FINDING COURAGE TO SACRIFICE
Today’s Scripture: “And the people of Israel said to Samuel, ‘Do not cease to cry out to the Lord our God for us, that he may save us from the hand of the Philistines.’ So Samuel took a nursing lamb and offered it as a whole burnt offering to the Lord. And Samuel cried out to the Lord for Israel, and the Lord answered him.” 1 Samuel 7:8-9, ESV
Theme: In times of trouble or confusion, offer a sacrifice which honors God.
NEGATIVE CONNOTATIONS
So often, I consider the word "sacrifice" to be a hardship. It has negative connotations in our minds: doing without, giving up, and "getting by" with less. But in God's economy, sacrificing for His glory and in His honor always blesses us more than it could ever bless Him!
The nation of Israel was ready to seek God and the prophet Samuel tells them that if they are serious, they must make some changes. They have to put away their false gods, purify their hearts, and commit themselves to serving only the Lord God.
NOT WITHOUT TROUBLES
The people not only agreed, but they began to fast and pray. They sacrificed their right to do as they please. They sacrificed their desire to eat and be merry. Yet the minute they gathered to repent; they were attacked by their enemies!
A GOD OF FAVOR
As they continued to pray and offer a sacrifice, God showed up in a mighty way. And He is still mighty to save when we offer up our wills and our desires to His plan. Does that mean we will never experience trouble? No. But it means God is with us and for us!
Make It Personal: Are there times when it seems inconvenient or scary to make a sacrifice? Ask God to still your heart and bring it into agreement with Him. Ask Him to show up in big ways to rescue you. Then trust Him to do it.
Pray: Father, You are my God. I am tempted to look at the troubles around me and take my eyes off of You. Help me to come with a humble heart and bring a sacrifice that pleases You. In Your Name I pray, amen.
Read: 1 Samuel 7:3-10; Isaiah 58:1-10; Romans 8:31
Weekly Memory Verse: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1 (NIV)