Pastor Marshall Ochs | May 7, 2023
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 7-8. These chapters cover Israel’s repentance, the stone of hope in Mizpah, and Israel’s cry for a king. The story has powerful application for God’s people today in how we view repentance, understanding Jesus as our high priest, and the foolishness of the education fallacy.
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Monday: Read 1 Samuel 7:1-6
One of the first things that stood out to me in this passage was that the Israelites lamented for twenty years. Pastor Marshall reminded us that James tells us faith without works is dead. It is easy for us to complain about our problems but not act. But not just any action. Ephesians tells us that God has prepared in advance good works for us to do. The second thing we see in this passage is Samuel stepping up and calling the Israelites to repent. One man, following God’s calling on his life, willing to walk in obedience by himself, calls an entire nation to repentance. Will you pray today and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal if there is anything He has asked you to do, and you have not been obedient? Are there any ways you worship idols and need to repent? Is there anything you love more than Jesus? Don’t rush; He will illuminate.
Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 7:1-17
In 1 Samuel 7:10-12, we see the Lord intervene on behalf of the Israelites and give them a great victory. How have you seen God intervene in your own life in times of trouble? Creating a timeline of your life and marking the significant places where you have seen God rescue you from the storm is a practical way to intentionally remember and thank God for His victories. In addition, it will encourage you and remind you to share with others.
Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 8:1-9
In 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites demand a king to rule over them instead of following the Lord's leadership. Israel was called to be a holy nation, separate from all others. Their motive in asking for a king was to be like the nations around them. Are there areas in our own lives where we resist God's guidance and seek control instead?
Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 8:1-22
Samuel warned the Israelites of all the consequences of having a king. Nevertheless, they were blinded by their desire to be like other nations. Will you spend time in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal if you are praying for things outside of God’s will?
Friday: Read 1 Samuel 9 & 10