"Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless. For the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own. As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right."
- 1 Samuel 12:21-23 -

We’ve already seen the tension regarding the sin of the Israelites' desire for a king. The thunderstorm convicted them of their sin in this respect, but Samuel reassured them that God hadn’t abandoned them; they only needed to return to him, wholeheartedly. They were in a covenant relationship with God. His name was at stake (v 22), so he would continue with his side of that agreement. The people needed to fulfill theirs: wholehearted obedience.

It’s a constant refrain in Scripture. Sin is not the end, but it’s important to repent and live differently, in obedience to God’s commands. Israel would have the encouragement of Samuel’s prayers, as well as his ongoing instruction in the good and right way (v 23). If you are a church leader, the place of prayer for your people is tremendously important, as much as your sermons. Do you set aside regular times to intercede for your flock? For individuals? For leaders among them?

(*I should keep praying for each one in CCC and Geoff Luellen)

For the Israelites, the people needed to serve the Lord faithfully and wholeheartedly, while remembering all he had done for them (v 24). Remembering is an essential element of our discipleship too. Regular communion services help, but that doesn’t remove the onus on all of us to consciously bring to mind what it cost Jesus to keep us in relationship with God and to determine to live in obedience to him daily.

Prayer: Lord, so often I am amazed at what you do for me. I thank you that I always have a majority because you are on my side.

(From Encounter with God)