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TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE

Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.

(268) 25 September : Proverbs 17v2 / 1 Samuel 2v12-4v22 / Psalm 64v1-8

BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."

Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.

Wisdom to chew on

Understanding to grow in
Samuel and his parents are being contrasted with Eli and his sons. The sons sin as priests by keeping what was due to God for themselves and engaging in sexual immorality. Although he rebuked them, Eli sinned by not properly discipling them. And this brings down judgment on them and his family. It's a stark reminder to parents, children and church ministers that we cannot presume God's favour. We must turn from sin ourselves, and seek to turn those God gives us responsibility for. By contrast faithful Hannah experiences ongoing blessing and Samuel grows in stature and favour with the LORD and the people. He is going to replace Eli as the leader the people need, and be a foreshadowing of the greater one born of Mary who is described in the same same way (Lk 2v52). As you read note what is commended or critiqued.
1 Samuel 2:12-4:22

Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.

Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.