Prepare: We need godly leaders
Read: 1 Samuel 7:3-17
Samuel's leadership: The ark of God remained in the house of Abinadab for twenty years. During this period of time, God was preparing Samuel for his ministry. Samuel's position as chief ruler in Israel became firmly established. As a religious leader, he commanded the people to turn from idols. Ashtaroth was the fertility goddess frequently associated with Baal in the Old Testament. Samuel exhorted the Israelites to direct their hearts to the Lord and to serve Him alone. It is true that the ark returned to the Israelites. But how about the Israelites themselves? They should return to the Lord. So Samuel exhorted them to return to the Lord with all their hearts.The Israelites drew water and poured it out before the Lord. This is a symbolic act. They showed their willingness to spill their blood to effect a reconciliation with the Lord.
When the Philistines drew near to battle, God attacked them in a violent thunderstorm. To those simple hearted people, a visible memorial would serve as a constant reminder of God's redeeming power. The name 'Ebenezer', 'stone of help', would tell them that the One who had set them free from the enemies, desired to continue being their God.
Israel was secure and stable both externally and internally under the rule of Samuel, for the hand of the Lord was against the Philistines. There was peace between the Israelites and the Amorites. Samuel's annual visits from his home town of Ramah gave the people confidence and trust in God and in Samuel's leadership.
Respond: Lord, help us to follow godly leaders who can guide us to fulfill Your purposes for our lives.
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