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.