Political power in our pulpits

 

When Samuel came to anoint David king of Israel, the people in the town became afraid (I Sam 16:4). Considering the political power he represented, it was no wonder people were concerned. As we see politicians given place during our worship times, we also might want to consider the political power presented and if truly aligns with our faith and practice.

Are you ashamed?

 David was called a "man after God's heart (1 Sam 13:14) but was later guilty of adultery and murder. He loved God deeply, but still fell to the most vile sins of his day. David's redemption came a steep price, but during those times of shame, he humbled himself and wrote stirring Psalms begging God for forgiveness. How do you respond when your sins are exposed? Are you able to humble yourself and beg God for help?

Allowing abuse

 Eli was once God's great high priest, called by God to keep the Ark of the Covenant and to minister to the people of Israel. While it seemed like God's plan was for Eli's sons to succeed him as high priests, they used their positions to take advantage of those they were called to serve. Because Eli allowed this kind of abuse, God took the priesthood from him and his family. How do you stand up to abusers? (1 Samuel 3)

Remembering the Good Old Days - or not

 

Many of us are tempted to rewrite our histories to be happier or somehow better than our current circumstances. Even Gods' people began to feel nostalgic for their days of slavery, because of the food that was available (Ex 16). As Christians, we might be tempted to think that a particular decade was more moral, or more spiritual because we fail to recall all happened in that time.

Who are you listening to?

 

During times of transition and turmoil, it might be tempting to find comfort and counsel in the many voices that demand our attention. We might do well to consider the advice given to the child, Samuel (1 Sam 3), when he was advised to answer God's call with attentive listening.  How do you listen to God?

Hoarding Manna

 God provided grain for the Israelites while they were in the desert (Ex 16), but it was unique in that it only lasted for one day. Attempts to hoard or even save the grain, or manna failed because the grain would become unusable. This meant that no one could profit by another's failure to gather the manna and that each would need to perform this work for themselves. Can you think of a way you might be hoarding God's gifts?

Saving vs hoarding

 While most Christians consider it wise to set back a portion of wealth for use in case of an emergency, there is a difference between saving and hoarding. The Israelites had to trust God every day for their provision of food while in the wilderness (Ex 16), and were unable to accumulate wealth by holding it back. How tightly do you hold onto your savings? Do you trust God for your well-being or are trusting in your savings?