Today's Verse: 1 Samuel 12:20

Thursday, December 20, 2012

"Do not be afraid," Samuel replied [to the people of Israel]. "You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart."
— 1 Samuel 12:20

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Israel wanted a King. This crushed Samuel's heart and angered God with the people's lack of faith. Samuel, however, reminds them that while they have stumbled and fallen, they must not abandon the Lord himself. Instead, their political concerns must give way to their total allegiance to God and their willingness to serve him fully.

Video Commentary...

We've included Phil's ToGather video from four years ago as an added blessing to our verse today:

ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos

My Prayer...

Forgive me, dear Father, for the sinfulness, short-sightedness, and silliness that I have, at times, shown. I want to serve you with an undivided heart, cleansed by your forgiveness and the transforming power of your Holy Spirit. Thank you! In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Illustration

Illustration of 1 Samuel 12:20 — "Do not be afraid," Samuel replied [to the people of Israel]. "You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart."

About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

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