At First Sight? Nah!

1 Samuel 16: 7

“The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

One of my first struggles as a music missionary in Windsong is the discovery of my pool of supporters. I have no problem serving His church for free. As a pastor’s kid, I’ve been raised doing that. But to take that step and invite people to partner with me, to carry the same burden I have and feel,  to trust me with their allotted offering to God, is just faith-stretching. I have to admit, I tried running and reasoning, but both later surfaced as pride. Next issue is the logical inclination to approach people on the basis of their economic status. But all the more God surprised me by providing through ravens and widows. It’s so humbling, and heart-melting.

Samuel saw Eliab’s appearance and height and considerably thought him as Israel’s next king. With Saul as only standard, we could have given him our votes too. But Saul failed as king. Shouldn’t we look through where we faltered too? There’s no hiding the fact that ‘man looks at the appearance’. It’s a depraved given. Charm before character, craving before calorie counting, credentials before commitment. We are not saying here that physical appearance is all-wrong. God created beauty for His glory. Even David was mentioned here as having fine and handsome features. As stand-alone factor to qualify him as king, it wouldn’t suffice. Not even for the position of being one’s lifetime partner or as company manager, right? But God saw his heart, and it beats after His’. We couldn’t see one’s heart in one sitting. There’s just no thing as love at first sight. You have to work on your relationship, spend time with him, get to know him. David’s faithfulness in taking care of those little sheep made him the perfect Shepherd for God’s bigger flock. What God saw in time, we want in an instant. No wonder we're just getting skin deep.

How about God? Do we know His heart or just His name? Do we thank Him for now but trust Him not for tomorrow? Shall we accept only good things from His hand, and not trouble? Faith sees beyond the externals, the obvious, and sometimes, even the sensible. For where His ways are boundless, the purposes of His heart and His steadfast love is forever. Take time. It’s the only way we’ll hear a heart tick!

Practice, Practice.

1 Samuel 16: 11

So he asked, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered, “but he is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him. We will not sit down until he arrives.”

Piano practice is tedious and boring. As a social being, being alone in my four corner room for at least an hour sounds forever. For an artist though, it can be productive, but it is just not the fun part, yet. The result of having practiced is what is enjoyable. Having achieved control of tone, hearing those dynamic nuances, shaped lines, oh, just beautiful! I wish I could play now. But I’m still working on my piano fingerings. Will get back to you in another 27 years maybe, haha!

While Jesse’s family was preparing for the sacrifice, David was out with the sheep. They did not bother to send for him, either they regard him as too young or the livestock more important. I wonder how many gatherings he missed, or worse, never heard. Unlike Joseph and his colorful robe, David was singled out for being the not-favorite son. His days were spent alone in the fields, playing the harp, and on some occasions, striking some wild beasts. It is not the fun part, yet. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but later it yields fruit to those who have been trained by it. Pianists know this. God designed it. David’s practice hours seem paying off, for today he’s summoned for an audition.

Behind every great performance is detailed practice. We can’t downplay a single note or miss an accidental for it will downgrade the piece. We play correctly, all the time, every time. Passion makes every run at performance level. Especially for an audience of One. We may feel alone and unknown, but God sees us. He knows talent when He sees one, well actually, makes one! Part of His design are those solitary moments for our craft to grow richer and our character, godlier. Hang in there. Behind every great performer is the Great Artist Himself. He’ll soon call you centerstage, and it will be for His glory!

Come Clean

1 Samuel 16: 4b-5a

The elders of the town trembled when they met him. “Do you come in peace?” Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace. I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves and come...”

I had a bible study facilitator years back that for some reason, as if a habit, whenever she comes in, all of us just gets dead quiet. Worse if she tells you to meet with her one-on-one within the week for some coffee and personal sharing. We don’t dislike her or anything. She’s actually a very dear lady to many. But there’s something about her truthfulness that can shake us to the core. Reading our text today, I’ve think I’ve found our puzzle piece. It wasn’t her that we dread. It was the double-edged sword of God’s truth that no guilty man would readily want to meet.

Being a prophet and judge, Samuel had that same reputation. Twice did he cry out to God and He thundered from heaven. No wonder the people of Bethlehem trembled at his arrival. Sin-keeping makes any town liable to destruction. But God’s grace brought not judgment that day. It was salvation. It was honor far beyond they could ask or imagine. For from this little town, God will not just anoint a king after His own heart, but a Son whom He loves and with whom He is well-pleased.  Samuel then calls everyone to prepare for worship. Regardless if the agenda is more of celebratory than cleansing, it is still imperative to wash their garments before they approach God. We have more reasons to tremble before our holy God than any man. Beautifully, His invitation is to draw near Him to purify us. The stillness of being in His presence is not the dead-quiet fear we dread, but a life-giving truth because He holds all things together.

Do we have the same impact on others? Do our friends identify us with truth or are we seated with them in mockery? We will sure hear name labels, but what is that compared to the cross Jesus bore? Let them tremble awhile, if that could startle some switches. But do invite them for worship. Teach them how to come clean and all.  By faith, and yes, in the fear of the Lord. 

                                                                                                       

No! Now Go.

1 Samuel 16: 1-3

The Lord said to Samuel “How long will you mourn for Saul since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way.” (v2) But Samuel said “How can I go? Saul will hear about it and kill me.” The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you… to sacrifice, and I will show you what to do.” 

Ten years ago, God used this verse to wake me up from the pits. I had been crying over a broken relationship for months, and that morning, I received a text message saying he’s getting married. I managed a congrats reply, but right after, I found my knees shaking, my heart out of breath, and streams just flowed from my eyes. Running to God for comfort, I opened His word expecting a feel-good embrace. But He gave me one word: “Enough!” It was cold waters to my burning, brat face, but it did wash off my insanity. Gathering myself up, I sincerely sought His direction for me. I was of course hoping it would be as concrete as an events calendar or a person’s name (haha!), but He said, “Worship Me, and Walk with Me”. 

Samuel was boxed up in his loyalty and couldn’t seem to let go of his king. Maybe he even prayed for God to withdraw His hand and re-open Saul’s case. As a Father, God surely did continue to love Saul regardless of his rebellion. But justice will not alter His decision to reject him as king. When we commit public sins, we have the assurance of being fully restored to His family once we turn 180 degrees and promised to move forward. However, it will not always allow us to return to our previous leadership positions. It is an unseen future that feared even the already-mature Samuel. Amazingly, God saw a speck of willingness in our ‘hows’.  His call now shifts to taking up the shield of faith by going where He leads. If God’s concern is getting the job done, He could easily give the next king’s name and the location where he’s tending the sheep. He loves Samuel so much He wants to honor him with the joy of once again seeing His salvation to Israel. And it wouldn’t be a complete treat without letting the old man relive his old days by hearing from God directly and seeing His will unfold before his eyes, one step at a time. Oh how beautiful! What a caring, considerate God we have!

Stop signs are meant to hold us awhile, give time for other things to pass, then make us turn right or cross the other side. It allows us to rest, have a glimpse of the view, maybe sing along with the kids on board. So that when God finally hits go, we’ll say it was a necessary break for us to enjoy the journey as much as seeing the destination. I think it’s obvious now not to pitch your tents on the stop sign, right?   

Good Grief

1 Samuel 15:32-35

Samuel mourned for Saul, God was grieved. E-dictionaries say both words are laments, but mourning displays itself by some outward mark like crying, while grieving is an emotion that one feels within. Mourning may be the common act of many, but grief is an act of an individual for the loss of someone dear to him. One mourns for that which concerns others, one grieves for that which immediately concerns him. Samuel’s sadness was more from a mentor seeing his apprentice fall away from God and how it affected the nation. It made him decide not to see Saul again ‘til he died. God’s grief was the Father’s heavy heart for his wayward son. He felt this in Noah’s time, Jesus’ felt this when he saw the Pharisees’ unbelief, and the Spirit feels this everytime we sin.  We are so dear to Him that our rebellion hurts Him so much. It is just unbearable for a parent to hear justice knock at his son’s door. But our choices left Truth with no choice. And so He sent His Son to die on our stead. Amazing move, amazing love! Sin could not stop Him from caring. It was actually His compassion that put sin’s snare to a stop.  Only in God can we associate grief with life, not loss. And only God can make the saddest of words turn into a hope we all could turn to!

Application:

Psalm 119:158 says “I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word.” By defining ‘grief’ as a God-concern, moving Him to compassion, I would admit I’m lagging behind. Everyday I hear neighbors cursing, friends’ malicious FB postings, and my own kids’ toy-sharing issues. Irritated? Yes. Good grieving? You mean, wanting them to change? Yes of course. Acting upon it? With my kids, yes. My friends? Uhm, maybe just the closest. Neighbors? Lord, are you sure? And by the way, He added my name on the list too! But as love is not love unless expressed, grieving will remain a negative emotion unless it produces positive action.  But he cannot use a hard heart to soften another. He dealt with Jonah first then Niniveh’s saving. Only in understanding His good grief and experiencing His forgiveness firsthand can we love much.  Pride loathes the sinner, but Jesus came for them. Good grief: Do not delay. People are perishing.

Plead Guilty

1 Samuel 15:12-30

The Lord was grieved that he had made Saul king. Samuel mourned for him too. But was Saul ever repentant of his sin? On his first meeting with Samuel after the feat, Saul even greeted him with a blessing. He was elated with the victory and maybe thought the old man was there to celebrate with him. It was a mission accomplished. He believed so. On Samuel’s initial inquiry, he was immediately defensive and passed the blame to his soldiers, as if his men can do anything without his consent. Trying to make light again their conversation, he diverted the topic back to their victory. Although I’m sure his mind now is replaying all scenarios and discreetly convincing himself that nothing went wrong. But Samuel pressed more, and this time, calling it disobedience. Feeling hurt, but not sorry, Saul denied the accusation, but his good excuses were failing him. He said he completely destroyed the enemies, but admitted sparing Agag. He blamed the soldiers for taking the livestock, but he reasoned it was for the sacrifice. He struggled with the idea that because something went wrong, everything else falls with it. He spared just one from the all the rest, took the best but killed all else, how could a drop of ink ruin the whole paper? The topic next moved to its consequence: God rejecting Saul as king. Samuel equated his sin to divination and idolatry. Now he’s losing it. Knowing he couldn’t run further, he admitted the sin, with the lame excuse of fearing his men.  He asked Samuel’s forgiveness (not God’s!) and begged him to come with him to worship. When his invitation was declined, he caught hold the old man’s robe that it tore, and God even used it to confirm that his kingdom has been torn as well. We would hope he would come to his senses now and seek peace with God. Sadly, his final request was not forgiveness. He pleaded Samuel to still honor him before the people. The monument he set up for himself proves all he cares was his name and not God’s.

Application:

I see five stages of sin-confrontation here: Disguise (nothing was wrong) – Denial (they were wrong, not me) - Disapproval (it was not all-wrong) – Defense (it just went wrong) -   Disregard (enough with the wrong).  I have to admit I went as far as the fourth scheme. God’s mercy kept me from taking that last step, for it would be most fatal.  I’m sure we’re all familiar being on the accused seat. How about browsing what goes on beyond our fence? Let’s see God’s five steps to calling us to repentance: Presence (He’s here) – Proof (He knows) – Principles (He said) – Punishment (He will) -  Pits (He grieves).  Isaiah confessed when he saw the holiness of God. David readily admitted his transgression at Nathan’s rebuke.  Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken when he heard the crow. Jonah was inside the fish belly when he uttered repentance. Samson sought the Lord at his last breath. Of course we don’t have to exhaust all options here. The point is, God is so patient with us. His love is unfailing, and his mercy, so great. No sin is bigger than the cross. And so Isaiah was sent off, David’s line was kept, Peter was instrumental in building the church, Jonah’s preaching saved Niniveh, and Samson killed more Philistines when he died than while he lived. As Creator, God alone can clean us thoroughly and make us new. Jesus’ death justified us, and even all records were nailed with Him. Why should we fear repentance when all our sins have been paid for? Plead guilty and you’ll be declared not guilty! Only in God’s court! Galing!

What’s Your Order?

1 Samuel 15:7-11

The Lord Almighty says, ‘I will punish the Amalekites’. His name means all-powerful: able to do as He pleases, and unstoppable in His purposes. He commands Saul to accomplish His will by totally destroying Israel’s enemy. But Saul defied his commander-in-chief. He thought best to spare Agag for display, and take the best goods for his depot. He called the shots as if it was for him to take. By disobeying his direct order, he disrespected his direct officer. He defied God’s name with an implied declaration of disenabling Him. And as his High King, Saul irreverently took the best of the livestock for himself, and offered the ‘not-best’ kill (v9b, the despised and the weak), to God. Further down the chapter, he reasoned that the plunder was intended as a sacrifice. If it really was the case, which surely was not, would you offer a king a live plate when he wants it dead? It’s like ordering a well done steak and having waited long, the waiter comes back with a raw meat. Obedience is defined as submission to authority. It is the acknowledgement that we are subjects and He is superior. There is no such thing as half obedience or delayed obedience for such negates the manner and time of compliance, which is part of the order. It also calls for complete yielding of one’s self and will to God. Delighting yourself in the Lord is embracing His will, owning it as yours, and so satisfying the desires of your heart. God cannot serve other will but His. In struggling with this truth, we only hurt ourselves. But hear this, “The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living.” (Ps19.7,8). Anything better than these?

 Application:

Like all disobedience, it roots from our uncertainty of God’s command and character. It deceives us into thinking if ‘He really said it” and that “(we) will be like God”. One opens the box of doubt, the other, discontent. Saul saw the plunder and maybe thought ‘why waste its carcasses to wild beasts when we can put it into good use’. Then seeing Agag, he imagined the glory of walking down the streets with this defeated king as display. Why do you think we can’t easily let go of our pet sins? “Oh, it’s just a small sin. I’m sure He wouldn’t thunder in for this”. Or worse, “I do have the right and I think I deserve some happiness here.” Many of us are battling with our personal devotions with God, We usually reason that it doesn’t have to be mornings or daily or more than five minutes. Surely we’re better off than others. And so we decide for ourselves, spend time when we have the spare time, or feel like it, or just when it’s crucially needed. We exchange it for ‘better’ things like preparing meals, doing exercise, going to work, and of course, we all need sleep! We’re missing the mark because our eyes are on our side of the doing (and what good it will bring us), rather than on Whom we’re doing it for. So why do we really need to spend time with God? Is it because we’re told to, or needed to? Hear that from your partner and you’ll conclude you weren’t loved at all.

Sow What?

1 Samuel 15:1-6

A man reaps what he sows. Every kind of grain will produce grain like itself. Who expects corn from wheat seeds? We may see the wicked prospering now, but they can never run from God’s justice. It will surely come. Seven books earlier, the Amalekites attacked the worn out, wearied Israel. God gave His word to blot out their name under heaven because of this cruelty. Now with their land inheritance and rest from their enemies, Israel can now claim that promise. We may feel God was slow in administering justice here, but His wisdom saw it fit to set it at this time. Last month, the country was shocked with the acquittal of the primary suspects in Vizconde’s two-decade case. Without taking sides, the issue is, we still have an open case and suspects on the loose. Has God gone deaf? Truth says No. Faith calls us to hope and be certain even if we don’t see. We cannot counsel an eternal God with earthly schedules. He is beyond our 24/7 system, above all heavens actually! In this chapter, total punishment of the Amalekites was the order given to Saul. The mention of not sparing even the children and infants was unimaginable for a gracious God. But it wasn’t God who changed here, it was their fathers who crossed the line. They caused this bad reap. As they were setting the ambush, Saul told the Kenites to leave the city so that they will not be destroyed along with God’s enemies. These tent people were descendants of Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, and their kindness to all Israel generations past was not forgotten. In fact, their lineage was their saving ticket here. What a contrast! Every good deed also has its pay, a good one. Galatians 6:9 encourages us to “not get tired of doing what is good, for at just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.”

 Application:

 We live in a sin city. People get hurt, cheated, abused, killed. It’s a bad place to raise children. They could either suffer from them, or worse be one of them. It seems a hopeless world. But this I see as an outsider, peeking in. But is it not true that we have also contributed to society’s selfishness, vanity, and filth?  Let’s skip the obvious sins meantime. Aren’t we all guilty of unkind words, white lies, tardiness, even littering. Multiply that to our number and we create an unloving, dishonest, inconsiderate and dirty community. We’re reaping a bad harvest because in one way or another, we gave in to our selfishness and threw sinful seeds. Turn to page two and some would sure doubt one good sow could make a difference. Yes it can! One changed life can alter the flow of water if it’s springs from God. One kindness reaps gratitude and in time, kindness too. There is only one answer to our decaying society: GOD. And our call is not just to hope in Him, but work with Him. And by the way, good seeds can’t be found elsewhere. Every perfect gift is from heaven and His supplies, everlasting :> Pay it forward!

Chosen or No Choice?

1 Samuel 14:49-52

The closing verses of chapter fourteen gives us a short account of Saul’s family: his wife, two sons and two daughters, and his cousin Abner, whom he made commander of his army. He and the three men mentioned here fought bitter wars with the Philistines for the rest of his life. It is the sad truth for all families. One member’s battle becomes everyone else’s. And either we all end up on top or together roll down in shame. Regardless if we pay that with support or neglect,  it is inevitable that our life’s choices affect each other. Wherever we go, we carry with us that same blood, and oh, the same name too. But how about those soldiers, the mighty and brave men, whom Saul took with him into his service? They were chosen to be part of his life for their strength and skills. Though not blood related, their allegiance calls to fight alongside him with their all. Yes, they will share in his victory and/or defeat, but No to getting any credit. It is solely for the king’s name. It is the same sad truth in the workplace. We get hired for our skills and we’re expected to pour out our all so as to contribute to its success. The company gets the recognition, we get paid though. When bankruptcy tunnels in, all goes down with it. That is, regardless of one’s hardwork and because of another’s folly. But would we rather fight the fall or be the reason for it?  People do less when they care less. The sooner we find it honor serving our ‘master’ and be part of his team, the more we’ll hold it as our own.  

 Application:

Let’s draft a formula here:

No-Choice  +  Hardwork OR Halfwork  = Success OR Failure

Chosen      +  Hardwork OR Halfwork  = Success OR Failure

Woew! Look at that! Regardless if we’re born with it, forced in, called to or volunteered in, and with or without our full support and all-out striving, it just can’t dictate our work’s outcomes! Playing victimized or depending on it can’t help either. Moses gave excuses at the burning bush, Peter said ‘I’ll die defending you!’. Both were great leaders, both succumbed to anger too. One never entered the promise land, the latter thrice disowned Christ. Failures? Yes. Faith-Heroes? Yes too. What’s the formula then? None, but grace at work. When all we see is who we are, what we do, and where it brings us, it ends there. Grace calls us be thankful in all circumstance and work with our all in gratitude to the One who favors us with all things. Then and only then can we end well. And in God’s kingdom, success is not spelled ‘m-o-n-e-y’ or ‘f-a-m-e’. Paul had a good standing, and continued in zeal, but seeing himself behind bars, we would expect an unfair cry. Instead we see him rejoicing in the Lord and getting his jailer saved. My life’s worth is not about me. God’s glory is my goal, and without doubt, my greatest gain!

For Who's Sake?

1 Samuel 14:24-46

When God entrusts us with a position, He allows us to draw plans, give orders, make mistakes, settle issues, and enjoy our victories. Parents do that for the joy of seeing us grow in maturity. Firming our ground with godly principles, their role now shifts to being advisers, uninvited or not, hahaha!  Saul was given that free hand to rule. It may oftentimes be wanting in wisdom, but God did not meddle in. He did not leave them either. He’s 24/7 on call, ready for our asking. In this last part of chapter fourteen, we see how everyone suffered for one man’s foolish choices. Coming from war, we can imagine how drained soldiers are. Long walks and hours of fighting are physically exhausting, and seeing soldiers fall dead left and right, wondering if you’d be next, is so nerve-racking! Thinking it’s best not to lose their momentum, he called another pursuit. Saul was too focused on avenging his name at their expense. He bound his men under an oath not to eat anything until the next triumph. It could have been less torture if they did not pass the woods oozing with honey. Jonathan, who had a taste then was informed of the order, thought it was trouble to give such a call.  But Saul had his way, and yes, they did win. What followed next was payback. His men pounced on the plunder, ate the meat with blood still in it. They were close to insanity, uncaring of the law, and just so hungry. It is visually disturbing that it woke Saul’s being and made him offer a guilt offering. It was his first try to build an altar actually. In an instant, he switched back to war mode and called everyone to go down and fight again. He just dealt with the consequence of starvation, not he’s depriving them of sleep and rest? Praise God for using the young priest to stop him. His suggestion to inquire of God first was public and there’s no way for Saul to disregard it. It was in fact God’s mercy to keep them from sure slaughter for with sin present in their camp, He will not give them an answer. That’s when Saul discovered that it was Jonathan who violated the oath and as king, he will honor his word. His army never once opposed Saul’s orders, but here they dared to negate him for Jonathan’s sake. Imagine everybody protecting your son but you? Saul withdrew his hand from his son and his plan. Finally, he came to his senses.

 Application:

In the movie Prince Caspian, one highlight is the ego clashing of Peter and Caspian. The former is called high king and the latter, rightful king. It peaked when they planned an offensive attack at Miraz. Everyone knew it was a bad option, but Peter was too hardheaded. Susan blurted in exasperation: “Who exactly are you doing this for, Peter?” Like Saul, sometimes we are blinded by our personal issues that we push it so hard, uncaring of who gets hurt. But what is really sad is that after serving our own purposes, we’re all alone enjoying its fruit. It’s not happy to eat alone, right? But in God’s Kingdom, His agenda is a shared vision. Everyone can own it! No one is left unheard or uncared for. In fact, in Him there is rest, and His goodness tastes good! I can list down all best motives and moves possible to be a good wife and mother, but sooner or later it will fail me. I may be the prettiest person he comes home to after work (you see, we’re just three in the house, haha!), but with a bad headache, not even my best prepared dinner matters and will be appreciated. If I live this life solely for my husband, this will break me to pieces. But daily, I have to choose to work will all my heart, as working for the Lord, not for anyone, not even for myself. High King Peter lost their first battle with the Talmarines because he pursued it ‘For Narnia’ and not ‘For Aslan!’. In his heart, it even vibrated ‘For Peter’! How about us, “Who exactly are we doing (this) for?”

Fake or Faith

1 Samuel 14:15-23

Second part of this chapter tells how Saul and his men assembled and went to join Jonathan in the battle. The lookouts reported they saw the Philistine army melting away in all directions. Interestingly, Saul still found time to ask for Ahijah the priest and to bring him the ark of the covenant. Was he trying to appear spiritual? If he really needed God’s favor, why did he bring along an Eli-descendant, and not Samuel? And why was the ark brought again to battle? Unlike his son, Saul was not mindful of his history. No ark can bring them victory. Anyway, his show was short-lived and proven fake when commotion reached its height for he immediately called a withdraw of hand on the ark. So like us when we pray. Our impatience wants it fast and done our way. We even set a time limit for Him to answer, otherwise we’ll take the matter in our own hands. Tsk tsk! Arriving at the battle scene, they found the Philistines in total confusion, striking one another. Now ascertain of the win, they joined the pursuit, even those in hiding came out and fought along. Where were they when Jonathan was risking his life crossing enemy lines? Although God can pour down all help from heaven, He will not entrust it to men in their rest positions. His eyes range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him (2Chr16.9). God’s heroes are always on the move, acting upon their faith, and walking alongside Him. He honors workers, not wait-ers :>

 Application:

Ever tried appearing spiritual? Let’s name a few:

Going to church on Sundays, but never godly on weekdays.

Asking people to pray for you, but never knelt down yourself.

Using bible verses in our conversations, but never really opened its pages.

Helping other people in need, but deaf to our family members.

Calling Him Lord, but never doing what He says.

I had my share of those stories. In fact all five examples. When I was younger and still with my parents, there are Sundays that we go to church and minister to people while still being angry with each other. There were a lot of instances that I even lead in worship yet I knew my heart wasn’t right with God. More humbling is when people tell me they were blessed with the singing. One big event in Windsong, it was in fact an evangelistic concert, that I was just so angry and bitter, and self absorbed all night. Many accepted and committed their lives to Jesus, and I can still remember how I so regret never being part of God’s victory, although part of its production! God gave Israel victory in this chapter because of one faith and regardless of all ‘fakes’. No one can hinder Him from blessing, but it is a pity when we forfeit our share.

By Many or By Few

1 Samuel 14:1-14

Seeing Saul under a pomegranate tree, we would understand why Jonathan had to go. His father is doing nothing, going nowhere, with no plans or orders whatsoever. It’s as if they’re just waiting to be attacked and die. He knew he has to do something. Only he (and his father) has weapons. If he thought of asking for a sign, this one is as clear as water. With his skills and experience, if he will not take a shot, no one else will.  “Ok, that’s the WHO and WHAT part. Now HOW do I win it?” Woew, dead end! This is when he probably prayed. Uttering their hard pressed situation, maybe God made him remember how in history they were once trapped too. Moses was told to stretch out his hand, and the Sea was divided. All Israel safely crossed over while the entire army of Pharaoh was washed out.  Then there was Gideon and his 300, exactly half their size now, and yet God gave them victory over the Midianites. I can imagine a light bulb turning itself on above his head with this ray of hope. That’s it! We have a powerful God on our side, and we are His own. Nothing can hinder Him from saving whether by many or by few! No size, status, or strategy can assist His deliverance. It is never a question if He can, because He is able, but will He. That’s why Jonathan still sought a confirmation before the final climb to the outpost. His courage is dependent on and directed by Him alone.  Trusting God is not a one-stop-shop. We listen as we go. He delights in relationship, not formulas. What happened in this chapter is solely God’s work through Jonathan, not the other way around.

Personal Application:

What is in our hands? A good name gives us respect. Education accepts us to a position. Wealth allows us to move around. Health does that too. Relationships feel good. Will-power takes us to places. The Apostle Paul also had his hands full. A good lineage, an educated man, respected in the religious circle, hardworking, had days of plenty too. Yet he saw all these as rubbish compared to knowing Christ. No, he doesn’t mean these things are worthless in itself. Wealth is good, but taking it outside the context of God’s rule, we will labor in vain. We may be the strongest, most powerful man alive, but at His call, we’re out of breath. If we put our esteem and security on those that we love, sooner or later they’ll disappoint us too. Saul was disheartened to see a few men left on his side, Jonathan saw the odds too, but He saw a bigger God. Being alone did not discourage him, having the skills weren’t his confidence either. Life is not about what we have or don’t have. It’s Who we have, and in Christ, we’re always the majority!

Ready... Set?

1 Samuel 13:16-22

               

Let’s take some inventory here:

Commanding officer?

‘Check. He’s a bit cranky though. 
We heard Samuel say that he’ll be replaced soon’.

Soldiers?

‘Check. Six hundred to date, and quaking in fear’.

How many enemies are you facing here again?

‘Three thousand chariots with two charioteers each, 
and foot soldiers as numerous as the sand.’

And your weapons?

‘Just two. Only the king and his son had them. 
Haven’t you heard? There’s no blacksmith in Israel!’

Whatttt?! Waging war without weapons??!! What was Saul thinking (and NOT doing!) First, he failed in protecting ALL their blacksmiths either from death or captivity. There was no mention as to how long they’ve been suffering from this loss. It could be that during Samuel’s leadership, they saw no urgency to meet this need since God has been fighting for them. But knowing this downside, how could a king provoke an enemy to a battle? He could have at least strategized a rescue mission first, or maybe start an underground steel and iron school somewhere.  Second, he allowed his nation to be demeaned by going down the enemy lines even for basic tool sharpening. He’s given the other side the favor of increasing their morale with this vulnerability, not to mention that they get paid for it! It seems they’re now financing Philistines rise to power.  Are there really no other neighboring lands to go to instead? Third is giving a GO to this war without a plan. Obviously he never sat down to count the cost for who could miss it? Hand in hand with food in a basic survival kit is security, and if Saul couldn’t provide that, they’re all dead meat in no time. But let’s not put the blame on Saul alone. It was the result of Israel’s sin of asking for a king. They sought independence from the One who can win their every battle without a need for swords or spears. Like a prodigal son naive of the perils of real life, Israel bragged they could do well on their own. Let’ see how this will end. The God of the impossible is still on His people’s side, waiting for their call. At the sight of the returning son, He even ran. The sooner we admit it, the safer we’ll be :>

 Application:

What is worse than not coming on time? Agree with me that it’s coming unprepared. Imagine blocking your calendar for a meeting and the main man comes with no presentation on hand. Doubly irritating when he babbles his way out, trying to sound sensible and ‘prepared’! Wouldn’t it be best if students really study in advance before attending class? Aren’t we supposed to be ready to praise and with all-set tithes on Sundays? Shouldn’t instrumentalists come jazzed up to every rehearsal? How many wives still take time to look good (or at least take a bath? hahaha!) in time for their husband's return from work :> If we want results, we have to spell process. If we’re eyeing to win, we have to be armed for battle. Five of the ten virgins were foolish to take their lamps with no oil in them.  When the bridegroom came, only those who were ready went in with him in the wedding and the door was shut. Warm ups are crucial for a run. We have to take time.  

Bad Pits

1 Samuel 13:1-14

               

My title seems amusing but not to an Israelite soldier in today’s chapter. Their king provoked the Philistines by attacking its outpost, probably betraying a peace treaty, and now an army with three thousand chariots and soldiers as numerous as the sand are being assembled, ready to fight. With only three thousand foot soldiers with him, no wonder Saul’s men quaked in fear and soon scattered, hid in caves, cisterns, rocks, and yes, pits. Some of them even crossed Jordan river. But we wonder, where were the three hundred thirty thousand men who were with Saul against the Ammonites in chapter 11? What was on his mind that he only chose three thousand men to stay with him and the rest he sent back to their tents? I’m sure they were far from being delighted (and prepared) to be summoned back at a trumpet’s blow to fight a battle he called after the disband. Seeing his men disheartened and a lot missing, he took the liberty to start a ceremony thinking it could unite his men and revive their spirits. Maybe he thought his office is higher than that of a priest, and with Samuel missing in action, he had the excuse of offering the burnt offering himself. Unlike the man after God’s own heart whose kingdom will be established for all time, Saul never showed any repentance for his disobedience nor sought his rebuker’s wisdom on what to do next. Samuel left him for Gilgal and he was left alone with six hundred men facing a close to impossible combat.  Without his mentor and his God, now that’s a bad pit!

Application:

Years ago, a godly man whom we all look up to in Windsong gave his devotion on this chapter and focused on Samuel’s not coming in on time and in a way, causing Saul to fall. I have never regarded tardiness as sin prior that morning. I knew it was irritating and offensive, but since it’s oftentimes excusable, why not just let it go. But coming promptly to a set schedule is honoring your word, respecting other people and it is good stewardship. Practically, it keeps everyone from the unnecessary stress and from any temptation to give a lie, either as alibi or that fake OK smile. Since then, coming on time for us requires coming before time. Of course we faltered here and there, but we made it a point to ask the forgiveness of every one in the room and had to painstakingly admit the behind-the-scene reason, like watching a late night movie for oversleeping and so catching the heavy traffic. It looks tedious but a needed discipline. Tardiness may appear to be a shallow pit, but ey, it’s still a pit. Move out!

Cut the Rope

1 Samuel 12:6-25

Israel’s relationship with God runs a predictable cycle: Peace-Sin-Punishment-Pleading-Saving. Their deliverance from the Ammonites is still novelty and with a new king set in place, security is savored in the land. Knowing what’s next after this celebrated peace, thinking it could also be his last chance to take centerstage, Samuel poured out all truth in love to these forgetful people.  He gave these four-point outline, all beginning with the letter R:

First is to acknowledge their Real Rescuer, the One who gave them priests, judges and now their king. They may have opted for an earthly leader, but for His Name’s sake and pleasure, God will continue to make them His own.  Second is to Realize the evil thing they did when they asked for a king. A nation could never run forward without first throwing off everything that hinders and entangles. Sin and blessing will never occupy the same space at the same time. Third is the Rule of Righteousness. Even with a new system of government, they are still subject to God’s standards. For without His favor, no kingdom can escape being swept away. Fourth is to Remember the great things God did for them. A life of gratitude and focusing on grace will keep us from falling easily again. Being soaked in the wonderment of Jesus leaves no room to wander away for some worthless idols.

Summing up, Samuel calls all Israel not just to start anew but to start right. We may be reaping the curse of our lineage’s disobedience, but we can cut the rope now and allow blessing to flow down the line instead. We may have fallen again or sank deeper this time, but Jesus said, ‘go and sin no more’. 

Application:

There is really no retirement in the Lord’s service. Although an outgoing leader, Samuel ended his speech with a commitment to pray and to continue teaching them the way that is good and right. We continue to be parents even after our kids get married. In this country, the support all the more heightens at the coming of the grandchildren :> A home-based young mom like me shouldn’t fret for being unable to professionally work outside when there are endless possibilities of purposeful living as a homemaker, wife, mother, friend and neighbor. Who says my hands are not full everyday? And should sickness and rejection stop us from caring? Who gets well by being self-absorbed and shut off? Galatians 6:9 says: ‘Let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.’ Let us cut the rope of idleness, mediocrity and selfishness. Work is not all about earning money or climbing  our way to the top. It’s being and doing our best wherever God placed us, for whoever He’ll lead us, and always for the glory of One.

Truth or Dare

1 Samuel 12:1-5

Chapter 11 ends with Samuel reaffirming Saul’s kingship in the presence of the Lord and by request of the people. The Israelites were finally convinced their new king could really save them. In the midst of this great celebration, Samuel stood up, not to propose a toast, but to give a parting speech. Not to say congratulations, but to confront them of their sin. It looks anticlimactic, but a needed one. As starter, Samuel dared vulnerability and made himself subject to the new government. I wonder if any outgoing official today would take the challenge and pass the test. The old, gray man here was not bragging when he itemized his innocence over power-trip, cheat, oppression and bribery. One cannot look at the speck of sawdust in his brother’s eyes if he will not pay attention to his own plank. In his case, there was none. His integrity now serves as a good credential, ushering his graceful exit, and a great legacy for Saul and all Israel.

 Application:

The word "integrity" stems from the Latin adjective integer which means whole or complete. It is a concept of consistency in actions and character. For Christians, it is behaving according to Biblical principles. It is fair to say that prerequisite to a life of integrity is the study of God’s word.  New year has always been a good launch pad for me to start a godly habit.  I already did bible-in-a-year, daily journaling, praise & prayer listing, and this 2011, my goal is this devotional blogging.  According to Wikihow, scientists agree that the average person needs at least 3 weeks to form a good habit, and bad habits to do away with. Mine is to wake up earlier than usual, pre-prepare our breakfast the night before, and press our clothes in advance. But reading and writing will not make me complete. Integrity comes when I act upon my blogs. Luke 11:28 says “Blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice." Blogging off is logging on to life - - His way.

Run or Rescue?

1 Samuel 11

Deadline.  The word itself reads death. No wonder it creates panic and stress and horror.  For a student, it says goodbye to sleep; in the workplace, it’s when the boss is everyone’s enemy; in the home, we call it bills and to some, more credits. But there’s nothing dread-er than when life is at stake. The men of Jabesh only have seven days before the Ammonites gouge out their right eyes and become their slaves.  They hoped that the rest of Israel would come to deliver them.  How sad that they never thought of God :< Fast rewind to eternity past and God already made His rescue. Being Provider (pro-video) means He ‘saw before’ our situations and help is as good as GO. Even before they asked for a king, He wired Saul that when he hears the defenseless cry, he’ll switch ON to offensive mode. Without a single military experience, he was able to unite his people, strategize an attack and slaughter the enemies. It is undeniably God! For who else could foresee their victory at its exact time? Knowing WHO saved them is just half of this story, the other half asks WHY.  Being rejected as King, we would understand if He would withhold His hand a bit, let them suffer awhile, just so they’d realize their need for Him. Try rebellion with your family, unfaithfulness with your better half, or betrayal with your friends, and most of them will wish you bad so you’d come back begging on your knees. But unlike man, God is never a reactor. He doesn’t do something because we did this or do that. He saved us all while we were still sinners, and regardless of our response.  He is forever the Initiator, and from Him every good and perfect gift.

Application:

When opportunity knocks, I am one of those who readily opens the door without thinking. It’s been a long time since I updated my profile and given the need, the list would show some items my friends would never thought I was capable of doing. Let’s name a few. I said YES to being the choreographer of the Senate Choir early 2000. Sounds simple? But did you ever saw me dance? Horrible idea! hahaha!! Also around that time, I played first key to a recording of fourteen songs. You’d say I’m a music graduate, that’s no big deal. But ask my Windsong family and they’d say they rather have me host a program than play the keyboard! Mind you, we even had a live concert of that album at Camp Aguinaldo. Unimagineable! Of course it’s a different foolishness if I applied to a chemical company or an accounting firm. At least I have an inch of potential in my gigs. And God honored my mustard seed faith (and my love for my friends) and moved some mountains! What am I saying here: so many people are taking so much time thinking, even using the excuse of ‘will pray about it’, before giving a YES to God’s invitation. They want to cover all sides and make sure nothing will fail before they allow their names to be part of it. I understand the issue of excellence and preparedness. I took pains in pulling those off. Some people doubted Saul’s inexperience to lead Israel. But he never ran from it. And that was enough for God to work wonders through him. All it takes is a willing heart and a big God.