Devotion
Obey God’s command
David Jacobs
One of my best friends asked me to do a favor for him for his girlfriend's birthday. I needed to help him make the cake and bring it to the party. I tried to ask him some questions about what type of cake to get, but he never got back to me, so I asked his girlfriend directly what type of cake she would like. When my friend heard about this, he was very mad at me, because now she knew that he did not get the cake himself. I was trying to make the situation better, but by disobeying my friend and taking liberty with my interpretation of his request, I made the situation worse.
Saul is described earlier in 1 Samuel as a very good and devout man (1 Samuel 3). Samuel also has a great impression of Saul, and is happy that Saul will inherit the throne. God gives Saul a command via Samuel to utterly destroy the Amalekites. Saul does destroy the weak members of the Amalekites, but he spares some others and takes the livestock back, partially to make a sacrifice and partially to use. He made his own judgment thinking that it was the best decision to be made, but in doing so, like I did with the cake, he directly disobeyed orders. Similar to my situation, the person giving the order was furious.
The relationship between my friend and I as well as between Saul, Samuel, and God, was changed as a result of our decisions. My friend felt that he could no longer trust me, and God felt the same way about Saul. It hurt Samuel that Saul made this foolish decision, and he was punished, losing his claim to the throne.
Prayer
Although our intentions may have been good, losing the trust of someone that we care about is worse much more than a tasty cake or some livestock. I regretted my decision, and we have only begun to understand how much Saul will grow to regret his.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
