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“But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:24, NIV)

Memory and gratitude are antidotes to many of the maladies that afflict our soul and that steal the joy of living. These maladies include self-entitlement, greed, a zero-sum view of common resources, and a competitive spirit when cooperation is what is needed.

When we “[remember] what great things [God] has done for [us],” such as giving us the things that money cannot buy (e. g. life, peace, joy, love, security of soul, integrity of mind) — and an abundance of the things money can buy (e. g. food, shelter, clothing, transportation) — it provokes within us an enduring reverence for the Lord, and a burning desire to serve him with faithfulness and enthusiasm.

To count the few things we don’t have — instead of the many blessings we do have — sidetracks us from the path that leads to peace with our heavenly Father. Remember — and be thankful. – Luther

Tagged gratitude, remembrance, thanksgiving, the book of 1 Samuel

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“This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘I will punish the Amalekites for what they did to Israel when they waylaid them as they came up from Egypt.” (I Samuel 15:2, NIV)

There are times in life when others deal unfairly — or even ruthlessly — with us, as the Amalekites did with the Children of Israel during their time in the wilderness.

There is no denying the pain of a betrayal, or the expense of the remedies; but as a disciple of Jesus, we must remain focused on the task(s) God has set before us.

The Lord God did not forget the offenses of the Amalekites. At a time of the Lord’s choosing, he addressed the offenses of Israel’s enemies. He will do the same for us if — repeat — if we will forego vengeance, keeping scores, and bearing grudges against those who have wounded us.

Our heavenly Father has these things “for action.” Our assigned task is to remain utterly faithful to do all that He has set before us. – Luther

Tagged Amalekites, revenge, the book of 1 Samuel

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“Saul remained at Gilgal, and all the troops with him were quaking with fear. He waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and Saul’s men began to scatter. So he said, ‘Bring me the burnt offering and the fellowship offerings.’ And Saul offered up the burnt offering.” (I Samuel 13:7b-9, NIV)

The prophet Samuel had told Saul to wait for his arrival. As Saul waited for the man of God to arrive, things began to get tight: Many of his soldiers deserted. Those who remained were filled with fear.

So, Saul took matters into his own hands — in direct opposition to what he had been told, and knew from experience to be true. The fallout of Saul’s disobedience was severe.

Like Saul, we are also pressed to act contrary to God’s will and to God’s word. Sometimes, it is because our situation seems grim and begs for action. Sometimes, it is because the expectations of others influences our resolve to stand fast.

However, to be a faithful disciple of Jesus means to stand where God has placed us; or to do what God has told us. Resolve to stand in faithful obedience to God until hell freezes over — then stand on the ice! – Luther

Reminder: As normally done, Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow. Have a great day in worship! The risen Lord reigns! Hallelujah!

Tagged disobedience, impatience, Saul, the book of 1 Samuel