June 1 - Samuel's Renewal

Lessons from the Book of 1 Samuel: Samuel’s Renewal 
By Jim Laffoon
 

The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king."       1 Samuel 16:1


Although Samuel had never wanted a king, Saul’s disqualification had still broken his heart. Despite the young man’s rebellion and insecurities, Samuel had loved him like a son. He had mourned the loss of Saul for days.

Would he ever raise up a son who would truly serve the Lord? At times, in the darkness of his despair, Samuel doubted that it would ever happen. God, however, had other plans for him.

When he felt the presence of God begin to stir in his heart, Samuel rose to his feet. “Samuel,” the Lord called out, “how long will you grieve over what is gone forever?” With tears streaming down his face, Samuel fell on his knees and waited on the Lord.

What he heard filled his heart with joy! His life had not been in vain; he was to go to Bethlehem and anoint the next king.

Although there are a number of lessons which can be drawn from this story, we will concentrate on three of them.

First, many of you, like Samuel, are still mourning over something in your life which may well be gone forever. Whether it is a missed opportunity or the loss of a significant relationship, it is time for you to stop crying about the past and face the promise of your future.

Second, God told Samuel to fill his anointing horn with oil. Spiritually speaking, this describes our need to be freshly filled with the power and might of the Holy Spirit. Unless you take this injunction seriously, you will never have the strength you need to walk away from the grief and sorrows of your past.

This is why we are told repeatedly throughout the New Testament to be filled with the Holy Spirit. As you worship, read your Word, and cry out to God in prayer, He will fill you freshly with His power and might.

Third, Samuel received a new mission with God. It is no different for you and me today; it takes a fresh vision for our future to give us the faith and hope we need to leave our past.

As you rise up out of your sorrows and receive a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit’s power and joy, God will give you the fresh vision and new purpose you need to confidently walk into your divine future.




© Copyright 2005 by Jim Laffoon