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.
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