JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Focus on God’s goodness is found in First Samuel 12:24.
Samuel said to the Israelites: “Be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”
It is good to consider the source when we hear someone instructing us to do something. In the case of Samuel, he was a trustworthy source to speak for the Lord. He had a lifetime of experience walking with the Lord as a true prophet. He prayed for the people that he led and showed great concern for their well-being. Samuel consistently pointed people to trust in the Lord faithfully.
He reminded the Israelites in specific ways how God provided for them and led them this far. When we remember the great things that God has done for us, we have motivation to continue the journey of trusting God to lead the way.
The great things God has done for us reveals the goodness of God and is a reason to give thanks in the Year of Gratitude.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to step toward listening for the voice of God.
The LORD was calling a boy named Samuel to service. In First Samuel 3:10, he responded to the voice of God with these words, “Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.”
Listening is a big part of walking with God in faithfulness. Jesus said in John 10, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
Samuel grew up with a heart that was responsive to God’s voice and became Israel’s trusted prophet. Our lives also will serve as credible witnesses for Jesus as we heed His voice and serve Him with a faithful heart.
Take the daily challenge to walk with a listening ear to the words of God on the journey of faith.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Vision, today’s 20/20 Insight focuses on the vision of Samuel.
When the LORD revealed Himself to Samuel, He came through a vision. First Samuel 3:10 says, “The LORD came and stood there, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!”. Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
When God calls our name, that is the moment to respond with a receptive heart. When God wants to speak to us, that is the right time to pay attention. Samuel responded to the call of God on his life, and became Israel’s trustworthy prophet. Verse 21 says, “the LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word.”
God is still speaking to His people today. He reveals Himself and His redemptive plan for our lives in the Bible.
Focusing on the Word of God gives us greater clarity for living out the Christian life.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
