Today’s Reading, 1 Samuel 1-3
Focal Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:35 “‘Then I will raise up a faithful priest for myself. He will do whatever is in my heart and mind. I will establish a lasting dynasty for him, and he will walk before my anointed one for all time.”
Being called to serve the Lord is a great privilege. Especially as a minister of the gospel. It means you must have a different mindset than everyone else when it comes to the Bible and when it comes to preparing people. I know personally I love serving people. I want to be amongst them at every turn, especially when I can meet a physical or spiritual need. Above all I love to prepare and teach the people how to use their gifts and skills to further the kingdom. This is done through discipleship and preaching of the word.
In today’s reading we see that Samuels mother gave him up to serve the Lord. We also see that God was going to use him as a faithful priest. He would do whatever was on Gods heart and mind. Then Samuel would walk before the anointed kings. Samuel was chosen and given a very specific and powerful task. He was completely devoted to the Lord.
Are you completely devoted to the Lord? If you have children do they belong to you? Or are you willing to let God have them completely? I can honestly say I am still working on this in my life. I want to let my son be completely committed but I have moments of doubt and fear about what that might mean. It also brings up questions if I am completely devoted to the Lord personally and in ministry.
What I do know is this truth about the Lord and his calling. He wants his servants to be all in, no compromise and no doubt. He wants people who will fulfill the Lords heart and mind in ministry. We have too many people in ministry who are more concerned about their status, instead of being faithful ministers. A faithful servant doesn’t demand leadership they inspire others to follow.
Micromanagers and dictators have success for a short period of time. However, when things or people get beyond their control you will see the cracks in their life. Why? Because it is more about them than it is about serving Jesus. A faithful and biblical priest loves Jesus, loves all people, and commits their life to his cause.
Are you all in and faithful? Or do you have areas you are still holding onto in your life? Today is the day to totally commit to the Lord.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading 1 Samuel 4-8
