deliberately choosing to attack and defeat them. What’s the message? This verse emphasizes that God is actively involved in protecting His people. It's a reminder that we shouldn’t be complacent or think it will just “go away.” We need to be prepared for a potential conflict, because God is on a mission to defend us. In a nutshell: It's a call to vigilance and readiness – always be aware of potential threats and be prepared to defend yourself and your nation. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps discuss its significance within the context of the Old Testament? For example, we could talk about: The historical background of the Philistines. Why God’s protection is important.

Definition: David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together! Here's a simplified explanation of what it means: The Core Idea: This verse is about protecting your home and family. Let’s unpack it word by word: “1 Chronicles 14:16” : This refers to a specific section in the Bible, likely from the book of Chronicles – a collection of writings that tells the story of Israel's history and God’s relationship with them. “David therefore did as God commanded him:” This means David listened to God’s instructions and followed them carefully. He was obedient to God's will. “…and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer.” : This is the key part! “The host of the Philistines” : This refers to a group of people who lived in the area near the coast of Israel and were considered enemies. “From Gibeon even to Gazer” : This describes exactly where they attacked. “Gibeon” was a specific location, and “Gazer” was another, smaller location – essentially, they attacked them from a very small, fortified position near that area. So, what does it mean in simpler terms? David was given a mission to protect his people (the Israelites) from a group of enemies. He did this by bravely and skillfully defending their homes and territory, specifically by attacking them from a small, well-defended location near Gazer. It’s a powerful message about obedience, courage, and protecting what's important to you. In essence, it's a story of righteous leadership and defense. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this principle applies to our lives today?

Definition: And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Chronicles 14:17. It's a really powerful statement about God’s protection and the impact of David’s greatness. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that David’s reputation – his fame and how people remember him – spread far and wide, and that this spreading of fame brought a deep fear of him to everyone else. Let's unpack that a little further: “The fame of David went out into all lands…” This means that after David’s time, his story and his accomplishments were known everywhere. He wasn’t just a good king; he was a legendary figure! Think about how popular he was – people knew of his victories, his kindness, and his leadership. “…and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.” This is the really significant part. “The LORD” refers to God himself. It means that because David’s fame spread so widely, it instilled a fear in people – a feeling of being vulnerable and potentially threatened by him. It wasn't just a little worry; it was a deep-seated sense of dread. This fear was felt not only by those who knew about his life but also by everyone else. So, what’s the overall message? It emphasizes that God is in control and that He will protect His people. David's greatness wasn't just about being a good king; it was a sign of God’s power and protection. His fame, while impressive, also carried a warning – a reminder that you should be respectful of God and his will. In short, the verse is a powerful statement about how God’s reputation can influence others and that His presence brings a sense of fear and reverence. --- Would you like me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of David's life? Talk about the significance of the phrase "the LORD brought the fear"?