God invites us into a relationship. It is a relationship to be nurtured and celebrated. God does for the people because God loves them. Now how does our service reflect God’s goodness?
Worship this week: Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional worship
9:30 a.m. – Sunday School, Adult Bible Study, Fellowship
10:30 a.m. – Contemporary worship
Devotions for this week: Joshua Renews the Covenant
SHARE: What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
READ: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding
Monday, 1 Samuel 1:1-28, Samuel’s Birth and Dedication
Tuesday, 1 Samuel 3:1-18, Samuel’s Calling and Prophecies
Wednesday, 1 Samuel 7:3-15, Samuel as Judge
Thursday, 1 Samuel 8:1-22, Israel Demands a King
Friday, 1 Samuel 9:27—10:8, Saul Anointed as King
Saturday, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, David Anointed as King
TALK: Consider some of these ideas:
“Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
The Israelites have now, at long last, arrived and settled in the land which had been promised to their wandering ancestors. It was God who brought them through it all and delivered on the divine side of the covenant. Now it’s the people’s turn to choose where their loyalties lie.
- How are leaders in your community chosen? What might it look like to trust in God rather than trusting in people?
- What covenants or agreements have you made with God? Are these healthy (commitment to follow) or unhealthy (bargaining) agreements?
PRAY: God, you bring us safely through all the trials and dangers of our lives. Keep us mindful and make us joyful to praise you with grateful hearts. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
BLESS: God of grace, your word inspires our faith. Speak so that we may clearly see the options we face and have wisdom to choose those that draw us to you. Amen.
