Bible Chapter: I Samuel 3 & 4

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Speak Lord, for your servant hears what you are saying.  This is a well-known verse that sets a good example for all who believe in Jesus.  No, I have never heard an audible voice from God.  But, we can hear from the Lord and learn His direction.  When Samuel responded and listened to God, his life of being used by God, becoming a prophet of the Lord, took off.  God used Samuel in the prophetic office to speak to the nation and lead them in a way that pleased God.  Another great verse says that the Lord was with Samuel as he grew up.  Growing up with God’s involvement in your life is the best way.  The whole nation recognized that Samuel was God’s prophet.
    Israel needed the prophet for they were not living following God’s direction.  They went to war against the Philistines.  They brought the ark of the covenant out to the battle field and it was captured.  This ark represented God’s presence and they thought it would guarantee victory.  They were not living in obedience to the covenant relationship and they lost the battle.  Living close to God and in obedience to Him is vital.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    In the battle with the Philistines, thirty thousand Israeli soldiers were killed.  This included Hophni and Phinehas.  This was a very sad day for the nation.  When Eli heard the news he died as well.  Phinehas’s wife was about to deliver a baby.  She had a hard labor and gave birth to a boy.  She called him Ichabod.  This name means “no glory”.  She realized that the glory of God had departed from the nation.  This is a sad state for people who call themselves believers in God.  We need God’s glory and presence in life.  We will not have it if we are not faithful to Him.  We must live in such a way that the presence and glory of God surrounds us.  A good description for some people is that they have a roller coaster faith.  It climbs and then quickly plunges.  That should never be an accurate description for believers.  We must be climbing in our walk with Jesus.  Yes, we will have some battles and it won’t always be perfect, but we must never reach the “Ichabod” stage.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Keep your focus on Jesus.  Listen, learn, apply.  Do what the Bible says.  Don’t think that a religious routine will keep you in God’s presence and protection.  Real connection with God, not religious rituals, will make the difference.