The Jews had been taken captive because of their disobedience. Here, they return to the Promised Land and begin to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. They begin with the Temple—the place of worship. Later, Ezra restores spiritual purity to their obedience. Finally, Nehemiah rebuilds the walls for protection.
In this chapter, we see the call of Jeremiah. He complains that he is just a child and therefore too young to do such a great work. Jeremiah served as a prophet for the Lord to Judah for over 40 years. He wrote the 52 chapters of Jeremiah and the five chapters of Lamentations.
David is in charge. As such, it is a day of forgiveness and mercy (Shimei and Mephibosheth). It is a day of grace and blessing (Barzillai and Chimham).
This is a most difficult time for David. He is constantly in fear for his life. Yet, he survives by continually seeking God’s will.
Every day brings news of conflict and tragedy in the land of the Bible. We can easily become discouraged. But God promises a solution to the problems in the Middle East.
