Choose God's way...life is better when you do! (Class notes from 9/28/08)

Background passage: 1 Samuel 7: 2 -- 8:22

This week, we are continuing our study of 1 Samuel. Last week, Keith discussed chapter seven focusing on the importance of avoiding idolatry. In chapter seven, we see the Israeli people turn back toward God after a long period of rebellion. As a result, the Philistine rule under which they have been living is lifted. They regain their freedom and their lands are restored. Samuel travels the country on a regular basis as judge of the nation. They are at peace and they are prospeous (chapter 7:13-- 16). However, a problem is looming that leads to uncertainty in the mind of the Israelites...Samuel, there earthly leader, is growing old (chapter 8: 1).

1 Samuel 8: 3 --5

Samuel's sons are corrupt and the elders of Israel become concerned about their future. They have been prosperous and they do not want to lose what they have gained. Therefore, they think that it is best to move away from the priestly leadership that they have followed up to that point and moved to a monarchy, just like the pagan nations that surround them. Notice that instead of relying on God's plan, they begin to follow the model of non--believing people around them. Keep in mind also that it is God's plan for them to eventually have a great King (Jesus). However, their timing is wrong.

At the present time, our country seems to be facing the same type of situation. We have generally been prosperous for a number of years and currently, we seem to be facing increasing corruption and decay. Many of our own class members have been working hard for several years to provide for our families and save for the present/future. We worry about losing what we have gained or stored up (much like the Israelites in Samuel's time). Our job is to seek God's will for us and to trust Him with the outcome. Whose voice and whose example do you find yourself following when trouble seems to be on the horizon? Are you listening to an unsaved financial advisor, following the example of a lost neighbor, seeking help from Oprah, or reading secular self--help books for your answers?

Read Psalms 37:1-- 2. Remember that God is in control of both good and evil men. He makes the rain to fall on both the good and the bad. He raises up governments for His purposes. Praise Him for His power as you go through the day today and commit to following HIM even in uncertain times.

1 Samuel 8: 9-- 19 Samuel reports the request of the Israeli people to the Lord. God instructs Samuel to explain to the people what life will be like under rule of the king that they are requesting. Life will be difficult. A king will take their property, their children, their goods, and will eventually enslave them. Knowing all these things, they ask for a king anyway.

As Christians, we also face a choice. We can use the freedom that we have obtained through our faith in Christ however we choose. God gives us that choice!

Read Galatians 5: 13-- 16. In these verses, Paul encourages us to use our freedom to serve each other in love. He encourages us to follow the teaching and leading of the Holy Spirit. Choosing to follow our own worldly "king" leads to immoral acts (Galatians 5:19--21) and I am sure we can all think of instances where we have travelled down this path. Recall the remorse and pain that you felt along the way (or the guilt afterward). On the other hand, following God's plan and the direction of the Holy Spirit leads to love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self--control (Galatians 5:22). Obviously, these qualities lead to fulfillment and contentment!

Make a commitment today to trust God with your future, even in the face of uncertainty. His way is the best way. He loves us. If he says turn left, it is because it is not in your best interest to go in any other direction. Read Psalm 37 this week. Pay attention especially to verses 3--5, 7-- 8, 18-19, 23-24, 30-31, 34, 37, 39-40.

I love you all and thanks for reading the Sunday School Letter!!