SAUL

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Read 1 Samuel 15

     So Samuel said: "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry."

1 Samuel 15:22‑23a NKJV

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     King Saul thought that it was enough to follow God’s instructions partially. He not only took the spoils of war for himself, contrary to God’s command, but he also set up a monument in his own honor, instead of honoring God. Saul’s arrogance was like the sin of idolatry. According to God’s standards, he was worshiping himself. Saul knew exactly what God required–but he thought he could pick and choose which instructions were convenient for him. His impressive monument became proof of his arrogance – and God took the kingdom from him and gave it to another.

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     Lord, as I seek Your will and purpose for my life, I want to be faithful to the instructions given in Your Holy Word. You have honored the position of wife and mother and required that it be given priority. Help me to remember this, as the world begins to squeeze me into its mold. Righteousness in Your eyes is far more important than worldly accomplishment.

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     Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV

FERVENT LOVE

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LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Peter

Read 1 Peter 4 - 5
  

     ... Be serious and watchful in your prayers, and above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins."   1 Peter 4:7b-8 NKJV

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     Peter continues to encourage Christians to grow in love for the brethren. He urges us to pay close attention to relationships as husbands and wives and believers in the church. He writes, “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God...If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies...” (4:10, 11b)

     He calls for humility in the sight of God and men, trusting that He will supply our needs. He exhorts us to “humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

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     Lord, I want to cast my cares upon you today. Help me to realize that I am not alone but can minister to others with the “ability which God supplies.” Help me to reflect Your love in all I do, especially in my own family. Help me to respond to attacks by the enemy with steadfast faith.

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     Be sober; be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.    1 Peter 5:8-9 NKJV