Through the Bible: 1st SamuelSample

Discernment in Troubling Times

Because you did not obey the voice of the LORD and did not carry out his fierce wrath against Amalek, therefore the LORD has done this thing to you this day 

1 Samuel 28:18 (ESV)

Then Achish called David and said to him, “As the LORD lives, you have been honest, and to me it seems right that you should march out and in with me in the campaign. For I have found nothing wrong in you from the day of your coming to me to this day. Nevertheless, the lords do not approve of you. 

1 Samuel 29: 6 (ESV)

And endurance produces character, and character produces hope 

Romans 5:4 (ESV)

Samson and Saul were respectively chosen as rulers of Israel. Both had a burly physique battling against Philistines. Both had initial victories but tragic endings. Both were men after their own hearts. In times of distress, Saul even sought after divination, while Samson reverted to God again at the eleventh hour and regained his anointing for one last time.

David was a man after God’s own heart, yet even in despair, he became a bandit among the Philistines, the enemies of Israel. At one point, David almost fought against his own people had God not used the Philistines to turn him away!

In the midst of stressful times and the pandemic, we are reminded by the Word to hold fast to the rejoicing hope in Christ as the Holy Spirit assures us with the Father’s outpouring love.

Prayer:

Father, it is easy to say not to be doubtful or double-minded, but we acknowledge that it is only by the witnessing power of the Holy Spirit that we can remain steadfast in You with glorious hope. Renew us in our day, draw us anew to Your steadfast love and unending mercies, they are new every morning. In Jesus’ gracious Name, Amen.