A Promising Beginning

“Then all the people said to Samuel, ‘Pray for your servants to the Lord your God, so that we may not die, for we have added to all our sins this evil by asking for ourselves a king.’ Samuel said to the people, ‘Do not fear. You have committed all this evil, yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. You must not turn aside, for then you would go after futile things which can not profit or deliver, because they are futile. For the Lord will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the Lord has been pleased to make you a people for Himself. Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.’”
1 Samuel 12:19-24

A study of the Old Testament historical books is incomplete without a recognition of God’s unique work through the reigning judge or prophet. These rugged individuals were instrumental in keeping a nation on course in time when they were drawn (and sometimes driven) by neighboring nations. One of the great prophets was a man who was on the scene as the people of Israel made their fateful decision that they would be like other nations and have a king.

A cursory reading of 1 Samuel 3-12 will give you an appreciation for this unique man of God who stood as a special link between Israel and God. He was a man of deep conviction regarding the need to follow God as an individual and as a nation. He was a source of calm strength when all around was cause for concern (if not outright panic).

In every generation God is looking for those who will emulate Samuel’s spirit. How our homes, our churches, our communities need Samuels - men (and women) whose presence brings a sense of godly peace and assurance that God is in control.

Godly calm and assurance are possible even when others panic.