What will be said of you?

1 Chronicles begins with numerous chapter of genealogy. In the list of names are inserted a few comments about some of the individuals. When it comes to the person of King Saul his life is summarized as “unfaithful to the Lord.” (See 1 Chronicles 10:13-14.) What a devastating comment! How terrible if that were how you or I were remembered.

It is interesting to note why Saul was considered unfaithful. The writer of Chronicles lists three evidences of his unfaithfulness. First, “he did not keep the word of the Lord.” You may recall that at the beginning of Saul’s reign he was told to wipe out the Amalekites. He spared the king and the best animals. Samuel pronounced judgment on Saul because he did not do exactly as he was told by God. It really matters how you respond to the Scriptures.

Secondly, he was called unfaithful because he consulted with a medium for guidance. He was desperate for advice. We are only to seek guidance from God. And that is the third aspect of unfaithfulness: “he did not inquire of the Lord.” It is not enough not to seek guidance elsewhere. To be faithful we must seek to be led by the Lord.

It seems to me that a church which is permeated with a desire to seek after God is one that can be thought of as faithful. A church which is walking in the Spirit is a group of people who can share frequently about how God is speaking and responding to his direction.

Saul’s life is a lesson for us both individually and as the body of Christ. May God declare us faithful!

A Word from God

Some of us understand that faith is not simply about knowing and holding to a group of facts about God and trying to live consistently with them. True religion has to do with a relationship of intimacy with the Lord. Because of that understanding, we value knowing and hearing from the Holy Spirit. 

As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, it is tempting to validate ourselves by sharing every detail about our relationship with God. Every experience and every impression we get we want others to know. Let me caution you that knowing God does not mean sharing everything in your personal, intimate, relationship. You don't need to prove your connection with Him. Only share what He asks you to share for the benefit of the body.

Secondly, words or impressions from God can have differing application. Sometimes we miss why God reveals things to us. In Acts 21 several prophets warned Paul of impending trouble as he traveled to Jerusalem. They tried to persuade him to turn back. Paul discerned that though the danger was real he still must go. Danger was not to be avoided. Safety was not God's plan for Paul. (It is interesting how safety is often the main focus of our prayers) As we read on in the following chapters we learn that God's plan was for Paul to witness in Jerusalem and to be taken to Rome as a prisoner. There, too, he would have opportunity to witness.

Seek to know God intimately. Seek also to know what to share and what to ponder privately. When you do share something be careful about the conclusions you draw. God's ways are mysterious and wonderful. Keep seeking Him and listen!