Read: I Samuel 16:1-5
In this reading it is Samuel's example of obedience and trust which spoke the loudest to me. God commands, “Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king” (Samuel 16:1). And Samuel, despite his own misgivings, aligns his will with God’s and makes the trek to Bethlehem. Ultimately, it is Samuel’s faithfulness that leads him to David, and he anoints the humble shepherd boy as God’s chosen king over Israel. Jesus the Messiah, a direct descendant of David, is born about a thousand years later.
Now just imagine if Samuel had succumbed to his own fears and chosen a path different from God’s design. Unlike the prophet, humans act contrary to God on a regular basis from running red lights, and stealing to unforgiveness, or just having a wrong attitude. But, because he is obedient to God’s instruction, Samuel not only finds favor and provision, but he also fulfills an even greater purpose, for it is through Samuel that God’s covenant promising an everlasting kingdom is fulfilled. We can all take a page from the book of Samuel.
Lord help us to continue to trust and obey you. We pray for stronger faith, peace, and purpose in these trying times. May we stay connected to you and seek your divine guidance in all things. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Yulanda Swindell
In this reading it is Samuel's example of obedience and trust which spoke the loudest to me. God commands, “Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king” (Samuel 16:1). And Samuel, despite his own misgivings, aligns his will with God’s and makes the trek to Bethlehem. Ultimately, it is Samuel’s faithfulness that leads him to David, and he anoints the humble shepherd boy as God’s chosen king over Israel. Jesus the Messiah, a direct descendant of David, is born about a thousand years later.
Now just imagine if Samuel had succumbed to his own fears and chosen a path different from God’s design. Unlike the prophet, humans act contrary to God on a regular basis from running red lights, and stealing to unforgiveness, or just having a wrong attitude. But, because he is obedient to God’s instruction, Samuel not only finds favor and provision, but he also fulfills an even greater purpose, for it is through Samuel that God’s covenant promising an everlasting kingdom is fulfilled. We can all take a page from the book of Samuel.
Lord help us to continue to trust and obey you. We pray for stronger faith, peace, and purpose in these trying times. May we stay connected to you and seek your divine guidance in all things. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Yulanda Swindell
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