April 13, 2013 (1 Samuel 14; 1 Chronicles 4; 2 Corinthians 13)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Then Saul said, “Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.” His men replied, “We’ll do whatever you think is best.” But the priest said, “Let’s ask God first.” 1 Samuel 14:36 NLT
Observation: Saul had put his army at risk by making them take an oath not to eat anything before evening and he had full revenge on his enemies. The army had battled hard all day and the men were becoming faint. When evening came the men rushed for the battle plunder and began to butcher the sheep, goats, cattle and calves, but they ate them without draining the blood. Because of Saul’s foolish, and arrogant, oath the men committed sin against God. Saul tried to correct the situation by building an altar and sacrificing the animals on it. But Saul’s hunger for revenge would not allow him the opportunity to repent. His men were willing to do what he thought was best, but the priest said wait! Let’s ask the Lord first.
Application: Often times our enthusiasm can get us into real trouble. It can blind our eyes from seeing God’s plan and stop up our ears from hearing His voice. In the heat of the moment bad decisions are made. We must remember to seek God and His will in all that we do. Every decision we make and every action we take should be bathed in prayer first. Many mighty warriors have fallen prey to defeat because they did not seek the Lord. Many more have fallen prey because they did not heed the voice of God when He did speak. Be careful of doing what others think is best, seek God for yourself and hear Him speak. Obey His voice and look for Him in all situations you face. He may lead you into the wilderness, but He will not lead you astray.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I seek You for direction in my life. You know the situations I face and the decisions I need to make. Reveal Your will in these matters to me. Strengthen me to do the right thing in Your eyes. Keep my eyes focused on You and keep my ears open to hear Your voice. Protect me by Your strong right arm that does not fail! Thank You for Your grace and mercy that provide and protect me every day, in Jesus name, Amen!