trust God – Page 14 – Be Still…

1 Samuel 25:39-44 – David’s Women

a man and woman in light embrace, facing each other, with a sunset behind them

You may have heard the saying, “behind every great man is a great woman.” I’m not sure where that comes from exactly, but we have seen examples of that down through the ages. If you are a woman reading this, your man is great because of you! And, if you’re a man, then cherish that bride of yours who is making you great!

David seems to have several women in his life. We can’t forget how Saul’s daughter Michal helped David escape several chapters ago. Apparently, in their culture a father can give his daughter away if he chooses. That’s what Saul did in David’s absence following his escape.

1 Samuel 4:12-22 – Eli Breathes His Last

Read 1 Samuel 4:12-22

graphic design with an open door and the words, "the will of God"

Our last reading told of the massacre of Israelite soldiers and the loss of the ark. Today it is reported to Eli and others. The outcome is not explained in great detail but left to speak for itself. We see how two people responded to this news, yet we must not forget the Israelite people as a whole have also been dealt a severe blow.

God had shared a portion of what took place that day with Samuel before it happened. Eli had been prepared for what to expect only because he had pulled the truth out of Samuel. Didn’t it seem as if Eli was more moved by the loss of the ark than in losing his sons?

1 Samuel 1:9-18 – Cry Out To God!

Read 1 Samuel 1:9-18

woman praying, standing and looking toward the sky with pleading posture

Hannah shows us raw humility and great wisdom. She doesn’t know what to do with her despair, so she cries out to the Lord. “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the Lord, his hair will never be cut.” What a vow!

We may remember that Samson was dedicated to the Lord as a Nazarite. He was set aside for God’s purpose, and his great strength and power from God was in his uncut locks. Presumably, this type of lifestyle was known to Hannah. She wanted a child so badly she was willing to give him back to the Lord.

Judges 20:29-48 – Victory at Last!

Read Judges 20:29-48

If at first you don’t succeed…you know the drill. We don’t give up, we try again! And that’s what the Israelites did with great success. Whose victory was it really? Here’s a clue. “So the Lord helped Israel defeat Benjamin.”

God didn’t raise up a spiritual or military leader to fight this battle. The Israelites banded together for a common goal. From the sounds of it, their tactics were a bit crafty and worked well. The warriors from Benjamin were afraid. “The Israelites surrounded the men of Benjamin and chased them relentlessly, finally overtaking them east of Gibeah.”

Joshua 3:1-17 – Did You See That Coming?

Read Joshua 3:1-17

A couple chapters ago, we heard the encouraging and comforting words from God that he would be with Joshua. Joshua’s courage was the result of this promise. Today we read about how Joshua rounds up the Israelites to prepare them for their journey across the Jordan River. God reminds him of the promise. “Today I will begin to make you a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites. They will know that I am with you, just as I was with Moses.”

Take a moment to just imagine what everyone is feeling? I can see how some may be wondering why they had to hurry up just to wait again along the shore. Others may be nervous, perhaps even fearful of the water. Yet, Joshua was taking charge. It’s hard to imagine he had any fear at all. He was ready. His moment had come.