Gospel Reflections #893: God always demonstrates His character first.

1 Samuel 7:10 "While Samuel was offering the burnt offering, the Philistine army came into battle formation against Israel."

The people of Israel had begun worshiping pagan gods, and faith in the God of Israel had been lost. 

Yet a new generation arose, seeking Samuel's guidance.

A large assembly representing all the tribes of Israel had gathered at Mizpah and were solemnly fasting.

The Philistines assumed this gathering was for war planning and, wanting to scatter the Israelites before their plans matured, attacked with a large army.

Moreover, the Philistines came to battle just as Samuel was about to sacrifice the lamb.

God permitted the Israelites to face their enemy unarmed and defenseless.

This was so they would not claim glory for themselves.

Then the commander of the Lord's army deployed heavenly forces to destroy the people's enemy.

Humility of heart and obedience to God's law are more acceptable to God than the most costly sacrifice offered by a heart filled with pride and hypocrisy.

God does not defend those who live in violation of the law.

We too, through repeated failures and mistakes, may give up on drawing near to God. Yet God surely receives our turning back to Him, our seeking Him, and comes to our aid.

No matter the situation, no matter the environment, God never gives up on us. He ensures He is with us right there.

Those who experience this extraordinary faithfulness and sincerity of God naturally desire to respond to even a little of His faithfulness and sincerity.

God always demonstrates His character first.

AUTHOR'S BIO: This Gospel Reflections page is written by Masae San, who resides in Hiroshima, Japan. Masae is a dedicated student of the Bible with a deep passion for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She shares her daily reflections on Gospel perspectives to reach out to others and spread the message of God's true love through a Christ-centered approach. We are sharing her insights here so that you, too, can experience the joy that comes from knowing and understanding the true Gospel and the love of God through Jesus Christ.