Samuel — Prophet and LeaderSample
God Reigns
The Bible points out a direct relationship between political developments and God’s reign. That is good to notice, for we might tend to see God and politics or economics as separate domains. But as we see in today’s text, God used neighboring people groups to punish his covenant people Israel for its transgressions. (Centuries later, he even used other nations to lead Israel into exile.) And vice versa: as long as Israel served the Lord under Samuel’s leadership, their enemies were subdued.
I do not think there is always a direct relationship between people’s relationship with the Lord and specific political developments. But I am very sure that God is still in control, and that he can and does use politics and economics to fulfill his plans with humanity. Are you aware of this fact? Does God’s presence and reign frame your worldview?
Scripture
About this Plan
In the first centuries of their existence as a people, the Israelites had no king. Instead, God appointed prophets and judges to lead them. The last prophet-judge was Samuel. He was a faithful leader who wanted to serve the Lord and to seek the best for his people. This reading plan takes you through Samuel’s life in 15 days and contains valuable lessons that are still relevant today.
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