1 Samuel chapter 7

Did you catch that in verse 2? It took 20 years from the time that the Philistines returned the ark before the Israelites finally realized their mistakes, sought The Lord, and did what was right in regards to their relationship with God.

Samuel told them what they needed to do (v. 3). And so they did: They met together, confessed their sin, and they prayed and fasted and presented offerings, (v. 5 + 6) Of most import though, was Samuel’s directive to “return to the Lord with all of your heart...and serve him alone.” (v. 3)

And so they did: They removed the images of false gods (v. 4) and sought to serve only God. They finally did it right! The ark wasn’t the object of their faith. It was God. It wasn’t the ark that they sought power from. It was God.

It took 20 years, but FINALLY, they turned back to God and served him only. I suppose we are no different. I am sure that there has probably been a time for you when you were being disobedient to God. And knew it. Over a period of time you turned your heart back to the Lord, and sought to serve him only.

Maybe you are in one of those times now. Perhaps you are in a situation of disobedience to God, and know it. It is as if you are, like the Israelites, worshiping another god.

I would encourage you to admit and confess the problem, pray, and perhaps even fast concerning this. And above all, turn your heart back to The Lord, and seek to serve him only.

When questioned about what was the most important commandment, Jesus replied “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul and mind.” (Matthew 22: 35-38) Everything else concerning our relationship with God and people will fall into place when our hearts are turned to God, and we serve him only.

Today, remember those times you were away from God. Give thanks for your heart being turned back to him. If you are in one of those situations now, pray for the strength to turn back and seek to serve God alone.
- Richard M.