1 Samuel 17 "David vs Goliath"

“This day the Lord will deliver you up into my hands” (v.46)

'David versus Goliath' must rank as one of the most uneven matchups in military history! On one side, a powerful giant nine feet tall, heavily armored, experienced in fighting, confident and proud. His opponent, a shepherd boy unarmed except for a sling, with no battle experience, but confident in God.

That spiritual fact outweighs the physical ones, for Goliath showed contempt for God and for His people. God's people, including Saul and David's jealous brothers, lacked the faith to respond to Goliath's godless challenge. David, however, trusted God and wanted to see His enemies defeated and His name glorified.

The Lord gave David a dramatic victory that day (vv. 46-47), and the shocked Philistines were sent running for home. His courage came from the God who guarantees victory. David had known the protection of Yahweh. While tending his sheep, he had faced lions and bears, and the Lord rescued him. He believed (rightly) that God would rescue him again from the hands of Goliath.

The application for us here is, just as God helped David defeat the giant in his path, so God can help us defeat the giants in our paths as well. Just as it was for David our battles belong the Lord.

The Truth: “Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Cor. 15:57) 

1 Samuel 16 "The LORD Looks At The Heart"

"Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (v.7)

Here in chapter 16, the Lord sent Samuel to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse the Bethlehemite, to anoint a new king over Israel (v.1). God told Samuel, "I have provided Myself a king among his sons.” To which Samuel replied, “How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.” But the LORD said, “Take a heifer with you, and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; then you shall anoint for Me the one I name to you” (vv.1-3)

So Samuel did what the LORD said, and went to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, “Do you come peaceably?” And he said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons, and invited them to the sacrifice (vv.4-6). So it was, when they came (the sons of Jessie), that he looked at Eliab and said, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is before Him.” But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (v.7). God was reminding Samuel to look deeper than physical characteristics. In other words, don't make the same mistake Israel made about their first king. Saul looked the part, but he didn’t have the heart a king of God’s people should have. It didn’t matter how good Eliab looked because God said, “I have refused him” (v.7).

Then Samuel after viewing all of Jesse's sons present at the sacrifice asked,  “Are all the young men here?” To which Jesse replied, “There remains yet the youngest, and there he is, keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and bring him. For we will not sit down till he comes here" (v.11). So Jesse sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking. And the LORD said to Samuel, “Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!" (v.12).

David the shepherd boy did not appear to be kingly material. His youthfulness did not measure up to the age and stature of his older brother Eliab (v.6). Yet the Lord corrected Samuel's original perception (v.7) and David would go on to become a great warrior and the Lord's chosen ruler of His people (1 Samuel 13:14; 18:8; 2 Samuel 7:1-17).

God’s choice of David shows that we don’t have to quit our jobs and enter into full-time ministry to be people after God’s own heart. We don’t need to be famous or prominent to be people after God’s own heart. We don’t need to be respected or even liked by others to be people after God’s own heart. We don’t need status, influence, power, the respect or approval of men, or great responsibilities to be people after God’s own heart. 

Now by all outward appearances David’s seven brothers seemed to be better material for royalty than he was. Yet, as unlikely as David was, he was the one chosen by God and anointed by Samuel in the midst of his brothers. From the actions of David, Jesse, and David’s brothers, after this we can assume that only God and Samuel knew exactly what happened here. Everyone else probably thought that Samuel just honored David for an unknown reason. Probably no one even dared to think this was a divine royal anointing. But God knew because He had worked in David’s heart for a long time. 

The application for all of us here in chapter 16 would be, when we are tempted to judge someone by his/her outward appearance, we would do well to remember that the heart is what matters to God.

The Truth: “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the hearts.” (Proverbs 21:2)

1 Samuel 15 "Better To Obey"

“To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry.” (v.22-23)

Obedience is what God desires, not sacrifices. It is an obedient heart surrendered to Him that pleases Him. One could make a thousand sacrifices for God, work a thousand hours for God’s service, or give millions of dollars to His work. But all these sacrifices mean little if there is not a surrendered heart to God, shown by simple obedience. Religious observance without obedience is empty before God. The best sacrifice we can bring to God is a repentant heart (Psalm 51:16-17) and our bodies surrendered to His service for obedience (Romans 12:1).

Saul had gone from the humble man who didn't think he could do the job, to a cocky liar that defends his rebellion, even blaming those he leads to save his own skin. A rebellious, stubborn heart rejects God just as certainly as someone rejects God by occult practices or idolatry. And because Saul, in his empty religious practice, rebellion, and stubbornness against God, rejected God’s word - So, God rightly rejected him as king over Israel. Yet it would be almost 25 years before there was another king enthroned in Israel. Saul’s rejection was final, but it was not immediate. God used almost 25 years to train up the right replacement for Saul.

God is not after our sacrifices or other ritualistic practices, He is after a heart surrendered to Him in humility. We often look for some way to please God with service or sacrifice, when God is just looking for a humble obedient heart. The work the Spirit guides us to is rarely some great sacrifice, but often many little ones. Like, saying a word of encouragement here, lending a hand there, is far more pleasing to Him than any half hearted sacrificial service we could perform.

Therefore, seek His direction, listen to your still small voice, be obedient, surrender to Him in true humility, and He will use you for His kingdom.

The Truth: “Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God; Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness.” (Psalm 143:10) 

1 Samuel 14 "Jonathan's Faith"

Then Jonathan said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; it may be that the LORD will work for us. For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few.” So his armor bearer said to him, “Do all that is in your heart. Go then; here I am with you, according to your heart. Then Jonathan said, “Very well, let us cross over to these men, and we will show ourselves to them. If they say thus to us, ‘Wait until we come to you,’ then we will stand still in our place and not go up to them. But if they say thus, ‘Come up to us,’ then we will go up. For the LORD has delivered them into our hand, and this will be a sign to us.” (vv.6-10)

Back in chapter 13 we read that the Phillistines had prepared a great army to fight with Israel in retaliation for Jonathan's attack against them; thirty thousand chariots and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is on the seashore in multitude. So they came up and encamped in Michmash, to the east of Beth Aven. And when the men of Israel saw that they were in danger (for the people were distressed), they hid in caves, in thickets, in rocks, in holes, and in pits. And some of the Hebrews crossed over the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was still in Gilgal, and all the people who followed him were trembling. 

We also learned that Saul had about 3,000 men in his regular army (1 Samuel 13:2). But now he was down to 600 because many soldiers scattered while Saul waited for Samuel in Gilgal (1 Samuel 13:8). The loss of so many men was probably the reason why Saul offered the sacrifice without Samuel, and it displayed a heart of distrust and disobedience to God. Therefore, God allowed this reduction to Saul's army to test his faith, to see if he believed God was great enough to deliver from so many with so few.

However, the story of our text (chapter 14), reveals that Jonathan was the great man of faith that day. For he believed that whatever God called him to do was possible. So much so that Jonathan said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; it may be that the LORD will work for us. For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few.” 

So Jonathan climbed up the rocky cliff on his hands and knees with his armor bearer after him; and the Philistines fell before him. And as the armor bearer came after Jonathan, he killed them. That first slaughter which Jonathan and his armor bearer made was about twenty men within about half an acre of land. (vv.11-14). 

As a result there was a great trembling in the camp, in the field, and among all the Philistines. The garrison and the raiders also trembled; and the earth quaked, so that it was a very great trembling (v.15). This devine quake caused the Philistines to be under confusion as they woke that morning thinking, “We are attacked by enemies in our midst!” They rushed about thinking their fellow Philistines might be the enemy and began to fight and kill one another. 

You see, it didn’t matter that the Philistines greatly outnumbered the Israelites and had far better weapons. God was more than able to set the Philistines against each other. If the Israelites had no swords, the LORD would use the swords of the Philistines against the Philistines. 

Who would have thought that two soldiers could set in motion the defeat of a whole army? But Jonathan followed God step by step. And he and his armor bearer.

Spiritual victories often come from small steps taken for God. Putting your feet to your faith, acting instead of sitting, it may be just what is needed to begin the chain of events leading to complete victory.

The Truth: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) 

1 Samuel 13 "Disobediance Has Consequences"

Now it happened, as soon as he had finished presenting the burnt offering, that Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might greet him. And Samuel said, “What have you done?” Saul said, “When I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that you did not come within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered together at Michmash, then I said, ‘The Philistines will now come down on me at Gilgal, and I have not made supplication to the LORD.’ Therefore I felt compelled, and offered a burnt offering.” (vv.10-12)

In today's text, King Saul learned the high cost of disobedience. He faced the prospect of fighting a huge well-equipped Philistine army with his small band of frightened and untrained followers. While waiting for Samuel to come and offer a sacrifice before going to battle, Saul became impatient and offered the sacrifice himself, even though he knew that God had given that right only to the priests. It was a costly mistake.

Once Samuel arrived and saw what Saul had done, he put it plainly to him: "You have not kept the commandment of the LORD your God. For now the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel forever. But now your kingdom shall not continue" (vv.13-14). God had commanded Saul to do something, and he did the opposite. And because Saul did not repent, that one act of disobedience changed the course of his life. From that point on, it was a sad downhill journey. Saul would reign for another 20 years, he would still be on the throne as a king, but it would never be the same because the end of his kingdom and his dynasty was now certain. 

Lastly, we see in v.14 that, "The LORD has sought for Himself a man after His own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be commander over His people." Though God rejected Saul He did not reject Israel. Because God loved Israel He would raise up a king, a man after His own heart, King David. Saul was a man after Israel’s heart. He was all about image, prestige, and the things men look at. But God will now give Israel a man after His own heart and raise that man up to be the next king. 

A man who seeks after God’s own heart honors the LORD. Saul was more concerned with his will than God’s will. When Saul was confronted with his sin he offered excuses. When David was confronted with his sin he confessed his sin and repented (2 Samuel 12:13). Today, God is still looking for men and women after His own heart. Those who repent before Him and not give excusises, those who know it is better to obey than to sacrifice.  

The Truth: “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” (Romans 5:19) 

1 Samuel 12 Samuel's Farewell Address"

Then Samuel said to the people, “Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart. And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing. For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people. Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the 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. But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.” (vv.20-25)

Here in Samuel’s farewell address, he would not minimize Israel’s sin. Yet, he did not want them to dwell on the sin of the past, but to go on walking with the LORD today. The same is true with us. We can’t do anything about yesterday, and at the present moment we can’t serve God tomorrow. At the present moment all we can do is not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all our hearts. Satan loves it when we live in the past or in the future, when we do anything but serve the LORD with all we have right now. Samuel wanted Israel to know that rejecting the LORD and turning aside from Him just doesn’t work. If they would not serve God for spiritual reasons, then let them do it simply to succeed because nothing else can profit or deliver.

Samuel also wanted Israel to know that God loves them. Despite the sin of their past, they could get on with serving the LORD and still see His blessing because God loves them. His favor towards Israel was not prompted by the good they did, were doing, or promised to do. It was for His great name’s sake because it pleased the LORD to do it. The reasons were in Him, not in Israel. Samuel knew the best thing he could do for Israel was to pray for them. His words would make no difference if the LORD did not work in their hearts, and the best way to promote the work of the LORD in their hearts was through prayer. Oh he could have felt hurt that the people rejected him and the LORD as leaders over the nation. He might have been bitter against the people and refused to pray for them. But Samuel was a godlier man than that.

Therefore, Samuel would pray. However, he would not only pray but, "I will teach you the good and the right way." There was still a place for teaching, and Samuel would faithfully fulfill that role as well. “Whether a minister shall do more good to others by his prayers or preaching, I will not determine, saith one; but he shall certainly by his prayers reap more comfort to himself.” (Trapp) Samuel wants the people of Israel to know that even as he steps back and allows Saul to emerge as a leader, he will not forsake Israel. He will continue to lead and to serve them, but more in a spiritual way through prayer and teaching.

And what was his first lesson? To teach the children of Israel the importance of giving proper reverence to God. Suggesting their view of God must be one of divine greatness combined with the reverence of a son, and not the fear of a slave. As such, they should serve Him in truth (with all their hearts) not being seduced by other teachings, nor serving out of obligation, or merit but, from a deep love and compassion to follow His will. In so doing Samuel adds, to consider all God has done for them.

The Truth: “Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.” (Psalm 100:2) 

1 Samuel 11 "God's Chosen Man Made King"

 “And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and there they made sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.” (v.15)

Throughout the history of the nation of Israel, the people have turned their backs on God and questioned His chosen leaders. In our reading today Saul, who’s kingship had been rejected back in chapter 10 by many, leads an army of three hundred thousand men to liberate those Israelites who had chosen to live on the other side of the Jordan river. Then, upon his success, Saul wisely attributed the victory to God alone (v.13).

The choice of Saul as king, privately made by God through Samuel, and publicly confirmed by the election at Mizpah, had now received complete ratification in his victory over Nahash. His detractors were silenced, and the unanimous consent of the people was made evident by all who gathered both to make sacrifices and rejoice before the LORD. Thus, God's chosen man was made king.

There’s an old saying, “Love conquers all.” It was Saul’s love for his country, even those who chose to separate themselves across the Jordan, that united the nation behind him. But the LORD saw him even before he was born. If only he love the LORD with all of his heart.

The Truth: “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:2)

1 Samuel 10 "Saul Held His Peace"

"But the children of Belial said, ‘How shall this man save us?’ And they despised him, and brought no presents. But he held his peace.” (v.27)

Here in verse 27 we see that not everyone was happy about God’s choice for king. The children of Belial, most accurately translated “worthless men,” lead the protest against Saul. These men scornfully questioned his ability to save them. After all, he was just a herdsmen, from the tribe of Benjamin, a servant and no governing experience! Implying, that a king ought to have been of a rich family, a large tribe, a prince, whose interest and influence were great, not only in his own tribe, but in others, which would enable him to engage in war with an enemy, and protect the people. 

Our text also shows that Saul’s detractors would not even call him by his name (an insult), while describing him as a person who had no power to deliver them. So complete was their despise for him, they brought him no token (Presents) of their subjection to him, nor made any visits to him, as were the customs when a king came into power. But, Saul held his peace.

Wow! What an example of wisdom and self-control, and a fore- shadowing of king Jesus as well. Saul remained silent, he took no notice of what they said, he bore the insult rather than having to begin his reign with and act of severity against his own people.

So too Jesus, who was born in a stable, in the city of Nazareth, a carpenters son, scorned and rejected by many, and became our great High Priest, is patiently waiting for the modern day, “children of Belial” to call Him by name. And is holding His peace until the fullness of the gentiles comes in. Then, "every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is LORD, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:11)

The Truth: “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

1 Samuel 9 "God's Choice For King"

 “This One Shall Reign”

Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear the day before Saul came, saying, “Tomorrow about this time I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him commander over My people Israel, that he may save My people from the hand of the Philistines; for I have looked upon My people, because their cry has come to Me.” So when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said to him, “There he is, the man of whom I spoke to you. This one shall reign over My people.” (vv.15-17)

Back in chapter 8 the elders of Israel demanded that Samuel anoint a king to rule over them just like all the other nations. In so doing, they had literally rejected God as their king for a man. Samuel warned them of the dangers of desiring an earthly king but the people refused to hear his voice. They wanted someone they could see, someone to led them into battle against their enemies and to judge them, a visible image (8:19-20).

Here in chapter 9 we see God’s choice, Saul, a Benjamite, a donkey herder, not exactly a great resume for the job. However, to look upon, he was everything the elders could want. Scripture tells us he was, “a choice young man, and goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people” (v.2). Thus, his outward appearance was exactly what the people were desirous of having as king over them, one just like the nations around them had.

The longer I live, the longer I understand and appreciate the great truth of, not judging a book by its cover. On very few occasions are people exactly who they seem to be at first glance. Outward appearances can be very deceiving and misleading. Therefore, before making any impulsive or superficial decisions, get to know someone's heart. 

Here God has selected for the people exactly what they demanded back in chapter 8, someone who has the outward appearance of kingship like all the other nations. However, as we will learn throughout the book of 1 Samuel, he will fall short in leadership. 

Be careful what you ask for, you just might get it.

The Truth: “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7b)

1 Samuel 8 “Samuel’s Prayer”

“But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed to the LORD.” (v.8)

Here we have a great lesson on how to react upon being confronted. Instead of lashing out at the elders of Israel who; called him old (v.5), disrespected his sons (v.5), and suggested a new form of government by demanding a king (v.8) – Samuel prayed. 

Oh, he could have taken this personal (after all he was the current prophet and judge) and blew his top or given someone a piece of his mind but he didn’t. He simply took it to God. 

I must say, the political culture in our society today lends itself to quite a bit of confrontation. However, blowing your top, letting of steam, giving someone a piece of your mind (if they asked for it or not), I have found usually ends in regret and only causes more division. 

Rather than feeling we must respond immediately, better to take a step back, and gather your composer before reacting. If possible as Samuel did, slip away to a quiet spot, take your displeasure to God, leave it at His feet - you’ll have an entirely different perspective, countenance, attitude and outcome. 

The Truth: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6)

1 Samuel 7 “A Stone Of Remembrance”

 And the men of Israel went out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, and drove them back as far as below Beth Car. Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” (v.11-12)

In our text, Samuel erected a stone and called it 'Ebenezer,' or 'stone of help.' Much more than a simple war memorial, 'Ebenezer's' purpose is to remind Israel that God won the victory, not them. The stone reminds them to follow and trust God in the future also, rather than backsliding to idolatry and disobedience.

Setting up a 'stone of remembrance' may be seen in other Old Testament accounts as well. For instance, when Israel crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, they set up stones to mark the event (Joshua 4:8-9). Or in a more personal example, Jacob, after having his famous dream of angels and a stairway to heaven, set up a stone at Bethel to acknowledge his encounter with God (Genesis 28:18-19)

In my personal history, there have also been spiritual milestones, 'stones of remembrance' on my road with the Lord. Places I can look back upon and see His hand on my life. I’m sure each and every one of you could look back and journal your milestones as well. 

If you've never done so before, map out a spiritual timeline of your life, noting major turning points and seeing the 'big picture' of what God has been doing in your life and share your story with others.

We all have a story to tell – so tell it and give praise to the chief cornerstone of our faith, our rock, our fortress, our defense - Jesus.

The Truth: “Behold, I lay in Zion A chief cornerstone, elect, precious, And he who believes on Him will by no means be put to shame.” (1 Peter 2:6)

1 Samuel 6 "Let Go Of Your Sin"

 “And the ark of the LORD was in the country of the Philistines seven months. And the Philistines called for the priests and the diviners, saying, What shall we do to the ark of the LORD?” Tell us how we should send it to its place.” (vv.1-2)

When the Philistines first captured the ark of the covenant, they thought it was a great victory but, as time went on the Philistines began to regard the ark as a burden, not as a trophy. So, why did they keep it for seven months? Because they were reluctant to give up such a wonderful “trophy” of what they at first felt was a great victory over the God of Israel. 

It can take a long time before we realize the futility of resisting God. The Philistine priests had enough sense to know they had offended the LORD God. Therefore, they knew they should do something to express their sorrow and repentance before the LORD.

Chapter 6 paints an interesting picture concerning recognizing sin. The first part of our text shows how we as sinners are sometimes willing to hang on to our sin. Oh we can see its effects all around us, but are willing to prolong the miseries by refusing to part with the sin. We somehow justify the act though the very punishment it inflicts. Crazy!

The second part of our text speaks to the realization we all eventually come to, “something has to change.” We consult our friends and trusted advisors on what to do with our sin and, may even say to ourselves, “this is punishment from God.” However, unless we call on the name of Jehovah God, ask for His forgiveness, and seek His strength to live for Him, chances are, we will end up back in the same place of suffering.

Therefore, if you have had your fill of the plaque of sin and you want to rid it from your life forever, recognize the name of Jehovah and receive the grace of Jesus through His forgiveness of sin. Then, old things shall pass away and all things shall become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). 

The Truth: “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

You can do that right now by praying the prayer to the right on this page "Connect with God."

1 Samuel 5 "God Humiliates The Idol Dagon"

Then the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod. When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the house of Dagon and set it by Dagon. And when the people of Ashdod arose early in the morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. So they took Dagon and set it in its place again. And when they arose early the next morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the ground before the ark of the LORD. So they took Dagon and set it in its place again. And when they arose early the next morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the ground before the ark of the LORD. The head of Dagon and both the palms of its hands were broken off on the threshold; only Dagon’s torso was left of it. Therefore neither the priests of Dagon nor any who come into Dagon’s house tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod to this day. (vv.1-5)

Here we see the Philistines bringing the ark of God into the house of Dagon, their national god. No doubt, the Philistines were jubilant, and confident in the superiority of their god over the God of Israel. They faced the God of Israel in battle and believed their god Dagon delivered them and defeated Israel. Now, the ark of the covenant of Israel’s God stood as a trophy in the temple of their god Dagon. The victory seemed complete. 

By way of reproach, the ark was placed at the feet of Dagon (as a trophy or spoil), to whom they gave credit for the victory. However when they (people, priests, worshippers) arose early the next day, they found Dagon had fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the Lord; as if he was subject to it, and giving adoration to it. So they set it up again. This time when they returned the next morning their idol lay in a state of complete mutilation; its head and arms, severed from the trunk, were lying in distant and separate places, as if violently cast off (v.4 ).

Was this an accident? I think not. Not two days in a row. This demonstrates to us that that God will glorify Himself and that the kingdom of Satan will certainly fall on its face before the kingdom of God and of His Christ. When Christ, the true Ark of the covenant really enters the heart of fallen man (which is indeed Satan's temple), all idols will fall. And every endeavor to set them up again will be vain. For all who are in Christ are new creations.

Therefore, do not be like the Philistine priests who were unwilling to turn from their weak inferior god when confronted with the truth. Call upon Him while He is near for He is mighty to save. (see prayer "Connect with God" to the right on this page). God bless.

The Truth: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17) 

1 Samuel 4 "Misplaced Trust"

“And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Why has the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh to us, that, when it comes among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies.” (v.3)

Here in chapter 4 the Israelites had gone to war against the Philistines on their own accord to liberate themselves without seeking God’s will. Upon their defeat, they then blame God for it (v.2). But, Instead of humbling themselves and purging themselves from their sins (the very reason for which God was displeased with them), they put their trust in a ceremonial object, not doubting that the very presence of the ark would give them the victory (v.3). But they were sadly mistaken and were soundly defeated once again (vv.10-11).

There were three reasons for this great defeat. First, the Philistines fought with the courage of desperate men. Second, the Israelites felt the battle would be easy with the ark of the covenant there and did not try as hard. Finally, God did not bless Israel’s superstitious belief in the power of the ark instead of the power of God.

We often make the same mistake; believing that if God is with us, we don’t need to try so hard. We think if God is on our side, the work will be easy. That may not be true at all. As it turned out, not only did Israel lose, they lost far worse than they did before taking the ark into battle. The loss which prompted them to take the ark resulted in the death of about four thousand men of Israel (1 Samuel 4:2). With the ark, more than seven times as many men of Israel were killed.

This should remind us that God wants His people to look to Him. He wants us to give glory to Him, not some object or program. His desire is that we become Spirit-led each and every day, that we might follow His lead, His direction, His victorious plan for our lives. The Israelites had put their trust in a symbol instead of God and were utterly defeated. May we not do the same but trust in Him to guide us to victory.

The Truth: “I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1) 

1 Samuel 3 "Samuel Speaks Truth"

So he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” And he said, “I did not call; lie down again.” And he went and lay down. Then the LORD called yet again, “Samuel!” So Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” He answered, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.” (Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor was the word of the LORD yet revealed to him.) And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli perceived that the LORD had called the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. (vv.5-9)

Samuel was a godly and obedient boy, serving God wonderfully. He was wrong in thinking Eli spoke to him, but he was right in what he did. Samuel came to Eli quickly because he knew Eli was blind and might need help. When speaking to us, God almost always confirms His word again and again. It is generally wrong to do something dramatic in response to a single “inner voice” from the LORD. If God speaks He will confirm, and often in a variety of ways.

Eli then gives Samuel wise counsel. Eli told Samuel to; Make himself available for God to speak (Go, lie down), and not be presumptuous about God speaking (if He calls you). Respond to the word of God (Speak, LORD), and to humble himself before God and His word (Your servant hears). Therefore, when the Lord called Samuel again, he responded, “Speak, for Your servant hears” (vv. 9-10).

The word that Samuel received from God wasn't cheery. Understandably, Samuel was reluctant to repeat the message to Eli, but, he honestly recounted the word of the Lord even though it contained the prophecy of the destruction of Eli's family, as judgment for their sin.

We too must be willing to obey and respond to whatever God calls us to say. Even if the truth the LORD gives us, is painful to proclaim. Therefore, speak the truth in love but do not hold back truth.

The Truth: “He who speaks truth declares righteousness, But a false witness, deceit.” (Proverbs 12:17) 

2 Corinthians 13 “Examine Yourself”

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith.” (v.5)

Paul spent the chapters leading up to today’s passage vigorously defending his own position as an apostle. Now here in our text, he turned the tables and asked the Corinthians to examine themselves, whether they were who they claimed to be, true Christians. If they truly looked inward, and found themselves to be in the faith, then there would be the proof of his being a true apostle, as it was by his ministry that they became such.

Our pride can make it so easy for us to think we have all the answers, to see the faults of others or put them on the defensive to proof themselves to us.  As Christians, we need to continually look inward, examine ourselves, remove the plank from our own eye, then fall on our knees and ask God for His grace and forgiveness in our lives, that we might better serve others.

May we all take the Apostle’s advice and “examine ourselves”, before we point the finger at others.

The Truth:
“Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” (Romans 2:1)

2 Corinthians 12 "Paul's Unconditional Love"

"Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved. But be that as it may, I did not burden you. Nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you by cunning! Did I take advantage of you by any of those whom I sent to you? I urged Titus, and sent our brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps?" (vv.14-18)

On his first visit to Corinth, Paul founded the church and stayed a year and six months (Acts 18:11). His second visit was a brief, painful visit in between the writing of 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians. Now he is prepared to come for a third time. Paul now lets the Corinthian Christians know that when he comes, though he will receive a collection for the saints in Judea (2 Corinthians 8), he will not receive money from them for his personal support. He will continue his previous practice among the Corinthian Christians of supporting himself and he will not be burdensome to the Corinthian Christians.

Paul did not resent the lack of support from the Corinthian Christians. Certainly, he would have appreciated it, but more for what it said about them than for what it did for him. For himself, Paul was glad to give; he would very gladly spend and be spent for their souls. This demonstrates Paul’s unconditional love for the church in Corinth. Just as a father cheerfully does for his children, Paul is willing to spend any expense, which may be necessary to promote their salvation. All this despite the fact, the more he gave of himself, the less he was loved by them.

Paul’s motivation was never to gain their gratitude, or extract some compensation form them, but to simply obey the will of God in his ministry. Whether others are grateful or not; whether they loved him or not; whether he could promote his popularity with them or not, he just kept showing his love to them in the name of Jesus. Thus proving their charge against him of being "crafty" is false. 

We would do well to remember that, the highest form of giving is when we give and receive nothing in return. Therefore, do not be surprised, or discouraged when you spend yourself in love for others who in turn, love less. This will provide an opportunity to display the true agape love of Jesus to others and your reward will be great.

The Truth: “But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.” (Luke 6:35)

2 Corinthians 11 “Fatherly Protection”

“But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” (v.3)

To demonstrate his deep love for the Corinthians, Paul likened his relationship with them to a father and daughter relationship (v.2). In the Jewish culture, it was the father's responsibility to protect his daughter's honor and to secure a proper husband for her. There by protecting her from the seduction of false suiters.

Paul uses this cultural backdrop to stress in verse 3, how deeply he feared the Corinthians were being seduced by false teachers, those who would replace the simplicity of Christ. Therefore, just as a father would protect his daughter’s honor form an unsuitable character, so Paul sought to protect his flock from, “false teachers, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ” (vv.13-14).

In the church today, we must be just as vigilant. We should be like the Bereans, testing the truthfulness of every sermon against God’s Holy Word, so as to not embrace a lie or a different Jesus.

The Truth
“These (Bereans) were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” (Acts 17:11)

2 Corinthians 10 "The Destruction Of Enemy Strongholds"

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." (vv.3-6)

Paul admits that he walks according to the flesh in the sense that we all do. He is a flesh and blood human being, and he struggles with the same things the Corinthian Christians struggled with. However, Paul wants to make it clear that he does not war according to the flesh. He is talking about waging war, using spiritual weapons, and demolishing enemy strongholds. He goes on to explain although they live in human bodies, they don't wage war according to human standards. Their weapons are those of the Spirit, which are the only weapons great enough to bring down fortresses or strongholds of Satan.

Moody Press author Jim Logan, in his book Reclaiming Surrendered Ground describes a satanic stronghold in this way. “Strongholds are the fortresses Satan builds in our lives when we give him a foothold, a piece of ground on which to build. And once they are in place, they give the enemy a "headquarters" from which to carry on his (demonic) activities.”

Ephesians 6:12 reads: “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Thus, those who oppose the gospel aren't the real enemy. The real enemy, is the one who has them blinded, held captive, and opposes God's work in every way - Satan. 

This is why worldly weapons won’t work. Only divine power will defeat satanic power. Paul then goes on to lists the spiritual weapons he used: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. To rely on these weapons took faith in God instead of carnal methods. But truly, these weapons are mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.

Jesus also relied on spiritual weapons when He fought for our salvation. Philippians 2:6-8 describes this: who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 

However, this kind of victory through humble obedience offended the Corinthian Christians because it seemed so “weak.” The carnal, human way is to overpower, dominate, manipulate, and out-maneuver. The spiritual, Jesus way is to humble yourself, die to yourself, and let God show His resurrection power through you. Yet, to battle against this carnal way of thinking and doing, our thoughts must be brought captive and made obedient to Jesus.

Therefore, when we start to think in this carnal way, we must stop our thoughts, take dominion over them in Jesus, and not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (Romans 12:2) In so doing, we give no ground, no secrete place in our mind for him to build on, and we fight against the evil one, putting on the whole armor of God, and become a Jedis for Jesus.

The Truth: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)