”But Samuel ministered before the Lord, even as a child, wearing a linen ephod. Moreover his mother used to make him a little robe, and bring it to him year by year when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. And Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife, and say, “The Lord give you descendants from this woman for the loan that was given to the Lord.” Then they would go to their own home. And the Lord visited Hannah, so that she conceived and bore three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile the child Samuel grew before the Lord.“
I Samuel 2:18-21 NKJV
a. But Samuel: As bad as Eli’s sons were, Samuel was different. We can say that this is why God raised up Samuel, because of the corruption of Eli’s sons. God knew how bad Eli’s sons were, so He guided the whole series of events that resulted in Samuel’s service at the tabernacle. If Eli’s sons were not worthy successors, then God would raise up someone else.
i. Ultimately, corrupt ministers do not stop – or even hinder – the work of God. It may look like it, but every time there are men like Eli’s sons, God raises up someone like Samuel. God’s work does not stop when God’s ministers become corrupt.
b. Wearing a linen ephod: Even as a child Samuel distinguished himself in his service to the LORD. His service was exceptional enough that he received a linen ephod, a priestly garment (Exodus 39:27-29).
i. What did Samuel do? “He did small charges, as setting up lights, laying up vestments, learning music, or the like.” (Trapp)
c. Even as a child: Though a child, Samuel served the LORD better and in a greater way than the sons of Eli did. What man looks at in the service of God is often not what the LORD looks at.
d. His mother used to make him a little robe: Only someone who was really there would describe such a small detail. Though Hannah gave her little boy to the LORD, she never stopped loving him.
e. The LORD visited Hannah: He certainly did – three more sons, and two daughters. God will never be a debtor to anyone. Hannah could never say to the LORD, “I gave you my son, but what did you give me?” because God gave her much more in return.
(Guzik)
God raises up someone!
About a year ago our church counselor announced he was retiring. He performed counseling services for anyone that needed them and he led a weekly 12 step program. The problem was that there wasn’t a plan for a replacement 12 step program. We searched our area for one and there wasn’t any available.
We thought about volunteering using the Life Recovery Bible but were reluctant and felt unworthy.
But God had plans and raised us up to lead it. Our church approved the program and while asking one of the tech guys about using my laptop for worship and the 12 step videos he suggested using the iMac, projector and sound system in the chapel.
The program has been a success and the Holy Spirit has been moving people from where they are to where God wants them to be.
Gods work does not stop and God raises up someone for His purposes.
Is there a need in your church? Pray about it, take it to your church leadership and maybe Gods will raise up someone!
But be forewarned, a godly pastor might say, that sounds like a great idea! When can you start?
Blessings
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