April 11, 2013 (1 Samuel 11-12; 1 Chronicles 1; 2 Corinthians 11)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve Him. Think of all the wonderful things He has done for you.” 1 Samuel 12:24 NLT
Observation: Samuel gives his farewell address. He starts by asking the people to tell of any wrong he had done unto them. He said if he had taken anything from anyone unjustly, stolen from them, cheated them, oppressed them, taken a bribe or perverted justice in any way they should speak up. They replied, “No, you have never done any of these things”. Samuel goes on to instruct them one last time even though the people had made the poor choice of demanding a king like other nations. He tells them to be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve Him. Think of all the wonderful things God has done for you in the past. Don’t forget them!
Application: We often make poor choices and decisions just like the children of Israel. We demand our own way and desire what we want, when we want it. We enjoy freewill and love to ignore and reject God’s will. Yet as Christians our will should be crucified daily. We should be submitted to God’s will and understand His won’t. If He says go, we go. If He says no, He means it. One way we can help ourselves stay on the right path is to remember all the good things God has done for us in the past. Thinking back on the way God has delivered and provided for us can renew our courage and strength to stand. Maybe if we would spend a little more time remembering what all God has done we could avoid going astray so much.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You so much for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily! Remind me of all the wonderful things You have done for me in the past. Renew my mind and fill me with courage and strength to stand strong and faithful to You. Help me make right decisions that please and honor You. May my freewill be crucified and Your will rule my life, in Jesus name, Amen!