1 Samuel 2:27-36 – You Have Been Warned!

Read 1 Samuel 2:27-36

The evil of Eli’s sons has not gone unnoticed by God. In fact, we understand God is very displeased with Eli as well. The message from the LORD was this: “Why do you give your sons more honor than you give me—for you and they have become fat from the best offerings of my people Israel!”

Even if God’s message stirred in Eli to seek a “second chance,” his fate was sealed. “But I will honor those who honor me, and I will despise those who think lightly of me.” The messenger goes on to tell how God is going to put an end to Eli’s family and their position as priests. What could Eli have been thinking now?

Eli and his sons would dearly pay for their poor behavior and lack of reverence to God. As God’s anointed priests, they should have been following God’s word and not using their authority for personal gain. We have probably all known people like that who have milked the system and gained some level of success from unethical behavior.

We’ve seen it time and again in the online business space where we’ve immersed ourselves in retirement. We’ve all seen the “get rich quick schemes” and other hyped up advertising. The shock and awe strategy will attract many people. Sadly, they are the same people who won’t know any better and fall prey to such lofty claims.

Will David and I make millions telling people there is a better way? That has yet to be seen, but it all comes back to servanthood. What does God want us to do? Worship only him. Be his followers. Tell others about his love. Be his hands and feet in this world.

When people look at you, who do they see? Do they see a servant of God? When people looked at Eli or his sons, they did not see a reflection of their LORD. These men were tarnishing God’s reputation by their selfish behavior. If there is an ounce of selfishness in our hearts, we should pray for God to replace it with grace and mercy.

Eli and sons will not be able to escape their destiny. Can you imagine dying a premature and violent death because of something you did to displease God? I know I don’t want to even fathom such a thing. I would much prefer to seek God’s will for my life and live for God’s purpose.

It has taken me years to come to that place of seeking God first. I have to imagine that God knew I would get here, and he never gave up on me. I remain in awe of his amazing grace. Take some time to revel in the love God has for you. What is your destiny? Does it include God?

Let’s pray … Lord, your grace and mercy continue to amaze me. I pray for strength to keep me from being distracted from your will for my life. Help me stand firm with the assurance you are just a step ahead guiding the way. Shelter my mind from evil thoughts that try to get me off course. May I focus only on you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.