Character is demonstrated when Pressured

 Read 1 Samuel 26-27. 

The incident and words of chapter 26 are so similar to what took place in chapter 24.  The Ziphites told Saul where David was hiding. Saul marched his army to that area and camped.  This time, David crept up to the very place where Saul slept, took the king's spear and water, and refused to kill the king when he clearly had the opportunity. 

David's character was demonstrated in three ways:

1. He continued to respect the position of the king.

This was not because Saul deserved it, but because he recognized that all authority comes from God.  So, out of respect for the LORD, David respected the human authority over him. 

2. He continued to demonstrate humility toward the king.

Humility may be described as strength under control. 

3. He continued to trust God for rewarding his commitments in doing what is right.

"The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and faithfulness." (26:23) 

Though Saul again confessed that his actions were sinful, "foolish" and, "a great mistake", and even though Saul publicly blessed David and left, David still did not trust him.  To put an end to the pursuit, David took his men and made a cunning alliance with the Philistine king of Gath.  Achish thought David had completely turned against Israel and would conduct raids against Saul's border cities.  Instead, David used his inside access to destroy Philistine cities.  Saul stopped hunting David.  Meanwhile, David waited for God's timing to return to Israel. 

There is a picture of Jesus in David's character and actions.  It turns to an application for all of us. 

The Apostle Peter described Jesus' sufferings like this: "He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.  When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly." (1 Peter 2:22-23)

4 Principles when we feel Mistreated

 Read 1 Samuel 25. 

On the run with 600 men, David needed supplies, especially food.  In their route, they guarded and protected those of Israel who were vulnerable to attack by the Philistines. 

They camped near Nabal at the time of sheep shearing.  He was a very wealthy descendant of Caleb, one of the faithful men of Joshua's day.  Yet, Nabal had a harsh and offensive demeanor.  In fact, his name means "fool".  He saw David as just another rebel, one "breaking away from his master" (v.10). 

This rebuke and insult was about to turn to war, but an unnamed young man appealed to Nabal's wife for intervention.  Abigail approached David with humility, an apology, and a present of some food.  It is interesting to note how discerning and godly her appeal was.  It possessed a total spiritual perspective on the circumstance.  She also included her knowledge that David had been "appointed...prince over Israel."  David recognized that the LORD sent this woman to stop him and protect him from retaliating. 

After a night of drunkenness, Abigail told her husband how she had spared his life.  Evidently, Nabal experienced a stroke and ten days later "the LORD struck Nabal, and he died." (v.38)  

David praised God for avenging the "insult" and then, out of care for the widow, sent for Abigail to be his own wife.  Being without a husband in that culture, this was a huge provision for her. 

Here are four principles to remember when we feel mistreated.

1. The LORD can protect us from making foolish decisions, if we are willing to listen when He says, "Stop." 

2. The LORD can use us to protect others, if we are willing to intervene when He says, "Go." 

3. The LORD hears and sees evil and wrongdoing.  He will avenge these in His time when He says, "Enough." 

4. The LORD will provide for those who are innocent and endeavor to do what is right when He says, "Enjoy."  

3 Godly responses when a leader is Wrong

 Read 1 Samuel 24. 

Running for his life with 600 men, David turned south to the wilderness areas of Israel.  First, he hid in Ziph, then Moan, and in this chapter he hid in a cave of Engedi.  When King Saul heard of David's location, he amassed 3,000 troops and headed south.  Surely, with an overwhelming ratio of 5 to 1 Saul could be successful.  But God... 

Of all the places Saul could have selected to relieve himself he walked right into the cave where David was hiding.  This could have been David's opportunity to do away with Saul, seize the throne, and put an end to this awful chapter of suffering in his life.  Indeed, his own men wanted David to do that very thing.  To prove a point, David sought only to embarrass the king by sneakily cutting off part of Saul's robe while he was indisposed.  After his success in doing so, his conscience bothered him so badly that David became the one to experience embarrassment for what he had done. 

David took a huge risk coming out of the cave and calling to Saul.  When the king realized what had happened and that David did not harm him in any way, deep conviction came upon him.  Saul wept and confessed his actions as evil.  Further, he admitted that he knew David would be the next king. 

David's turn will come, and Saul will be dealt with in God's time.  Meanwhile, note how David treated the God-given authority over him, even when the authority was wrong.

1. Respect.

David referred to Saul as "the LORD's anointed".  That did not mean he agreed with Saul or was in anyway accepting of Saul's behavior.  The respect was for Saul's position of authority in his life.  To have such respect requires one to look beyond the person and see the ultimate Authority, the One who has all power in heaven and on earth.  Matthew 28:19-20. 

2. Honor.

David bowed down and paid homage to his king.  This is closely coupled with respect, of course, but honor goes one step farther.  One may be forced to show respect but honor must come from within. 

3. Humility.

In verse 14 David humbled himself by comparing his life and stature before the king as a "dead dog" and a "flea."  This was the opposite of what David could have demanded, but he did not.  All he wanted to do was serve.  True humility is best demonstrated when we voluntarily give up our rights in order to do what is right.  

The Apostle Peter wrote, "Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.  For this is a gracious thing, when mindful of God, one endures sorrow while suffering unjustly."  1 Peter 2:18-19.

Get a Grip

 Read 1 Samuel 23. 

As David endeavored to lay low and stay out of sight, the Philistines crossed the border from Gath and attacked the city of Keilah.  If he were not on the run, Saul would have given David orders to launch a counterattack with Israel's army.  But now it was no longer David's job.  David could have stood by and let the enemy win and let Saul experience the failure of not protecting his own people, but these were David's people too.  He prayed and God said, "Go." 

There are times when we act, not because it is our responsibility, but because it is the right thing to do. 

The LORD gave the victory (v.4) and provisions for David's small army.  While there Abiathar, a priest, joined David and informed him of Saul's plans to lay siege to Keilah in order to kill David.  David again inquired of God as to what to do.  What thanks did he receive for saving the city and people of Keilah?  Instead of gratitude from Saul, he launched a full scale pursuit against David.  Instead of gratitude and protection of the city of Keilah, the people would easily have surrendered him to Saul.  

When David left Keilah to hide in the wilderness of Ziph, his band of men had grown to 600.  Daily, he feared for his life.  The questions remained as to why this was happening to him without cause and how long would he be running for his life.  Surely, questions of his faith arose.  

Two faith-strengthening things then took place.  First, God sent Jonathan.  Saul could not find David but the Lord directed Jonathan right to him.  Why did Jonathan risk being seen as a traitor and come to David?  Verse 16b shows the true mark of godly friend; he "strengthened his hand in God."  The implication is that under the stress, David's faith may have been slipping a bit.  We all need people in our lives who will come alongside us at those times of crises to encourage us and to help us increase our grip on our faith in the Lord.  

Next, the Ziphites betrayed David and gave Saul the general location of the hiding place.  It was under such life-threatening conditions that David penned some of the Psalms.  Psalm 54 was written in the wilderness of Ziph.  "Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the upholder of my life." (Psalm 54:4) 

God’s help and a godly friend will increase the grip on our faith.

When things go from bad to Worse

 Read 1 Samuel 21-22. 

David pleased God and did everything well.  But he was on the run for his life to escape King Saul.  When he came to Nob, he visited with the priest, Ahimilech, for food and weapons.  

The only loaves of bread available were those used for worship and just taken off the altar.  The law allowed only the priests to eat this particular day-old bread.  Jesus commented on this incident in Matthew 12:1-7, teaching that the law was made for man, not man for the law.  The only weapon on the premises was Goliath's sword that had been stored there.  Also, we are told that Saul's chief herdsman, Doeg, witnessed these things. 

David crossed the border into Philistine territory.  In fact, he went to Gath, the hometown of Goliath.  The people recognized David immediately.  To escape, David pretended to be insane prompting the King of Gath to dismiss him.  Next, David hid in a stronghold cave in Adullam.  Here an assembly of four hundred men gathered to follow him.  He made sure that his parents and family were taken to safety. 

Meanwhile, Doeg reported to Saul all that he saw at Nob.  In retaliation for what he deemed as treason, Saul ordered to Doeg kill 85 innocent priests of the LORD and their families.  From there Doeg annihilated everything in the city of Nob.  The only one to escape was a son of Ahimilech who found and informed David of what took place.  Surely, David felt the weight of their deaths and even some responsibility for involving those priests.  His response was to write Psalm 52. 

The whole episode seems so unnecessary and meaningless from a human viewpoint. 

-Why did God allow Saul to continue his murderous behavior?

-Why did David, a faithful man and anointed to be the next king, have to suffer?

-Why the slaughter of innocent servants of God? 

By faith we trust the living Lord with our lives, our futures, and our unanswered questions.  There is much about life that is beyond our understanding and our ability to control.  Charles Spurgeon wrote, “When we cannot trace His hand, we must trace His heart.” 

The old hymn underscores this truth.

"Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!  How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!

Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!  O for grace to trust Him more!"

 

 

 

6 Identifying marks of a true Friend

Read 1Samuel 20. 

An old adage that dates back over 500 years states: "A friend in need is a friend indeed."  Many can be friendly, but it is in times of personal crises that one discovers who their true friends are. 

David found himself in a life and death crisis.  King Saul and all his minions were on a pursuit to find and kill David.  At the core of his stress, perhaps more than his potential loss of life was the question, "Why?"  In verse 1 he asked, "What have I done?  What is my guilt?  And what is my sin...?" 

Every suffering person asks those same questions.  "What did I do wrong that this happened to me?  What could I have done differently?  What is my sin that God has allowed this?"  If there has been some obvious foolish decision or outright sinful behavior, then one can more easily admit they brought it on themselves.  But, when after self-examination there is no answer, the confusion can become unbearable.  That is when it is most helpful to have a friend. 

Such friends are few and far between.  No one has a lot of friendships on this level.  Fortunately for David, God provided Jonathan.  Here are just a few transferable characteristics of a true friend found in this chapter. 

1. A true friend is willing to just listen. (v.1)

A person on the front end of a crisis does not want to hear platitudes; does not want the subject changed to your story; does not want to hear a countering view; or your solution.  The first thing they need is someone who will just listen to their emotions and even to vent their questions without judgment.  That does not mean silence but words of understanding and support are needed. 

2. A true friend is available and willing to help. (v.4)

Some real friends may care deeply but due to other circumstances or commitments simply cannot be available or in a position to help.  In times of deep need, we want someone who can drop what they are doing to serve whatever is required.  Jonathan's words, "Whatever you say, I will do for you," had to be reassuring to David.  In verses 5 and 42, this commitment extended to their families. 

3. A true friend is meeting real needs, not just temporal ones. (v.14)

The greatest need of anyone is to experience the eternal love of the LORD.  The second is to experience the faithful love of a friend.  This type of love is best defined in the word commitment.  David looked at Jonathan and said, "Show me the steadfast love of the LORD".   We have the opportunity in such cases to be the hands of Jesus in demonstrating what true love looks like. 

4. A true friend has a plan to help. (vv.18-22)

Without specifics of what to do, the moment will only melt into a puddle of emotions.  There must be some substance that will genuinely aid the one in crisis to take the next step.  It may not be the ultimate solution, but at least there is movement and progress toward hope. 

5. A true friend has your back. (vv.28-34)

Jonathan defended David when he was not there to defend himself.  When others say bad things about your friend in their absence, what do you do or say?  That is a test of true friendship.  Standing up for David almost cost Jonathan his life.  Willingness to put one's own life on the line for another is the highest commitment of a true friend. 

6. A true friend is emotionally invested. (v.41)

Sometimes there is nothing left to do but cry together.  

"A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." (Proverbs 18:24)

7 questions when in confusing Circumstances

 Read 1 Samuel 19. 

King Saul increasingly showed signs of insanity or, at least, some level of schizophrenia.  His behavior could quickly change.  In one moment he displayed rage and murderous intent.  Then, in the next he was repentive and conciliatory. 

Saul knew that his days were numbered as king.  It was obvious to him that David would succeed him, even if he had not already been told of Samuel's anointing of David.  On one hand Saul knew the facts of David's loyalty and service to him.  Saul knew God's hand was upon David and this had blessed Saul's reign.  Yet, jealousy and insecurity caused him to react in an unjustifiable way.  

When Saul proved incapable of killing David by himself, he ordered his servants to do it.  He even sent out a posse after David.  But each time Saul's plans were thwarted.  God protected both men.  He protected Saul from committing murder and protected David from rebellion against the king. 

The last part of this chapter shows God's intervention and, perhaps, even a bit of humor.  As the messengers approached the place where Samuel and David were, "the Spirit of God came upon them."  The same thing occurred when Saul arrived.  Eugene Merrill wrote, "This means that they fell into a trance of an ecstatic state, a condition which immobilized them and made them incapable of accomplishing their evil intentions." 

The agony for David was not just from Saul's pursuit of his life.  David was being tested by God through this horrific time.

-Will he rebel against his God-given authority and take matters into his own hands?

-As a proven warrior and the support of the army, will he take revenge and kill Saul?

-He had been anointed to be the next king; would he question God's plans for his life?

-Would he become a door mat, a continuing moving target for Saul, or a willing martyr?

-Will he use this time to hone his skills as a warrior-leader?

-Will he write down his feelings and his faith to express his pain in ways that can help others (Psalms)?

-Will he cast his dependence upon God and do what is right regardless of what others do? 

Those same questions we all must answer when facing difficult circumstances with other people.  The answers to those test questions are determined in advance by first having a heart that belongs to God, coupled with a commitment to be obedient to Him no matter what.

Attitude and Authority

 Read 1 Samuel 18. 

The victory over Goliath elevated David in every way. 

-Saul appointed him in charge of Israel's army (that would include his own brothers).

-Jonathan became his best friend.

-Women sang his praises.

Indeed, "David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him." (v.5) 

From that time on, Saul was overcome by jealousy and fear of losing his popularity and position.  The truth was he had already lost both of them. 

He feared David because he knew the LORD was with him (v.12).  In addition, Saul "stood in fearful awe" at David's continuous successes (v. 15). 

The jealousy, fear, anger and wickedness of Saul led to his attempts to kill David one way or another.  He had promised to give the one who killed Goliath his daughter in marriage.  But after the engagement was announced Saul gave that daughter to another man.  

What is astounding to read is David's humility and servant's spirit toward the King.  Through all of this, he declared himself to be but a poor man of no reputation (v.23). 

His respect for the position of authority, even when that authority was wrong, speaks to all of us.  As believers, we know full well that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20).   All human authority ultimately is instituted by God and will serve His purposes (Romans 13:1-2).  

When feeling slighted, marginalized, promises broken, or threaten, remember the character of David.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10)

5 checks for facing today's Challenges

 Read 1 Samuel 17. 

For forty days, several times a day, Goliath challenged Israel with his words.  No one had the courage to take on this bully.  Saul offered money, his daughter in marriage, and literally the royal treatment if someone would step up. 

What moved David to act with such confidence?  It was his spiritual of perspective on the problem.  And, that made all the difference. 

-David never saw this as a territorial, political, or even a physical fight.

-It was not a matter of stirring up enough courage with skill, experience, and luck to kill Goliath. 

-David did not see these men as the army of Israel, but the army of the living God.

-It was not a battle of them against us, but them against God. 

Why didn't the Lord just strike Goliath dead on the spot?  He could have, but most often God will use the right person at exactly the right time to do His will. 

When facing huge challenges in life, not of our own doing, check these five personal areas. 

1. The Motive Check. (v.36)

David could not stand by and do nothing while God and God's people were being ridiculed and cursed. 

2. The Faith Check. (v.37)

David’s trust was not solely in his own ability and experience but in God's deliverance. 

3. The Method Check. (vv.38-40)

He learned from his past.  God had tested him previously in life threatening situations. 

4. The Message Check. (vv.45-47)

He was there for one reason: "that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel." 

5. The Humility Check. (v.58)

His response was not about replacing Saul as king, but "I am the son of your servant." 

How do you see your challenges today?  Is it us against them, or them against God?  As tested servants of God, we trust Him to deliver us.

The number one evaluator of People

 Read 1 Samuel 16.

The LORD announced to Samuel, "I have provided myself a king".  It was not wrong that Israel wanted a king, but the timing and the selection of Saul proved to be a temporary concession.  God had foretold of one day having a king, but he would come from the tribe of Judah.  Saul was of the tribe of Benjamin.  Samuel's instructions were to go to Bethlehem and choose from the family of Jesse.

We learn nine things about David in this chapter.
-He was the youngest of eight sons.
-He tended the family's flock of sheep.
-He had a ruddy complexion, beautiful eyes, and a handsome face.
-He was a skillful musician.
-He was a man of valor.
-He was a man of war.
-He was prudent in speech.
-He presented himself well.
-Most of all, people knew the LORD was with him.

With his good looks, skill and experiences David would, of course, be an obvious pick, right?  Saul was taller than others.  Elihab was the oldest son of Jesse.  But God gave to Samuel an important principle for evaluating people.

"For the LORD sees not as a man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."

A heart that is right with God will always win in the long run over good looks and great skill.

 

4 Powerful statements for Self-examination

 Read 1 Samuel 15. 

Warren Buffet once said, "In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And if they don't have the first, the other two will kill you." 

In Saul's case, he lacked integrity and his intelligence was questionable.  This particular episode in Saul's life began in 14:16.  God used Jonathan to put the Philistines into great confusion, fleeing and even killing each other.  When an Israeli scout saw this, he alerted Saul and his army.  The full attack and rout was on.  The men were exhausted from battle but Saul inexplicably decided to declare a fast. 

Out of his own insecurities, he sought reassurance from God.  It seems that every time Saul became hard pressed he wanted to do something religious, even if it meant disobedience to the word of the Lord.-He summoned the ark of God in battle, a symbol of God presence.

-He declared a fast for a battle-weary army.

-He pronounced a curse of death on the starving that might disobey his order.

-He built an altar to sacrifice to the LORD.

-If the people had not intervened, he probably would have executed his own son to save face.

-He built a monument to himself (15:12). 

However, he was the king and as such God used Saul to turn back all of Israel's surrounding enemies.  It was a time of victory for the nation and exalted Saul's leadership.  One of these enemies that the LORD wanted destroyed was the Amalekites.  Though centuries had passed, God never forgot their mistreatment of His people during the exodus (15:2).  The order from God was clear; total annihilation.  But 15:9 describes how Saul disobeyed. 

God sent Samuel to confront Saul about this sin.  The first response from Saul to Samuel was a lie (15:13).  The second sentence he spoke was another lie (15:15).  He blamed the people for his own disobedience and tried to make it sound like a good thing.  Samuel was already angry (15:11) and yelled, "Stop!"

Even when confronted about his disobedience, Saul stuck to his story, claiming he did what he was supposed to do and blaming the people.  It is only when Samuel pronounced God's judgment upon him that Saul repented.  In chapter 13, Saul lost his dynasty as Samuel told him "the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart" (13:14).  Here God rejected Saul from even from being king of Israel "and has given it to a neighbor of yours, who is better than you" (15:28). 

Samuel made four powerful statements that exposed Saul's sin. (15:22-23)

1. Sacrifices to the LORD are to represent a heart and life of obedience to Him.

2. Obedience is better than going through the motions of religious ritual.

3. Disobedience is rebellion and compared to witchcraft and divination. 

4. Stubborn arrogance is compared to the sin of idolatry. 

The Apostle Paul wrote: "But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged.  But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world." (1 Corinthians 11:31-32)

5 keys to confronting a Challenge

 Read 1 Samuel 14. 

While the focus of this chapter is on Saul's continued foolish decisions, do not miss the sterling character of Jonathan.  He became overshadowed by his father and then later by the rise of David's leadership.  But this man was as cunning, brave, and godly as any in the Bible. 

When confronted with a threatening challenge, we learn 5 things from Jonathan's example.

1. He took courageous initiative.

-He did not sit and wait for someone else to do something.

-He did not ask permission or approval to investigate.

-He ventured as close as he could without risk. 

2. He thoughtfully considered the opportunity to see if this is what God wanted done.

"It may be that the LORD will work for us..." (v.6)

God's power and ability are unquestionable!  But is this what God wants us to be doing?  If it is, then He will demonstrate His power.  If not, we should not proceed. 

3. He had predetermined what would indicate whether to go or stay. (vv.9-10) 

4. He willingly exposed himself in taking the first step.

-There is always a risk when exposing one's ideas or availability.

-Mark Twain said, "Courage is resistance to fear, not the absence of it."

-When ridiculed he did not flinch.  He was prepared. 

5. His ultimate trust was not in himself but the LORD.

-"...for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few." (v.6)

-Try to find in the Bible where the will of God was ever determined by a majority.  Indeed, all the rest of Israel’s soldiers, including the king, were sitting in camp.

-Though he certainly was cunning, possessed skill, and had a supportive partner, the only explanation for what took place is the Hand of God. 

This incredible victory happened because one man sought an opportunity for success and was willing to go see if God was in it. 

What opportunities do you see today?

 

 

The Test of Success

 Read 1 Samuel 13. 

Whenever there is a success, a victory, a blessing, or a decisive stand taken on an issue, expect that it will be tested.  Saul demonstrated national leadership and experienced a win over the Philistines.  This launched his reign as the first king of Israel.  Next came the test. 

Israel continued to be oppressed and controlled by their neighbors, the Philistines.  They would not stand by and let Saul flex anymore military muscle against them.  When the Philistines amassed their army to fight against the Israelites, all the men of Israel feared for their lives.  They fled and hid themselves. 

There is nothing like a threat to cause people to lose all self-reliance and cast their total dependence on God.  

The situation called for a time of national repentance and worship.  Saul had been given instructions to wait for Samuel, the High Priest, to offer sacrifices and to deliver God's instructions for the nation.  But Saul, out of his own insecurities, his impatience, and his fear, took matters into his own hands.  He was the king; he was the leader.  Who needed Samuel?  In doing so, he abused his power, he violated the Mosaic Law from God, he broke fellowship with God, he damaged his relationship with Samuel, and he lost the dynasty of his kingship.  This was a test.  Saul had failed. 

It is never right to do wrong. 

When Samuel arrived, his words were clear, straightforward, and painful.  "You have done foolishly.  You have not kept the command of the LORD your God..." (v.13) 

A leader must understand the real issues.

-The real challenge was not the Philistines.

-The real problem was not the ritual of the burnt offering.

-The real test was obedience to the LORD from the heart. 

From then on, “The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart.” (v.14) 

Determine to make an A on God’s tests today.

An Example of Spiritual Leadership

 Read 1 Samuel 12. 

While the national leadership transferred to Saul, Samuel continued to be the spiritual leader of the nation.  The inauguration of the king afforded Samuel the opportunity to preach one last challenging message to the people.  Notice the development of his sermon. 

Samuel's Integrity (vv.3-5)

Imagine beginning a Sunday sermon in this manner.  The people acknowledged that in all his life of ministry he had wronged no one; not one person had anything bad to say about him. 

Israel's History (vv.6-13)

Starting with Moses and the exodus from Egypt, Samuel recounted for them how they arrived to where they were.  The story of Israel was one of God's leading, the sin of the people, their repentance, and God's faithfulness.  It was a theocracy but at this point the people wanted a king. 

The People's Charge (vv.14-15)

If the people fear, serve, and obey the LORD, "it will be well."  If they do not, then "the LORD will be against you and your king." 

The Confirmation of the Message (vv.16-20)

At that exact time and place, an unusual storm of thunder and rain came.  This validated that Samuel's message was not from him, but came directly from the LORD.  The people got it.  It put the fear of God in them.  The people cried out for Samuel to intercede for them. 

Now that God and Samuel had their attention, they were ready to listen to some instruction and responsibilities.  What do they need to know and do?

1. God's Character and Ownership.

He will be faithful.  Why?  These are His people. They belong to Him.  He will do this, not for them, but for Himself.  It is His name and His reputation on the line. 

2. The Spiritual Leader's Responsibilities to the People.

Two basic responsibilities: First is prayer.  Failing to pray for the people under his care would be a sin.  Second is wise instruction based upon what God has said. 

3. The People's Responsibilities to God.

-To fear God.  This requires diligent respect His presence and dread the consequences of any disobedience.

-To serve God.  This requires one knowing how God designed them and finding an appropriate place to put that purpose into practice.

-To be grateful.  This requires thinking and thanking the LORD for all He has done.

6 Insights for organizational Achievement

 Read 1 Samuel 11. 

Saul had gone back home and continued farming.  But when he received word that his home town was threatened by the Ammonites several things immediately took place.

1. The Spirit of the LORD "rushed upon Saul".  This ignited a godly motivation.

2. Saul became emotionally engaged.  He could no longer continue doing what he had been doing.

3. He took drastic and immediate action.  Indeed, he killed his own oxen to get the message out.  He sacrificed his livelihood.  There would be no turning back. 

330,000 men responded at Saul's call.  Saul organized them and they experienced a great victory.  Previously he had been selected as king, but now he demonstrated national leadership.  This prompted Samuel to inaugurate Saul to the position. 

6 insights:

1. There was an urgent need.

This was not just a nice idea or the selfish plan of a leader.  It was about others.  Lives were in the balance. 

2. The Holy Spirit moved on the heart of the leader to act.

This was not driven by personality or position.  This is what God wanted done. 

3. The people responded in unity.

There is great power when people are willing to drop their own concerns to meet an urgent need that God wants done. 

4. Everyone followed through on the plan. 

They did not show up to discuss and vote on a plan.  No.  These people showed up ready to follow the leader and to take action. 

5. The leader remained humble in victory.

In verse 13a, Saul refused to use his position and the opportunity to exercise power against others. 

6. The glory was given to the LORD.

Saul said, "For today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel" (v. 13b).  God empowered the leader, gave them unity, and ensured the victory.

Responding to God's Opportunities

 Read 1 Samuel 9-10. 

It is easy for those who know the Bible to jump to the end of Saul’s story.  However, we should not miss the moments here and the clear statements of the Scriptures.  This truly is a picture filled with contradictions.  Here are just a few:

Israel wanted a king.

But it was not God's timing.

 

Saul was from a wealthy family.  He was personally taller and more handsome than anyone else.

But he does not have any experience in leadership.

 

He was being looked to as a leader.

But he lacked self-confidence and displayed personal insecurities.

 

He was from the tribe of Benjamin.

But the kingly tribe was to be Judah (Genesis 49:10).

 

God answered the people's request.

But Samuel told them they had rejected God.

 From the start Saul's selection appears to be a temporary appeasement until the real king is ready.  In the meantime, God did some wonderful things for Saul.  He gave him resources and opportunities to succeed, from the inside out.  The future would then be up to Saul and his responses to his God-given opportunities. 

What did God do initially to help Saul?

1. "The Spirit of the LORD” rushed upon him (10:6).

2. "God gave him another heart" (10:9).

3. He was noticeably a changed man (10:11). 

As Samuel prepared the nation for this leadership transition, he gave them a short history lesson and closed by charging them in writing (10:25).  In doing so, he reminded them of God’s goodness to them in a phrase in mid-sentence. "...who saves you from all you calamities and your distresses" (10:19b). 

Consider all the God-given opportunities each of us has today.  "His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises..." (2 Peter 1:3-4a).  Today, through personal faith in Jesus, the LORD has already provided all we need to live for Him.  Our life story is told in how we respond.

Timing can mean everything

Read 1 Samuel 8. 

Now, Israel wanted a king. 

What prompted this?

Samuel was elderly and his two sons who would have succeeded him were corrupt.  Unlike the Elders in Eli's day, the national Elders here came to Samuel to make a change in leadership.  Instead of another Judge, the people wanted a king.  Samuel took it as a personal rejection.  

What was the real problem?

The LORD established them as a unique nation.  Under His authority, He raised up the leadership the nation needed at the time.  Moses served as a prophet leader.  Joshua was a military man.  The Judges made spiritual and ultimate decisions for Israel. 

The people did not want to be different any longer.  They wanted to be “like all the nations” around them.  The root issue was they were rejecting God Himself (v.7). A change was needed but the timing and spirit of the people was wrong.  

What did it cost them?

The request for a king was not out of the will of God.  In fact, God told the people back in Moses' day that once they settled into the land that He would establish a king for them (Deuteronomy 17:14-15).  According to Jacob’s prophesy in Genesis 49:10, out of the tribe of Judah would come Israel’s royalty. 

In the ESV, six times in verses 10-17 the phrase "he will take" appears.  Israel will look good in battle with a royal leader arrayed in his finest, but the cost will be substantial.  The greatest cost would be when the people realize their mistake the LORD will not answer their prayer (v.18). 

Someone once said, "Be careful what you ask for.  You might just get it."  There are never any regrets when we trust in God's timing to unfold His plan for us.

Addressing the true needs of the Nation

 Read 1 Samuel 7. 

Here we receive a sweeping overview of the ministry and spiritual impact of Samuel, the last Judge of Israel.  The nation lived in the defeat, fear and oppression of their neighbor Philistia.  What should they do?  Some would have concluded that at least they were alive and just keep peace.  Others would have launched into a massive military build up to go to war.  But instead Samuel called for a national repentance toward the LORD. 

The root of the problem was spiritual.  Until the people acknowledged the real problem and dealt with it, God would continue to use the Philistines to gain their attention. 

The call to the nation included the following elements.  By the way, these are the same for us today.

1. Returning to the LORD with all their heart.

The definition of repentance is not saying you are sorry.  It involves turning around from going one's own way and turning to God Himself.  It is not joining a church and engaging in religious activities.  It is first and foremost a wholehearted embracing of the One who loves us and gave Himself for us. 

2. Putting away the false gods.

The proof of repentance and a love relationship with God is riddance of all that caused us to go our own way in the first place.  Certain people, places and things of pleasure, passion, and possessions can distract us from real life to one of sinful and empty pursuits. 

3. Gathering publicly for repentance, prayer, fasting, offering and worship.

No one grows in their faith in a vacuum.  God's design for us to mature in our faith is to engage with other believers.  We all need to be taught the Word of God and be led in putting it into practice with others.  As believers we are part of a family of faith.  A Christian alone is contradiction. 

The results are undeniable and powerful.  When God's people joined together with pure hearts for prayer and fasting, the enemy became energized to attack.  We should expect such opposition from Satan and his minions.  But in response to their repentance and prayers to God, the LORD answered (v.9).  He acted swiftly and powerfully on their behalf.  Israel was delivered. 

Based on the once and for all sacrifice of Jesus, "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16) 

When God came to Visit

 Read 1 Samuel 5-7:2. 

The Philistines defeated Israel decisively and captured the Ark of the Covenant.  They placed it before their god, Dagon, as a spoil of war and probably as a sign of submission to their idol.  However, God allowed the Philistines to take the Ark in order to demonstrate His great power to them. 

Here are a few insights:

-If you have to keep helping your god stand up, maybe you need a new god.

-If your god needs you to repair it, maybe you need a new god.

-If your god keeps falling down before the presence of the God of Israel, perhaps someone is trying to tell you something. 

Next, God caused physical discomfort by sending a plague of tumors among them.  There were five city-kingdoms among the Philistines ruled by five lords.  Moving the Ark from city to city only proved that the tumors came with it.  The false priests and so-called "diviners" came up with a plan to appease the God of Israel and to return the Ark. 

Do not miss their statement in 6:6.  They knew the power of God.  They knew what He done to the Egyptians in the Exodus.  They even included as part of their plan "a guilt offering" (vv.3, 8).  Yet, instead of such knowledge and experience leading them to repentance of their sin and embracing the LORD, they only devised a plan to rid themselves of Him. 

Once across the border, the men of Beth-shemesh celebrated in worship, making sacrificial offerings to the LORD.  Worship and offerings are inseparable in the scriptures. 

Some of the men decided to look inside the Ark and make sure all the contents were still there.  This was directly against what God had instructed.  Such foolish action cost them their lives.  Unlike false gods, the LORD is able to take care of Himself. 

The Ark remained there for the next twenty years; just enough time for Samuel to mature, reestablish true spiritual leadership in the nation, and prepare it for the next leader (7:2). 

The people asked a great eternal question in 6:20- "Who is able to stand before the LORD, this holy God?"  On our own, the answer is no one.  "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).  That is the bad news.  The good news is this-"And are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 3:24).

 

Would anyone notice if God left?

 Read 1 Samuel 4. 

This chapter tells a tragic story in the history of Israel.  There was plenty of blame to go around.  Eli served as the High Priest and Judge of the nation for 40 years.  His two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, used the privileges of their position to feed their own lusts.  Israel needed strong spiritual and judicial leadership.  Instead, they were led by sinful, evil men and no one held them accountable, except God.      

Throughout the Old Testament, when God disciplined or punished a nation of people, He used an opposing nation to do His work.  In this case He raised up the Philistines.  When Israel lost the first battle, they acknowledged that something was wrong spiritually.  However, they did not repent and take action against the sin among them.  No, they just wanted to do something religious.  God is not a good luck charm! 

They sent for the Ark of Covenant in Shiloh.  In the Tabernacle, the Ark was set behind a thick curtain.  The very presence of God hovered over the Ark.  Even the High Priest could only enter that holy place once a year and that with the annual blood of atonement.  So, unless God's presence moved they would have died on the spot.  They did not die because God was no longer there.  To be sure, the LORD would have protected the contents of the Ark with all His power, but the nation entered a life and death battle with their trust only in a gilded box. 

Success would not be the result of going through the motions of ritual, but personal and national dependence on the presence and power of God. 

What went wrong?

1. When the sin of the two in leadership became known, Eli should have relieved them of their positions immediately.

2. When Eli did nothing, the Elders should have stepped in and dealt with the issues.

3. When the Elders did nothing, the people should have kept up their protest (2:16) until the sinful men and practices had been removed, instead of accepting the evil and allowing it to continue. 

As a result, everyone suffered.  34,000 men of Israel died in the war.  Hophni and Phinehas were killed by the Philistines.  Eli died.  Phinehas' wife died. 

The summation is found in verse 21: Ichabod, "The glory has departed."  The real tragedy of this story is that because of the unchecked sin God's glory departed a long time ago and no one noticed.  It took God's intervention to shame and embarrass the people into submission and to replace the national leadership. 

Two leadership models.

Godly leadership has purpose and clear direction.  It is characterized by self-sacrifice, strength, and willingness to say to "no" to what is wrong in order to say "yes" to what God wants done.  This creates a people with an attitude of service. 

Corrupt leadership is characterized by the leader's self-indulgences and pride.  Therefore, they willingly give into whatever the people want.  This creates a people with an attitude of selfish entitlement.

 

God is speaking. Are you listening?

 Read 1 Samuel 3. 

Hearing and responding to God's voice is not limited to age, experience, or position.  Samuel was very young.  Not only did God speak to him directly, but "came and stood" by Samuel to deliver the message (v.10).  The content of the message had to do with what God had already told Eli in chapter 2. 

The important take away for us is found in verse 9: "Speak, LORD for your servant hears."

This is the goal of every person who wants to live wholeheartedly for God. 

Four observations about Samuel's call:

1. The call came to Samuel while he was serving God.  Many want to know the will of God for their lives that are not doing anything in the way of ministry for Him.  Someone once said, "You cannot steer a vehicle that is not moving." 

2. The call of God was personal.  The LORD had particular plans for Samuel's life.  The fulfillment of those plans only came as Samuel personalized what God wanted done in serving Him. 

3. The call of God was an assignment.  There would be an overhaul of spiritual leadership for the nation.  God wanted Samuel ready to lead. 

4. The call of God took time to unfold.  Samuel needed time to mature both physically and spiritually before assuming national leadership.  Because Samuel's mind and conscience were sensitive to listening to God and obeying what He said, "the LORD was with Him as he grew" (v.19).  Note that this was in spite of the evil environment in which he was raised.  And, the LORD revealed Himself directly to Samuel later (v.21) and at other times in his leadership. 

The Holy Spirit speaks to us today primarily through the Bible.  Often we understand an application of His word through sound teaching or wise counsel.  Throughout the day the Holy Spirit is speaking to us in the observations of life. 

Sometimes His voice is loud and clear.  But most often, it is a still small voice.  "And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." (Isaiah 30:21) 

God is speaking all the time.  Are you listening?

 

What does God want from us?

 Read 1 Samuel 2:12-36. 

The contrast in this chapter is unmistakable.  In the first part, we are told of a godly woman who worshipped, who prayed, who experienced the LORD's blessing.  In the second part, we find that the priests were spiritually and morally corrupt. 

Eli was not only the High Priest but he was also the father of these two men.  Was Eli responsible for their sin?  No.  These were grown men and fully responsible for their own behaviors.  The root of the problem was “They did not know the LORD” (v.12).  Should Eli have confronted the sin and removed them from service?  Absolutely! High Priests served for life.  Eli was quite elderly.  He knew what was happening and only reprimanded them.  Sin is like a cancer.  Left unchecked it will only spread and become fatal. 

We are not left in doubt as to what God was thinking and wanted said.  He sent an unnamed "man of God", a prophet, to deliver His message.  The message had its bases in the book of Exodus where the LORD chose the tribe of Levi to professionally serve Him.  These men had received a special and godly heritage to steward.  Instead, they treated what God had given them with "scorn" (v.29).  That root attitude of rebellion against the LORD and His plan for them is a key definition in the Bible of sin for which Jesus died (Isaiah 53:6). 

What does God want from us?

There are two key verses here that answer that question.

1. "...for those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed." (v.30)

Do my thoughts, my words and my actions moment by moment honor the LORD?

This requires self-awareness and self-discipline.

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Corinthians 10:31) 

2. "And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind..." (v.35)

Under the New Covenant (New Testament), believers in Jesus are His priests.  We have a heritage of faith and service to steward.

How can we honor Him if we do not know what is on His heart and on His mind?

This requires reading, meditating, and being taught the Word of God.  

"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." (Psalm 119:11)