CELEBRATE BEING ALL IN
Today’s Scripture: And the women sang to one another as they celebrated, “Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” 1 Samuel 18:7, ESV
Theme: God celebrates and rewards our obedience and worship above decisiveness and charisma.
A “BETTER” PLAN
Samuel had the difficult job of leading leaders. His first assignment was to anoint Saul as king. Fairly soon after he became king, Saul got impatient, built an altar, and sacrificed to God without waiting for Samuel to come and officiate. He decided he was good enough to take over the priest's role himself! Another time, King Saul went to a witch because he wanted to have his own information source, outside of God's provision. In one last instance, God gave Saul some strict commands about how to fight the Amalekites, and what to do about the enemy and the goods. But Saul (like you and I) thought up his own “better” plan. God doesn't need whatever we can come up with to impress Him.
OBEDIENCE WORTH CELEBRATING
What really pleases Him is a heart completely surrendered and obedient, a soul that waits on Him, hears His instructions, and then follows through with obedience. So, God asked Samuel to anoint a new king and directed him to the shepherd boy David. Although we know King David sinned, there were so many times when his obedience led to great celebration. The army of Israel triumphed when David killed Goliath. When the ark was returned to Jerusalem, the king danced “with all his might” in the streets of the city. The people rejoiced when the offerings and supplies were collected for the building of the temple. David led the way in obedience, and it brought about great joy.
Make It Personal: What pleases God and gives Him joy is a heart that is sold-out to the Christ-life we've been called to live. Are you willing to do that? If you are, there is joy in heaven and celebration for your obedience.
Pray: Lord, I want to be like David, a man/woman after Your own heart. Though I sin, I want to repent quickly and turn back to You in obedience. I ask that You use my small gifts and talents to further Your kingdom and bring glory to Your Name. Amen.
Read: 1 Samuel 15:22-23, 16:1, 6-7, 12-13; 2 Samuel 6:14-22; 1 Chronicles 29:1-9
Memory Verse of the Week: “Then the people rejoiced because they had given willingly, for with a whole heart they had offered freely to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.” 1 Chronicles 29:9, ESV