This week Saul is introduced into our reading. Saul's story is intriguing. His reign starts out so strong and promising, but as we continue to read in 1 Samuel, we see that he ends poorly as far as his walk with the Lord is concerned. So as I read Saul's story, I need to ask myself, what does it mean for me? If I don't ask that, if I'm not intentional and thoughtful with my reading, I can read through these real life situations and take them simply as a history lesson or a great story.
Now they are that, but they are also God's Word, recorded for us so we can learn more about God, His character, His laws and what He expects and wants from us. So I need to try and draw out of the text what God has for me. Now there are lots of ways to do that, but one of the things I do is just read over the passage and see if something sticks out to me. Typically something does, and then I go back and start again there.
In today's reading, for example, the first thing that stuck out was Saul's strange reaction to being proclaimed king. This is huge, life-changing news, yet Saul seems kind of oblivious or unaffected. He certainly doesn't seize the opportunity and take charge right away. Did anyone else find it odd, almost funny, that when Samuel gathered Israel together to proclaim and introduce Saul as the king, Saul couldn't be found because he was hiding in the baggage? That strange reaction from Saul made me look back on my life to see if I had ever acted that way when God had a task for me. Funny thing--I had. That, then, got me thinking about how not to do that again as I go forward. And, I'm still working on that.
So I'm curious to know what approach you take to draw out of the story or text what God has for you? And as you're reading about Samuel and Saul, what have you found? What are some of your takeaways? I gave you one for me today, but I have to tell you, there were quite a few more. I didn't figure you'd want to read a 10 page blog, though. :) So, tell me what you're picking up, what you're thinking or ask questions if you have them. And If I haven't told you lately--thanks for being part of Powered by 4! Tami W.
P.S. A team from here is heading out tomorrow for a Back to the Bible conference in Bermuda. Dr. Kroll will be teaching each day for the next week, and we'll be recording the Back to the Bible radio and television programs on location. It's different and fun but also lots of work for our production team. So we'd really appreciate your prayers. I'll blog from Bermuda next week. TW
I need help in reading the bible more often and understanding it. And please pray for me as I'm not praying as i ought to.
God Bless You
Tami,
In response to your question on our approach to understanding what God has for us in His Word...I always pray for the Holy Spirit to open my heart and mind to what He wants me to learn, but I never thought of asking myself what it means to me or how it applies to me. I always wondered just HOW someone was intentional, too. This is great and thank you for sharing it.
As for Saul...I think he was a bit Jeckyll and a bit Hyde. (Kinda like a Christian who walks in the flesh) I think when God's Spirit "came upon" Saul, it had to have been only temporarily. And as his power as king grew, so did his ego/pride and his selfishness and madness. How it applies to me: In Ch 13, when Saul went ahead and offered the sacrifice, I am SO reminded of the times I've sinned against the Lord and stepped way out of His will by not having the faith to wait on Him...I've usurped His authority by taking matters into my own hands and quite frankly, really messing up everything in the process. This is a lesson that you reap what you sow. Thankfully, He has begun a good work in me for His sake and glory.
(Now, a comment for Joylyn: The Lord loves you..who you are and where you are right now in your life. Be obedient to Him. Read His Word: listen to teachers of the Word. This website is a great place to start. Woodrow Kroll is sound in doctrine and he can explain the Bible to help make it easy and interesting and fun to understand. I will be one to pray for you.)
Tami,
Thanks for the reminder. I was feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the responsibilities I have been given in my ministry role. Some days I'd like to run and hide (like Saul) but I know God has placed me here just for this purpose. You're the best. I can say that with first hand knowledge as your sister. I love you and thank you again for the encouragement. Your big sister.
This is a wonderful encouragement to know God is waiting and willing
to forgive. We are to respond to Him. I Have always prayed if this is not the best for me I do not want it. He gave them the desires of their hearts but sent leanness to their soul. My prayer is "Lord I want a fat soul". I believe God will give us what we ask but we pay a price. Saul - got what he wanted but what a price he paid! I also know from
experience that God gives us the desires of our hearts if we seek Him. I also believe he places desires in our hearts. It is His joy to fullfill those desires.
Your devotional readings are very inspiring in the mornings.When I am feeling down and out the scriptures really renewed my spirit man.Keep up the good work.