Emotionally Limp Like a Wet Dishrag

O. T. 605  "Emotionally Limp Like a Wet Dishrag" 
September 30, 2015
1 Samuel 15-Part 2  
The Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent...  1 Samuel 15:29

LET IT GLOW

Life can be hard; words do hurt; we can be knocked down; the wind can be taken out of our sail. So when it happens, what do we do, where do we go? Do we throw in the towel or get back up? Do we run to Jesus or someone else? He had a lot of hateful words spoken to Him, yet stood strong. Yes, there are times I am emotionally limp like a wet dishrag. That is when I go to Jesus for His strength. I can't do it on my own. He never fails. His Word reassures me. He picks me up, dusts me off, sets my feet on the Solid Rock and leads me on again.  How about you, who is your strength?

Before moving onto the next chapter, I had to take note of something in verse 29:  And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for He is not a man, that He should repent.

Notice the phrase: Strength of Israel (netsach, pronounced nay'tsakh), means Pre-eminence, Prominence (Young's Concordance); it means Splendor; truth; confidence; continually(Strong's Concordance)

This is a unique title of God. It could also be translated "the glory of Israel." (Mic. 1:15) Samuel emphasized God's attribute of immutability in regard to the judgment upon Saul.  (MacArthur)

There are many verses which refer to our LORD God as our strength: Psalm 18:1, 19:14, 28:7-8

Psalm 27:1 says The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 29:11 reassures us, The LORD will give strength unto His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.

Another promise is found in Psalm 37:39, But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: He is their strength in the time of trouble.

I can't leave out this one-Psalm 46:1, God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Friend, if you still need reassurance after reading all those verses, try Psalm 62. You can trust God at all times. He is our rock, salvation, defense, glory, strength. Pour out your heart before Him. Trust in Him at all times. Bless Him, my Strength!

LET IT GROW

It was too late for Saul to get his kingdom back, for his excuses had come to an end.

What happened at the end of this chapter?

•  Saul asked Samuel to with him to worship the Lord, and they did. (verse 30-31) Had Samuel refused, the people may have lost all confidence in Saul.
• Then Samuel carried out the task which Saul never did, what God had commanded-destroy all of the Amalekites (Deut. 25:17-19).
• Samuel hacked Agag into pieces. It was not his job to do such a thing, but it had to be done. Someone had to do it. (Every been there? No one else will do what God wants done so you do it, though unpleasant?)

Israel did not exterminate the Amalekites. Later, they raided the southern territory, taking women and children, including David's family (chapter 30). Also, Hamman was an Amalekite, of which we read about in the book of Esther. He planned on annihilating the Jews before Esther stepped in and revealed his plan, which put a stop to it.

To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  (verse 22)

(Here's an interesting note: Samuel never saw Saul again. Samuel mourned for Saul, which probably meant that he was lamenting the fact that although Saul had been anointed, he failed and was rejected by God.) (Falwell)

Do we encourage people to obey God's Spirit leading and His Word?


LET IT GO

                               ...pride, and humble myself before God.
                               ...sin, rebellion, stubbornness, and obey my Lord Jesus.
                               ...self and forgive others, then love them.
                               ...and trust God for the outcome of my obedience, thousands may be depending on
                                   it.
                           






                                                     

Any Ba or Moo in Your Life?

O. T. #604  "Any Ba or Moo in Your Life?"
September 29, 2015
1 Samuel 15
But Samuel said, "What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?"  1 Samuel 15:14

LET IT GLOW

It would be a good thing to exam our hearts every now and then. Is there sin in my life? Is there evidence that we disobeyed God's instructions to us, as Saul did? How serious is the consequence of such? Saul lost something very valuable to him as a result. Let us learn this lesson by another's mistakes and not our own, dear ones.

God decided to take Saul's kingdom away from him due to his disobedience in offering a burnt offering in the place of Samuel the priest and prophet. We read about Saul's impatience, his pride as he almost killed his son Jonathan over a minute matter. Now we see the pathetic disobedience of Saul.

God gave Saul an opportunity to redeem himself with obedience. The judgment was to be a complete and total annihilation of anything that breathed.
This specific instruction for Saul's army to totally kill all the Amalekites and their animals. The total wipe out of the Amalekite people is foretold in Exodus 17:8-16; Deut. 25:17-19; Numbers 24:20; Judges 6:3-5. These nomadic people of the desert and descendants of Esau, became a marked people when they attacked Israel in the wilderness after leaving Egypt. (MacArthur)

What happened is Amalek attacked Israel's people at the rear, those who were feeble and weary, old and sickly as they traveled through the wilderness to their Promised Land. How heartless is that! Those people could not defend themselves. The Lord told Moses to write in a book and tell Joshua that He would completely blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven. God's judgment was upon these people. Our Father takes care of His beloved children.

Returning to Saul, he and his 210,000 men army went to battle with the Amalekites and defeated them. It might seem that Saul was successful, but not so. He had his marching orders, but failed to completely obey them.
What about us, do we completely obey God or incompletely obey?

LET IT GROW

What did Saul and his army do, according to verse 9?

• He took Agag, king of the Amalekites, alive, instead of killing him along with all of the Amalekites, which were destroyed with a sword. 
• He allowed the people to capture the best of the sheep, oxen, fat cattle, and the lambs, and all that was good. 
• They were unwilling to destroy completely, but everything that was despised and weak they totally destroyed.  

The Lord saw all that was happening, so He had a talk with His servant Samuel. God sent Samuel to Saul with the confrontation of his disobedience. Then Saul began talking to Samuel, "I have carried out the LORD's instructions."

1. First, Saul disobeys God's command.
2. Then he lies to God's prophet Samuel about the situation.
3. Next, Samuel asked Saul, What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?

         In other words, what is that I hear? The evidence is convicting the guilty-Saul.
         If Saul actually did carry out the LORD's instructions completely, then there would be no bas
         or moos to be heard. Do we have any bas or moos in our life, something that is evidence against
         us that we disobeyed God?
      4. Saul plays the blame-game when caught in an act of disobedience. He blames the soldiers that
          took the sheep and cattle.  
      5. Finally, Saul made an excuse for them, saying they took the best sheep and cattle in order to
          sacrifice them to the LORD your God at Gilgal.

Come on guy. The evidence is against you standing right there with ba-ba and moo-moo. give me a break. Fess up like a man. Saul didn't due to his pride again. Really, as though he could deceive the man of the God who sees and knows all. (I want to say, "How stupid can you get, Saul?" but I won't.)

Hang on friends, I know this is lengthy, but we are not through yet. Today has a surprise ending.

Verses 22 and 23, NIV say:
But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as I obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king."

     6. Finally, Saul confesses that he sinned and violated the LORD's command and Samuel's
         instructions. He added that he was afraid of the people and gave into them (another excuse). In
         addition, Saul asks Samuel to forgive his sin and come back with him so he could worship the
         LORD.

     7. Samuel refused to go back with Saul because Saul rejected the word of the LORD and the
         LORD rejected Saul as king over Israel.

     8. It doesn't end there. Saul was begging Samuel, bowing down and catching hold of the hem of
         his robe as Samuel was leaving.
  
      9. Samuel said to Saul, "The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given
          it to one of your neighbors-to one better than you." (Reference to David)

     10. Verse 29 says, "He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind, for He is
            not a man, that He should change His mind."

Today's chapter is filled with a lot of wisdom and instructions for us to sit up and take notice. It would be to our advantage to heed them, also.

LET IT GO

Instead of giving sacrifices in its place, obey God.

Heed His Word.

Put away rebellion and arrogance.

Obey God's Words and instructions to me.

Got a Pride Problem?

O. T. #603  "Got a Pride Problem?"
September 25, 2015
1 Samuel 14-Part 2

Saul said, "May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if you do not die, Jonathan."
1 Samuel 14:44


LET IT GLOW

Got a pride problem? Who doesn't. How much are we willing to pay so our pride is not hurt? So we don't admit we have been foolish, made the wrong decision? Pride can come at a high price. It can cost us our family, our job, our integrity, our friends' trust in us, even God resisting us. Saul had a pride problem. It almost cost him is son's life. That is a serious problem.

Do you recall the three sins of King Saul in the here chapters of 13, 14, and 15? They cost him his kingdom ultimately. We have discussed Saul's sin of impatience, now comes his sin of pride. HIs pride caused his troops to sin in their victory.
What caused this sin to occur?

• He stopped the priest while inquiring of the Lord's will. (verse 19)
• He rushed the formalities of getting an answer from God so he could hurry and get into battle to take advantage of the confusion of the Philistines. (verse 19)
• He made two foolish vows, taking an oath without thinking through the implication. (verse 24-26 and 39) He forbade his troops to eat that day. 
• He built an altar, his first, as the last resort. (verses 32-34)

Pride goeth before destruction...  (Proverbs 16:18)
God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. (James 4:6)

What were the results of Saul's foolish vows?

1. His men were too tired to fight.
2. They were so hungry they ate raw meat that still contained blood, which was against God's law. (Lev. 17:10-14)
3. Saul almost killed his own son Jonathan. (verses 42-45)

After his successful fighting, Jonathan ate some honey to replenish his strength. He did not know Saul took an oath  that however ate that day would be killed. Jonathan admitted what he had done. So, after Saul found out what Jonathan did, he ordered his son killed. Pride was too strong in Saul. He was protecting his image, only to reveal his sinful heart. The people refused to allow this to happen.

What can we learn from all of this drama?

• Be willing to accept the consequences of our actions. When you do wrong, even unintentionally, respond like Jonathan not like Saul.
• Admit our foolish actions or words, our mistakes and show we are more interested in doing what is right than in looking good.
• Consult God first, not as an afterthought, a last resort when a situation occurs. Before all else fails, seek and ask God His will.

[Resource: Life Application Study Bible]


LET IT GROW

Did you notice that the people intervened and stopped Saul's charge of Jonathan's death? Saul's ridiculous command would have caused the Israelis to sin themselves by taking Jonathan's life. Sometimes people do ungodly things. Sometimes ungodly people win battles. It is God who gives the victory. Perhaps God gave Saul victory here for the sake of His people, not Saul. Maybe He left Saul as king for so many years to utilize his military abilities for the nation of Israel. 
God's plans and purposes are known only to Him sometimes.

Our task is to commit our ways to God and then trust Him for the outcome.

According to verses 47 and 48, Saul's military accomplishments expanded Israel's borders in all directions: to the south (Edom), east (Ammon and Moab), north (Zobah), and west (Philistia).
We read of Saul's cousin Abner becoming commander of his army.

Looking forward, the Philistines continued to war against Israel to the very last day of Saul's life. (chapter 31)

Do we intervene when wrong is prevailing, for the sake of another? What about the innocent baby that is being aborted and mutilated? Will we stand by silently?

LET IT GO

Seek God's will before all else fails, as my first resort, not my last.

Admit my wrongs, failings, mistakes, and sins.

Accept the consequences of my actions.

Help others when they can't help themselves.

Be aware of pride lurking around and guard against it with humility.

Whatever You Decide, I'm With You

O. T. #602  "Whatever You Decide, I'm With You"
September 25, 2015
1 Samuel 14
It may be that the LORD will work for us for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.  1 Samuel 14:6 

LET IT GLOW

What were the odds for King Saul and his army of 600? The Philistine army was as numerous as the sand. That is not good odds for Israel. Yet, their God is all powerful and very creative when it comes to His fighting for His children.
Jonathan, King Saul's son, told his armor bearer to go with him to the Philistine outpost. (He didn't tell his father.) No one was aware that Jonathan left.

What was another remark Jonathan said to his armor bearer?
It is found in the latter part of verse 6: Perhaps the LORD will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.

Do numbers that get saved really matter when one is doing God's will? They are individuals that God loves. Why are we so judgmental as to whether something was successful according to the number that got saved? We had 7 girls out of 100 at last Saturday's teen girls retreat who got saved. Most of those attending were church goers, anyway. That means 7 girls are now heading to heaven. Praise Him!

Do we base our decision to do a kingdom work on how many are involved?

LET IT GROW

What was the armor bearer's reply to Jonathan?
Do what is in your heart. You choose. I'm right here with you whatever you decide.

That is a faithful, supportive person. How our divorce numbers would fall if our couples would support each other in their decisions like this. How successful our companies would be if our employees backed their boss in this manner. What about friendships, relationships, teachers? Are we with our loved ones in their decisions? Do we have their back? Or is our whatever an if-if you succeed, if you can do it?

Jonathan knew the Philistine numbers was no problem to God. God honored the faith of these two men with a tremendous victory. Jonathan climbed up on and cut down some Philistines. His armor bearer finished them off. In that first assault, they struck down 20 men in a half acre field. Now that is good odds.

Are you facing over-whelming odds today in your life? Are you feeling surrounded by the enemy? Never fear, God is here. His resources are enough to win the battle we face. Have faith.

What was the result of this small attack?

•  Terror spread in the Philistine camp and the open fields to all the troops. (verse 15)
• Then the earth shook and terror spread from God. The Philistine troops panicked and scattered in every direction.
• Israelis observed.
• Saul had the roll called in his army and discovered who the heroes were.
• Panic continued among the Philistines. Saul called for the Ark to be brought there, but changed his mind.
• The Philistines were fighting each other in great confusion. (verse 20)
• Saul's army was joined by traders and those living in the hill country of Ephraim when they heard the Philistines were fleeing.
• The LORD saved Israel that day. (verse 23)

What a story of bravery and faith. Which character are we like when a battle comes in our life? Do we disobey God like Saul? Or are we brave and face the enemy like Jonathan?
Victory is in the hand of the Lord. Are we seeking His will, obeying His instructions, trusting Him for the outcome? Do we tell Him "whatever You decide, I'm with You?"

LET IT GO

                               ... of fear and trust God for the outcome.

Against All Odds

O. T. #601 "Against All Odds"
September 24, 2015
1 Samuel 13-Part 4
And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about six hundred. 1 Samuel 13:15

LET IT GLOW

What do we do when the odds are against us? When few recover from our disease, get the job we want, get the certificate, are chosen for whatever is your challenge today? What do we do? Press on or turn back? The odds were against us when we went to college, with only enough money to move, no jobs, and with two preschoolers. Yet, it was God's will. He broke the odds and gave the victory. We made it through all the 4 year struggles and challenges that we encountered during that time. What a joy the day my husband and I both walked across the stage to receive our diplomas from a university! Glory to our God! All things are possible when we trust in Him.

It only took one act, doing one thing that was against God's commands, and Saul's kingdom was taken away from him. His impatience cost one man his kingship. God wanted the man who ran His nation to be a man after God's own heart. Obviously, Saul was not the man. This meant Saul's descendants would not be Israel's king either. We reap the consequences of our sins, too.

God knows our true motives, even when we try to justify or spiritualize our actions, or make excuses.
He forgives, restores, and blesses only when we are honest about our sins. Trying to hide his sins behind excuses, Saul lost his kingship. (Life Application Study Bible)

Samuel left Gilgal. Saul's army was down to 600 men, facing the huge Philistine army, which were as numerous as the grains of sand, and divided into 3 companies at various locations. The odds were against Israel.
What would happen to God's people?

Do we question what will happen to us next? How can it get any worse when the odds are stacked against us? Don't leave out the fact that our Sovereign God is still in control. Where is that faith of ours, which is only the size of a tiny grain of mustard seed? Is it still there, hidden down inside of us?

All things are possible with God. Nothing is too difficult for Him. He can deliver us from our enemies which outnumber us. I think He likes to go against the odds, so He gets the glory.

LET IT GROW

There was no smith in the land of Israel. The Philistines did not allow them. After all, smiths could make weapons of swords and spears that could be used against the Philistines. So what were the Israelites going to do? They were at a disadvantage since they had no use of iron for weapons in Israel as the Philistines had.

What appeared innocently enough, the Israelis took their tools to be sharpened. Tools like plowshares, mattocks, axes, and sickles. They even paid the price for such a service. (verses 20-21)

On the day of battle not one soldier, except Saul and Jonathan, had a sword or spear in his hand. (verse 22)
Sounds like doom is inevitable. Why not give up, get out while the getting is good? Save yourselves guys. It could be a blood slaughter.
Except, their God likes to do the unexpected for His children. In our weakness, He makes us strong. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

I'm going to leave the story there, folks. Chapter 14 is the climax of this battle, so return tomorrow as we find out the outcome. Except for one thing...

Jonathan tells his armor bearer man, "Let's go." Isn't that what we need to hear from our Lord Jesus, "Come on Linda, let's go." That includes you and Jesus. Now that is good odds I'd say, for any challenge, situation, problem, battle. Jesus and me/Jesus and you. Are you ready? Got your tools sharpened for the battle? It is a spiritual battle, you know. Get your armor on today, friends. You will need it all-helmet of salvation, breastplate of righteousness, belt of truth, shoes of peace, sword of the Spirit, and the shield of faith.
While you are getting dressed with all that armor, don't forget the fruit of the Spirit-love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, self control. Now we are ready to face the day and what it holds for us-a spiritual battle against evil. Come on...

LET'S GO

Keep the faith, follow Jesus, surrender to Him, then watch the King of kings and Lord of lords bring victory to my battle.

You lead, Jesus; I'll go where this country road of faith takes me today, for Your will and Your glory!

What Happens When We Disobey?

O. T. #600 "What Happens When We Disobey?"
September 23, 2015
1 Samuel 13-Part 3
But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after His own heart...
1 Samuel 13:14

LET IT GLOW

When I disobeyed my parents, I was punished. Since I was so tenderhearted, I often ran to the closet and cried. It didn't take much for me to get the point. Usually a good talking to got the point across quiet well. As a result, I got few times spankings.
What does happen when we disobey God's command? Does He give up on us? Does He manipulate circumstances for us so we are willing?Does He wait until we are willing to do it? Does He choose another that will carry it out? Does He remove us? The possibilities are numerous. What happened to Saul when he disobeyed God? Check it out.

Saul waited 7 days according to the appointed time set by Samuel, but he did to come to Gilgal. The people were scattering. What did Saul do next? He offered the burnt offering unto God as a priest would do, as Samuel would have done. (The burnt offering was to assure God's blessing of victory before a battle.)

What happens next?

• Samuel shows up after Saul is finished with the burnt offering.
• Samuel asked Saul, "What have you done?"
• Saul made excuses for his disobedience-the people scattered, you didn't come, the Philistines gathered.

Saul's disobedience was sin against God.

The MacArthur Bible Commentary explains:

Saul wished to rule as an autocrat who possessed absolute power in civil and sacred matters. Samuel had wanted the seven days as a test of Saul's character and obedience to God, but Saul failed it by invading the priestly office himself. Saul reacted disobediently based upon what he saw, not by faith.

Saul's disobedience was a serious matter with consequences. How serious do we take our disobedience? Are we willing to accept the consequences?

LET IT GROW

What did Prophet Samuel say next?

• Saul, you acted foolishly.
• You have not kept the commandment the LORD your God gave you.
• If you had (obeyed), He would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time.
• Now your kingdom will not endure.
• the LORD has sought out a man after His own heart and appointed him leader of His people, because you have not kept the LORD's command.

How could this be in light of God's promise that the king would descend from Judah (Gen. 49:10)? Saul was of the tribe of Benjamin, not Judah.

God was going to choose Israel's next king whose heart was like His own, one who had the will to obey God. Paul quoted this passage in Acts 13:22 about David. Yes, David had already been chosen as Saul's predecessor.

Are we a woman or man after God's own heart, willing to obey Him?

In a nutshell, Saul disobeyed, lost his kingdom, and another was chosen to replace him. David's line would make the way for the Messiah to come-Jesus Christ.

If god tells us to do something, and we do not obey Him, will He choose another to replace us? Or will He work on us, allow events to bring us to surrender our will to His? Will He wait on us to finally be willing to obey? Or  will He immediately get a replacement for us? If another obeys what we were told to do, and gets our blessing, how do we react? Things to ponder.

LET IT GO

Obey what God tells me to do.

Make no excuses for my disobedience; repent.

Accept the consequences of my disobedience.

Love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Reap what I sow, willingly.

Anyone Got a Cup of Patience?

O. T. #599 "Anyone Got a Cup of Patience?"
September 22, 2015
1 Samuel 13-Part 2
And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed but Samuel came not to Gilgal, and the people were scattered from him.  1 Samuel 13:8

LET IT GLOW

WAIT? Patience? Waiting is not my cup of tea. Anyone got a cup of patience that I can drink and wallah, I am a patient person? If it were available, think of the millions who would buy it and how expensive it would be. Patience is a virtue, a fruit of the Spirit. Saul was lacking in the patience department, too.

According to Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament there were three sins that cost King Saul his kingdom of Israel:

1. Impatience (chapter 13)
2. Pride (chapter 14)
3. Disobedience (chapter 15).

Shall we take a look at his impatience first? Months earlier(10:8) Samuel had instructed Saul to go to Gilgal and wait for him to come make the burnt offerings to the Lord (7 days). However, the Philistine army was gathering together. Saul thought the longer he waited on the Prophet Samuel to come, the more dangerous the situation became for Israel. A delay allowed the Philistines to become stronger. You recall in verse 6 that some Israelis became terrified, left and hid when they saw what a mighty army the Philistines had. Why did they forget that God was on their side? Who should have  assured them that God cannot be defeated? No one did.

As you face problems and temptations, focus your attention on God and His resources, trusting Him to help you (Romans 8:31-37)  Life Application Study Bible

Do we panic at the sight of the opposition? Are we impatient when it comes to waiting on our prayers to be answered?


LET IT GROW

Saul thought he couldn't wait any longer on the Prophet Samuel to come offer the burnt offering to the Lord so He would give them victory. His men were frightened and deserted. Saul took matters into his own hands and disobeyed God. He called for the Ark of the Covenant and made the sacrifice. Saul was not a priest. This was not acceptable to God. It was against God's laws (Deut. 12:5-14).
Saul was doing a good thing, but he did it in the wrong way. Under pressure, our true character comes out, like Saul's did.
Aren't our methods we use to accomplish our goals just as important as the actual attaining of those goals? Are we honest, not walking on others or using others for our gain?

Was time really running out for Saul? He had difficulty in trusting God's timing, didn't he? It wasn't the ritual of the offering that pleased God, but the faith in God while performing the ritual. Remember, God looks upon the heart. It's faith and obedience which God is looking for in us.
When we face a difficult situation or decision, don't allow impatience to drive us to disobey God. Don't run ahead and do it our self. We may make a mess of things. Often times God uses delays to test our obedience and patience.

Anther thing, if God could not trust Saul in this little matter, how could He trust Saul with the whole nation?

Saul reacted disobediently based upon what he saw, not by faith. He feared losing his men and did not properly consider what God wanted him to do. (MacArthur)

LET IT GO

Wait, wait, wait.

Obey God while waiting on His answer.

Then do it His way when the answer comes.

You Are Adored!

Hi everyone,
I have been so busy last week. I was at the church every day painting, decorating, and preparing food for our Princess Retreat for teenage girls. Over 100 showed up and the Lord blessed with 7 salvations. In addition to all the preparations, I rewrote my testimony 7 times this month. Finally, I got the one the Lord wanted, along with reassuring scriptures about being loved and adored by our King Jesus. It was difficult to give since it included an experience in my childhood which only my family knew about. It was time to open up that cracked open heart and share how the Lord has healed me. I have since heard that 1 out of 4 young people, children are being abused today. I pray for their healing.

Here's a verse this word-nerd had to share with you, which I shared Saturday.
Psalm 139:14-15 (NIV) says I will praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made...

In Hebrew, fearfully means reverence.
Webster's Dictionary has one definition for reverence as profound adoring awed respect.

It is one phrase, not separate words. Before God created anything, He planned us, He adored us with awed respect. Did you get that? The Creator of the universe, earth, and everything loves and adores us!! Wow! I had to share this information with you dear ones. When you get to feeling down, unloved, not special, look in the mirror and tell yourself King Jesus loves you so much that He adores you!!

We will get back into 1 Samuel tomorrow.
In His love,
Linda

Facing It

O. T. #598 "Facing It"
September 17, 2015
1 Samuel 13
When the men of Israel saw that their situation was critical and that their army was hard pressed, they...  1 Samuel 13:6

LET IT GLOW

What do I do when the enemy comes in the form of someone griping me out? Do I retaliate, defend myself, or do I choose my words carefully so they honor God? Yes, yes, yes. Sometimes I go off and have myself a good cry, whether I deserved it or not. Then I evaluate the situation and the cause, and my part, of course. I ask the Lord what to do. Well, I have apologized, done nothing, listened, and even had a battle plan. I realize I must forgive the person and love them in spite of them. That is Jesus' way. It is not easy, but it is the best way. What did Saul do when he was faced the enemy with a huge army? What is our reaction when we face "it?" Read on.

Saul was 30 years old when he became king and he reigned 42 years over Israel. (Life Application Study Bible)

Acts 13:21 states that Saul reigned 40 years.

Saul organized and commanded the Israeli army of 3,000 men. Then Jonathan, Saul's first-born son, was evidently old enough to command an army of 1,000 in the area of Benjamin. Jonathan and his army killed the Philistines in that Gibeah. This was the first battle of war declared in that region. So other men joined Saul's army at Gilgal. Saul took credit for this victory, of which he had nothing to do with the outcome.
Do we take credit for what others have done? Give credit where credit is due. Could we appreciate the work of others more? Do we thank them for a job well done? It isn't too costly to give them thanks.


LET IT GROW

Israel became a stench to the Philistines. In other words, that wipe out stunk to their enemy.

Hang on. Don't have a victory party yet, Israel. The Philistines prepared to retaliate with:

• 30,000 chariots,
• 6,000 horsemen,
• soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore.

When Saul and his army saw them, they realized their situation was hard pressed to stand against such an equipped army. Look what they did. They hightailed it out of there, hiding in caves, thickets, among the rocks, and in pits and cisterns. They were shaking in their boots, so to speak. Some even crossed the Jordan River to the land of Gad and Gilead.

Wait a minute. These are the same men who gloated when Jonathan's army defeated the Philistines at Gibeah. What happened? Has God changed? Has their  God lost His power? I think not! Come on guys, seek God's blessings. He brought down the wall of Jericho, stopped the Red Sea and the Jordan River, and even paused the sun for an extended daylight so the earlier Israelites could have victory over their enemies or an escape. Get your self on your knees and pray, then watch God work.

Hmmm. Sounds like advice I need to heed. When discouragement comes, things pile up against us, we feel defeated, what do we do? Do we hide? Or do we hit our knees seeking the Lord's will and wisdom? God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Put on the armor of God and go to spiritual battle today, friends. We are cheering you on. So is your Creator.

LET IT GO

Let go of my pride and own strength.

Seek the Lord, trust Him for the victory, then give Him the glory when it comes.

Put on the armor of God-His salvation, righteousness, truth, peace, Word, faith.

Encourage others who are in a spiritual battle and pray for them.

Moving Ahead with Gratitude

O. T. #597  "Moving Ahead with Gratitude"
September 16, 2015
1 Samuel 12-Part 2
Above all, fear the LORD and worship Him faithfully with all your heart; consider all the great things He has done for you.  1 Samuel 12:24 Life Application Study Bible

LET IT GLOW

How often I we consider all the great things God has done for me? Not often enough. I try to be thankful for basic things He has given to me, and the little things also. Breath of life, salvation, family, cereal, bowl and spoon, milk...  So many things. I start out the day thankful, but it seems to dwindle away as I go through the day. Yes, all day long we encounter people and things that God has given us. Are we moving ahead with gratitude today instead of dwelling on what is lacking?

Looking at the entire chapter:

•  Samuel begins with a review of his office as judge, accomplishments, faith, and anointing the first king of Israel, with Samuel's retirement coming.
• Then there is a review of Israel's history.
• Generation after generation Israel is involved in the sin cycle-God's judgment of their sins, crying out for forgiveness, and forgiveness by God (salvation).
• A miracle of thunder and rain is experienced by all during the wheat harvest season, which was rare.
• Samuel reminds Israel to fear the LORD, serve Him, obey His voice, and not rebel. In addition, the king that ruled over them was to continue following the LORD God. (verse 14) 
• The people asked Samuel to pray for God to stop the rain, lest they die. (destroyed crop meant no food)
• Fear not, ...they serve the Lord with all their heart.
• The LORD will not forsake His people for His great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you His people. (verse 22)

Do we stand on God's promises? Your are His loved child, so serve Him with all your heart, dear ones.

LET IT GROW

In verse 23, Samuel says God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach the good and the right way.

Have you ever considered it a sin when we do not pray for people? I haven't looked at it that way before.

Life Application Study Bible tells us about our responsibilities:

1. We should pray consistently for others (Eph. 6:18).
2. Teach others the right way to God (2 Tim. 2:2).

Although Samuel disagreed with the Israelites' demand for a king, he assured them that he would continue to pray for them and teach them.
We may disagree with others, but we should not stop praying for them.

Do we take time to consider what the Lord has done for us? Focusing our attention on God's goodness strengthens our faith. Are we moving ahead with gratitude? It's all because of Jesus I am alive, as the song goes.

LET IT GO

Let go of my pride in thinking I have provided all that I possess.

Repent of my ungratefulness.

Thank you God for all my faithful and new friends who come to read your Word with me. Show us the direction for us to go today so we can do Your will, Your way. Bless all who read this blog today with encouragement and love, instructions in Your Truth, meeting their needs, Father. Help our focus be on meeting needs of others as You have done for us. To You be the glory! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Here I Am

O. T. #596  "Here I Am"
September 15, 2015
1 Samuel 12
Behold, here I am...  1 Samuel 12:3

LET IT GLOW

I recall when my kids would come home, through the door, they'd holler, "Mom." I'd answer back, "I'm in here." It was to make my presence known to them. Samuel's answer was similar when the Lord called to him. His was with the intention of surrendering his will, because the Lord knew where Samuel was.

Why did God choose Israel for His people?
It wasn't that they deserved such a choosing and grace. It was in order for God to channel His blessings to all people through the Messiah (Gen. 12:1-3). He would never abandon Israel because they were a special nation. However, He would punish them for their disobedience in order to bring them back into a right relationship with Him.

Israel asked for a king so they could be like other nations. It was not God's way, for He wanted to rule over His people. He allowed it anyway.
God desires to be the true King of every area of life. We must recognize His kingship and pattern our relationships, work life, and home life according to His principles. (Life Application Study Bible)

Do we?

LET IT GROW

Samuel continued to serve the people as their priest, prophet, and judge, but Saul exercised more and more political and military control over the tribes.

Did you hear those familiar words often spoken by Samuel? "Here I am," was His response throughout Samuel's entire life (3:4, 5, 6, 8, 16). We read it here in verse 12 again.

How often do we offer our response to the Lord "Here I am?" As His servant, it should be our every response to God's speaking to us, shouldn't it?

LET IT GO

Acknowledge the Lord's presence whether at work, home, or wherever.

Surrender to the Lord with "Here I am."

*Please excuse my not posting yesterday. We have been painting the halls in our educational building at church. Saturday we have 120 teen girls and 30 adults coming for a one day Princess retreat. We needed to spruce it up a bit. Also, I am speaking in the afternoon. I covet your prayers on Saturday. Thanks ya'll. Love ya.

Missing a Right Eye

O. T. #595 "Missing a Right Eye"
September 11, 2015
1 Samuel 11
But Nahash the Ammonite replied, "I will make a treaty with you only on the condition that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you and so bring disgrace on all Israel.  1 Samuel 11:2

LET IT GLOW

Our next door neighbors, when I was growing up, were an elderly couple, Arthur and Suzanna. She had long white hair down to her waist (put up in a bun) and he was missing a right eye. Got the picture? (I never did find out what caused him to loose the eye.) Anyway, during the summer I would walk up the road and spend some time visiting them.  She and I would sit under the tree in their front yard in a yellow metal glider. Are you with me? It was so sweet to here some of their life story. Sadly, the old house is still there, but in very run down condition. I enjoy doing my walking exercise by passing there and recalling such fond childhood memories.
With all that said, there was a threat made upon the people of an Israelite city-cut out their right eyes. Read on for details.

And they all went home after the inauguration of Saul as Israel's new king. In verse 26 of the previous chapter, I skipped over the fact that a band of men went with him, those whose hearts God had touched. (Saul went to Gibeah.)

The touching of their hearts does not refer to spiritual revival, but to courage and strength which came from God and enabled Saul and his army to accomplish God's will in the deliverance of His people.  (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Who do we find our self hanging around? Do we run with those of courage and strength given from the Lord?


LET IT GROW

Now, with that said, on to chapter 11. We don't know how much time passed before Nahash of the  Ammonites threatened the Israeli city of Jabesh-gilead. His army besieged it, refusing to accept the Hebrews' surrender except under the gory condition stated in verse 2.

Nahash means snake. He was the king of the Ammonites, the descendants of Lot who lived east of the Jordan River. This barbarous mutilation (gouge out right eye) was a common punishment of usurpers in the ancient Near East which would disable the warriors' depth perception and peripheral vision, rendering them useless in battle. (MacArthur)

I think we get the picture of this ruthless guy. Can you hear the fear in their voices as the men of Jabesh offered to make a covenant and offered to serve the Ammonites?

Well, the elders of the city asked for 7 days to consider the matter. Actually, they were seeking a deliverer for their city. How strange that these heathens would agree to wait. One of those things I am not sure about why they happened, yet it was for the Hebrews' advantage. God's providence, I'd say.

Their city of Jabesh Gilead was located about 22 miles south of the Sea of Gililee, in the tribal territory of Manasseh. Saul's home of Gibeah was 3 miles north of Jerusalem. Messengers were sent to Saul, their human savior. Saul was out in the field farming when these men arrived. When the events were told, all the people lifted up their voices and cried. When Saul heard the crying, he had to investigate, and learned of the situation.

Listen to what happened as Saul reacted to what he heard:

• The Spirit of God came upon Saul in power.
• Saul burned with anger (divine indignation).
• He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel.
• The message illustrated was that is what would be done to anyone who did not follow Saul and Samuel.  (They got the message of desperation.)
• It worked, for 330,000 united men from Bezek and Judah responded.
• The reassuring reply to the Jabesh Gilead men was: By the time the sun is hot tomorrow, you will be delivered.
• The next day Saul separated his army into 3 divisions. During the early morning hours, Israel slaughtered the Ammonites until the heat of the day as they made a surprised attack on the Ammonite camp. Even the survivors were scattered so they were not together by twos.

Whoever says the Bible is boring has not read this chapter. It would make a great movie, wouldn't it? To God be the glory! He gave the victory! No one got their eye poked out that day!

How do we react when our brothers and sisters need our help? Are we too busy, too this or that to help? Or do we go help?

LET IT GO

When someone needs help, go help.

Trust God for victories.

Don't let the enemy intimidate me.

Stuff, Baggage, and Junk

O. T. #594  "Stuff, Baggage, and Junk"
September 9, 2015
1 Samuel 10-Part 2
And the LORD said, "Yes, he has hidden himself among the baggage."  1 Samuel 10:22b

LET IT GLOW

Samuel made it publically known that Saul was chosen by God as Israel's king. He also let it be known that they had rejected their God as their king. When Samuel called the tribes together, some were looking for the man who was their new king, but they could not find Saul among the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was hid among the stuff (baggage).


Got some junk that needs sorting through and chunked? Every so often I have to go through the baskets in my computer room and discard what is not important or needed. How it does pile up! I have three that needs sorting now. It is beneficial for the clutter and stuff to be done away with. Every now and then we need to evaluate our life and see if Jesus considers anything as junk, stuff, that is interfering with His working in our life, right? It could be activities, movies, reading materials, relationships, etc.
Is there junk in our life that we need to remove so Jesus is King in our heart?
I find it interesting where they found Saul, the newly anointed king of Israel-among the baggage, stuff, junk. Why was he there?

When he was brought to the multitude, they commented about Saul: There is no one like him among the people. (verse 24) He was a head taller than the others.

Verse 24b says, Then the people shouted, "Long live the king!"

Who else was treated like a king of the Jews? Jesus Christ, who was a descendant of King David, and was actually the Son of God was given a parade by some people. In Matthew 21, before Jesus entered Jerusalem, we read where He road a donkey, while they put their cloaks and palm tree branches down on the road. The crowds shouted Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!

This action was done after Jehu was anointed king of Israel in 2 Kings 9.
Is Jesus our King, ruling over us? Do we treat Him as King of our heart?


LET IT GROW

Turning back to chapter 10, Samuel explained to the people the regulations of the kingship. He wrote them down on a scroll and laid them before the Lord. (verse 25)
Then he dismissed the people to their own homes.

Did you notice, after all the hoopla, Saul went back home? Of course, the king was accompanied by valiant men whose hearts God had touched. (verse 26)
Do we ask God to touch the men of our church and family's hearts?

Notice, there were some troublemakers who questioned, How can this fellow save us?
Aren't there always some doubters, discouragers, and demeanors around when you or a church is doing the will of God?
These guys despised Saul and did not bring their king any gifts, which was a custom, apparently.

How did Saul react? Did he have those guys killed? Were they thrown into prison? Were they chased back home? None of the above-But Saul kept silent. (verse 27)

Evidently, Saul did not let this bother him. At least the Bible does not say so.

How do we react to complainers and grippers? Do we walk away and let the Lord handle them?

LET IT GO

Evaluate my heart for any stuff, baggage, or stuff in my life and heart.

Remove anything that interferes with Jesus being the King of my heart.

When criticism and discouragement is said about me, let Jesus hand it.

An Extraordinary Good Day

O. T. #593  "An Extraordinary Good Day"
September 8, 2015
1 Samuel 10
Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head...  1 Samuel 10:1

LET IT GLOW

What happened on your extraordinary day? Some days start out just an ordinary day, and then something happens to make it an extraordinary good day. This last year mine would have been good test results, and making it through surgery. Another I can think of was my husband waking up from heart surgery. Well, I can't for get the day another grandson was born. Yep, I am looking for more good extraordinary days ahead the rest of this year. How about you?

I wonder...was it was just the beginning of an ordinary day for Saul? Then it would turn out to be an extraordinary day. He and his servant were on their way to pick up the strayed donkeys they had been searching for and heading home. It was the day before that they conversed with the Prophet Samuel. Saul found out that God had chosen him to be Israel's first king.

On this extraordinary day, Samuel poured oil over Saul's head, symbolizing God's anointing of Saul. Then Samuel told Saul three signs or prophecies to authenticate the anointing. It was also God's assurance for Saul. In verse 22, Saul hesitated to stand before the people. (He hid himself among the stuff.) Do we hide in stuff when we are hiding our feelings, pain, hurt?

Verse 17 tells us that Samuel made a public declaration of Saul as Israel's new king. His anointing had been a more or less private affair (9:27 and 10:1). It had been a mistake on the people's part in requesting a king so they could be like the surrounding nations (pagan). So they were actually rejecting God as their king in this process.

Do we need reassured from God every now and then?
What if today was going to turn out to be an extraordinary day for us, one we would always remember because of what happened? Are we expecting it? Are we looking for it? Of course, it could be either good or bad events that take place.

LET IT GROW

Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament tells us how Saul had everything in his favor:

1. a strong body (verse 23)
2. a humble mind (verse 21)
3. a new heart (verse 9)
4. spiritual power (verse 10)
5. loyal friends (verse 26)
6. the guidance and prayers of Samuel.

Yet, in spite of these advantages, he failed miserably. Why? Because he would not allow God to be the Lord of his life.

LET IT GO

Live in the now, not the past.

Trust God for an extraordinary day.

Thank and praise Him.


                


          

Divine Appointments

O. T. #592  "Divine Appointments"
September 7, 2015
1 Samuel 9-Part 3
Anoint him leader over my people Israel...   1 Samuel 9:16b


LET IT GLOW


Do we recognize it when God manipulates our circumstances to get us in the right place at the right time according to His will? Do we think things just happen to us or do we believe in Divine appointments? What has God purposed for us to do today in His kingdom work?
He can even use straying donkeys to get a man (Saul) at the right city(Gilgal), to speak to the right person (Prophet Samuel). What strange things God uses for His purposes to be accomplished. He does have a sense of humor.

Saul was with his servant on a hunting expedition, looking for his father's donkeys that wandered away. After three days, his servant suggested they inquire of the Seer, Prophet Samuel as to their animals whereabouts. God had already told Samuel the day before this that He was sending a Benjaminite man to him for Samuel to anoint as Israel's leader. He would be their new king-Saul.
Saul would deliver Israel from the hand of the Philistines.

Anointing was a practice used to confirm the role of a priest (Ex. 28:41, 29:7; Lev. 4:3, 8:12) From this point onward, it was also done for kings. Anointing signified separation and divine equipping for a particular calling from the Lord-a consecration for service. (The Jeremiah Study Book)

According to verse 19-20, when these two met, Samuel instructed Saul:

• to go to the high place of worship and sacrifice where he would bless the sacrifice for the Israelite people ( city of Gilgal);
• Saul would eat a meal with Samuel;
• In the morning, Samuel would let Saul go;
• Samuel would tell Saul what was in his heart (tell him where his donkeys were located);
• Saul's donkeys were found, so he was to not worry;
• He was to be Israel's desire for a king, which is called captain.

The word captain used here refers to a commander, civil, military or religious; chief; governor; leader; noble; prince; chief ruler.

In other words, Saul was to be the first king of Israel at the peoples' request. He was set apart for the Lord's service. The private anointing is found in the next chapter.

Then Saul proceeded to inform Samuel that his was of the smallest tribe, Benjamin, and his clan was the least of them. (They were the smallest because God nearly wiped the out due to their immorality.)God does not need affluence nor pedigree to advance His kingdom, does He?

Saul asked, "Why do you say such a thing to me?" (verse 21) Feeling a bit inferior, are we Saul? Keep it, less it overtakes pride and causes you trouble later.
Samuel did not answer the question.

Ever had your questions remain unanswered? Sure, we all have some. Why this? Why that? Yet the Lord does not tell us why. He can see the big picture, we can't. That is why trusting Him is the only answer we get. God knows best and has a plan, dear ones.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says, Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.

Are we trusting the Lord in all things?


LET IT GROW

As it continues, Samuel brought Saul and his servant into the dining hall and seated them at the head table of 30 guests.

By giving Saul the priest's portion (Ex. 29:27), Samuel indicated that he was God's anointed king. (D. Jeremiah)

I wonder if Saul was given a leg of lamb for the feast. Whatever kind of leg, this meat was cooked and set aside specifically for Saul as a symbol of his being the new king of Israel. After the dinner, Saul went to Samuel's house, and apparently he and his servant spent the night there, on Samuel's roof. (A common custom). At daybreak, the three began walking out of town when Samuel had the servant go on ahead of them. The purpose of this was so Samuel could give Saul a  message from God.

Do we listen closely when the pastor gives a message from God to His church? Better yet, do we heed it?
Are we listening for what God has to say to us as we read His Word? Listening is the key. It take time and effort, but is rewarded.

Do we chase after things of the world, donkeys so to speak, instead of godly things, God's will?
When we see others doing such, do we strive to bring them back to Jesus?


LET IT GO

Trust and obey King Jesus, no matter the cost.

Humbly serve Jesus today.

Stand still when one shares God's Word to me.

Where Are You Going Today?

O. T. #591  "Where Are You Going Today?"
September 4, 2015
1 Samuel 9-Part 2
Then Saul said to his servant, Well said; come, let us go. So they went into the city where the man of God was. 1 Samuel 9:10

LET IT GLOW

Let us go. Where are you going with God today? I am going to finish painting the new church office, then to the grocery store to get a cake mix and icing to bake for the youth after the football game tonight. Our youth gather in the cafeteria for fellowship and witness to their classmates. Our youth director will not be there since he is having kemo treatments today. Please remember him in prayer. This is his second time for the cancer to return. He has such a ministry with those young folks. They need him and so does our church.

God used three donkeys, straying away from Saul's father to get Saul to the place He wanted him to be. Saul and his servant went looking for the donkeys, without success.

What happened next?

• Saul wanted to go back home empty handed, without the donkeys, to his father, before his father came looking for them. (verse 5)
• His servant suggested they go see the Prophet Samuel. "All that he says comes to pass. Let us go thither; peradventure he can show us our way that we should go." suggested the servant. (verse 6)
• Saul asked, "If we go, what shall we bring the man?" (verse 7)
• The Seer, a Prophet of God, enquired of God. (verse 9)
• Saul agreed by saying, "Come, let us go." (verse 10)

Did you notice a little two letter word that was repeated in this segment? Let us go.
Do we sometimes want to turn back when discouragement comes? Will we return to our old way of life or remain faithful and true to Jesus?
Do you suppose that God wants us to go, going where He leads us? Going so His purpose and will is accomplished through us?
The question is, Are we willing to go when and where He leads?


LET IT GROW

We have no gift to take to the man of God. What shall we take? They had eaten up the bread. The servant had a little bit of silver (3 grams worth) to give, which he offered.

When consulting a prophet, it was common to bring a gift (Amos 7:12), modest (1 Kings 14:3) and lavish (2 Kings 8:8-9). (Youngblood)

What did the shepherds bring to their King Jesus at his birth? They told the parents what they had heard and seen by the angels' visit in the fields. Nothing of material wealth was given by the shepherds in comparison to the wise men. However, they gave after seeing the baby Messiah-praise and glory to God, plus sharing the experience with others.

Beside, what do you give the King what made it all other than praise?

Do we ever praise Jesus too much? Today, let us praise Him for who He is and thank Him for all He has done.

LET IT GO...

Bless the Lord, oh my soul; worship His holy name; sing like ever before, oh my soul, I'll worship His holy name-King Jesus, Messiah, Savior, Redeemer, The Way, The Truth, The Life.

Chasing After Donkeys

O. T. #590 "Chasing after Donkeys"
September 3, 2015
1 Samuel 9
...take one of the servants with you and go and look for the donkeys.  1 Samuel 9:3b

LET IT GLOW

I remember when I was a kid, watching my brother chase after our horse so we could ride her. Topsy was her name. Topsy would run all over the field to avoid the ultimate. Finally, when she was cornered in the back field of 40 acres, he would put the bridle on Topsy and ride her back to us. He was worn out after chasing that horse all over creation.

When we go chasing after donkeys in our life, what is the result? Really, does very little good come out of it? What kinds of donkeys are people chasing today-a better job, a nicer house, a good business investment, even a more attractive spouse. Yep, they just lead us down a wrong path or a road to destruction, usually.

Yet, there is always the exception. We start this chapter with a man who chasing after his father's donkeys and he ends up being told he was to be Israel's king. Who would think? (Clue: If he can't lead animals, can he lead a nation?)

Uh Huh! Those donkey of a people want a king? I'll give them a king. Boy, will they regret that request! (Well, I doubt God would have been so ugly in his thinking about Israel, although He did get angry at them at times.)

Shall we look into this chapter?This man named Kish must have been wealthy. He sent a servant with his son, Saul, to look for his straying donkeys. Donkeys kick and hee-haw when they don't want to do something. Hum, sounds like some folks I know.
Are we looking for the rebellious people, pictured as donkeys here, who have strayed from the Lord?

Saul was unable to find the donkeys, then his servant remembers a prophet of God, Samuel, lived nearby, who could inform them of the location of their donkeys. This was no mere chance, but the providence of God.

What do we know about this young man called Saul?

• He was a head taller than the other Israelite men.
• He was from the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest tribe of Israel.
• He was from the family, considered the least within this tribe.
• His father had donkeys instead of sheep.

This pedigree is given to show that Saul came from a proper and prestigious family; and from outward, physical appearances, no better choice could be made. The point made by the biblical author is that Saul is a promising choice from a human perspective, but God's permissive will is active behind the scenes.  (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Saul would have been considered the tall, dark, and handsome type of guy. This is not significant when it came to God's choice of a king.

Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. (see 1 Sam. 16:7)

Are we careful not to consider a person's physical appearance as their most important makeup, but consider their heart, motives, character, and values? Of course, we know an onnery (ornery) person can be attractive. They can be cute on the outside, but ugly on the inside.

It is the heart of a person that is more important to God. And so it should be to us, also.
Are we concerned about where a person's soul will spend eternity?

LET IT GROW

After running here, there, and yander, the servant suggested to Saul that they consult the Seer, which was the same word in the Hebrew language as the word for Prophet (man of God). He trusted that God could reveal where those donkeys were located.

Looking at verse 6, the Prophet could show the men which way to go. Ultimately, the direction came from God.

Do we ask God which way we should go today?
In John 14:6, Jesus said that He was The Way.

In that verse, way refers to  a road, journey, custom.

Are we following Jesus' teachings for our life as He taught?
Do our customs honor Him?
Is our life journey headed where He leads us, and with the right attitude?
Are we going down the broad rod which leads to destruction or the narrow rod which leads to eternal life with Jesus?
What about our family and friends, our coworkers, those we attend church with every week-have we asked them on which road they are traveling?


LET IT GO

Don't let the outward appearance of a person distract me, but focus on the inner person.

Let Jesus change me inside and out.

Attitudes and Actions

O. T. #589  "Attitudes and Actions"
September 1, 2015
1 Samuel 8-Part 2
... and show them the manner of the king that shall reign over them.  1 Samuel 8:9b

LET IT GLOW

I'm doing this and I don't care what they say or think. Yep, been there, done that when I was a teenager. More often than not, parents really do know what is best for their children, don't they? There were times they stopped my actions, but not my attitudes. Know what I mean? Israel was determined to do their own thing, no matter what Samuel and God said.

Although Samuel knew about the priest Eli's sons perverting the priesthood, he neglected his own sons' sins of taking bribes as judges in Israel. This resulted in the people requesting for a king to judge them and rule over them. Samuel was the real leader of Israel at this time. Israel was a nation who had God Himself as their King and Ruler. Go assured Samuel that the people's request was not a rejection of him, but they were actually rejecting God's reign over them. (Israel's basic problem was disobedience to God.)

Israel thought this new system of government would bring about a change in the nation. What they needed was a unified faith, not a uniform rule. (Life Application Study Bible)

Samuel did the right thing and prayed to God about this matter. Israel had had a problem of forsaking God and serving other gods since they left Egypt. The Lord told Samuel to give the people what they asked for.

Which standards are we living by-God's or the world's standards?


LET IT GROW

Life Application Study Bible  says:
The Lord warned His people what would happen if they had a king rule over them:

• He would draft their young men into the army. (14:52)
• He would have their young men run in front of his chariots. (2 Sam. 15:1)
• He'd make slaves of them. (2 Chron. 2:17-18)
• He would take the best their fields and vineyards. (1 Kings 21:5-16)
• He'd list their property for his personal gain. (1 Kings 9:10-14)
• This king would demand a tenth of their harvest and flocks. (1 Kings 12:1-16)

As it turned out, Israel had 43 kings who ruled over them for a period of 450 years, of which only 8 followed the Lord.

Israel was called to be a holy nation, separated from and unique among all others. (Lev. 20:26)

David Jeremiah described the words of the Lord in verse 22 as "His resignation as He grants the people's request;" and sometimes God lest people have their way so they will one day recognize their need for Him.

Is this God's permissive will? Did He not warn them of things to come, which came to pass?

Have you ever made a wrong choice because you wanted to be like everyone else? Is being like others sometimes a bad thing?
Do we reject God's laws and reign over us?
Is King Jesus ruling our thoughts, attitudes, and actions?

Romans 12:2 tells us to be transformed by the renewing of our mind.

LET IT GO

Seek God's ways instead of the world's ways.

Obey His rules.

Surrender to God ruling my attitudes and actions.