The Marvelous Message

It was too late for the Israelites to retreat. The Philistines had quickly amassed a massive army that wanted only one thing: revenge over Saul's son destroying one of their garrisons in Geba. (1 Samuel 13). At the time, Saul's plan seemed to go off without a hitch. Because of the Philistines defeat in Geba, many Israelites were thrilled and appeared eager to join the cause. Saul rallied troops in Gilgal, reminding them that they had no other choice but to fight for their lives. Emotions were high. It was an exiting time indeed, until word spread over how strong, swift, and merciless the retribution of the Philistines would be. Fear cut through the Israelites passionate hearts like butter and instead of fighting with dignity, many hid in cowardice among caves and thick brush. Some even weaseled their ways into tombs and wells! King Saul remained in Gilgal with a terrified and dwindling army. He remembered that the prophet Samuel told him to wait for him for seven days and ...

Presents have been opened, returns have been made, lights and trees will soon be taken down, and the radio/music playlists for many has changed back to regular tunes. A new year is at hand and soon a new POTUS. Between terrorist attacks, political scandals, societal tensions, embittered parties filled with hateful rhetoric, whether Republican or Democrat, 2016 has been a year full of conflict and corruption. For many, the idea of a New Year dawning somehow brings thoughts of hopeful change. Who knows what awaits us this year, so we make our attempts to “better” ourselves. We look back at what hasn’t been done and say to ourselves, “ This year, this year I will get busy. I will not waste my time, but I will be more practical, more purposeful, and more active.” For a short while, we will lift our heads high with grand aspirations, and yet in time, plans will be scrapped and promises will be broken. Hearts will be hardened, homes will be shattered, marriages will fail, churches will...