Text: 1 Corinthians 15.58
Israel’s request for a king hit Samuel hard. He took it as an “in your face” rejection of his godly, faithful, leadership over many years. Year after year he faithfully administered justice and proclaimed God’s truth as he continually called Israel to obedience. Only to hear, as he neared the end of life, “Give us a king” (1 Samuel 8.6).
It’s at this point Samuel hears directly from God (even in the Bible this is very rare), “. . . it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king” (1 Samuel 8.7). It’s as though God wanted Samuel to know his work had not gone unnoticed. God noticed and he knew Samuel needed to hear it.
We need to hear it as well. As you “labor” today (and for you it may truly be labor!), allow these words to sink deep into your soul: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15.58).
As you welcome God into your day, be reminded he notices as you labor for an audience of One.
