May 10: Psalm 35; Psalm 36; Psalm 37; Psalm 38

Great Is the Lord – Psalm 35

• A psalm of David, a claim that the faithful should pray when they know malicious people seek to harm them.

How Precious Is Your Steadfast Love – Psalm 36

• A psalm of David, a lament about the wicked who oppose the faithful, and about the steadfast love of God.

He Will Not Forsake His Saints – Psalm 37

• A psalm of David, it addresses the problems caused when godless people prosper, and encourages the faithful to remain so.

Do Not Forsake Me, O Lord – Psalm 38

• David's psalm, a lament about when man realizes his problems result from his own sin.

May 9: Psalm 27; Psalm 28; Psalm 29; Psalm 30; Psalm 31; Psalm 32

The Lord Is My Light and My Salvation – Psalm 27

• David's psalm, a hymn of expressing and cultivating confidence in life situations.

The Lord Is My Strength and My Shield – Psalm 28

• David's psalm, a lament for help amid the threat of evildoers.

Ascribe to the Lord Glory – Psalm 29

• David's psalm, a hymn of praise to God for His awesome power.

Joy Comes in the Morning – Psalm 30

• David's psalm, composed for the dedication of the temple. It expresses personal thanksgiving for God's repeated care and deliverance.

Into Your Hand I Commit My Spirit – Psalm 31

• David's psalm, a lament that seeks God's help in times of trouble with enemies.

Blessed Are the Forgiven – Psalm 32

• David's maskil, a hymn of thanksgiving for the forgiveness of sin.

May 8: Psalm 22; Psalm 23; Psalm 24; Psalm 25; Psalm 26

Why Have You Forsaken Me? – Psalm 22

• David's psalm, a lament about suffering due to attacks from unscrupulous people.

The Lord Is My Shepherd – Psalm 23

• David's psalm, a hymn of confidence in the Lord's care.

The King of Glory – Psalm 24

• David's psalm, declaring the idea that the God that created all the earth is the same one whose presence worshipers come into.

Teach Me Your Paths – Psalm 25

• A psalm of David, a lament asking God for help in the time of troubles.

I Will Bless the Lord – Psalm 26

• David's psalm, a request for vindication.

May 7: Psalm 12 – Psalm 17; Psalm 19; Psalm 20

The Faithful Have Vanished – Psalm 12

• David's lament about liars in positions of authority.

How Long, O Lord? – Psalm 13

• David's lament when he is on the verge of despair.

The Fool Says, There Is No God – Psalm 14

• David's psalm, a community lament in which the people of God lament that people do not seek after God and they treat the people of God poorly.

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill? – Psalm 15

• David's psalm, a hymn celebrating the ideal worshiper.

You Will Not Abandon My Soul – Psalm 16

• A Mitkam of David, proclaiming the people's confidence and contentment while in God's care.

In the Shadow of Your Wings – Psalm 17

• David's prayer, and individual lament of one being unjustly accused of wrongdoing, and a plea for vindication.

The Law of the Lord is Perfect – Psalm 19

• A psalm of David, accounting creation by our Maker and the way Mosaic law addresses the people.

Trust in the Name of the Lord Our God – Psalm 20

• David's psalm, a prayer that God will give success to the Davidic king, particularly in battle.

May 6: 1 Kings 2:1–9, 2 Samuel 23:1–7; 1 Kings 2:10–12; 1 Chronicles 29:26–30; Psalm 4; Psalm 5; Psalm 6; Psalm 8; Psalm 9; Psalm 11

David's Instructions to Solomon – 1 Kings 2:1–9

• When the time for David to die nears, he gives instructions to Solomon: to be strong and show himself a man, to keep the charge of the Lord, to take the lives of Joab and Shimei for what they did to David, and to deal loyally with Barzillai.

The Last Words of David – 2 Samuel 23:1–7

• David speaks his last words, a song praising God for establishing his house as ruler over Israel.

The Death of David – 2 Kings 1:10–12 & 1 Chronicles 29:26–30

• David dies and is buried in the city of David. He has reigned for forty years, seven years in Hebron and thirty-two years in Jerusalem. Solomon takes the throne and his kingdom is firmly established.

Answer Me When I Call – Psalm 4

• David's psalm expressing quiet trust amid troubling circumstances.

Lead Me in Your Righteousness – Psalm 5

• David's psalm, a lament and request for the downfall of his enemies.

O Lord, Deliver My Life – Psalm 6

• David's psalm, a lament for deliverance.

How Majestic Is Your Name – Psalm 8

• David's psalm, a hymn of praise.

I Will Recount Your Wonderful Deeds – Psalm 9

• David's psalm, expressing praise for how God has allowed him to defend Israel from their Gentile foes.

The Lord Is in His Holy Temple – Psalm 11

• David's psalm, expressing the confidence that the faithful can have, even in severe crisis.

May 5: 1 Chronicles 29:1–22; 1 Kings 1:1–53

Offerings for the Temple – 1 Chronicles 29

• David, because Solomon is young, provides much riches to build the temple. The people of Israel also make their donations willingly, and David rejoices.

David Prays in the Assembly

• David blesses the Lord in the presence of all the assembly, praising God for his kingdom and recognizing him as the source of wealth and strength. He prays that God will keep the people in the same purpose and frame of mind as they are that day.
• The people make Solomon the king of Israel again, and anoint him.

David in His Old Age – 1 Kings 1

• King David is very advanced in years, and even though he is covered with clothing he cannot get warm. His servants search out a young woman to lie in his arms and keep him warm, and Abigshag the Shunammite is brought to him. She is of service to the king, but he does not have sexual relations with her.

Adonijah Sets Himself Up as King

• Adonijah, David's son, determines that he will be king, and gathers chariots, horsemen, and fifty men. Joab and Abiathar follow him, but Zadok the priest, Benaiah, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, and Rei do not. He sacrifices animals at the Serpent's Stone, and invites all his brothers.

Nathan and Bathsheba Before David

• Nathan tells Bathsheba about what Adonijah is doing and has her go and tell David that Adonijah has declared himself king. She does so, and while she is speaking, Nathan comes into the room and confirms that Adonijah has declared himself king, is sacrificing animals, and has Joab, Abiathar, and others with him. Nathan informs David that he, Benaiah, Zadok the priest, and Solomon were not invited.

Solomon Anointed King

• David calls Bathsheba into his presence, and he confirms that Solomon is to be king. He then has Zadok the priest, Nathan, and Benaiah brought before him, and he instructs them to take Solomon to Gihon, anoint him king, blow the trumpet, and say "Long live King Solomon." They are then to bring him back to the palace, where he will sit on the throne.
• Adonijah and all his guests hear about this as they finish feasting. Jonathan, the son of Abiathar, brings news that Solomon has been made king. All the guests tremble in fear and leave.
• Solomon is told that Adonijah fears him, and Solomon states that if he will show himself a worthy man, not one hair will fall from his head, but if he is not, he will die. Solomon sends for Adonijah, who is brought to him, and Adonijah pays homage to him. Solomon sends him home to his house.

May 4: 1 Chronicles 26:1 – 1 Chronicles 28:21

Divisions of the Gatekeepers – 1 Chronicles 26

• The divisions of the gatekeepers are described. Included are the families of Meshelemiah, Obed-edom (a Philistine), and Hosah. They minister in the house of the Lord by guarding the north, south, east, and west gates.

Treasurers and Other Officials

• Other Levites, led by Ahijah, are in charge of the treasuries.

Military Divisions – 1 Chronicles 27

• The eleven divisions of Israel, each with 24,000 troops, are described, along with their commanders.

Leaders of Tribes 

• The leaders of the tribes are given:
• Of the tribe of Reuben, Eliezer
• Of the tribe of Simeon, Shephatiah
• Of the tribe of Levi, Hashabiah
• Of Aaron (the priests), Zadok
• Of the tribe of Judah, Elihu
• Of the tribe of Issachar, Omri
• Of the tribe of Zebulun, Ishmaiah
• Of the tribe of Naphtali, Jeremoth
• Of the tribe of Ephraim, Hoshea
• Of the tribe of Manasseh (west), Joel
• Of the tribe of Manasseh (east), Iddo
• Of the tribe of Benjamin, Jassiel
• Of the tribe of Dan, Azarel
• Joab had started the consensus but never finished it because the wrath of God fell on Israel, and the total number was never recorded in David's records.
• The officials of the king are described.

David's Charge to Israel – 1 Chronicles 28

• David assembles all the officials and tells them that God had him instruct Solomon to build the temple and that He has chosen Solomon to be king. He exhorts them to seek the Lord and follow His commandments, that they may inhabit the land and leave it as an inheritance to their children.

David's Charge to Solomon

• David exhorts Solomon to know the Lord and serve Him. He then gives Solomon the extensive plans for every part of the temple, which God made clear to David. David encourages Solomon to be strong and courageous, knowing God is with him, and tells him all the people are at his command.

May 3: 1 Chronicles 23:1 – 1 Chronicles 25:31

David Organizes the Levites – 1 Chronicles 23

• When David is old, he makes Solomon king. He assembles all the priests and Levites, and numbers the Levites at 38,000 men. He determines that 24,000 will work in the house of the Lord, 6,000 will be officers and judges, 4,000 will be gatekeepers, and 4,000 will offer praise with instruments.
• The sons of Gershon, Kohath, and Merari are described, and the duties of the Levites (as before) are given.

David Organizes the Priests – 1 Chronicles 24

• David organizes all the priests (the sons of Aaron). Twenty-four are appointed to duty in the house of the Lord by lot.
• The rest of the sons of Levi are described.

David Organizes the Musicians – 1 Chronicles 25

• David and the chiefs of the service set apart Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, who prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals. They and their families are trained in making music before the Lord.

May 2: 2 Samuel 24:1–9; 1 Chronicles 21:1–6; 2 Samuel 24:10–17; 1 Chronicles 21:7–17; 2 Samuel 24:18–25; 1 Chronicles 21:18 – 1 Chronicles 22:19

David's Census – 2 Samuel 24:1–9 & 1 Chronicles 21:1–6

• The anger of the Lord is again kindled against Israel, and God allows Satan to tell David to go and number Judah and Israel. David instructs Joab to do this, and while Joab questions this (he knows David is not trusting God, instead wanting to know the strength of his armies), he does as he is told. After nine months and twenty days, they return to Jerusalem with word that there are 800,000 men of Israel and 500,000 men of Judah.

The Lord's Judgment of David – 2 Samuel 24:10–17 & 1 Chronicles 21:7–17

• David realizes his wrongdoing and admits his sin to God.
• The word of the Lord comes to the prophet Gad, and he goes to David with three things that God is offering David–three years of famine, three months of fleeing from his foes, or three days pestilence on the land. David responds that he is in great distress and asks that they fall into the hands of God, who is merciful, but let them not fall into the hand of man.
• God sends a pestilence on the land, with an angel of the Lord taking the lives of 70,000 men. God stops the angel from destroying Jerusalem, and David admits his wickedness to God and asks that God's hand be against him and not the "sheep" following him.

David Builds an Altar – 2 Samuel 24:18–25 & 1 Chronicles 21:18–30

• Gad returns to David and tells him to build an altar on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite (where the angel of the Lord last was). David goes there, and Araunah meets him and asks why he has come. David tells him he wants to buy the threshing floor from him so he can build an altar, and Araunah tries to give it to him, but David insists on paying for it.
• David buys the threshing floor and builds an altar, and the plague is averted from Israel.

David Prepares for Temple Building – 1 Chronicles 22

• David commands that resident aliens be gathered, and he has stonecutters prepare stones for building the house of God. David provides all the necessary materials.

Solomon Charged to Build the Temple

• David calls his son Solomon and charges him to build a house for the Lord. He tells Solomon that because he (David) has shed much blood, Solomon is to build the temple and God will establish his royal throne in Israel forever. He asks that God grant Solomon direction and understanding.
• David commands the leaders of Israel to help Solomon, since God has delivered them, He tells them to set their hearts and minds to seek the Lord, and build a sanctuary for the ark of the covenant.

May 1: 2 Samuel 22:1–51; Psalm 18

David's Song of Deliverance – 2 Samuel 22 & Psalm 18

• David sings a psalm of praise (which is almost identical to Psalm 18), proclaiming Him as his rock, fortress, and deliverer, and speaking of the wonderful things He has done for David. He praises God over and over.

April 30: 2 Samuel 19:31 – 2 Samuel 20:26; Psalm 7; 2 Samuel 21:1–22; 1 Chronicles 20:4–5

David's Kindness to Barzillai – 2 Samuel 19:31

• Barzillai, an eighty-year-old man who had provided David with food while he was in Mahanaim, comes to the Jordan to help escort David across. David tells him to come with him to Jerusalem, and he asks why he should repay him with such a great reward and offers that he should return home so he can die there and be buried with his parents. Barzillai suggests he take another man, Chimham, instead. David kisses Barzillai and blesses him, then takes Chimham across the river with him.
• The men of Israel ask complain that Judah has stolen the king and didn't allow them time to get to the Jordan River crossing. The men of Judah reply that they are David's tribe, but he hasn't provided them any favors because of that. Their arguing continues, but the men of Judah's words are fiercer.

The Rebellion of Sheba – 2 Samuel 20

• A worthless Benjamite, Sheba, blows the trumpet and proclaims that Israel has no portion or inheritance in David, and the men of Israel follow him. David arrives in Jerusalem and places his ten concubines that stayed at the palace and puts them under guard, not going in to them.
• David tells Amasa to gather the tribe of Judah, which he does, but not in the time allotted him. David instructs Abishai to take men and pursue Sheba so he will not build walled cities. He meets up with Joab, and as they approach, Joab's sword falls from his thigh. Amasa does not see the sword in his hand, and Joab stabs him, killing him.
• Joab and Abishai pursue Sheba. Sheba passes through all the tribes of Israel to Abel of Beth-maacah, and men follow him. Joab and Abishai arrive in Abel and Beth-maacah, and a woman there asks why they would destroy the city, He tells her that if she will give up Sheba, they will not destroy the city. The people behead Sheba and throw his head over the city wall. Joab and his men return to Jerusalem.

David Avenges the Gibeonites – 2 Samuel 21

• For three years there is famine, and David seeks the Lord. God tells him that there is blood guilt on the house of Saul because he put the Gibeonites (a remnant of the Amorites) to death. David asks the Gibeonites what he can do for them to make amends, and they ask for seven sons of Saul so they may hang them.
• David agrees but spares the life of Mephibosheth because of the oath between David and Jonathan. He gives over seven others, and they are hanged in the first days of the barley harvest.
• Rizpah, the mother of two who were hanged, shelters her sons bodies from birds and animals. When David hears this, he has the bones of Saul, Jonathan, and the seven buried in the land of Benjamin. God then responds to the plea for the land.

War with the Philistines – 2 Samuel 21:15–22 & 1 Chronicles 20:4–5

• War again begins with the Philistines, and David and his men fight them, becoming weary. Ishi-benob, one of the descendants of giants, determines to kill David, but Abishai takes his life. David's men swear that David will not go into battle with them anymore. The war with the Philistines continues.

April 29: 2 Samuel 17:15–29; Psalm 3; Psalm 63; 2 Samuel 18:1 – 2 Samuel 19:30

Hushai Saves David – 2 Samuel 17:15–29

• Hushai tells Zadok and Abiathar the priests to find David and tell him to cross the Jordan into the wilderness or else he and his army will perish. David and all his people do as directed, and Ahithophel, realizing his advice had not been followed, went home and hung himself.
• David arrives in Mahanaim, and Absalom's army sets up camp in Gilead. David is met by Shobi and Makir, who provide food for him and his men.

Save Me, O My God – Psalm 3

• David counts his foes, but realizes that the Lord is a shield around him. He pleads with God to save him.

My Soul Thirsts for You – Psalm 63

• David seeks God in his time of trouble but also claims his confidence in God's protection.

Absalom Killed – 2 Samuel 18

• David musters the men with him and sends them out under the command of Joab, Abishai, and Ittai the Gittite. David intends to go with them, but they refuse. David tells the commanders to deal gently with Absalom for his sake.
• In the forests of Ephraim, the men of Israel are defeated by David's army, with a loss of 20,000 men. Absalom is riding his mule beneath the branches of an oak, and his head becomes stuck in the branches, suspending him over his donkey. Joab learns of this and takes three javelins into Absalom's heart.
• Joab blows the trumpet, and the men of David fall back. Joab throws Absalom into a pit in the forest and throws stones over top of him. All of Israel flees to their homes.

David Hears of Absalom's Death

• At Joab's agreement, Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok, carries the news of their delivery from the men of Israel. 

David's Grief

• While Ahimaaz is with David, the Cushite arrives with the news of Absalom's death. David retires to his chamber to mourn his son, saying that he would have died for him. 

Joab Rebukes David – 2 Samuel 19

• Joab learns that David is mourning Absalom, and he rebukes David, telling him that if Absalom was alive and all of David's men were dead, he would be pleased. He tells David that if he does not go out and treat his men kindly, none of them will stay with him. David does as instructed.

David Returns to Jerusalem

• The men of Israel decide to invite David to be their king again.
• David returns to Jerusalem with escorts by the men of Israel.

David Pardons His Enemies 

• Shimei and Ziba fall before David to beg his forgiveness, and Abishai asks if they should be put to death for cursing the Lord's anointed. David declares that they should not die. David also pardons Mephibosheth, who claims his servant Ziba lied to David by saying that Mephibosheth chose to stay in Jerusalem (Ziba took his donkey so he had no way to travel).

April 28: 2 Samuel 15:1 – 2 Samuel 17:14

Absalom's Conspiracy – 2 Samuel 15

• Absalom steals the hearts of Israel by saying that he would give justice to all who came to Jerusalem with disputes. After four years, he asks David for permission to go to Hebron to worship God. David agrees, and Absalom goes. He sends messengers throughout Israel, telling the people that as soon as they hear the trumpets, they are to say, "Absalom is king at Hebron!" He takes 200 people with him (who don't realize what he is doing), and others join them.

David Flees Jerusalem

• A messenger comes to David and tells him that the hearts of the people have gone after Absalom. David flees from Jerusalem, leaving only ten concubines behind. David questions Ittai the Gittite why the Gittites, who are foreigners, are following him, and he pledges their loyalty to David.
• The Levites follow David, bringing the ark of the covenant. David sends them back to Jerusalem, telling them that if he finds favor in the Lord, God will bring him back to Jerusalem. Abiathar and Zadok take the ark back to Jerusalem.
• David and others climb the Mount of Olives in bare feet and with their heads covered, weeping. David is told that Ahithophel is a conspirator of Absalom, and David asks God to turn Ahithophel's counsel to foolishness. David sends Hushai the Archite back to Jerusalem to be a spy in Absalom's house (he has returned to Jerusalem).

David and Ziba – 2 Samuel 16

• Ziba, the servant of Mephibosheth, brings saddled donkeys, two hundred loaves of bread, a hundred bunches of raisins, a hundred summer fruits, and a skin of wine for David and the men climbing the Mount of Olives. David declares that all that belonged to Mephibosheth now belongs to Ziba, and Ziba pays him homage.

Shimei Curses David

• As David comes to Bahurim, Shimei (of the house of Saul), comes as David cursing him and throwing stones at him. Abishai, son of Zeruiah asks to behead him, and David tells him to leave Shimei alone, as God will repay the man's deeds if He chooses to. David and all those following him arrive at the Jordan, where they refresh themselves.

Absalom Enters Jerusalem

• Absalom and all those following him come into Jerusalem. Hushai requests to continue serving the king (now Absalom), and Absalom asks for his counsel. Hushai tells him to go in to David's concubines, which he does in the sight of all Israel (in a tent on the roof). 
• Ahithophel's counsel is as if he consults the word of God, and David and Absalom esteem him.

Hushai Saves David – 2 Samuel 17

• Ahithophel requests of Absalom that he choose twelve thousand men so he can pursue David that night and kill him. Absalom has him call Hushai, for his counsel.
• Hushai instead recommends mobilizing the entire army of Israel and having Absalom lead them. Absalom agrees to Hushai's plan, for the Lord had determined to defeat the counsel of Ahithophel, who had the better plan, so he could bring harm upon Absalom.

April 27: 2 Samuel 12:26–31; 1 Chronicles 20:2–3; 2 Samuel 13:1 – 2 Samuel 14:33

Rabbah is Captured – 2 Samuel 12:26–31 & 1 Chronicles 20:2–3

• Joab fights against the Ammonites at Rabbah, taking the royal city, and sends word to David. David brings all of Israel, and they take all of Rabbah. The king's crown is given to David, and all the people are made servants to Israel.

Amnon and Tamar – 2 Samuel 13

• Absalom, David's son, has a beautiful sister named Tamar. Amnon, another of David's sons, loves her, and is miserable because of it. When Amnon's cousin Jonadab questions him why, he admits that he loves Tamar. The friend instructs him to feign illness and ask his father to have Tamar come to him and make him cakes. Amnon does as his friend suggests.
• David sends Tamar to Amnon's house, and she makes the cakes, but he refuses to eat. He has everyone else sent away and calls Tamar into his chamber. When she comes in, he tells her to lie with him, but she tells him not to do such an outrageous thing. He doesn't listen, and being stronger than she, he violates her.
• Then Amnon hates her and sends her away even though she begs him not to. Amnon has his servant put her out of the house, and she puts ashes on her head and tears her virgin's robe. When Absalom sees her, he realizes what has happened and tells her not to take it to heart. Tamar lives, a desolate woman, in Absalom's house.
• David is very angry, and Absalom hates Amnon for what he did.

Absalom Murders Amnon

• Two years later, Absalom has sheepshearers near Ephraim, and invites all the king's sons. Absalom convinces David to allow Amnon to go with him (David would not allow all of them to go), and Absalom then instructs his servants that once Amnon is drunk, they are to kill him. The servants do as instructed.
• Word comes to David that all his sons are dead, and he tears his garments and lies on the ground. David's nephew Jonadab tells him that only Amnon is dead and that Absalom had determined to do this from the time Amnon violated Tamar.

Absalom Flees to Geshur

• Absalom flees to Talmai (his maternal grandfather) King of Geshur and stays there for three years. David's spirit longs to go to Absalom.

Absalom Returns to Jerusalem – 2 Samuel 14

• Joab sends a woman to David with another story (much like Nathan told a story to David). She appeals to David to set aside the usual laws regarding murder due to extenuating circumstances. David questions if Joab is behind this woman's story, and she admits that Joab did this in order to change the course of things.
• David instructs Joab to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem, which he does. David determines that Absalom will live in his own house and not come into his presence.
• Absalom is very handsome, and he has three sons and a daughter (named Tamar, and she is also beautiful).
• Absalom lives in Jerusalem for two years without coming into the king's presence. He summons Joab twice, but he doesn't come. Absalom then has his servants set fire to Joab's field, and Joab comes to him to question him why he did that. Absalom tells him it is because he didn't come when he sent for him, then questions him why he has been summoned to Jerusalem because it would be better for him to still be in Geshur. He tells Joab that he either wants to go into the presence of the king or be put to death. 
• Joab goes to the king with his request, and David summons Absalom. Absalom bows before David, and David kisses him.

April 26: 1 Chronicles 20:1; 2 Samuel 11:1; 2 Samuel 11:2–27; 2 Samuel 12:1–14; Psalm 51; 2 Samuel 12:15–25; 2 Samuel 5:14–16; 1 Chronicles 14:3–7; 1 Chronicles 3:5–9

The Capture of Rabbah – 1 Chronicles 20:1 & 2 Samuel 11:1

• In the spring of the year (when kings usually go to war), Joab leads Israel in successful attacks against the Ammonites. David decides to stay behind in Jerusalem.

David and Bathsheba – 2 Samuel 11:2–13

• One afternoon, David walks on the roof of his house and sees a beautiful woman bathing on another rooftop. He inquires about her and is told she is Bathsheba, wife of Uriah the Hittite. David sends messengers to bring her to him, and he lays with her. She conceives and sends word to David that she is pregnant.
• David sends word to Joab to send him Uriah the Hittite. Uriah comes to David, and David tells him to go down to his house and wash his feet, but Uriah sleeps at David's door with David's servants instead. David questions him why, and Uriah tells him that he could not go to his wife while the Israelite soldiers were encamped. He refuses to go to his wife.
• David tells him to remain at the palace for a day, and he eats with David and gets drunk. Uriah still doesn't go down to his house. In the morning David writes a letter to Joab, telling him to put Uriah on the front line where the fighting is hardest so he is killed, and sends it to him by Uriah. Joab does as instructed, Uriah is killed, and Joab sends word of it to David.
• Bathsheba learns that her husband is dead, and she laments over him. When her mourning is over, David sends for her and makes her his wife. She bears him a son, but what David did displeases the Lord.

Nathan Rebukes David – 2 Samuel 12:1–14

• The Lord sends Nathan to David and has him tells him about a rich man and poor man. (The rich man has many sheep, while the poor man has only one, which he loves like daughter. The rich man, unwilling to to take from his own flock to prepare a meal for a visitor, takes the poor man's one lamb and prepares it.) David becomes angry and tells Nathan that the rich man deserves to die and should restore the lamb fourfold.
• Nathan points out that David is that rich man and asks him why he has despised the Lord by doing evil in His sight by having Uriah the Hittite killed so he could cover up his adultery with Bathsheba and take her as a wife. Nathan tells David that God will take his wives and give them to his neighbors, and they will lie with them.
• David admits that he has sinned, and Nathan tells him that God has put his sin away and he will not die, but the child born to David and Bathsheba will die. Nathan then returns to his house.

Create a Clean Heart in Me, O God – Psalm 51

• David pens a penitent psalm after his conviction from Nathan the prophet.

David's Child Dies – 2 Samuel 12:15–25

• The Lord afflicts the son of David and Bathsheba, and he becomes sick. David seeks God on the child's behalf, fasting and lying on the ground. For seven days, he refuses to raise from the ground or eat food. On the seventh day, the child dies, and David's servants are afraid to tell him.
• David sees his servants whispering together and realizes his child has died. When he asks, they confirm that. David gets up, washes and anoints himself, and eats. 

Solomon's Birth

• David goes to his wife, comforts her, and lies with her. She conceives and gives birth to Solomon (also known as Jedidiah), and the Lord loves him.

David's Other Children – 2 Samuel 5:14–16, 1 Chronicles 14:3–7, and 1 Chronicles 3:5–9

• More sons and daughters are born to David by his wives and concubines.

April 25: 2 Samuel 8:15–18; 1 Chronicles 18:14–17; 1 Chronicles 6:16–30; 1 Chronicles 6:50–53; 1 Chronicles 6:31–48; 2 Samuel 9:1–13; 2 Samuel 10:1–19; 1 Chronicles 19:1–19

David's Officials – 2 Samuel 8:15–18 & 1 Chronicles 18:14–17

• David reigns over all Israel and does what is right for the people.
• Joab is his commander; Jehoshaphat is recorder; Zadok and Ahimelech are priests; Seraiah was secretary; Benaiah is in charge of David's bodyguards; and David's sons are priests. 

The Sons of Levi – 1 Chronicles 6:16–30; 1 Chronicles 6:50–53; 1 Chronicles 6:31–48

• The descendants of Levi are given.
• Aaron's descendants are given.
• The genealogy of David's temple musicians (Heman, Asaph, and Ethan) are given.

David's Kindness to Mephibosheth – 2 Samuel 9:1–13

• David summons Ziba, who had been one of Saul's servants, and asks him if anyone still remains from Saul's family. Ziba tells him that one of Jonathan's sons, Mephibosheth, is still living. David has Ziba bring him Mephibosheth, who is lame in his feet.
• Mephibosheth comes to David and falls at his feet. David tells him not to fear, and that he will show him kindness for the sake of his father, Jonathan. David calls for Ziba and tells him that everything that once belonged to Saul now belongs to Mephibosheth, his grandson, and that Mephibosheth will always eat at his table. All who live in Ziba's household become Mephibosheth's servvants.

David Defeats Ammon and Syria – 2 Samuel 10:1–19 & 1 Chronicles 19:1–19

• The king of the Ammonites dies, and Hanun his son reigns in his place. David sends his servants to Hanun to console him (because his father Nahash dealt loyally with him), but the Ammonite princes tell Hanun that David has sent the servants to spy out their city and overthrow it. Hanun shaves off half the beard of the servants, cuts off their garments at the hips, and sends them away. When David learns of what has happened, he meets them because they are ashamed, and tells them to stay in Jericho until their beards have grown in.
• The Ammonites see that they have become a stench to David, so they hire Syrian soldiers. David sends Joab and his men against them. Joab takes on the Syrians, while his brother Abishai takes on the Ammonites, and they agree to help each other if needed.
• The Ammonites flee. The defeated Syrians send for more soldiers, and David gathers all of Israel to fight. The Syrian kings realize they have been defeated and make peace with Israel, becoming subject to them.

April 24: 2 Samuel 7:1–17; 1 Chronicles 17:1–15; 2 Samuel 7:18–29; 1 Chronicles 17:16–27; 2 Samuel 8:1–14; 1 Chronicles 18:1–13; Psalm 60

The Lord's Covenant with David – 2 Samuel 1:1–17 & 1 Chronicles 17:1–15

• David summons Nathan the prophet and points out that David lives in a house of cedar while God (and the ark) dwell in a tent. Nathan tells him to do all that is in his heart because the Lord is with him.
• That night the word of the Lord comes to Nathan, telling him that God has always dwelt in a tent and has never requested to dwell in a house of wood. The Lord goes on to say that he will build David's house. Even after David is dead, his kingdom will pass down to his offspring, with his throne established forever.
• Nathan takes these words to David.

David's Prayer of Gratitude – 2 Samuel 7:18–29 & 1 Chronicles 17:16–27

• David sits before the Lord and prays a prayer of gratitude for God's greatness and His love for Israel.

David's Victories – 2 Samuel 8:1–14 & 1 Chronicles 18:1–13

• David defeats many of the peoples around him: the Philistines, the Moabites, and the Syrians of Damascus. 
• When Toi, king of Hamath, hears that David has defeated the army of Hadadazer, son of the king of (Zobah), he sends his son Joram to David to bless him (Toi had been fighting Hadadezer). Joram brings David much silver, gold, and bronze, which David dedicates to the Lord.
• David makes a name for himself. Abishai, son of Zeruiah, strikes down 18,000 Edomites in the Valley of Salt. David puts garrisons throughout Edom and makes the Edomites his servants. God gives David victory wherever he goes.

He Will Tread Down Our Foes – Psalm 60

• David's lament for Israel's past and his plea to God to help them against their surrounding foes.

April 23: 2 Samuel 6:12; 1 Chronicles 15:1–28; 2 Samuel 12–16; 1 Chronicles 15:29; 2 Samuel 6:17–19; 1 Chronicles 16:1–43; 2 Samuel 6:19–23

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem – 2 Samuel 6:12–15 & 1 Chronicles 15:1–28

• David is told that God has blessed Obed-edom's household because of the ark. 
• David builds many buildings for himself in the City of David, including a special tent for the ark. He commands that only Levites are to touch the ark, and the ark is brought to Jerusalem. The people sacrifice seven bulls and seven rams, and David and those carrying the ark are dressed in robes of fine linen. The ark is brought to shouts of joy, blowing of ram's horns and trumpets, and the playing of music. David dances before the Lord.

David and Michael – 2 Samuel 6:16–19 & 1 Chronicles 15:29 & 1 Chronicles 6:1–6

• As the ark enters Jerusalem, Michal looks down from her window and sees David dancing, and she despises him in her heart.

The Ark Placed in a Tent

• The ark is placed in the special tent David built for it, and they present burnt offerings and peace offerings. David blesses all the people, giving them a loaf of bread, a cake of dates, and a cake of raisins. He appoints the Levites to lead the people in praising God.

David's Song of Thanks – 1 Chronicles 16:7–36

• David sings a song of praise to the Lord for a successful transfer of the ark to Jerusalem.

Worship Before the Ark – 1 Chronicles 16:37–42, 1 Chronicles 16:43, and 2 Samuel 19–23

• David arranges for Asaph and his fellow Levites (including Obed-edom) to minister before the ark each day. They sacrifice burnt offerings to the Lord each morning and evening, obeying all that God had written.
• David then returns home and blesses his household. Michal comes out to him and shames him for dancing uncovered (he wore only a linen ephod) before the eyes of his female servants. David retorts that he was dancing before God. Michal has no child to the day of her death.

April 22: 2 Samuel 5:1–3; 1 Chronicles 11:1–3; 1 Chronicles 12:23–40; 2 Samuel 5:17–25; 1 Chronicles 14: 8–17; 2 Samuel 5:6–10; 1 Chronicles 11:4–9; 1 Chronicles 3:4; 2 Samuel 5:13; 2 Samuel 5:45; 2 Samuel 5:11–12; 1 Chronicles 14:1–2; 1 Chronicles 13:1–5; 2 Samuel 6:1–11; 1 Chronicles 13:6–14

David Anointed King of Israel – 2 Samuel 5:1–3; 1 Chronicles 11:1–3

• The elders of Israel proclaim that David has led them, even under Saul's rule. At age thirty, David is anointed king over all Israel. 

The Mighty Men Join David – 1 Chronicles 12:23–40

• The armed warriors who join David are described by tribe. Every one in Israel agrees that David should be king, and the people feast for three days.

David Anointed King of Israel – 2 Samuel 5:17–25 & 1 Chronicles 14:8–17

• When the Philistines learn that David has been anointed king, they gather to attack Israel. David learns of their plan and asks God if he should attack them. God tells him to go to war, as He will deliver them into David's hand. David defeats them.
• The Philistines again gather to fight Israel. David again asks God if he should fight them. God instructs him to circle around behind them and attack them there. The Philistines are again struck down.

David Anointed King of Israel – 2 Samuel 5:6–10 & 1 Chronicles 11:4–9; 1 Chronicles 3:4, 1 Chronicles 5:13, and 2 Samuel 4–5

• David leads his men to Jerusalem to fight the Jebusites, who taunt him saying that he will never get in there. Even so, David captures the stronghold of Zion. David makes Zion his home, calling it the City of David, and he becomes greater and greater because God is with him.
• David reigns for thirty years. In Jerusalem, he takes more concubines and wives, and they have more sons and daughters.
• David reigns over Israel for thirty-three years.

David Anointed King of Israel – 2 Samuel 5:11–12 & 1 Chronicles 14:1–2

• King Hiram of Tyre sends messengers to David with materials and workers. They build David a palace, and he realizes God's blessing on him.

The Ark Brought from Kiriath-Jearim – 1 Chronicles 13:1–5

• David consults with his leaders, and they decide to bring the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem.

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem – 2 Samuel 6:1–11 & 1 Chronicles 13:6–14

• David gathers 30,000 men to bring the ark to Jerusalem from Abinidab's house. Uzzah and Ahio, Abinidab's sons, guide the cart that it carrying it. 

Uzzah and the Ark

• When they reach the threshing floor at Nacon, the oxen stumble, and Uzzah reaches out his hand to steady the ark. God strikes him dead (touching the ark is a direct violation of God's law). David becomes angry at God, and then fears Him. Instead of bringing the ark into Jerusalem, he has it taken to the house of Obed-edom the Gittite. The Lord blesses the household of Obed-edom.

April 21: 2 Samuel 3:6 – 2 Samuel 4:3; 2 Samuel 4:5–12

Abner Joins David – 2 Samuel 3

• Abner becomes a strong leader of Saul's army. Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, accuses Abner of going in to one of his father's concubines, and Abner becomes angry. He threatens to join David, and then sends a messenger to David to make a pact with him. David agrees, if Abner will bring Michal, Saul's daughter, with him. David then sends a message to Ish-bosheth to send him Michal, since David has bought her with the lives of one hundred Philistines. Ish-bosheth does as instructed.
• Abner consults with the elders of Israel, and the people of Israel and the people of Benjamin agree to support David. They have a feast with David.

Joab Murders Abner 

• After David sends Abner away to gain more support for him, Joab returns and asks David why he let Abner go away, since he had been there to spy on David. Joab sends messengers to bring Abner back, and when Abner returns, Joab takes him aside and stabs him in the stomach for killing his brother Asahel.
• David vows he and his kingdom are guiltless in Abner's death and that Joab and his family are the guilty ones.

David Mourns Abner

• David tells all his people to tear their clothes and mourn Abner. All the people mourn his death, understanding that David had nothing to do with it.

Ish-bosheth Murdered – 2 Samuel 4:1–3, 5–12

• When Ish-bosheth learns that Abner is dead, his courage fails and all Israel is dismayed. Two of Saul's captains, Rechab and Baanah, find Ish-bosheth while he is taking his noonday rest and stab him in the stomach and then behead him. They take his head to David.
• David is angry that they have killed a righteous man while he was sleeping, and he has his men kill them, cut off their hands and feet, and hang them beside the pool at Hebron. They then bury the head of Ish-bosheth in the tomb of Abner in Hebron.