The Daily + Weekly by Vince Miller

Have you ever been embarrassed by an impatient and insecure action? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 13. I've titled this chapter "Partial Obedience Is Complete Disobedience." In Chapter 13, the Philistines test Saul and the nation. Enemy combatants are close at hand, and the people are gathered at Gilgal, but the Philistines greatly outnumber them. Next, we read verses 8-11: He waited seven days, the time appointed by Samuel. But Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and the people were scattering from him. So Saul said, "Bring the burnt offering here to me, and the peace offerings." And he offered the burnt offering. As soon as he had finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came. And Saul went out to meet him and greet him. Samuel said, "What have you done?" — 1 Samuel 13:8-11 Basically, Samuel does something similar to what Jesus did a couple of times in the Gospels and shows up late to the party. This long delay triggers Saul because, by this time, he is losing the people, and they are scattering. So, Saul feels he needs to do something to hold the nation and troops together until Samuel arrives and, in doing so, offers a sacrifice he should not have offered. Now, I am going to confess that I would have been tempted to act like Saul does here. There are situations I handle exceedingly well and those that I don't. I could see this particular situation being a test for me, especially if I were a young leader who felt the pressure to perform before the nation, knowing I was losing the people and I was waiting for a very old man to arrive on the scene. But this is no justification for my rationalizations or Saul's actions in this text. Saul acted in disobedience and did something he should not have done; thus, his partial obedience was still complete disobedience. In my lifetime, I have found that the battle for obedience is fought entirely within my heart. Yet this battle is elicited by the pressures of situations and people in this life. When the situations and people before me become complex and complicated, and I don't feel I can see a way out, insecurities and impatience tempt me to behave based on my volition rather than trust in faith in God. Today, fight your battle valiantly. Look at every battle twice. Discern the battle before you and the war raging within you. Don't temporarily win one only to lose the other and, in the end, lose them both, thus facing the embarrassment of the question—"What have you done?" #ObedienceMatters, #TrustInGod, #FaithOverFear Ask This: In what areas of your life do you find yourself rationalizing disobedience, and how can you practice complete trust in God instead? How do the pressures of your current circumstances reveal the state of your heart, and what steps can you take to align your actions with faith rather than fear? Do This: See you battle twice and fight valiantly. Pray This: Lord, help me to trust in Your timing and guidance, even when I feel pressured to act on my own. Strengthen my heart to obey You completely, resisting the urge to take matters into my own hands. Amen. Play This: You've Already Won.

Are you feeling completely outnumbered and powerless? That could be good! Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 13. I've titled this chapter "Partial Obedience Is Complete Disobedience." Chapter 13 is about two years after Saul's inauguration. Saul has 2000 men under his command. Jonathan, his son, has 1000 men under his command. They have split up and are trying to move out these garrisons of Philistine soldiers that have encamped around the region, put there to intimidate the Israelites. Jonathan has just defeated one garrison, which stirs up all the Philistines. Listen to what happens next in verses 5-7: And the Philistines mustered to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots and six thousand horsemen and troops like the sand on the seashore in multitude. They came up and encamped in Michmash, to the east of Beth-aven. When the men of Israel saw that they were in trouble (for the people were hard pressed), the people hid themselves in caves and in holes and in rocks and in tombs and in cisterns, and some Hebrews crossed the fords of the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. Saul was still at Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling. — 1 Samuel 13:5-7 The Israelites are overwhelmed because they have stirred up a hornet's nest and realize they are outnumbered and overpowered. Saul and Jonathan's current combined force was 3000 against a whopping 36,000 Philistine troops, who also had a lot of advanced weaponry. It's probably how the modern State of Israel feels today, given the fact that the entire land mass surrounding them is against them in some way. There have been plenty of times in my life when I have felt surrounded like this: outflanked, overwhelmed, outnumbered, and overpowered. When this happens, my human rationale battles with my spiritual rationale. Sometimes, my impulse is just like the Israelites—ignore, deflect, run, and hide. But there is one principle I have learned that has better equipped me for these moments. I have learned that in situations like this God will reduce me and my situation to complete helplessness so that I will stop relying on myself and rely on his salvation. The problem I always have is that I tend to lean too much on my skill, effort, and tactics until I realize that they won't work and might even complicate matters. If, in a present situation, you feel like you have tried everything within your power to do what is right and righteous, then you might need to stop. But don't stop and run, hide, and live in fear. Instead, stop in your helplessness and trust in the Lord, your help and salvation. If you don't let the Lord help where you cannot, you might end up doing what Saul does next—you might make a tragic and fatal mistake. #FaithOverFear, #TrustInGod, #SpiritualStrength Ask This: In what areas of your life do you feel outnumbered or overwhelmed, and how can you shift from relying on your own strength to trusting in God's help and salvation? Reflect on a time when you faced a daunting challenge. How did your response align with or differ from the Israelites' reaction in 1 Samuel 13, and what can you learn from this to apply in future situations? Do This: Let God be your salvation. Pray This: Lord, when I feel overwhelmed and outnumbered, help me to stop relying on my own strength and turn to You for salvation. Grant me the faith to trust in Your power and guidance, even in the face of daunting challenges. Amen. Play This: Shout Hosanna.

Are your insecurities leading to deception? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 13. I've titled this chapter "Partial Obedience Is Complete Disobedience." Chapter 13 jumps forward in time about two years after Saul's inauguration. Saul and Jonathan, his son, who is probably in his 20s, are going to divide forces and see if they can deal with these garrisons of Philistine soldiers encamped around the region of Israel. They encamped around the region mostly to intimidate the Israelites. Here is how the first four verses read: Saul lived for one year and then became king, and when he had reigned for two years over Israel, Saul chose three thousand men of Israel. Two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and the hill country of Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin. The rest of the people he sent home, every man to his tent. Jonathan defeated the garrison of the Philistines that was at Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, "Let the Hebrews hear." And all Israel heard it said that Saul had defeated the garrison of the Philistines, and also that Israel had become a stench to the Philistines. And the people were called out to join Saul at Gilgal. — 1 Samuel 13:1-4 The author captures two interesting details here. First, we notice that Jonathan is the one who finally deals with that garrison of Philistine soldiers mentioned back in 1 Samuel 10:5. If you recall when Saul was making his trip back after being anointed by Samuel as the first king, he was told he would meet a garrison of Philistine soldiers and also some prophesying prophets. This is that same garrison. Clearly, Saul has left this issue unaddressed, which means that two years later, his son has to deal with it. Second, it is revealing that Saul declares his son's victory, takes credit for it, and never corrects the misunderstanding that it was Jonathan's victory and not his own. If you work in a large business with a deep hierarchy, this is about every day of your business existence. Insecure leaders in the hierarchy above you blame you if you fail and take credit from you if you succeed. This situation is an early indication of the type of man and leader we know Saul will be. Insecure leaders who are untested and have questionable character will do deceptive things. Over time, these small deceptions will become more pronounced until they are finally exposed and called out. If you want to avoid these issues in your life and leadership, you must assess your fears, confess your insecurities, address your character faults, and ensure that you are putting your faith and trust in God, who is your salvation in every situation. Don't do what Saul does here, which only tips his life and leadership in the wrong direction. #LeadershipLessons, #FaithInAction, #OvercomingInsecurity Ask This: In what areas of your life might you be practicing partial obedience, and how can you fully align your actions with God's commands? How do you handle situations where others take credit for your work or blame you for their failures, and what steps can you take to maintain integrity and trust in those moments? Do This: Assess your fears, confess your insecurities, and address your character faults. Pray This: Lord, help me to recognize and address any areas of partial obedience in my life, guiding me to fully align my actions with Your will. Strengthen my integrity and trust in You, especially when facing challenges or unfair treatment. Amen. Play This: Trust In God.

BUY THE 1 SAMUEL JOURNAL 99% obedience is always 100% disobedience. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 13. I've titled this chapter "Partial Obedience Is Complete Disobedience." Chapter 13 recounts a single event in the second year of Saul's forty-year reign as king (Acts 13:21). There are four main characters in this chapter. First, Samuel (1 Sam. 13:8), the Judge and Prophet for all the people, still plays a significant role. Second, Saul (1 Sam. 13:1), the King, is grappling with his role as a leader and warrior, a struggle that becomes evident as the chapter unfolds. Third, Jonathan (1 Sam. 13:3), the son of Saul, is introduced here, and his success surpasses that of his father. Fourth, the Israelite enemy, the Philistines (1 Sam. 13:3), are depicted as strong, numerous, armed, and battle-ready. As we read this chapter, you will see that Saul will make a critical mistake. There is a moment when he will realize that he is outnumbered, outflanked, and under-equipped, and the pressure of the situation will tempt him to do something he wasn't supposed to do. He will circumvent the spiritual process by offering a sacrifice reserved for Samuel's role alone. Out of fear, this one act of disobedience will affect Saul's entire legacy. Because of this, Samuel gives this indictment in verse 14, which is the key verse of this chapter. But now your kingdom shall not continue. The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart, and the Lord has commanded him to be prince over his people, because you have not kept what the Lord commanded you. — 1 Samuel 13:14 For those familiar with the story, this is the first mention of David, a figure who has not been born yet but whose presence is already being felt. But here is the driving truth of this text and the chapter. Partial obedience is complete disobedience. Or 99% obedience is 100% disobedience. Most of us don't like this truth. But this is the central truth of this chapter and one of the great truths declared throughout the Bible. We live in a fallen world. We are sinful and have fallen short of God's glory. We may want to be king, but because of our sins, God has his own choice for king. And if you read this verse in light of a New Testament reality, we know that Jesus would come from the line of David and be God's choice for King. Jesus was 0% disobedient; therefore, he was 100% obedient and perfect in all his ways to fulfill these roles when we were not. As believers, we must come to terms with the enemy who surrounds us. Battles lurching in our lives will rage a war within us. It's the war within that must be fought first. It's the battle within that Saul failed to realize. In his insecurities, he responded in fear and was unable to trust in faith; therefore, he lost it all. Today, you will fight a battle. It might look like a fight with a broken car, a traffic jam, a disobedient child, a non-compliant worker, a delayed order, a computer crash, or, God forbid, all the above. When this occurs, you will feel subverted and surrounded, and you will be stirred to fight. This is just the enemy stirring you to sin. Instead of jumping to judgment and responding in fear, stop to note the war that is raging within you. Give God your insecurities. Give God your fears. Then, trust God in faith and lean on his sovereignty. His salvation is better than yours because his salvation is 100% obedient. #PartialObedience, #FaithOverFear, #LessonsFromSaul Ask This: In what areas of your life might you settle for partial obedience, and how can you shift your approach to align with God's commands? How do you typically respond to pressure or challenges that overwhelm you? What practical steps can you take to trust God's sovereignty and maintain faith even in difficult situations? Do This: Trust in God's salvation in every battle by faith. Pray This: Lord, help me recognize and address areas of partial obedience in my life so I can fully align with Your will. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your sovereignty and guide me through the battles I face each day. Amen. Play This: Come Jesus Come.

What great thing has the Lord has done for you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." In the story, Samuel is giving his farewell address, and he closes off his great speech with these words in 1 Samuel 12:24-25: Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king. — 1 Samuel 12:24-25 In these two verses, Samuel implores the people to transition their fears. He wants them to move from fearing "things" to fearing "one" worth fearing—the Lord. In the Bible, there are two broad references to fear. One is often called a "spirit of fear," which is focused on things and results in disbelief and disobedience. The other is the "fear of the Lord," which is focused on God and results in faith, obedience, awe, and reverence. Samuel has appropriately identified the issue of the nation. The issue they keep having is the same issue that all believers have. Our faith is tested and exposed by the things we fear. If we fear things in this life, then we are putting our faith in the things of this life. If we fear God, we are putting our faith in the person of God. This is where the battle of faith is fought every day. Today, you are going to experience some fear. Fear of a person. Fear of failure. Fear of being late. Fear of letting someone down. There are so many things to fear that I can't list them all. But you will encounter a fear of some kind that is unique to you. The challenge is not letting the fear of that thing, whatever it is, control you. You must turn from fearing that thing to faith in God, who is worth fearing. Samuel suggests we consistently make that turn by "considering all the great things God has done." In this instance, the most recent great thing the people of Israel could "consider" was that unexplainable storm. A storm rolled in and drenched them in a stormless season, reminding them that God was in complete control of all things and his word to Samuel was ordained by God. Surely, in your life, you have one of these unexplainable divine events that display God's faithfulness—one that brings you back to the fear of the Lord when you fear other things. Remember, recall, and consider this event and what God did for you in detail when fear strikes you today, which will help to anchor you in a reverent fear of the Lord. #FearOfTheLord, #GodsFaithfulness, #DailyDevotional Ask This: How has a recent challenge or fear in your life been met with a reminder of God's faithfulness, and how did it shift your perspective or response? What specific "great things" has God done in your life that you can recall and use to strengthen your faith when faced with fear or doubt? Do This: Remember a moment of God's faithfulness when you experience a fear. Pray This: Lord, help me to remember and reflect on the great things You have done in my life, especially when I am overwhelmed by fear. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your power and faithfulness above all else. Amen. Play This: I Will Fear No More.

Are you ready to move beyond sin and into deliverance? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." In the story, Samuel is giving his farewell address. He has just explained to the nation that their request for a king was evil and wicked. As a confirmation, he called on a storm, and it rained down on them. In shock, the people responded in fear. Here is what Samuel says next in 1 Samuel 12:20-23: And Samuel said to the people, "Do not be afraid; you have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart. And do not turn aside after empty things that cannot profit or deliver, for they are empty. For the Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself. Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way. — 1 Samuel 12:20-23 Samuel's exhortation to the people is fourfold: Stop giving yourself to fear. You have been sinful. Do not repeat this sin. Dedicate yourselves to the Lord. Now, this might seem like cold, calculated, and unempathetic counsel, but it isn't. Fear is what got Israel into this sinful mess. They were fearful of other nations, so they wanted a king like other nations. At this point, adding more fear to the situation would only lead to more of the same. So Samuel is trying to get them to snap out of it. I have seen many believers act this way when confronted by their sin. They suddenly realize their sin and the effects of their sin. Then, instead of embracing the truth about themselves and the situation and moving through the experience, they fabricate untrue ideas and images about the situation that take them to an unhealthy place. Fear takes over, and their reasoning is hijacked by irrational ideas not based in reality. Therefore, they are drawn further into sin. This is precisely why so many get stuck in repetitive cycles of sin. They realize their sin but have an unhealthy view and response to sin that keeps them from moving beyond the issues, thus rededicating themselves wholly to the Lord. Right here is where Samuel speaks some grounded truth. He tells them two things. One is a stop, and the other is a start. First, stop turning aside to "empty things that cannot profit or deliver." Second, start giving yourself wholly to God, who does profit the nation and is your only deliverer. But it's the reasoning behind this stop-and-start that is so profound. You see, something bigger was at stake than the nation's well-being. It was the name of the Lord. The Lord had committed himself to them, and "for his great name's sake," he was not about to abandon them if they would turn from their sin. God's name, his covenant, and his grace were greater than all their sin. This profound and almost unreasonable thought anchors all our faith in moments of sin. God's name, his covenant, and his grace are greater than all your sins. God does profit and deliver, but we have to believe in and surrender to his name, trust in his covenant promises, and accept his unreasonable grace. So, if you have been having trouble moving through your sin, maybe it's time to accept "God's grace that will pardon and cleanse within, his grace that is greater than all our sins!" #GraceOverSin, #FaithfulDeliverance, #MoveBeyondFear Ask This: What "empty things" in your life are you turning to instead of fully trusting in God's grace and deliverance? How can you start dedicating yourself more wholly to the Lord this week? When confronted with your own sin, do you find yourself driven by fear or by faith in God's promises? How can you shift your perspective to embrace God's grace and move beyond the cycle of sin? Do This: Play the song, stop sinning, and start accepting God's grace. Pray This: Lord, help me turn away from the empty things that draw me away from You and embrace Your grace, which is greater than all my sins. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your promises and dedicate myself wholly to You each day. Amen. Play This: Grace Greater Than Our Sin.

Are you drifting in faith without even realizing it? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." In the story, Samuel is giving his farewell address to the people. He just explained to them that their request for a king was wicked, but he also explained that if they and their king (Saul) remain faithful, they will be blessed. Then Samuel emphasized the proof of this prophetic address by calling on a storm that would have been highly unusual in the summer season, and then it rained down on all of Israel. In shock, here is how the people responded in verse 19: And all the people said to Samuel, "Pray for your servants to the Lord your God, that we may not die, for we have added to all our sins this evil, to ask for ourselves a king." — 1 Samuel 12:19 To me, the most interesting part of this response is the use of the personal pronoun "your." The people plead with Samuel to pray to "your God" or "his God." There is no question that Samuel has faith in God. His entire address began with evidence of his faith and faithfulness to God all the days of his life. What's in question here is everyone else's faith in the nation because of their sinful request. All people are prone to the drift of faith. We drift because we take our "spiritual eyes" off the object of our faith. We then focus on other things and place our faith in them. In this situation, the people have put their faith in a political and military leader, which is a timely warning given our election cycle. The drift of faith is a personal issue with far-reaching implications (in the case of Israel, it is having national implications). But the drift begins on a personal level. We divert our gaze from God and place our faith in other things. For some, we put too much faith in a person. For others, we put too much faith in our skills. For still others, we put too much faith in material security. But whatever it is, we move from trusting in God to trusting in another object. Once this drift begins, we fail to experience the personal nature of faith in God, and then God becomes impersonal (like he has become for Israel) because we have moved from him. If you feel like this drift is happening in your life, then turn your attention back to God. Whatever object is distracting you from God, stop giving it your attention. Stop placing your faith in it and the temporal outcomes it might provide. Then, renew your faith in God, who can provide better and lasting outcomes. Give him your full attention; give him all your faith, which will result in you getting to know "your God" more personally and intimately. God, help me to redirect all my attention and place all my faith in you. Amen. #FaithRenewal, #TrustInGod, #OvercomingSpiritualDrift Ask This: In what areas of your life have you noticed a drift away from trusting in God, and what steps can you take to refocus your faith on Him? How can you identify and address the distractions that are causing you to place your faith in things other than God? Do This: Share the seen events of God with others. Pray This: Lord, help me to recognize when my faith drifts away from You and give me the strength to refocus on Your unwavering presence. May I trust fully in You, placing all my hope and faith in Your eternal promises. Amen. Play This: Stand In Faith.

What seen events have drenched your faith in the unseen God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." Remember, the nation of Israel is gathered at Gilgal. Samuel is proclaiming his final and historic address before the entire nation: But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then the hand of the Lord will be against you and your king. Now therefore stand still and see this great thing that the Lord will do before your eyes. Is it not wheat harvest today? I will call upon the Lord, that he may send thunder and rain. And you shall know and see that your wickedness is great, which you have done in the sight of the Lord, in asking for yourselves a king." So Samuel called upon the Lord, and the Lord sent thunder and rain that day, and all the people greatly feared the Lord and Samuel. — 1 Samuel 12:15-18 This is awesome because, you see, Samuel is no ordinary teacher. He's not some big-name Christian influencer, pastor, and teacher upheld by public popularity. He's the Lord's anointed Judge and Prophet who was faithful from beginning to end. When Samuel spoke, he spoke on behalf of the Lord, not himself, and never to gain any form of public popularity but to drive the people back to the Lord. But it's the timing of this event and inauguration that is interesting. It happened during the wheat harvest, which means nothing to you, but it meant everything to them. They were an agrarian culture, so they relied on the production of the land. To them, harvest was everything. It was their sustenance for the coming year, and they happened to be gathering on this day. But note: wheat harvest began during early summer when it never rained. Therefore, a sudden thunderstorm and rain would have been a bizarre and unusual occurrence. So now, imagine Samuel speaking. As he closes, he points out their wickedness and calls the people to repent and obey. He prays that God will confirm his exhortation to them with a natural but unlikely event. As he prays behind him, a storm system blows in. Exposed in the valley of Gilgal, thunder roars, lightning strikes, and the people are drenched by an inescapable rain and the might of an inescapable God. Many in this life believe they can escape the reality of God. We think we can outthink and outmaneuver God, but eventually, sin rains down on us all, and we are drenched by the inescapable reality that God is the only one who can save. He is the unseen God who is King over all seen things. And sometimes God uses seen yet unexplainable events to communicate that he is still there, still working, and still saving. Recently, our first grandchild entered this world. Everett was born accidentally at home three months early while my daughter put on her pants in the bathroom. Within minutes, EMTs were at her home. They cut the cord and rushed Everett off to the hospital. On the way to the hospital, an EMT held him in his hands as he stopped breathing. They tried to resuscitate him and were unsure if their efforts on this tiny child were effective. But with God and a lot of prayers from people like you, Everett is home. He is alive and well. It was a wild ride. Today, Everett is almost 12 pounds, and he is thriving. God has drenched our lives using this small child to show us the inescapable reality of an awesome God. Here's my question for you today: What "seen" events have drenched you in the reality of our "unseen" God? Recall one, and share it with someone today. Drench them in the reality of God. #FaithInAction, #UnseenGod, #DivineIntervention Ask This: How have unexpected or extraordinary events in your life helped you recognize the presence and faithfulness of God, even when He seemed unseen? In what ways can you share your experiences of God's intervention with others to encourage them in their own faith journeys? Do This: Share the seen events of God with others. Pray This: Lord, thank You for revealing Your presence through the unexpected events in my life and reminding me of Your unwavering faithfulness. Help me to see and share Your work in my daily experiences, trusting in Your unseen power and grace. Amen. Play This: My Life Is Proof.

Spiritual leaders always point out the real hero in the story. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." Before I read the text, let me give you a little context. The nation of Israel is gathered at Gilgal. Samuel and Saul have gathered the people for a day of celebration, remembrance, and rededication. Think of this moment as a gathering on the National Mall. Samuel addresses the nation and references some historical people who have played critical roles in Israel's history. I will read verses 6-14, and it would be good for you to circle or underline these critical players in the text. Here's the text: And Samuel said to the people, "The Lord is witness, who appointed Moses and Aaron and brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt. Now therefore stand still that I may plead with you before the Lord concerning all the righteous deeds of the Lord that he performed for you and for your fathers. When Jacob went into Egypt, and the Egyptians oppressed them, then your fathers cried out to the Lord and the Lord sent Moses and Aaron, who brought your fathers out of Egypt and made them dwell in this place. But they forgot the Lord their God. And he sold them into the hand of Sisera, commander of the army of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab. And they fought against them. And they cried out to the Lord and said, 'We have sinned, because we have forsaken the Lord and have served the Baals and the Ashtaroth. But now deliver us out of the hand of our enemies, that we may serve you.' And the Lord sent Jerubbaal and Barak and Jephthah and Samuel and delivered you out of the hand of your enemies on every side, and you lived in safety. And when you saw that Nahash the king of the Ammonites came against you, you said to me, 'No, but a king shall reign over us,' when the Lord your God was your king. And now behold the king whom you have chosen, for whom you have asked; behold, the Lord has set a king over you. If you will fear the Lord and serve him and obey his voice and not rebel against the commandment of the Lord, and if both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the Lord your God, it will be well. — 1 Samuel 12:6-14 There are two things worth noting about this part of Samuel's address. First, Samuel mentions a listing of great spiritual leaders—Moses, Aaron, Jacob, Jerubbaal, Barak, Jephthah, and himself. These are generational leaders who left a mark on the people of Israel forever. I believe that every generation needs spiritual leaders like this. Those who leave a generational mark. We should be praying for leaders like this in our time because we need them. But we should pray that they have these qualities—that they direct us toward deliverance, cry out against oppression, and drive us toward repentance. Second, we notice that Samuel also explains these historic spiritual leaders, including himself, were mere vessels. The heroes of the story were not these men. The hero was the Lord. It was the Lord who performed all the righteous deeds. He provided the leaders and the people with salvation, deliverance, safety, and a place to dwell. What I find especially profound about Samuel's address to the people is how he redirects attention to the Lord. If you think about the context of this situation, it could have been very easy after this military victory to make Saul the hero of the story and to boast and celebrate that. But Samuel doesn't play to this opportunity. In fact, he does the opposite of what we would expect. He tells them in their victory that their desire to have a king (i.e., Saul) over God, who is their King, was wrong and sinful. Great spiritual leaders do this. They have the propensity to look back over time, define the fine points of spiritual drift, and then carefully redirect people back to the real hero of the story—God. Today, we need more spiritual leaders like this in our homes, churches, and workplaces. So pray that God will raise up new spiritual leaders like Samuel who understand that the finite stories of our generations are only short sentences in a longer narrative with one Hero and King—God. God, raise up spiritual leaders who direct us back to you, the only Hero and King. Amen. #GodIsFaithful, #SpiritualLeadership, #TrueHero Ask This: In what ways can you recognize and acknowledge God's role as the true hero in your personal victories and successes? How can you actively encourage and support the development of spiritual leaders in your community who consistently point others to God? Do This: Pray for spiritual leaders. Pray This: Lord, help me to always see You as the true hero in my life and give me the wisdom to direct others to Your greatness. Raise up spiritual leaders around me who will guide us with humility and a steadfast focus on Your glory. Amen. Play This: Champion.

What is going on behind the walls of your life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." Backing up, here's the context. The nation of Israel is gathered at Gilgal for a time of celebration and remembrance, and essentially, we are watching the transition of leadership from the time of the judges to the time of the kings. Samuel gives an address to all the people, and here is what he says in verses 1-5. It reads. And Samuel said to all Israel, "Behold, I have obeyed your voice in all that you have said to me and have made a king over you. And now, behold, the king walks before you, and I am old and gray; and behold, my sons are with you. I have walked before you from my youth until this day. Here I am; testify against me before the Lord and before his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Or whose donkey have I taken? Or whom have I defrauded? Whom have I oppressed? Or from whose hand have I taken a bribe to blind my eyes with it? Testify against me and I will restore it to you." They said, "You have not defrauded us or oppressed us or taken anything from any man's hand." And he said to them, "The Lord is witness against you, and his anointed is witness this day, that you have not found anything in my hand." And they said, "He is witness." — 1 Samuel 12:1-5 Samuel is exposing his leadership character and integrity to the people. He says, "Examine me," as I have "examined myself." Many men and leaders are unwilling to do what Samuel does here. It's the same reason many don't want to go to marital counseling, medical exams, or legal audits. They are afraid. They are so scared of what they don't know, might learn, or have spent a lot of time hiding. Yet the man who submits himself to examination and is willing to expose himself is the one who experiences the most freedom. He has nothing to hide. He lives consciously free because he has been freed from the fear and the bondage of hiding. Years ago, I was walking through a large multi-million dollar home a friend was building for one of his clients. It had just been framed, and as we walked through it, he noticed a few twisted studs in the wall. On the way out, he grabbed a hammer and beat three of them out. Honestly, I was surprised by what he did. But I'll never forget what he said next. "Vince," he said. "The owner would never know about those twisted studs after the wallboard is up. But I would always know, and these people work with me because they know I build homes with integrity." That was an unforgettable, teachable moment. The problem is that most leaders don't behave like this. Most of the time, leaders hide minor issues because of insecurities. They put the wallboard up over their minor problems. Over time, they learn to get better and better at hiding the issues behind the wallboard of life. Until one day, there's a big problem. Then, they have to rip the wallboard down and address it. But behind the wallboard, there is more than just one issue. There are twisted studs, leaking pipes, electrical problems, and a torn vapor barrier that all need to be redone. Now, the issue affects not only them but everyone in the home, and the price tag is costly. Take some time to self-examine or open yourself up to public examination. Get over your resistance to change. Permit yourself to experience all the benefits of a wholly exposed life. Doing this is as simple as taking a few minutes to ask someone you lead for leadership feedback. Or as bold as asking your spouse or children to tell you something you need to change to be a better husband or father. Remember, to find freedom and genuine integrity, you might have to rip out some studs. So get to work. #IntegrityInLeadership, #EmbraceSelfExamination, #FaithfulLiving Ask This: In what areas of your life are you hiding issues behind a "wallboard" of superficial solutions, and how can you start addressing these underlying problems with honesty and integrity? Who in your life can you invite to give you honest feedback about your leadership, character, or relationships, and how will you respond to their input to foster genuine growth and transparency? Do This: Live expose and challenge yourself to self-examination. Pray This: Lord, grant me the courage to honestly examine my life and address the hidden issues that may be holding me back. Help me embrace integrity and seek genuine growth so that I can lead with transparency and honor You in all I do. Amen. Play This: Clear The Stage.

Does your situation need your solution, or is it a call to recall? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 12. I've titled this chapter "God is Faithful When We Are Not." Today, we turn to the key verse of this chapter, which happens to be verse 24. It reads. Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. — 1 Samuel 12:24 We will explore this statement in more depth as we read to the end of the chapter, but for now, I want you to notice the challenge Samuel presents to the people of Israel. It's a call to recall. Samuel is not a stupid man. He knows that the people are prone to drifting from God. I have done a lot of boating in my life, and I know if your anchor is not set and secure, then you are going to be susceptible to drift. When winds and currents change, they are going to tug at that boat and pull and drag your anchor. At first, the movement is subtle and unnoticeable. You'll think you're still in the same spot, anchored firmly. But bit by bit, the anchor begins to loosen, and the boat begins to drift. If you survey the history of the people of Israel, this is how they acted in their relationship with God. They have defining moments that anchor them to God and his faithfulness. But over time, the currents of life and fear of man result in drift and this pattern repeats again and again. As Samuel nears the end of his life and as the time of the judges gives way to the time of the kings, he knows that the people are going to be susceptible to spiritual drift. He also knows that legislation and leadership are not the solution to this drift. The problem is more personal and specific. It's an issue of the heart. These problems keep arising because the heart of the nation is not anchored to God. They want other things, like a king, instead of God, who was, is, and always will be their King. And his desire is for them to anchor into Him again. As I think about this today, I am compelled to evaluate myself. Am I drifting from God in any way? Is there a situation subtly and unnoticeably pulling on my anchor? And, of course, I did think of one. One situation that has troubled me has been pulling on my anchor of trust. It has caused a subtle drift. But the Good News of this text is that Samuel presents me with the solution for my spiritual drift. Let me read it again with a little emphasis: Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you. First, I must acknowledge the winds and currents of my fears and return to fearing the Lord. Second, I need to give my whole attention to serving God rather than serving myself and my ideas. Third, I need to realize that the currents of the situation may be trying to divide my heart, but God wants my undivided heart in every wind and against every wave. But it's the closing of this text that really captures me. It's a simple life hack for spiritual drift. It's a call to recall. Samuel says, "Consider what great things [the Lord] has done for you." Today, if you are evaluating your life and sense a subtle or significant spiritual drift, heed Samuel's call to recall. Simply recall a few of the great things the Lord has done for you. Write them down or share them with someone else. Doing this will help reset that anchor in fearing and faithfully serving God with all your heart. #FaithfulLiving, #HeartCheck, #GodsFaithfulness Ask This: In what areas of your life are you relying on your solutions instead of seeking God's guidance and faithfulness? How can you practice recalling and sharing the great things God has done for you to strengthen your faith and encourage others? Do This: Heed Samuel's call and recall God's faithfulness. Pray This: Lord, help me to shift my fears and anxieties to a deeper trust in You and to serve You with all my heart. Remind me daily of Your great deeds so my faith remains strong and unwavering. Amen. Play This: Evidence.

Have you gone back lately to the location where God's work began in you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." In this chapter we have seen Saul's first test of leadership. He has left family farming behind for a profession of fighting. He has defeated the Ammonites across the river in Jabesh-Gilead. Then Samuel said to the people, "Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingdom." So all the people went to Gilgal, and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal. There they sacrificed peace offerings before the Lord, and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly. — 1 Samuel 11:14-15 Gilgal's Importance Gilgal is important for five reasons. First, it was the site of the first encampment on the west side of the Jordan River. Second, it was the location of the twelve stones gathered from the basin of the Jordan River that served as a reminder of God's deliverance. Third, it was the first place the Passover was celebrated in Israel. Fourth, it was the location of the mass circumcision of the men in keeping with the covenant. Fifth, it was the location of the first Tabernacle. Gilgal was a place of great significance, and Samuel will lead the people back here to mark another moment of remembrance. Here, they will renew the covenant, and Saul will be commemorated as king. My Gilgal Just a month ago, I drove past the home where I spent most of my youth—my grandfather's home. I had not been back in more than 20 years. As I stopped in front of this house, I recalled several events that occurred there—but one moment stood out more than any other. It was the moment I repented of my sin on the threshold of the doorway of that home to God and my grandfather. For me, this was a sweet moment to remember. Your Gilgal Recalling and recounting your story and even returning to the places where these events occurred can be powerful. We each have places where God did incredible spiritual things in our lives. Returning to your "Gilgal" helps you to see back and see forward. Today, recall a "Gilgal" in your spiritual journey. Recount the place and remember what God did for you here. Then, if you have the opportunity, share this moment with a friend, family member, or fellow believer, and take the time to remember all the great things that God has done. #SpiritualJourney, #RememberingGilgal, #FaithMilestones Ask This: What specific event or place in your past has been a significant "Gilgal" where you experienced God's transformative work, and how has reflecting on it impacted your faith today? How can revisiting and sharing your personal "Gilgal" moments with others help strengthen your spiritual growth and encourage those around you? Do This: Return or recall your Gilgal. Pray This: Lord, I thank You for the significant moments in my life where You have worked powerfully and shaped my faith. Help me to revisit these milestones with gratitude and share their impact with others, so Your glory may be evident in all I do. Amen. Play This: God In Every Moment.

Are you a leader who can claim victory with restraint? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." At this point in the story, Saul has defeated his first enemy. Nahash and the Ammonite army. But now he has to deal with a battle within. Here is the text in verses 12-13: Then the people said to Samuel, "Who is it that said, 'Shall Saul reign over us?' Bring the men, that we may put them to death." But Saul said, "Not a man shall be put to death this day, for today the Lord has worked salvation in Israel." — 1 Samuel 11:12-13 So what happens here is a truism about leadership: One test of leadership leads to another. For the leader, the tests never end. If you lead, you will encounter challenges from outside and inside opposition that will test you continually. They will test not only your abilities, skills, and talents but also your character, integrity, and in whom you trust. At this moment, Saul could have used this momentum to put down his dissenters, but he didn't. He regulated his desire and restrained himself because he understood something that some of the people failed to see—it was not his strategy, strength, or skill that worked salvation in Israel—it was the Lord. This is a remarkably humble statement from Saul. He did not always make declarations like this, but here, Saul's understanding of humility and trust in leadership is inspiring. Believers who lead must have an undivided understanding that God is the ultimate leader. God is the King. If we truly submit to this belief, then when we encounter his salvation, it's his salvation. But this is where many spiritual leaders get it wrong. They conflate the salvation gained with something provided by their abilities, skills, and talents. As soon as a leader does this, they become king in their mind, and they will do anything to protect and preserve this, including putting down dissenters. Today, if you sense you have made too much of yourself in a current situation or recent win, take another look at that situation. Review how you responded and what you thought of yourself. Instead of thinking so much of yourself, think about what God did and what he did that you could not do. Then if you failed to give glory to God, do that now. Thank him and celebrate him and the King. Maybe the next time you win, see the win as God's win, not yours, and lead faithfully through the daily tests that all leaders encounter. #LeadershipLessons, #HumbleLeadership, #TrustInGod Ask This: In what areas of your life or leadership have you taken credit for a victory that truly belonged to God, and how can you redirect that credit to Him today? How can you cultivate humility and trust in God's guidance in your daily leadership, especially when faced with internal and external challenges? Do This: Believe God is King, and you are not. Pray This: Lord, help me to recognize and celebrate Your hand in every victory, remembering that it is Your strength and not my own. Grant me the humility to lead with integrity and to trust in Your ultimate leadership. Amen. Play This: King of Kings.

Are you surrounded by an enemy and feel like giving up? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." Here's what's happening in this chapter. Saul has been appointed king. He returned to family farming because his time for fighting had not yet come. Then, the Ammonite enemy, Nahash, came against an Israelite city called Jabesh-Gilead. Saul heard about it and gathered three hundred thirty thousand soldiers at a Bezek, about 10 miles away. Then the people of Jabesh-Gilead, knowing salvation is coming, communicate some "disinformation" to Nahash in verses 10-11: Therefore the men of Jabesh said, "Tomorrow we will give ourselves up to you, and you may do to us whatever seems good to you." And the next day Saul put the people in three companies. And they came into the midst of the camp in the morning watch and struck down the Ammonites until the heat of the day. And those who survived were scattered, so that no two of them were left together. — 1 Samuel 11:10-11 Today's text contains two pieces of vital military intelligence for the people of Jabesh. First, it confirms that Saul will attack with three companies from three different positions. Second, it confirms that it would happen early, between 3 and 6 a.m. This military strategy is very strategic, given that Saul has never been in battle, as far as we know, and he has never led people into a battle in his life. He devised an unexpected triple-coordinated attack in the wee hours of the morning. But I think the most interesting aspect of this text is how the men of Jabesh use this military intelligence. They use it to stall the Ammonites. At first read, it looks like disinformation, but it's not. It's actually a statement of truth, trust, and faith in God that salvation is coming through Saul, who has never fought a battle in his life. Today, face your challenges in the same way. God has given you access to all the military intelligence you need. It's all found in God's Word. There is plenty of intelligence in it to help you plan a defense or offense. God's intelligence enables you to fight against a spiritual enemy that seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. And yet, I recognize that for some of you, the battle is close. The enemy has you surrounded. He has now infiltrated your ranks. He is bargaining with you and wants to make a treaty with you. But don't. Stall a little longer. Trust in faith. The God of your salvation is coming, and he is mounted with three companies of soldiers prepared to attack in the wee hours of the morning. #FaithInTheBattle, #TrustGodsTiming, #DivineStrategy Ask This: How can you use the "military intelligence" found in God's Word to prepare for and face the battles in your own life? Are there specific verses or principles that stand out to you as particularly relevant? In what ways can you demonstrate trust and faith in God when you feel surrounded by challenges or difficulties? How can you apply the lesson of Saul's unexpected victory to your current struggles? Do This: Do not surrender to the enemy. Surrender to the Lord. Pray This: Lord, when I feel overwhelmed by the battles in my life, help me to trust in Your divine strategy and stand firm in Your Word. Grant me the strength and faith to hold on, knowing that You are always at work, preparing the way for my deliverance. Amen. Play This: Surrounded (Fight My Battles).

Are you surrounded by defeat? Salvation is coming. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." Let's set up the scene. Saul has been appointed king. Nahash has besieged Jabesh-Gilead. Saul gives the nation orders to gather and come to the aid of the people of Jabesh-gilead. Then here is what happens in verses 8-9: When he mustered them at Bezek, the people of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand. And they said to the messengers who had come, "Thus shall you say to the men of Jabesh-gilead: 'Tomorrow, by the time the sun is hot, you shall have salvation.'" When the messengers came and told the men of Jabesh, they were glad. — 1 Samuel 11:8-9 Four key details in this short text are insightful about the situation. First, Bezek is on the west side of the Jordan, and Jabesh is on the east side of the Jordan. Second, the two towns are about 10 miles apart, so Saul has an easy march to Jabesh. Third, three hundred and thirty thousand was a massive assembly. In fact, it was the second largest mounting noted in the Bible from the book of Genesis to 2 Kings. Fourth, after they mount to march against Nahash, Saul sends a message to the people of Jabesh that they are hours away from salvation and the defeat of the enemy. There have been many times in this life when I have felt on the edge of defeat. We have all been there—surrounded, opposed, threatened, and hopeless. You might feel like this right now in your marriage, with your finances, because of a compulsion, due to your health, or in your career. These moments are terrifying. But nothing brightens the eyes and gives hope to the soul more than someone stronger with a message that guarantees deliverance. In a very natural sense, Saul is going to gather the tribes to rescue the people of Jabesh-gilead. And [spoiler alert] there is going to be a great victory. But this message of guaranteed victory is just a distant whisper of Jesus's victory over the enemy of sin in this world. Jesus conquered the seed of all sin that led to the oppression and hopelessness depicted in moments like this in Jabesh-gilead. Jesus rescues those who cry to him when they are on the edge of defeat because of sin. My friend, a message of salvation has been proclaimed, and the man of salvation has come, and his name is Jesus. Today, salvation can come to you, led by King Jesus and the angelic armies of God. But you must surrender to him as your Lord to know his total and complete salvation. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. — Acts 4:12 God, I come to you. I call on you as my Savior, recognizing that I am beaten down by the sins of others and the sin that lives in me. I need your salvation from sin. I choose to surrender all my life to you as my Lord and Leader. I will no longer lead my life, and I surrender to your leadership. I receive your eternal salvation and the joy that comes with this message. Amen. #SalvationInChrist, #VictoryInFaith, #OvercomingDefeat Ask This: In what areas of your life do you currently feel surrounded by defeat, and how can you invite Jesus into these situations to bring His salvation and hope? How can you share the message of Jesus' victory and salvation with others who may be feeling hopeless or defeated? Do This: Surrender to Jesus's salvation and his Lordship. Pray This: Father, Help me to trust in your strength and surrender my battles to you. Amen. Play This: Surrounded (Fight My Battles).

Do you feel torn between two different callings? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." To set up the moment. Saul has just been appointed king, and everyone was sent to their home. We are not sure how much time has transpired, but Nahash, an Ammonite enemy, has besieged Jabesh-Gilead. And now the word is going to get back to Saul. Here are verses 5-7: Now, behold, Saul was coming from the field behind the oxen. And Saul said, "What is wrong with the people, that they are weeping?" So they told him the news of the men of Jabesh. And the Spirit of God rushed upon Saul when he heard these words, and his anger was greatly kindled. He took a yoke of oxen and cut them in pieces and sent them throughout all the territory of Israel by the hand of the messengers, saying, "Whoever does not come out after Saul and Samuel, so shall it be done to his oxen!" Then the dread of the Lord fell upon the people, and they came out as one man. — 1 Samuel 11:5-7 There are numerous details in this text: First, the word about the capture of Jabesh-Gilead finally gets back to Saul. Second, when it does, the Spirit of God rushes back upon him for the second time. Third, Saul experiences what we call "righteous anger" because he is rightly angered at what has happened with God's people. Fourth, we learn that this all happens as Saul is farming and doing his family's job. Fifth, in his anger, Saul takes two of his oxen (a.k.a. drafting animals) and cuts them into pieces, essentially killing his career and livelihood. Draft animals were important and expensive assets in farming, and Saul used them to send a message to all the tribes of Israel. Fifth, Saul seizes this defining moment to step into his role and use it to unify the people of Israel. In life, we all have defining moments. For Saul, this was one of those moments. While he was anointed and appointed the first king of Israel, he had yet to take hold of his kingship and become the warrior that God intended him to be. But here, the opportunity presents itself. Notice what he does. He kills his drafting oxen. He slaughtered his former way of life and used the slaughtered oxen to issue a call to all of Israel. By the way this is not the only time something like this happened in the Bible. Look up the story of Elijah and Elisha in 1 Kings 19:19-21. In my own life, I have had moments like this. One of these moments happened when I was 20. My grandfather was dying of cancer, and I watched him painfully die for hours in a hospital bed. In the silence of that room, listening to his gasp for air, I knew that God was calling me to do for other men what my grandfather had done for me — disciple men. That was 34 years ago. That moment was a defining moment for me. A week later, I returned to college, and I "killed the oxen." I changed my field of study from business to the bible, and I began studying the Bible like crazy in hopes of one day being able to disciple other men like my grandfather had done for me, which is what we are doing right here. Daily discipleship provided to those who want to grow in their faith. But to live out this calling, I learned one very valuable lesson. You have to kill the oxen, burn the ships, break the chains, and cut the lifeline. There has to be a point of no return where you decide to go all in and live out the calling God has given you. You cannot live in two callings. They will always compete for your time, attention, energy, and resources. So I have only one question for you today. What oxen do you need to kill? #FaithfulLiving, #DivineCalling, #BiblicalLeadership Ask This: What "oxen" in your life are holding you back from fully embracing the calling God has placed on your heart, and how can you take steps to "kill" them and move forward? Reflect on a defining moment in your life when you felt God's calling. How did you respond, and what changes did you make to align yourself with His purpose for you? Do This: Kill the oxen in your life. Pray This: Father, give me the courage to let go of anything that holds me back from fully embracing Your calling for my life. Help me to trust in Your plan and step forward with faith and determination. Amen. Play This: Burn The Ships.

Don't be deceived by slippery alliances. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." I am going to be reading verses 1-4 today, which state: Then Nahash the Ammonite went up and besieged Jabesh-gilead, and all the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, "Make a treaty with us, and we will serve you." But Nahash the Ammonite said to them, "On this condition I will make a treaty with you, that I gouge out all your right eyes, and thus bring disgrace on all Israel." The elders of Jabesh said to him, "Give us seven days' respite that we may send messengers through all the territory of Israel. Then, if there is no one to save us, we will give ourselves up to you." When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul, they reported the matter in the ears of the people, and all the people wept aloud. — 1 Samuel 11:1-4 There are three interesting details in the opening of this chapter. First, it is important to note that Jabesh-gilead is on the eastern side of the Jordan. It was the stretch of land from the river looking toward the desert. There were two and a half tribes that had their homes on the eastern side. They were vulnerable to enemies from the east, like the Ammonites, because of the separation by the river. Second, even though the Ammonites have already gained control of Jabesh-gilead they engage them in a proposal. The agreement was to take control peacefully but at the cost of the right eye of all the people. Removing the dominant eye would be an identifier and weaken any future revolt. Third, Nahash agrees to a seven-day interlude, and we are not told why. This was probably because he knew these people were more than a single city and tribe, and he did not want to risk awakening the sleeping giant of Israel, which he did. As this story develops, we discover two lessons that are especially applicable to believers. First, we should be guarded and cautious about engaging in relationships, doing business, or entering into agreements with a person or group who does not share our values and beliefs, especially if we suspect they intend to harm us. Second, we have a spiritual obligation and priority to engage in relationships, do business, and enter into agreements with other believers who need our support and services. We can all agree that there is a spiritual enemy who opposes the work and the people of the Lord. This enemy seeks to divide, weaken, and conquer believers like Nahash did here. In fact, the Hebrew word Nahash means "snake," which is the same Hebrew word used for the serpent in Genesis 3:1-24. One way to avoid being deceived by a snake is to avoid relationships with them and be in relationship, do business, and enter into agreements with brothers and sisters in the faith. There was a time in my life when I was more open to engagements with people who were not Christians and with whom I did not share biblical values. But after you have been burned a few times by slimy friends, slippery deals, and bitten by deceptive agreements, you learn that it's better to be burned by a believer who might turn back to fear God than one who will have you enter into an agreement only to pluck out your eye, subject you to slavery, cut your off from your family forever. What's ironic about this exhortation is there are Christians out there today who will contest this. There are young men and women dating people who are not believers, who believe that one day they will persuade the other person and then enter into a permanent marital covenant based on the hope of conversion because they feel compatible with the person on the other end. There are business owners who engage in agreements with vendors and suppliers who do not share biblical values in hopes of influencing them for the kingdom, only to wake up one day and realize that they have compromised their biblical values to maintain the momentum, money, and market value of their product and services. There are employees who work in companies whose corporate values do not match with biblical values, while these companies and corporations oppress believers and force them to celebrate sin that the bible opposes. Do you see how slimy and slippery the work of the serpent is? Today, thoroughly assess your relationships, agreements, and deals. Prioritize building biblical relationships and engaging in partnerships with like-minded individuals. In a world of uncertainty, we must come together, support, and rely on each other. Our collective strength is powerful if we prioritize supporting the efforts of fellow believers. #SpiritualDiscernment, #BiblicalLeadership, #GuardYourHeart Ask This: How can you evaluate the integrity of your current relationships and agreements to ensure they align with your biblical values? What steps can you take to address any misalignments? In what areas of your life are you currently facing pressures or temptations to compromise your faith for the sake of conven

Are you ready to have your leadership tested from beginning to end? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 11. I've titled this chapter "The First Test of Saul's Leadership." The key verse of this chapter is verse 13, which reads: But Saul said, "Not a man shall be put to death this day, for today the Lord has worked salvation in Israel." — 1 Samuel 11:13 This statement by Saul is awesome. It demonstrates his ability to steward the leadership authority he was given by God. Throughout this chapter, we will watch as Saul fights for the vulnerable, defeats enemies, leads the people to salvation, and even (right here) spares those who were early dissenters. This chapter is a profound example of Saul's spiritual leadership. But as we all know, Saul begins well yet ends poorly. And guess what? God is concerned about how you start but even more about how you finish this life. You begin this life in a deficit, as a sinner. God's hope is that you will finish this life as victorious saints, holding dearly to his salvation until we take our last breath. Saul did this life in reverse, exactly the opposite of what he intended for you to do, which led to a tragic end. I recently competed in a 10-mile obstacle event. About 6 miles in, I came to one of those American Ninja Warrior obstacles with the ascending and descending monkey bars, rotating wheels, and rope swings. As I was approaching, I slowed my run to decrease my heart rate and found an open lane that I wanted to get in. Five steps away from my lane, a 30-year-old guy in pretty good running shape jumped right in front of me. I was a little irritated with him but I bit my tongue thinking, he is young and probably ready to go. So he stood there, wiped his hands, and then he could tell he was out of breath. He had run too hard to the starting line. He stood there for about 90 seconds, trying to catch his breath, while I became more and more irritated with him. I looked for another lane, but there wasn't one, so I waited until he finally took the leap about 2-minutes in. He grabbed the first bar and fell straight into the pool of water beneath. Seconds later, I jumped up and flew over him and this 54-year-old man completed the obstacle while he was wading in the water below. I don't share this to gloat, but your enthusiasm at the start is irrelevant if you are not prepared from the start to finish the race. So today, set your sights on the finish. Aim to finish well because it's irrelevant how you start the race of life. The only thing that matters is how you finish. #LeadershipTested #FinishStrong #SpiritualLeadership Ask This: How does Saul's decision to spare those who opposed him challenge your own approach to handling dissent and opposition in leadership roles? Reflecting on Saul's journey from a promising start to a tragic end, what steps can you take today to ensure you finish your own race of faith well, consistently honoring God until the end? Do This: Set your eyes on the finish and then come in sliding. Pray This: Father, guide me in stewarding the leadership roles You've entrusted to me with humility and wisdom, reflecting Your grace and mercy in all decisions. Help me to finish my race faithfully, keeping my eyes fixed on You until the very end. Amen. Play This: O Come To The Altar.

If you are reluctant to lead, trust the divine pecking order. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we conclude Chapter 10, in verses 25-27: Then Samuel told the people the rights and duties of the kingship, and he wrote them in a book and laid it up before the Lord. Then Samuel sent all the people away, each one to his home. Saul also went to his home at Gibeah, and with him went men of valor whose hearts God had touched. But some worthless fellows said, "How can this man save us?" And they despised him and brought him no present. But he held his peace. — 1 Samuel 10:17-27 Believers are reluctant to lead for many reasons, but one is that we fail to trust the divine pecking order. In this instance, a king was selected, but we all know God was not forfeiting his role as the King. God was still the King of all things. His justice would reign. At no point did the people of Israel cease to be his people. When we truly understand that God is sovereign, our reluctance should fade away. It is here that we discover we are not the leader. God is. We are merely his servants, selected for his service and to a particular task in his kingdom. Like Samuel or Saul, we, too, are selected for a unique role in God's Kingdom to serve his people. This perspective is easily lost in our self-interested times. Pastors, presidents, principals, politicians, and public servants forget this. When we do, we convince ourselves that our skills, talents, and abilities got us to where we are. We end up rejecting God because we have consciously left God behind by trying to be self-reliant and our own leader. Stop rejecting God. Trust his divine pecking order. Let him lead. See your role as a servant in his kingdom. If you do, you will listen more carefully, follow more willingly, and be less irritated with his decisions. #TrustGod, #DivineLeadership, #FaithfulServant Ask This: In what areas of your life do you struggle to trust God's divine order, and how can you begin to surrender those areas to His leadership? How can recognizing God as the ultimate leader change your approach to serving others in your current roles and responsibilities? Do This: Trust God's pecking order. Pray This: Father, help me to trust in Your divine order and recognize Your sovereignty in my life. Guide me to serve faithfully as Your chosen servant, embracing my role in Your kingdom with humility and obedience. Amen. Play This: Without Hesitation.

Your strategies are never as good as God's plan. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we continue the story. Samuel is going to gather the nation again at Mizpah as he did in Chapter 7 after the Ark of Covenant was recovered from the Philistines. But on this day, Samuel is going to anoint Saul, the first king of Israel, in verses 17-27: Now Samuel called the people together to the Lord at Mizpah. And he said to the people of Israel, "Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, 'I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and I delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all the kingdoms that were oppressing you.' But today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your calamities and your distresses, and you have said to him, 'Set a king over us.' Now therefore present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes and by your thousands." Then Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel near, and the tribe of Benjamin was taken by lot. He brought the tribe of Benjamin near by its clans, and the clan of the Matrites was taken by lot; and Saul the son of Kish was taken by lot. But when they sought him, he could not be found. So they inquired again of the Lord, "Is there a man still to come?" and the Lord said, "Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage." Then they ran and took him from there. And when he stood among the people, he was taller than any of the people from his shoulders upward. And Samuel said to all the people, "Do you see him whom the Lord has chosen? There is none like him among all the people." And all the people shouted, "Long live the king!" Then Samuel told the people the rights and duties of the kingship, and he wrote them in a book and laid it up before the Lord. Then Samuel sent all the people away, each one to his home. Saul also went to his home at Gibeah, and with him went men of valor whose hearts God had touched. But some worthless fellows said, "How can this man save us?" And they despised him and brought him no present. But he held his peace. — 1 Samuel 10:17-27 When they gather on this day, no one but Saul and Samuel know about God's selection of Saul as king. This was hidden from everyone. With this in mind, the people are probably a little concerned that this gathering is going to be a talk-down. And they are right. It is a talk down, but it results in them getting what they want. They will get a king. There are three teachable moments in this text: The Lord Is The Deliverer The first thing Samuel does after gathering the nation is communicate a message that has come directly from God. Samuel begins with, "Thus says the Lord," which is a declaration of a divine message to God's people. Samuel understood he was only a messenger between God and his people. In this instance, Samuel's initial exhortation was the reminder that God has always been their deliverer. As we know, they have a short memory and they need this reminder. In fact, believers in every generation have a short memory of what God has done. I know I, too, can get caught in a cycle of self-centered reasoning, forgetting what God has done in the past and how that parallels my present challenge. This is another reason why it is so important to read Scripture. It reminds us of all the things God has done that we so easily forget. Which leads to the next point. In their forgetfulness: The People Reject The Lord As Their Deliverer Because they fail to remember what the Lord has done for them, they turn to a human strategy and a human representative. They want a king "like all the other nations," so they petition God to "set a king over them." The sad irony is that the people insist even though their petition is a blatant rejection of God as their King. They no longer want to be a nation under God. They want to be a nation led by their own king, a struggle we still endure to this day. The present election cycle is evidence of this yet again. As disappointing as this is, each generation thinks it has a better plan than God does. From one generation to the next, we pedal our ideas on how companies, the church, and the country would best be led, how to structure it, how to reach lost people, how to train and disciple, how to build leaders, and the like. Every generation thinks that they have a strategy that is better than the last, and yet, most of the time, these strategies end up distracting attention from the King, who deserves the glory. God Gives Them What They Want In the end, God gives the people what they want. The selection process was by lots, which would, in modern terms, be selection by "rolls of sacred dice" (or two stones). But we really don't know how they did this here since Scripture is silent on the exact method Samuel used. This process probably took a while, but you will notice that in the end, the people trust the process. Samuel and Saul knew ahead of time who the lot would fall

Are you ready to break the deceptive silence about your faith in God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we continue the story. Saul arrives back home, and this is what happens in verses 10-16: When they came to Gibeah, behold, a group of prophets met him, and the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he prophesied among them. And when all who knew him previously saw how he prophesied with the prophets, the people said to one another, "What has come over the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?" And a man of the place answered, "And who is their father?" Therefore it became a proverb, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" When he had finished prophesying, he came to the high place. Saul's uncle said to him and to his servant, "Where did you go?" And he said, "To seek the donkeys. And when we saw they were not to be found, we went to Samuel." And Saul's uncle said, "Please tell me what Samuel said to you." And Saul said to his uncle, "He told us plainly that the donkeys had been found." But about the matter of the kingdom, of which Samuel had spoken, he did not tell him anything. — 1 Samuel 10:10-16 This section explains what Saul said and did not say after he returned home. Let's look at both seperately: What Saul Said When Saul comes to his home in Gibeah, the Spirit of God rushes upon him, and he joins the other prophets and begins prophesying. Let's note that the word "prophesy" has two intended meanings: to foretell or forthtell. Most of the time, when someone prophesies in the Old Testament, they speak God's Word or repeat something declared by God's Word. In this case, that is what Saul is doing. He is not foretelling events like Samuel did for him. Instead, he is forthtelling God's Word. When we get to Chapter 19, this will happen again when Saul returns to Ramah (1 Samuel 19:23-24). In the New Testament, something similar happened at Pentecost. The Spirit fell upon believers after Jesus ascended, and the people experienced the Spirit of God. Onlookers were confused by this, thinking they were intoxicated, but they were simply experiencing the overwhelming power of God, evidenced by the way they communicated. Because the Spirit was now dwelling in them, their minds changed, and their mouths expressed this change. But let's get back to Saul. What happens next clarifies that this rushing of the Spirit upon him was not permanent (like New Testament believers) but momentary. What Saul Did Not Say Next, Saul is confronted by his uncle. His uncle must have been aware that Samuel was the great prophet and that more was up because of how long Saul was with the prophets, confirmed by the occurrence of the prophesying. What is surprising here is that Saul's response was honest but deceptively incomplete: he told him about the message of the lost donkeys but failed to tell him he would be the first king. This is strange, and scripture is silent about why this is. Even so, we witness two distinct men in this text: one who is strikingly open and bold about God's Word and the other who is silent and ashamed about God's Word. These two distinct men will show up again and again in Saul's story, and it will be his undoing. This is a challenge for many believers. We act one way when we are with believers and another way when we are with the world. We are outspoken when we are with believers but deceptively silent when we interact with the world. This representative hypocrisy is exactly what prevents the advancement of the Gospel. We are deceptively concealing the whole truth of the Word of God. Given our time, it is interesting that this is exactly what the world wants us to do. They want us to keep silent about our faith in the institutions of the world, but we shouldn't be. Our time and the people in these places need the Word of God. Those who speak up and break the threshold of these concerns will usher in a new season, breakthrough representative hypocrisy, and become whole men and women of God. So, break through your spiritual reluctance today. Speak God's Word to someone you know to whom you've not spoken God's Word. Break the threshold of deceptive silence and start telling the whole truth about God. #BoldFaith, #SpeakGodsTruth, #BreakTheSilence Ask This: In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to speak openly about your faith, and what steps can you take to overcome this reluctance? Reflect on a recent situation where you chose to remain silent about your faith. How might the outcome have been different if you had spoken up and shared God's truth? Do This: Breakthrough the silence with one person today. Pray This: Lord, give me the courage to speak Your truth boldly and without hesitation. Help me to overcome my fears and be a faithful witness of Your love and grace in every situation. Amen. Play This: Speak Life.

Do you know your leadership boundaries? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we continue the story where Samuel anoints Saul in a significant moment and foretells a series of events that will shape his leadership journey. He also issues instructions for the upcoming week until Saul reaches Gilgal. Let's read verses 7-9: Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you. Then go down before me to Gilgal. And behold, I am coming down to you to offer burnt offerings and to sacrifice peace offerings. Seven days you shall wait, until I come to you and show you what you shall do." When he turned his back to leave Samuel, God gave him another heart. And all these signs came to pass that day. — 1 Samuel 10:7-9 What Samuel is doing here is telling Saul that he is chosen to be Israel's king, but it comes with limitations. He is given the role of leadership, but his leadership is given boundaries. In other words, he can do what his "hand finds to do," but not anything and everything his "hand finds to do." This is an outstanding leadership and discipleship lesson in the relationship between God and his people. The structure of Israel's national leadership is God is King. Next, Samuel functions as the judge and communicates as the go-between. Then the prince, that is Saul, comes in a distant third. The structure of this monarchy was different from that of the surrounding nations, whose kings thought themselves to be gods and even worshiped themselves as gods. This leadership tension is an enduring struggle in any company, church, or country. We have all seen how catastrophic a company, church, or country can be with a narcissistic authoritarian leader at the top. However, this issue with the leader is not controlled by legislation, constitutions, amendments, or competing systems of government. It is something that a leader must submit to within their heart. Only a believer indwelled by the Holy Spirit who has submitted to the Lordship of Jesus Christ can moderate the selfish inclinations that rebel against God's order. Today, submit again to the pecking order of God. Surrender those selfish inclinations to do what "you want to do." Let the Spirit prompt you to surrender to God as King and stop trying to be the king. You are not. You are no match for the king. #LeadershipLessons, #BiblicalGuidance, #FaithJourney Ask This: How can you apply the principle of submitting to God's order in your current leadership roles, whether at work, at home or in your community? In what areas of your life do you struggle with the desire to be in control, and how can you surrender these to God and trust His plan? Do This: Submit to the Spirit and the King. Pray This: Lord, help me to recognize and submit to Your divine order in my life, embracing the boundaries You have set for my leadership. Grant me the humility to surrender my desires and follow Your will wholeheartedly. Amen. Play This: Only King Forever.

Are you desperate to know God's call for your life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we pick up the story where Samuel has anointed Saul, the first king of Israel. But Samuel wants Saul to know that this is not something he has made up. It is the Word of the Lord. Therefore, he gives Saul three predictive signs as confirmations on his journey home. Here are verses 2-6: When you depart from me today, you will meet two men by Rachel's tomb in the territory of Benjamin at Zelzah, and they will say to you, 'The donkeys that you went to seek are found, and now your father has ceased to care about the donkeys and is anxious about you, saying, "What shall I do about my son?"' Then you shall go on from there farther and come to the oak of Tabor. Three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there, one carrying three young goats, another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a skin of wine. And they will greet you and give you two loaves of bread, which you shall accept from their hand. After that you shall come to Gibeath-elohim, where there is a garrison of the Philistines. And there, as soon as you come to the city, you will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place with harp, tambourine, flute, and lyre before them, prophesying. Then the Spirit of the Lord will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man. — 1 Samuel 10:2-6 Samuel is not your modern televangelist. He describes three extremely detailed events that confirm God's Word and Saul's appointment as king. So today, I want to look closer with you at the three confirmations that Saul will encounter on his journey home: Confirmation One: Two Men With A Message The first stop was Rachel's Tomb. We might not know who Rachel was, but Saul knew. Rachel was a matriarch of Israel. She died while giving birth to the last of the sons of Israel—Benjamin. And Saul is one of her descendants. Saul is a Benjamite. Saul would stop at her tomb and meet two men there. The symbolism in the encounter at this 800-year-old tomb is profound. Just a few days ago, he left his father's home as a peasant farmer, and now he would return as the first king of the people of Israel. His livelihood as a farmer would pass away, but as he leaves his ancestor's tomb, he would be transformed into the one who would fight for God's people, leaving a permanent mark on Israel's history. Confirmation Two: Three Men With Two Loaves The second stop is a lone oak tree at the base of Mt. Bethel. Although the oak is not mentioned anywhere else in the Bible, trees like the oak and terebinth were common landmarks for travelers in remote regions. At the tree, Saul would meet three men traveling up to Bethel with supplies for a sacrifice. Upon meeting Saul, the men would offer him a portion of their food. If you recall, just a few days before, as Saul was traveling through these hills, he and his servant ran out of provisions of bread. But the journey home would be different. He would receive divine provision as God's chosen man. Confirmation Three: Two Opposing Groups The last stop is Saul's home. Yet, as Saul returns, he witnesses two odd events: a garrison of Philistines and a group of praising and prophesying prophets. This bizarre scene is the tension that would define the calling for the rest of his life—a tension between God's people and God's enemies. Upon witnessing these two groups, the Spirit of God rushed upon him, transforming him into a different man. Remember, these three signs were confirmations of God's Word to Saul and God's selection of him as king. So you would think Saul would move ahead with some level of spiritual confidence, but as we will see, his appointment will be met with fear and trepidation instead. When God Confirms His Word To You God's Word is confirming. This is because God's Word is perfect, unchanging, and timely. God's Word is not just for Samuel and Saul; it is for you. If you are trying to understand this life and your unique calling, God's Word will clarify and confirm it. You can clarify and confirm your calling and purpose by regularly reading it, hearing it communicated by others, or confirming it in and through divine occurrences. So, if you feel concerned or confused about the events of your life and your calling, here is what you need to start doing. Increase your intake of God's Word. Start reading it more. Take it off the shelf, dust it off, and break open the binding of those unfolded pages. Read it and trust it and its divine providence over your feelings. Put yourself around grounded believers and look around for what God is telling you. God has a unique calling for you, just like he had for Samuel and Saul. The best place to live this life is right in the middle of that call. You may not be called to be a king over God's people or a prophet who can predict the future, but

Is God calling you to call something out or to a calling of greater capacity? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." Today, we pick up the story in verse one: Then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on his head and kissed him and said, "Has not the Lord anointed you to be prince over his people Israel? And you shall reign over the people of the Lord and you will save them from the hand of their surrounding enemies. And this shall be the sign to you that the Lord has anointed you to be prince over his heritage. — 1 Samuel 10:1 So, to recap: The night before, Saul was unaware of what was going on. He thought he was still searching for his father's lost donkeys. But then, unexpectedly, he found himself at the head of a special banquet and sleeping on a bed on the roof of Samuel's house. The next morning, as he was leaving the city, Samuel accompanied him. After sending his servant ahead, Samuel took out his anointing oil, which had previously only been used to anoint priests, and anointed Saul. He respectfully kissed Saul and declared him to be the prince or king of Israel, explaining his role: to reign over and save the people. This is a key moment in the story. So, let me speak to Samuel's and Saul's reading with me today. First, for the "Samuels," which would include anyone in spiritual leadership of any kind, whether in the home or the church, sometimes you need to stop and speak into the divine moments of life. When you feel God is about to do something or is presently doing something, stop and point it out. You have a responsibility to do this. Sometimes, it needs to be done privately, as Samuel does here. Other times, it needs to be done publicly, as Samuel will do in the coming verses. But either way, stop and speak it. "Samuels," or "spiritually mature believers," should see God's work more readily, and there are apparent moments in everyday life that are walking along that we should stop and speak into with greater reverence. In my own life, I have missed many of these moments, but today I stop and speak into them with greater frequency, especially in my family with my wife and children. And you should, too. Second, for the "Sauls," which would include anyone being called to a new and special task in this life, sometimes you need to stop trusting your feelings and start trusting the unchanging Word of the Lord. Saul had already received several divine confirmations up to this point through circumstances, a prophet of the Lord, and there would be several more signs to come. However, given all this, he refused to trust the leading, the Word, the signs, the anointing, and the confirmation of the Spirit. Saul, unfortunately, only trusted his feelings because the capacity of the task was too great for him. So if the task God has given you seems too great like it was for Saul, my exhortation to you today is—good. Step into this great task in faith, knowing you cannot do it and let God do it, and when it is done, praise the God who did it through you. #DivineCalling, #AnointedForGreater, #FaithfulObedience Ask This: How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's divine moments in your life, whether privately or publicly, to speak into them with reverence and obedience? In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to trust God's leading over your feelings? How can you actively step out in faith, embracing the tasks God has called you to, knowing He will equip and guide you? Do This: Call out divine work, and trust faith, not your fears. Pray This: Father, help me to recognize and respond obediently to Your divine appointments in my life, trusting Your guidance over my understanding. Empower me with faith to embrace the tasks You have called me to, knowing that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. Am Play This: Trust In God.

Are you embracing your calling with spiritual confidence or reluctantly? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 10. I've titled this chapter "The Appointed But Reluctant Leader." The key verse of this chapter is verse 6, which reads: Then the Spirit of the Lord will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man. — 1 Samuel 10:6 This entire chapter is interesting to read. It starts with Samuel's very detailed prophecy about Saul's journey home. Then Saul heads home, and the Spirit falls upon him as he goes. When he gets home, Saul conceals his impending appointment as king of Israel. Samuel then gathers the nation to select the next king, and after a lot of lots cast, the lot falls to Saul. But Saul cannot be found when called upon because he is hiding in some pile of baggage or equipment and is reluctantly dragged out before the people. What we discover is Saul is an anointed and appointed but reluctant leader. Yet smack dab in the middle of this experience, we read that the Spirit of the Lord would rush upon Saul and change him into another man. Strange right? So, let's make some notes about the Spirit and his work through time. In the Old Testament, the falling of the Spirit upon individuals was rare but critical. It marked God's empowerment for specific moments and tasks. Saul's experience in this text was momentary, divinely confirming him as the first king. But while rare in the Old Testament, this event foreshadows a greater reality for believers in the New Testament age. After Jesus's ascension came the descent of the Spirit at Pentecost, and from this moment forward, every believer receives the sustaining power and presence of the Spirit for living the spiritual life. I meet believers all the time who feel insecure about their spiritual gifts and calling. Like Saul, we are called but concerned and, therefore, feel some initial intimidation. But we must remember and believe that the Spirit not only rushes upon us momentarily but resides within us permanently. He is apportioned to us to empower us for God's work. Today, if you feel intimidated about the work God has called you to do, stop defaulting to trusting in your feelings about the feat before you. Trust in the sustaining power of the Spirit so you don't react like Saul. As you will see in this chapter, it would be stupid for the tallest man in all the land to hide in the baggage when he was anointed and appointed the king of Israel. In the same way, it would be stupid for you to trust in your feelings over the incredible power of God's Spirit that lives within you. The Spirit that lives in you is the same person and power that raised Jesus from the dead. So stop cowering and hiding today. Come out from behind the baggage. With a Spirit-filled confidence, step into the tasks God has for you because the Spirit of the Risen Savior resides within you. #SpiritualCalling, #EmbraceYourCalling, #SpiritEmpowerment Ask This: How can you actively recognize and embrace the presence of the Holy Spirit in your daily life, especially when faced with challenges or opportunities for leadership? Reflecting on Saul's initial reluctance, what steps can you take to overcome insecurity or inadequacy when God calls you to lead or serve? Do This: Trust the Spirit, not your feelings. Pray This: Father, empower me with Your Spirit today so that I may embrace Your calling confidently and courage, stepping boldly into the tasks You have appointed for me. Help me to trust in Your presence within me, guiding me through every challenge and opportunity. Amen. Play This: Same God.

Read the update on Everett. Would you like to know God's providential leading for your life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, we pick up at the point of the story where Saul and Samuel have now completed their meal and are making their way back to town. Saul still does not quite understand what is going on, but he is treated as the guest of honor, and now they head back to the home of Samuel. Our text picks up in 1 Samuel 9:25-27, which reads: And when they came down from the high place into the city, a bed was spread for Saul on the roof, and he lay down to sleep. Then at the break of dawn Samuel called to Saul on the roof, "Up, that I may send you on your way." So Saul arose, and both he and Samuel went out into the street. As they were going down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant to pass on before us, and when he has passed on, stop here yourself for a while, that I may make known to you the word of God." — 1 Samuel 9:25-27 Everything that has happened in Chapter 9 is chilling. God's providence is all over this. After eating his last bites of bread and sleeping in the hills of Ephraim on the ground for three days, Saul concludes with being given the finest meal and bed and then having an early morning discussion with the last and greatest prophet in the time of the Judges. As the servant goes ahead of them, Samuel discloses to Saul his future—that God's Word is that he (Saul) will be the first King of Israel. I assume that Saul had completely forgotten about the lost donkeys by now. I think we far underestimate the power and providence of God's Word. God's Word has a timeless effect. We tend to only think about His Word as words on a page. But the Words of God have far more consequence. Samuel, as a steward of God's Word, understood this. As the Word of the Lord had come to Samuel for the first time many years earlier at Shiloh (1 Sam. 3:7), Samuel was about to make the Word of God known to Saul for the first time. God's Word directs all of life. By His Word, God created life. By His Word, nations rise and fall. By His Word, kings come and go. His Word is providential. Yet, to experience God's providential leading, we must hear and obey His Word. But here's the best part: God made it easy for us all to hear his providential leading. He made His Word flesh in Jesus. Jesus was the living Word of God who walked with us (John 1:14). During Jesus's life, he spoke about the Word God gave him. He lived obediently to God's Word. He died and rose again as God's Word predicted. And he did this so you could hear and obey the Word of God. The moment that Saul and Samuel share in this text about God's Word, you can experience it today. You can know God's providential leading for your life. All you need to do is pick up God's Word, read it daily, and do it as prescribed, and you will know God's amazing providential leading. #DivineGuidance #GodsWord #ProvidenceInAction Ask This: How does Saul's journey in 1 Samuel 9 demonstrate the importance of being open to unexpected encounters and God's providential leading in our own lives? In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sensitivity to God's Word today, ensuring that we not only hear but also faithfully obey His guidance in our decisions and daily life? Do This: Hear and listen to God's Word and discover his providential leading. Pray This: Father, help me to trust in Your providential guidance and to faithfully follow Your Word in every aspect of my life. May I be open to unexpected encounters that reveal Your purposes and strengthen my faith in Your perfect plan. Amen. Play This: I Come To The Garden Alone.

Are you recognizing God's providential guidance in the circumstances of life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, we pick up at the point of the story where Saul and his servant are out looking for their father's lost donkeys and decide to see the prophet Samuel to get some help finding them. And now the two men meet. Our text picks up in 1 Samuel 9:18-24, which reads: Then Saul approached Samuel in the gate and said, "Tell me where is the house of the seer?" Samuel answered Saul, "I am the seer. Go up before me to the high place, for today you shall eat with me, and in the morning I will let you go and will tell you all that is on your mind. As for your donkeys that were lost three days ago, do not set your mind on them, for they have been found. And for whom is all that is desirable in Israel? Is it not for you and for all your father's house?" Saul answered, "Am I not a Benjaminite, from the least of the tribes of Israel? And is not my clan the humblest of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this way?" Then Samuel took Saul and his young man and brought them into the hall and gave them a place at the head of those who had been invited, who were about thirty persons. And Samuel said to the cook, "Bring the portion I gave you, of which I said to you, 'Put it aside.'" So the cook took up the leg and what was on it and set them before Saul. And Samuel said, "See, what was kept is set before you. Eat, because it was kept for you until the hour appointed, that you might eat with the guests." So Saul ate with Samuel that day. — 1 Samuel 9:18-24 Did you notice all the little divine moments in this text? The timing of the initial meeting. As ordained by God, God led Saul to Samuel, the man he was to anoint the first prince of his people. The resolution of the lost donkeys. As ordained by God, the lost donkeys of Kish have been found as prophecied by Samuel. The preparation of the great banquet. As ordained by God, Saul shows up at just the right time. Remember, he is out of bread as he has been on a multi-day quest only to find that on the eve of this day, he would enjoy a great feast as the guest of honor for whom the best portion of the meal was preplanned. The revelation of Saul's lifelong calling. As ordained by God, Saul would discover that he would transition from a popper to a prince. All the issues in the story get resolved suddenly: God's selection of the first king, Kish's lost donkeys, Saul and his servant's need for food, and the remarkable discovery of Saul's lifelong calling. When I seek God's guidance, I always look for how God will resolve issues in a way that only he can. Nothing happened here that Samuel or Saul made happen, yet none of what happened was happenstance. Both were simply obedient men who took simple steps of faith. Yet in the middle of nowhere land, a farm boy from a nowhere town would be appointed the first king over God's people, one of the great leadership roles in the nation of Israel. God still works like this. He does things like this all the time in my life, and he does stuff like this in your life, too. You need to start seeing them, giving recognition to them, and stopping dismissing them as happenstance and coincidental. If you do, the next time you are in one of those moments where you are lost and desperate for his direction, you will become less irritated by the need for regular obedience and mundane activities and see God's providential, not circumstantial work. #DivineGuidance, #RecognizingGodsHand, #TrustingProvidence Ask This: How can we become more aware of God's providential guidance in our daily lives, especially during challenging or uncertain times? What practical steps can we take to trust God's timing and direction rather than rely solely on our own understanding or efforts when making decisions and navigating life's uncertainties? Do This: Start seeing and learning God's guidance and providence. Pray This: Father, open my eyes to recognize Your providential guidance in every circumstance and strengthen my faith to trust Your perfect timing and plans for my life. Amen. Play This: Peace Be Still.

What if, on this ordinary day, God revealed something extraordinary to you? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, we pick up at the point of the story where Saul and his servant are out looking for their father's lost donkeys and decide to go see the prophet Samuel to get some help in finding them. Our text picks up in 1 Samuel 9:15-17, which reads: Now the day before Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Samuel: "Tomorrow about this time I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel. He shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines. For I have seen my people, because their cry has come to me." When Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you! He it is who shall restrain my people." — 1 Samuel 9:15-17 What we learn here is that Saul's ordinary search is becoming more extraordinary, and Saul doesn't know this quite yet. He still thinks he is looking for his father's lost donkeys when Samuel is going to reveal something greater. I find this laughable because often, this is exactly how I have seen God's providence work in my life. I am simply living out my life, doing what I am supposed to be doing with character and excellence, and then God reveals something else that he would have me do by God through someone else, and it is often something of greater leadership, responsibility, and influence. There are two important details about the role Saul will be anointed and appointed to. First, he would be anointed as a "prince over God's people" and not as a king, as God would remain the King. This is slightly different from what the people demanded, even though they would eventually call Saul their king. Second, Saul would have a specific purpose, which was to "save God's people from the hands of the Philistines." This is a very specific calling and purpose that Saul would fulfill for the rest of his life. Remember this: if you are seeking God's guidance, remain faithful. Do what God has called you to do with willingness and excellence, and then look up. One day, you might encounter a fellow believer who will guide you to your next calling on the road of life. #DivineGuidance #PurposeInOrdinary #FaithJourney Ask This: How can you cultivate a mindset of readiness and openness to unexpected opportunities for God's guidance in your daily life? Reflect on a time when God surprised you with a new calling or responsibility. How did you respond, and what did you learn about trusting in His providence? Do This: Remain faithful and look for God's guidance. Pray This: Father, help me to faithfully follow Your lead in the ordinary moments of my life, trusting that You have greater plans beyond what I can see or understand. Guide me with Your wisdom and grace as I seek to fulfill Your purposes with excellence and humility. Amen. Play This: Lead On Good Shepherd.

Are you overlooking God's divine providence? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, we pick up at the point of the story where Saul and his servant are out looking for their father's lost donkeys. They have exhausted their efforts, but they have heard there is a man of God close by, so they decide to inquire of him. Our text picks up in 1 Samuel 9:7-14, which reads: Then Saul said to his servant, "But if we go, what can we bring the man? For the bread in our sacks is gone, and there is no present to bring to the man of God. What do we have?" The servant answered Saul again, "Here, I have with me a quarter of a shekel of silver, and I will give it to the man of God to tell us our way." (Formerly in Israel, when a man went to inquire of God, he said, "Come, let us go to the seer," for today's "prophet" was formerly called a seer.) And Saul said to his servant, "Well said; come, let us go." So they went to the city where the man of God was. As they went up the hill to the city, they met young women coming out to draw water and said to them, "Is the seer here?" They answered, "He is; behold, he is just ahead of you. Hurry. He has come just now to the city, because the people have a sacrifice today on the high place. As soon as you enter the city you will find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat. For the people will not eat till he comes, since he must bless the sacrifice; afterward those who are invited will eat. Now go up, for you will meet him immediately." So they went up to the city. As they were entering the city, they saw Samuel coming out toward them on his way up to the high place. — 1 Samuel 9:7-14 What we discover in this text is a diversion from seeking natural solutions by natural efforts to seeking natural solutions by spiritual efforts. Saul has exhausted all his natural means and now turns to spiritual means. There is "a well-known prophet" living in the vicinity, so his servant persuades him to visit him to find a resolution in their search for a few lost donkeys. And as they approach the place where Samuel lives, the timing is providential. Samuel and Saul meet as God has determined. And in the coming text, we will see how providential this moment is. Here is the application today. Most of the time, we seek natural solutions to natural problems. Sometimes, that might be all that is needed. But believers should always look beyond the natural events, problems, and solutions in this life. God works through natural events to reveal supernatural things. He works through minor problems that are solved by natural means. He also works through big issues that are solved by spiritual means. When we realize that these are all his workings, we will see God's work more often and realize that he is always and perpetually guiding and leading us to see his will. You will see in the coming text that Samuel understood this, but Saul had yet to learn this. Today, try to see God's work and guidance in everything that happens throughout your day. For example, when you solve a natural problem by natural effort, look beyond your ingenuity to the spiritual gift God imparted to you as the force behind this natural solution and praise God's supernatural work through you. If you start seeing life this way, you will see divine providence in all the moments of life, deepening and enriching your daily walk with the Lord. #DivineGuidance, #GodsTiming, #SeekingProvidence Ask This: How often do you rely solely on your own efforts to solve problems, and how might you actively seek God's guidance in those situations? Reflect on a recent experience where you've seen God's providence at work, whether through a natural solution or a spiritual intervention. How can recognizing His hand in these moments deepen your faith and trust in His guidance? Do This: See providence in everything today. Pray This: Father, help me to recognize Your guiding hand in every aspect of my life, whether in small everyday challenges or significant decisions. May I trust in Your timing and seek Your wisdom, knowing that You are always working for my good. Amen. Play This: God Omniscient, God All Knowing.

Are you looking for God's guidance today? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 9:3-6, which reads: Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. So Kish said to Saul his son, "Take one of the young men with you, and arise, go and look for the donkeys." And he passed through the hill country of Ephraim and passed through the land of Shalishah, but they did not find them. And they passed through the land of Shaalim, but they were not there. Then they passed through the land of Benjamin, but did not find them. When they came to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant who was with him, "Come, let us go back, lest my father cease to care about the donkeys and become anxious about us." But he said to him, "Behold, there is a man of God in this city, and he is a man who is held in honor; all that he says comes true. So now let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us the way we should go." — 1 Samuel 9:3-6 With a political revolution brewing among Israel's leaders, we are transported to an insignificant rural family and the Hill Country of Ephraim. The Hill Country of Ephraim was a 15-mile long by 27-mile wide stretch of land consisting of large V-shaped hills, making finding a few lost donkeys a near-impossible task. Still obedient to their father, these two young men went out on their search. Coming up empty-handed, they find themselves in the land of Zuph, which should be a familiar place for us since this is precisely where this story began. In 1 Samuel 1:1, this is where Samuel's great-great-great grandfather resided, which is no coincidence. The two young men are about to turn back here but decide to consult with a prophet who might give them spiritual guidance for this impossible task. While they would not find the lost donkeys, they would find something more significant—Saul's calling as the first king of Israel. This story presents a simple yet profound lesson for those seeking God's guidance. Faithful obedience is always where we find God's guidance and, with it, our calling and purpose in this life. This is how it worked for Saul and every great believer and leader you read about in the Bible. This is how it has always worked in my life, too. I know some believers are seeking guidance from God and looking for their unique purpose and calling in this life. Sometimes, this search can be disorienting, confusing, and even irritating. When we are confused and irritated like this, we can be tempted to act in disobedience, which only obscures the righteous path. The most important thing we can do is to take another small step of obedience, even if it seems like the path leads nowhere. Sometimes, the path that appears to lead to nowhere is exactly where God wants us to be, and it is usually right here that God reveals the plan and purpose he has for our lives. So, if you want to know God's plan and purpose for you, live in the adventure of faith and take a small step of obedience, even if it seems to lead nowhere. #FaithfulObedience, #GodsGuidance, #DivinePurpose Ask This: In what areas of your life do you feel lost or directionless, and how can you take a small step of obedience today to seek God's guidance? Reflect on a time when you followed God's leading, even when it didn't make sense. How did that step of faith reveal His plan and purpose for you? Do This: Be obedient and discover your calling. Pray This: Lord, help me to trust Your guidance and take steps of obedience, even when the path seems unclear. Reveal Your purpose for my life as I walk faithfully with You each day. Amen. Play This: Run To The Father.

What signs are you looking for when seeking God's direction? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 9:1-2, which reads: There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth. And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people. — 1 Samuel 9:1-2 When we need God's direction, we often look for visible indications of his guidance. This text presents the first characteristics of the man Samuel appointed as the first king of Israel. Here are three. First, we are given his name, Saul, which means "to ask." His name is almost providential since the people had just been asking for a king (1 Sam. 8:10). Second, Saul is described as a "handsome young man," someone who stood out physically. Third, "he was taller" than anyone else, illustrating his distinct stature among the people of Israel. Saul walks onto the stage out of nowhere, fitting the prototype of what God knew they wanted—a divine, tall, and handsome man from among the people. However, before reading too much into his physical characteristics, we must remember there is more to the story. But here are a couple of keys to remember when looking for direction from God. First, when seeking guidance from God, you must set aside your private desires and personal preferences. You need to focus on God's best for you, not what you think is best. If you are only focused on what you think is best, you may wrongly see God's will in something that is merely your will. This could be confirmation bias and not God giving you direction. Second, when seeking guidance from God, you must look beyond physical attributes and characteristics. Saul's name and appearance were impressive, but there was still more to the story. Some things will happen in the coming Scriptures that will support these initial indicators. Still, you cannot let superficial characteristics and attributes be the only determining factors in God's direction. You need to look a little deeper for spiritual confirmation from God. Look beyond the surface. Seek God's confirmation through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel. Don't be swayed by what merely looks good or feels right. Dig deeper, trust in God's guidance, and you'll find the path he has laid out for you. #GodsGuidance, #SeekHisWill, #SpiritualDiscernment Ask This: When seeking God's direction in your life, how can you ensure that your personal desires and preferences don't overshadow His will for you? Think about a time when you relied on outward appearances or initial impressions to make a decision. How might you approach similar situations differently by seeking deeper spiritual confirmation from God? Do This: Seek divine guidance alone. Pray This: Lord, help me to set aside my personal desires and seek Your will above all else. Guide me to look beyond the surface and discern Your direction through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel. Amen. Play This: Be Thou My Vision.

Do you have a big decision in front of you and need direction from God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 9. I've titled this chapter "Guided By God." Over the next four chapters, we will resolve one major question: What kind of leader does God want? And the key text of this chapter reveals God's answer. It is 1 Samuel 9:17, which reads: When Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you! He it is who shall restrain my people."— 1 Samuel 9:17 We make choices every day. Some studies estimate that the average adult makes about 35,000 conscious choices every day. These decisions include small, routine choices as well as larger, more consequential ones. However, every once in a while, we are faced with a significant choice. What makes this choice more challenging are things like competing values, uncertain consequences, unmet expectations, and unknown outcomes. All of these factors add a lot of pressure to this one choice. In Chapter 9, we notice that Samuel is not too concerned about God's choice for the first king of Israel, mainly because Samuel knows that God will provide. In fact, in this chapter, we will see that God will lead his choice for a king right to Samuel's house for dinner. If you want to experience less anxiety in life while making both small and big decisions, it's important to live a life guided by God. This means recognizing God's presence in everyday life. When we fail to acknowledge God's involvement in the 35,000 small decisions, it becomes difficult to see His involvement in the one big decision. However, if we do recognize his presence, the decision becomes easier. We simply trust that he will reveal the answer through the small things he does along the way. This is exactly what Samuel does in this chapter. He sees the divine providence and hears God's divine voice, and he responds. And so should you. #SeekingGodsDirection #TrustHisGuidance #DailyDevotional

Have you recently made a bad decision? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:21-22, which reads: And when Samuel had heard all the words of the people, he repeated them in the ears of the Lord. And the Lord said to Samuel, "Obey their voice and make them a king." Samuel then said to the men of Israel, "Go every man to his city." — 1 Samuel 8:21-22 This is a sad and solemn moment in Israel's history, and Samuel finds himself at a crossroads. Despite his reservations, he was directed to acquiesce to the people's desires as directed by God. There are a few items worth touching on here. First, this had to be an arduous decision for Samuel. He was old and wise enough to know that this change would have far-reaching consequences. Like a father with a wayward son, he could warn them of the dangers, but he knew they would have to make their own choice and learn from it. Second, Samuel, as a great judge, never compromised his role. He listened to the people and, with integrity, brought their requests to God. Then, he communicated with God and relayed the messages given to him by God to them. It takes great restraint to do this when you know you could alter the situation with a subtle manipulation. Third, it's also worth noting that he doesn't immediately give them what they want. Instead, he sends them home, possibly to think about it. But their bias has set in, and they are convinced that they want a king and are determined to have one. Israel made another bad decision, one that would result in numerous complications in the future. They rejected God as their King and chose instead to have a mortal reign over them. This choice would ultimately teach them many hard lessons about kings—one we are still learning in our own time—that there is only one just and righteous king—the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. If God is truly King, then he cannot be voted out. Our plans never outmaneuver his plan, even when we plan to reject him. Thus, our plans never prevent his plan. We could make a lifetime of flawed plans, but nothing will stop the Eternal King. Right into this story, during the reign of an oppressive Roman King, God inserted a sinless son into the story by royal appointment, who would live, die, and rise again as the King of Kings. So, while this moment is sad, salvation from sin will come because our lifetime of bad decisions will never stop the King of Kings. #TrustGodsPlan, #KingOfKings, #FaithfulLiving Ask This: How do you respond when you sense that your desires conflict with God's will, and what steps can you take to align your heart with His plans? In what areas of your life have you tried to assert control, and how can you surrender those areas to the sovereign reign of the King of Kings? Do This: Turn to the King in every regret. Pray This: Lord, help me to trust in Your sovereign plan even when my own desires and insecurities cloud my judgment. Grant me the wisdom to seek Your will and the courage to follow it faithfully. Amen. Play This: Mended.

Have personal insecurities made you stubborn and unreceptive to God's plan? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:19-20, which reads: But the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel. And they said, "No! But there shall be a king over us, that we also may be like all the nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles." — 1 Samuel 8:19-20 This is a powerful example of human stubbornness. The Israelites, despite being warned, demanded a king. Samuel had clarified the consequences, but they refused to listen. They so desperately wanted to be like other nations that they ignored the wisdom of God's messenger because their hearts were set on their desires. How often do we find ourselves in similar situations? We might not be desperate for a king, but we have all stubbornly pursued our plans. Like Clark Griswold, we have our ideas about our vacations and want them to go our way. Only when our way disappoints do we see the situation in another way. Being less trivial, we have all been stubborn at some point. We have all ignored the truth of Scripture, the wisdom of godly counsel, and the nudge of the Holy Spirit. Then our hearts become hardened, and the truth will not seep in. Therefore, we miss and dismiss the warning that directs us to the path of truth. This situation reminds us of how stubborn we can all be, and sometimes, we need to examine our hearts. Sometimes, we need to spade the hardened soil of our hearts and become receptive to God, wise men, wisdom, and truth. Take a moment today to seek God's wisdom in any area where you've been stubborn. Pray for the humility to listen and the courage to follow God's guidance. Share your reflections with a friend and invite them to walk with you in this new experience of faith. #GodsPlan #Insecurities #SpiritualGrowth Ask This: How can identifying and addressing my personal insecurities help me become more receptive to God's guidance in my life? Reflecting on a recent situation where I've been stubborn, what steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of humility and openness to God's plan moving forward? Do This: Share an insecurity and get wisdom from a godly friend. Pray This: Father, help me to recognize and confront the insecurities that hinder my trust in Your perfect plan. Grant me humility and wisdom to surrender my stubbornness and follow Your guidance wholeheartedly. Amen. Play This: Come To The Table.

Are you sure you want to do that? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:10-18, which reads: So Samuel told all the words of the Lord to the people who were asking for a king from him. He said, "These will be the ways of the king who will reign over you: he will take your sons and appoint them to his chariots and to be his horsemen and to run before his chariots. And he will appoint for himself commanders of thousands and commanders of fifties, and some to plow his ground and to reap his harvest, and to make his implements of war and the equipment of his chariots. He will take your daughters to be perfumers and cooks and bakers. He will take the best of your fields and vineyards and olive orchards and give them to his servants. He will take the tenth of your grain and of your vineyards and give it to his officers and to his servants. He will take your male servants and female servants and the best of your young men and your donkeys, and put them to his work. He will take the tenth of your flocks, and you shall be his slaves. And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord will not answer you in that day." — 1 Samuel 8:10-18 That sounds fun. Sign me up! But as ironic as it is, that's precisely what God's people decided. Even though Samuel carefully itemized a number of things a king would take from them. Did you hear the list? Did you notice the repetition of the verb "to take"? Samuel clearly delineated that a king would "take" their: Sons (v. 11) Daughters (v. 13) The best of their fields (v. 14) The best of their vineyards (v. 14) The best of their olive orchards (v. 14) A tenth of their produce (v. 15) Their servants (v. 16) Their young men (v. 16) Their donkeys (v. 16) Then Samuel closes with this hand-washing declaration, "And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord will not answer you in that day." We all make foolish decisions. But when we make foolish decisions, conscious of the consequences, we make fools of ourselves. And then, as Samuel declares, there will come a day when we want salvation from our foolish decisions. At this moment, we will cry out like fools. Do you know how you stop making foolish decisions? You get wisdom from wise men who know God and heed their instruction. So if you are insecure and need wisdom today, ask a man wiser than yourself! #WisdomInAction, #GodlyDecisions, #BiblicalLessons Ask This: How have past decisions, driven by insecurity or fear, impacted your life, and what could you have done differently with the wisdom you have now? Who are the wise men in your life you can turn to for godly advice, and how can you intentionally seek their counsel more often? Do This: Seek wisdom in every insecurity. Pray This: Lord, grant me the wisdom to seek and heed godly counsel in my decisions. Help me to trust in Your guidance and avoid the pitfalls of my own foolishness. Amen. Play This: Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me.

Are you insecure and about to make a stupid request or decision? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:7-9, which reads: And the Lord said to Samuel, "Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them. According to all the deeds that they have done, from the day I brought them up out of Egypt even to this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are also doing to you. Now then, obey their voice; only you shall solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them." — 1 Samuel 8:7-9 Famous Last Words of Insecure People When we are insecure, we are all prone to making decisions we later regret. I've been there too. But if we're not careful, these insecurities, often based on untruthful biases, can lead to irreversible consequences. Here are some famous last words of insecure people who end up making stupid decisions: "But all my other friends are going." "There might be drinking, but I won't drink." "One look won't hurt." "She came onto me." "I didn't know how old she was." "I needed a ride, so I got in the car." "It's just one little lie." "Nobody will ever find out." "I'm just trying to fit in." "I'll quit before it gets too serious." "It won't happen to me." "Just this once." "It's just a harmless joke." "I can stop anytime I want." "It's not like I'm hurting anyone." "I'm sure it's no big deal." "Everyone else is doing it." "I'm just blowing off steam." "It's not my fault." "I'm too stressed to care right now." If we back up one verse, we read Israel's famous last words: "Give us a king to judge us." Right Problem & Wrong Solutions Here is what is so interesting about this situation. God responds by instructing Samuel to give them what they want. The people of Israel have legitimately identified the right issue (Samuel's impending leadership transition) but regrettably presented the wrong solution. They are so committed to the wrong decision that they do not see it as a direct rejection of God as King. Yet God tells Samuel to give them what they want. Fascinating! When you face an insecure moment and a big decision, the best thing you can do is set your desires aside and seek God's desires. Our Will & God's Will Our will is deceptively devious. It finds justification in circumstances, comparisons, and confirming voices. Sometimes, we perceive these confirmations as God's Will when they are not. We might be conflating our will with God's Will, and God might even give you over to your will because that is what you want. Get wiser when you are insecure. The next time you feel uncertain or insecure, try this: Set your desires aside for a moment. Take a fresh look at the situation and assess the problem. Consider your solution, and then consider God's solution. As Samuel does for Israel, play your will and God's Will out. Then compare the outcomes, and maybe next time, in your insecurity, you won't make the same stupid decision that Israel did here that changed the course of their history forever. #InsecurityAndDecisions #SeekingGodsWill #WisdomInChoices Ask This: Reflect on a time when your insecurities influenced a decision. Looking back, how might seeking God's perspective have led to a different outcome? How can you distinguish between your will and God's will when faced with important decisions? What practical steps can you take to align more closely with God's desires in uncertain moments? Do This: Seek God's Will, not your own. Pray This: Father, in moments of insecurity, help me set aside my desires and seek Your wisdom above all else. Guide my decisions so that they may reflect Your will, not mine, and lead me closer to You each day. Amen. Play This: God Will Work It Out.

Are insecurities driving you to your own solutions? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:4-6, which reads: Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah and said to him, "Behold, you are old and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations." But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to judge us." And Samuel prayed to the Lord. — 1 Samuel 8:4-6 Here are a few details worth noting. First, it's the elders who initiate the move to a monarchy. If we look back a few chapters, we'll recall that it was also the elders who devised a plan to solve a previous crisis, resulting in the loss of the Ark of God in a war against the Philistines. Their reasoning here is no better. Previously, they wanted to use God, but now they want to reject Him. But let's look closer at their reasoning because it's a little twisted. The issue at hand is the succession within the judiciary. They are worried about Samuel's old age and his sons' misconduct, which raises concerns about who will lead after him. Essentially, they are in need of another judge. In the past, they encountered problems with Eli and his sons. However, their current proposal is baffling because it fails to address the problem and actually contradicts their own analysis. Despite this, they do not seem to realize the flaw in their plan. If their genuine concern is about the nation turning away from the Lord, then the solution is not to replace the Lord with a man who with lord over them. What they actually need is another judge who will keep the people loyal to the Lord. And this is what irritates Samuel; he, as you will see, understands the twist in their request as the rejection of the Lord. The elders' reasoning and decision stems from a common human tendency—to rely on tangible solutions in moments of insecurity rather than on the Lord. They overlook the fact that their real need isn't just a king but a judge who will lead them toward obedience to God. This reveals a profound truth: When our insecurities define us, we often seek superficial solutions that fail to address the root issues. How often do we, like the elders of Israel, look for quick fixes to our problems—placing our trust in human institutions, achievements, or relationships rather than in God? When we feel insecure about the future, our jobs, or our families, we may rush to take matters into our own hands, seeking control where only God's guidance can provide true direction. Take time today to identify an area of insecurity in your life that you have been trying to address with world effort and natural solutions. Pause and pray, asking God for wisdom and trusting Him to lead you. Surrender your fears and uncertainties to Him, and commit to following His guidance, even if it means stepping into the unknown. #TrustingGodOverMan #InsecureSolutions #SeekingDivineGuidance Ask This: How often do you find yourself seeking human solutions to your insecurities instead of relying on God's guidance? What steps can you take to shift your trust more fully to Him? Reflect on a time when you rushed to find a quick fix for a problem that ultimately didn't address the deeper issue. What did you learn from that experience, and how can you apply that lesson to your current challenges? Do This: Trust God in the insecurity. Pray This: Father, forgive me for the times I've sought worldly solutions out of fear and insecurity. Help me trust in Your wisdom and guidance, surrendering my anxieties to Your loving care. Amen. Play This: A Mighty Fortress.

Are your insecurities overshadowing your faith? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." Today, our text is 1 Samuel 8:1-3, which reads: When Samuel became old, he made his sons judges over Israel. The name of his firstborn son was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; they were judges in Beersheba. Yet his sons did not walk in his ways but turned aside after gain. They took bribes and perverted justice. — 1 Samuel 8:1-3 First, as we read these verses, we are drawn to the comparison between Eli and his sons and Samuel and his sons. Many commentators have attempted to dissect the similarities and differences, but one detail stands out. Samuel was a faithful follower and judge of Israel throughout his life. Second, as a parent and spiritual leader, these verses especially cause me to stop and reflect. When I read them, I immediately insert myself into the story and play forward the lives of my children. I think about my daughter, both of my sons and my son-in-law. More than anything in this life, I want them all to know Jesus. I hope what is said here will never be told about my children. Yet I also realize that my children have to make their own decisions about Jesus and that I have a spiritual responsibility to lead them, but I am not spiritually responsible for them. Let me pause and say this is also true for you. You have a spiritual responsibility to not for your children. I know parents are reading this devotional today who have children who do not fear or follow the Lord. They have turned aside, and your heart is heavy for them. All I can tell you is that you should never give up hope. Here are four things you can do. First, you can pray for them. Second, you can speak the truth to them. Third, you can live obediently to Jesus and pray this impacts them. Fourth, you can hold onto all hope. If this is you today, I will pray for you and your children today. But back to the text. Two factors create tension in the chapter. The first factor is Samuel's old age as a judge and leader. The second factor is the looming reality that they lack a suitable successor because his sons are unjust judges. Isn't it interesting that old age and disobedient children create a leadership concern, which gives the opportunity to wedge God out of the nation? You cannot make this up. The timing of this text and what is happening in our country are fascinating. These two factors open the door to all kinds of insecurity about the future. They create a swelling concern that is not resolved by faith in God but faith in a man—the appointment of the first king of Israel. God will be edged out as King, and the people will insist on a king like all other nations. And it is right here in human history where the Theocracy ceases, and the Monarchy rises. Leadership insecurities can cause people to think irrationally and act disobediently. This is true in a nation, a business, a church, or a family. The important thing is to anticipate the insecurities or acknowledge them when they occur and find the right solutions for them. Looking ahead in the chapter, the insecurities anticipated create a bit of a national crisis, which leads the people to find the wrong solution to the wrong problem, which complicates their relationship with God. Here's a prayer for you today: God, today I pray for all parents with children who do not believe in you. Please draw them back to you. Help us be faithful in praying for them, speaking the truth to them, and modeling obedience. And God, in all our insecurities, lead us to faith in you and not faith in mankind. Amen. #FaithfulParenting, #TrustInGod, #OvercomingInsecurity Ask This: How can you actively demonstrate your faith and trust in God to your children, even when they seem to be straying from His path? In what areas of your life are insecurities leading you to seek human solutions rather than trusting in God's guidance and provision? Do This: Be faithful in your insecurities. Pray This: Lord, help me to trust You completely with my children's lives and to guide them with faithfulness and love. Grant me the strength to overcome my insecurities and to lead by example, always pointing them toward You. Amen. Play This: With Confidence.

Are you ready to trust your insecurities to the security in God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 8. I've titled this chapter "When Our Insecurities Define Us." When anyone reflects on the events of their life, they will always remember key moments that signify high points and low points. I can easily recall several high and low points in my life, and I'm sure you can too. When these moments are connected, they form the narrative of our lives. Chapter 8 is a defining low point in the story of God and Israel. As you will see, this is the moment the nation of God rejected God as its leader. So, for all you nationalists out there, our departure from being a nation under God is not a recent occurrence; it happened hundreds of years ago. The key verse of this chapter is 1 Samuel 8:7, which reads: And the Lord said to Samuel, "Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them — 1 Samuel 8:7 The people of Israel, gripped by insecurity, demanded a king to lead them, like the surrounding nations. Despite Samuel's warnings, their fear and desire to conform overshadowed their faith and trust in God. This choice marked a pivotal shift—rejecting God's authority in favor of human authority. Now, let's drive this point closer to home. Think about your own life. What moments have defined your journey? Have there been times when your insecurities drove you to marked moments that distanced you from God? Maybe it was the pursuit of approval by others, a decision made out of fear, or a relationship that dishonored your faith. Just like Israel, we all face moments where we let our insecurities define us. But here's the good news: our defining moments don't have to end in rejection. We can redefine them through repentance and a renewed commitment to God's leadership. Take some time today to reflect on a defining moment in your life where insecurity led you away from finding your security in God. Write it down and be honest about how it impacted your relationship with God. Then, prayerfully ask God to help you redefine that moment. Seek His guidance and wisdom to turn that past insecurity into a testimony of His grace and power in your life. Remember, it's never too late to let God redefine your story. Trust in his leadership and allow him to turn your past insecurities into a future marked by faith and security in him. #InsecurityToSecurity #TrustGodsLeadership #RedefineYourStory Ask This: How can you identify moments in your life where insecurity has influenced your decisions or actions? What steps can you take to trust God's security instead? Reflect on a specific instance where you prioritized human approval or worldly standards over God's guidance. How did this impact your relationship with God, and what changes can you make today to realign with His leadership? Do This: Seek security in God. Pray This: Father, I come before you with a humble heart, seeking your forgiveness and guidance. Help me embrace repentance, trusting in your mercy and power to restore and bring peace to my life and community. Amen. Play This: In Christ Alone.

Have you had enough and want a change in our church and country? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." After two decades had passed, Samuel called the nation to repent. He gathered them at Mizpah for national repentance. As they do, the Philistines surround to attack, and God responds with a mighty sound, and then the Israelites follow suit and drive the Philistines away. Let's listen to how they respond and God's reward for their return in 1 Samuel 7:12-17: Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen and called its name Ebenezer; for he said, "Till now the Lord has helped us." So the Philistines were subdued and did not again enter the territory of Israel. And the hand of the Lord was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. The cities that the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron to Gath, and Israel delivered their territory from the hand of the Philistines. There was peace also between Israel and the Amorites. Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. And he went on a circuit year by year to Bethel, Gilgal, and Mizpah. And he judged Israel in all these places. Then he would return to Ramah, for his home was there, and there also he judged Israel. And he built there an altar to the Lord. — 1 Samuel 7:12-17 Repentance Effects Everyone The effect of this call to repentance is profound. It has a long-lasting impact on three groups of people. First, on the Philistines, who were subdued and restrained for the rest of Samuel's life. Second, on the Amorites (a.k.a. the Canaanites), who ceased to be a threat because of Israel's victory over their common enemy, the Philistines. Third, on the Israelites, who witnessed firsthand the deliverance by God in the most vulnerable of moments. Don't forget that Israel was about to be wiped out. The entire nation was gathered in a valley unarmed, fasted, and emotionally vulnerable. Their enemy was armed and ready on every side. Their only hope was divine intervention, and God did intervene. Repentance Is Personal & Corporate I talk to many people in our time who want to see change happen in the church and our country. Based on what we have read in this chapter, I am convinced we think about the path to this change all wrong. The path to change is not with a better preacher, policy, politician, or president. The path to change is repentance, both personal and corporate. This means: If you want change in your family, you need to repent and call your family to repentance. If you want change in your church, your pastor needs to repent and call the church to repentance. If you want change in your denomination, the head of your denomination needs to repent and then call the churches to repentance. What happened in this moment can still happen today. It can happen right now with you. Make Is Personal I know someone reading this today who feels just like Israel felt here in the middle of Chapter 7. You feel hopeless. You feel alone. You feel surrounded by an enemy who is perched to annihilate you. If that is you, I am telling you, there is hope. Turn or return to God. Reject the meaningless ideologies and idols that have let you down and call upon the only God who saves. Repentance is when we bring our sinful motivations, thoughts, and actions to God and ask God to take a stand. We are not taking a stand—we are going low—but asking God to take a stand. The benefits are great because those who repent will be rescued, freed from fear, and established in the Lord's territory. Eventually, you will see that your repentance will impact everyone around you. #RepentanceAndRestoration #DivineIntervention #EbenezerStone Ask This: How can you personally apply the principle of repentance, both individually and within your community or family, to seek God's intervention in areas where you need His help? Reflecting on Samuel's leadership and the Israelites' response to God's deliverance, what steps can you take to establish "Ebenezer stones" in your own life—symbols of God's faithfulness and deliverance—to remind you of His ongoing work and presence? Do This: Repent. Pray This: Father, I come before you with a humble heart, seeking your forgiveness and guidance. Help me embrace repentance, trusting in your mercy and power to restore and bring peace to my life and community. Amen. Play This: Nothing Else.

Are you surrounded by challenges with no way out? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." Let's recap the story a bit. Israel, having lost and regained the Ark of God, defiled the Tabernacle and found themselves in a 20-year hiatus from worship and sacrifice. But after two decades had passed, Samuel called the nation to repent. He gathered them at Mizpah for national declaration and spiritual restoration. But right at this moment, the plot thickens. Let's listen to 1 Samuel 7:7-11: Now when the Philistines heard that the people of Israel had gathered at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the people of Israel heard of it, they were afraid of the Philistines. And the people of Israel said to Samuel, "Do not cease to cry out to the Lord our God for us, that he may save us from the hand of the Philistines." So Samuel took a nursing lamb and offered it as a whole burnt offering to the Lord. And Samuel cried out to the Lord for Israel, and the Lord answered him. As Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to attack Israel. But the Lord thundered with a mighty sound that day against the Philistines and threw them into confusion, and they were defeated before Israel. And the men of Israel went out from Mizpah and pursued the Philistines and struck them, as far as below Beth-car. — 1 Samuel 7:7-11 An Intense Battle This is quite an intense moment. Imagine for a moment you are the people of Israel. You and your entire family are gathered with the rest of the nation. You are unarmed, fasted, and in a vulnerable emotional state. In the middle of this event, word spreads that the five lords of the Philistines with their armies are gathered around you. You look up to the surrounding territory to see they have you surrounded. Logically, you face destruction. Surrounded & Vulnerable Completely vulnerable, there is only one possibility—salvation by the Lord. Therefore, the people beg Samuel to pray for their salvation, so he does. With the enemy within sight, Samuel responds with prayer and sacrifice, something he has not done in twenty years. Then God makes a mighty thundering sound that throws the Philistines into confusion. I should stop and make a note here. The people of this time had a unique understanding of military combat. They believed every military conflict (victory or defeat) played out on two planes: the natural and the supernatural. Therefore, any unusual phenomenon during a military operation would be interpreted as evidence of a deity at work (Joshua 10:11; Judges 5:4, 20–21). In this case, the loud and unexpected thunder, whatever it was, was immediately understood by the Philistines as a bad omen, which was supported by the fact they were attacking them in the middle of the worship of their God, causing mass panic. Israel immediately understood this as an answer from the Lord from Samuel's prayer and sacrifice and took advantage of the mass hysteria. So let me make three points of application. One | Grasp The Battle First, the enemy always strikes when you are weakest and most vulnerable. This is what he always does in my life. The enemy loves to wear down believers; he is relentless. He knows your weaknesses, vulnerable moments, fears, and failures. If he sees you are about to turn to God, he will send the full force of his armies against you to defeat you. Two | Gird Your Mind Second, when the enemy strikes at these vulnerable moments, you get to make a strategic choice. You can look at the situation from a natural or supernatural perspective. This mindset you adopt will change how you view this situation and will impact your next decision. The choice is either the enemy and natural forces are in control, or God and his supernatural force are in control. Three | Get Out And Fight Third, when you surrender to God, assuming you do, you still need to listen for God and join him in the fight. Surrendering to God does not mean we surrender the fight. We need to fight, but we need to fight the right enemy in the right way. The only way to do this is to get behind the God who fights ahead of us in every battle. Today, you might feel just like Israel, surrounded and vulnerable. If so, grasp the battle, gird your mind, and get out and fight. #DivineVictory #SpiritualWarfare #PrayerPower Ask This: How can you identify and prepare for moments of vulnerability in your spiritual journey, knowing that the enemy often strikes in those times Reflecting on Samuel's response of prayer and sacrifice, what practical steps can you take to deepen your reliance on God during challenging circumstances, aligning your actions with faith rather than fear?

Is it time for us to gather for a day of repentance? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." As I have been reading Chapter 7, the thought has been gnawing at me. Is it time for the church to usher in a day of repentance? Listen as I read 1 Samuel 7:3-6: And Samuel said to all the house of Israel, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your heart to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." So the people of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtaroth, and they served the Lord only. Then Samuel said, "Gather all Israel at Mizpah, and I will pray to the Lord for you." So they gathered at Mizpah and drew water and poured it out before the Lord and fasted on that day and said there, "We have sinned against the Lord." And Samuel judged the people of Israel at Mizpah. — 1 Samuel 7:3-6 If you've followed me through this book, you've witnessed a narrative unfold. It's the tale of a nation liberated by God from Egypt, who meandered through the desert and was guided into the Promised Land. However, God's nation gradually strays over the next 400 years. The religious leaders become so corrupt and wicked that they lose the Ark and drift far from God. The nation, enduring a twenty-year lament, finds itself without a means to worship or offer sacrifices to God. But in this moment of national despair, a beacon of hope emerges. Samuel, the final judge of Israel, steps forward. It's important to note that a man of God will guide Israel back, not a policy, president, power, or politician. It's a righteous man with a righteous plan, ready to rally the nation to repentance. I have read these verses many times this week, and they stir something in me: a desire to call believers in our time to repentance. But before you and I go and get too excited about this, the message that must be delivered is not easy. It's a stern message. It's a divisive message. It's a clarifying message. It's a personal message. It's a message that requires us to declare we stand against the idols of our time, like the: Idol of Relativism: that rejects absolute truth and exchanges the truth of God for a lie. Idol of Gender Fluidity: that rejects biblical views of God's created order and gender as (binary) male and female. Idol of Critical Race Theory: that rejects biblical reconciliation by resurrecting past sins against races, promoting division. Idol of Abortion: that rejects the sanctity of life at conception and elevates our rights and us as a god. Idol of LGBTQ+ Rights: that rejects biblical teachings on sexuality and marriage. Idol of Secularism: that rejects biblical faith and values and marginalizes believers in the marketplace. But here is the problem with all these idols and ideologies. It's more than just the culture that has welcomed them. It's the church. All of these idols have found their way into the church. Therefore, what Samuel does here is not only courageous but also hard, divisive, clarifying, and personal. It's a call to reject and rid themselves of specific idols, repent, and return to the Lord. Spiritual change can happen. But it will only occur when a righteous man leads the way. This means we have to repent first and lead the way. It means we must draw some defining lines for ourselves, our families, and the church. #RepentanceRevival, #ReturnToGod, #SpiritualAwakening Ask This: How can we identify and confront the idols in our own lives and in our church community? What practical steps can we take today to initiate a personal or communal day of repentance and spiritual renewal? Do This: Repent and rid yourselves of idols. Pray This: Father, I humbly come before You, seeking Your guidance and strength to identify and remove any idols that have crept into my heart and community so that we may fully turn back to You in repentance and renewal. Amen. Play This: Coming Back.

Do we need a move by God or a move by man? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." Yesterday, we left off with a stark truth: If you choose moral flexibility, God will allow it. But be warned, you will be living without God. This lifestyle, devoid of God's presence, carries significant spiritual and national implications. I believe this is the critical juncture we find ourselves in today. Then we read this in 1 Samuel 7:3-4: And Samuel said to all the house of Israel, "If you are returning to the Lord with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your heart to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines." So the people of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtaroth, and they served the Lord only. — 1 Samuel 7:3-4 For me, the pivotal moments of Chapter 7 are both in verse 3, "And Samuel..." and "If you..." After twenty long years, a man of God, Samuel, rises to the moment. Scripture is silent here on why it takes twenty years. But I know that when we are left to our sin, we have to get well beyond the short-lived rewards of sin to see the consequences before a person or a nation turns back. Some see it sooner than others only because they have seen the cycle before. But most of the time, it takes us a while to see the devastating consequence of sin. Yet, amid this national and spiritual crisis, our leading man, Samuel, stands up and proclaims a return. It's not a return of the Ark of God but a return of Israel's wayward heart to God. Moving the Ark of God around is not going to help. What is needed is a movement of their hearts to God. And Samuel declares this movement has three features: First, they need to "put away" the beliefs and practices they have adopted over the last twenty years. Second, they need to "return to the Lord," which is not a show of sadness and worldly regret but of turning back to God and away from the lifestyle they have adopted. Third, the need to do it "with all their heart" demands a single-minded, wholehearted commitment to God. I think our culture and time long for a fresh move by God. But too many believers wrongly assume that God needs to spark this movement. Instead, Samuel clarifies that God has not moved. It's the nation that has moved. What they need to do is return to the God they have moved away from. It's a return that must be characterized by the features listed here. The way to start is by making a move. Is there a belief or practice you need to let go of to fully return to the Lord with all your heart? What is the practice that has become an idol? What steps will you take today to rid your thoughts, attitudes, and actions of it? And what new thoughts, attitudes, and actions are you committed to bringing to the Lord? After you do this, share it with others and invite your family, church, and community to join in. #RepentanceRevival, #ReturnToGod, #SpiritualRenewal Ask This: What beliefs or practices in your life have subtly taken the place of God's rightful place in your heart? How can you actively "put away" these distractions to return wholeheartedly to God? Reflecting on Samuel's bold stand and call for national repentance, what steps can you take today to lead others in your influence toward a more profound commitment to God?

Do you want to live with the Lord or without the Lord? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are in 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." Today's scripture is 1 Samuel 7:2, it reads: From the day that the ark was lodged at Kiriath-jearim, a long time passed, some twenty years, and all the house of Israel lamented after the Lord. — 1 Samuel 7:2 After the Ark of God was taken from Shiloh, it never returned. This verse chronicles a sad moment because the Ark of God will remain in this location for almost 50 years, not just for the next 20 years. It will stay here until King David requests that It be paraded up to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6). As modern readers, we often fail to see the effects of what has happened. The wicked sons of Eli removed the Ark of God, defiling the Tabernacle. This meant there was no longer a holy place for worship and sacrifice. Failed spiritual leadership caused a rift and drift from God, and the consequences devastated the religious nation. Thus, there is a long two decades of lament for these actions. This concerns me about our time and our nation. If we want to live without the Lord, the Lord will allow us to live without him. If we turn to the New Testament book of Romans, Paul has something to say about this. This is a reading from Romans 1:21-32 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error. And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done. They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Though they know God's righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. — Romans 1:21-32 If you want moral flexibility, God will let you have it. But here's the deal, you will live without God. A life lived this way, without God, has all kinds of national and individual spiritual consequences. I believe this is the time in which we live. But there is a way back, and to see that you will have to show up tomorrow. But for now, reflect on this question: Do you want to live with the Lord or without the Lord? #ChooseGod #ReturnToGod #SpiritualConsequences Ask This: How can we recognize areas in our lives where we may be drifting away from God's presence, similar to the Israelites during the time of 1 Samuel 7? In what practical ways can we ensure that our worship and devotion to God remain sincere and faithful, even amidst the distractions and temptations of modern life? Do This: Ask this and answer honestly: Do you want to live with the Lord or without the Lord? Pray This: Father, help me to discern when I am drifting from Your presence and guide me back into a deeper relationship with You. Strengthen my resolve to honor You in all aspects of my life, reflecting Your glory to those around me. Amen. Play This: Trust In God.

Are you aware of God's presence in your life? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." We begin this chapter with 1 Samuel 7:1 reads: And the men of Kiriath-jearim came and took up the ark of the Lord and brought it to the house of Abinadab on the hill. And they consecrated his son Eleazar to have charge of the ark of the Lord. — 1 Samuel 7:1 First, I think it's crucial, as it relates to this text, to recall the journey of the Ark of God for the last few chapters. First, the Ark was in Shiloh. This was where it was supposed to be, inside the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle. But the wicked sons of Eli removed the Ark of God and brought it into battle using it like a good luck charm and then lost it to the Philistines. Then the Philistines take it, assuming a victory over God. But God strikes them with a plague and hemorrhoids, and they pass it from town to town until they are ready to be rid of it. Then it ends up in Beth-Shemesh. But the priest inappropriately handled it, and God struck 70 of them dead, which may have been the whole lot of them. Now, like the Philistines, the Israelites are frightened of it. So this is where we pick up in verse one. Israel had to decide what to do with it. They don't take it back to Shiloh, which is pretty close, and we are not told why. There could be many reasons, one of which might be the desecration of the Tabernacle by Eli's sons. But they take it about 15 miles up the road to Abinadab's house (who was one of the remaining priests) and consecrate his son (Eleazar), and they keep the Ark of God in their house. Here's a thought for you. Imagine that the Ark of God appeared at your doorstep today. How would your thoughts, attitudes, and actions change? I bet the way you lead would shift. I bet how you care for your wife, the words you choose, and even the media you consume would change. I assume your thoughts and attitudes would transform, as well. But this is not a hypothetical thought. God's presence is not confined to a box. His Spirit lives within every believer. The power of the Holy God is with us wherever we go. We are a temple of the Holy Spirit. So, if this is the case, we should live with each moment of every day with a healthy awareness of holy reverence and divine dread in us, consecrating every thought, attitude, and action. Dwell on that today, and live like it. #GodsPresence #DailyDevotional #LiveInHisLight Ask This: How can you cultivate a greater awareness of God's presence in your daily routines and interactions? Reflecting on today's message, what practical steps can you take to consecrate your thoughts, attitudes, and actions to honor God's presence in your life? Do This: Dwell on the presence of God in you, and act like it. Pray This: Father, help me to live each day with a deep awareness of Your presence within me. Guide my thoughts, words, and actions to reflect Your holiness and grace to those around me. Amen. Play This: Here in the Presence.

Are you ready to make a declaration? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 7. I've titled this chapter "Stand Up And Make A Declaration." For me, this chapter underscores the importance of personal commitments that are publicly declared to God. In the early 1800s, a preacher named Charles Finney revolutionized the way we publicly declare our faith with what he dubbed the "Altar Call." This call, absent from many churches today, was an invitation to step forward in a service and. proclaim Jesus as our Savior and Lord. Influential figures like Billy Graham and ministries like Promise Keepers adopted it as a. The narrative in 1 Samuel 7 will read and feel like this. It's an "Altar Call" given by Samuel to the entire nation of Israel. It's a monumental day in their history, with interesting details and occurrences that I will let unfold naturally. But at the conclusion of the day, Samuel sets up a monument. They stand up a stone to commemorate and remember the commitments that they have publicly made to God. This leads us to the key verse of this chapter. 1 Samuel 7:12 reads: Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen and called its name Ebenezer; for he said, "Till now the Lord has helped us." — 1 Samuel 7:12 Of course, some of you know this verse because it was popularized by a well-known Hymn, "Come Thou Fount." One of the verses sings: Here I raise my Ebenezer; Hither by thy help I've come; This moment of this song recalls this moment in Israel's history. It's a song that calls us to reflect on a great day of repentance in Israel's history. All believers need moments like this. We need standing-stone moments to remind us. There is nothing special about the markers or the monuments—all they are meant to do is remind us of the commitments and covenants we have made personally and publicly with God. Today, look back on some of those moments when you stood up a stone in your relationship with God. Reflect on two questions. Where were you when you stood up a stone, and what change did you commit to make with God? Share them in the comments below, and let's celebrate the Ebenezers we have stood up in our lives. And if you are ready to make a declaration to God, you can take this moment to stand up a new stone. #DailyDevo, #DeclareYourFaith, #StandUpForGod Ask This: When was the last time you publicly declared your faith in God, either through words or actions? How did that moment impact your relationship with Him? Reflecting on your spiritual journey, what "stones" or markers can you identify where God has shown His faithfulness and helped you overcome challenges? How can these reminders encourage you to continue growing in your faith today? Do This: Share a standing stone moment below. Pray This: Father, thank you for moments of declaration and commitment in my journey with You. Help me to continually raise my Ebenezer, acknowledging Your faithfulness and seeking deeper intimacy with You each day. Amen. Play This: Come Thou Fount.

Are you tired of the confusion and ready to find clarity? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 6. I've titled this chapter "From Confusion to Clarity." In chapter 6, the Ark of God is taken and returned. Seventy men of Beth-shemesh have been struck dead, and the chapter closes with this declaration and resolution. Verses 20-21 read: Then the men of Beth-shemesh said, "Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?" So they sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kiriath-jearim, saying, "The Philistines have returned the ark of the Lord. Come down and take it up to you." — 1 Samuel 6:20-21 Clarity In Humility Sometimes, when we read the text, we don't fully connect with the severity of such moments. But God is serious—very serious. Both the Philistines and the Israelites made themselves enemies of God. They chose to live outside his righteousness, so they became the focus of his justice. Their arrogance and disobedience only added to their problems, creating more confusion to the point that they just wanted to be rid of the Ark of God. I cannot imagine how the terror these people felt. If you are living through a season of confusion, the only place you will ever find clarity is in humility before God. Once in a while, you might find your way through confusion with a tactic, strategy, or clever ingenuity. But occasionally, the confusion in your life will be so intense and immense that it will humiliate you. And the only proper response in these moments is to go low before the Holy God. It's to get on your knees and tell God you don't know what to do and are ready to do only what he wants you to do. This is usually a humiliating and terrifying experience, yet it's right here where men are transformed from being their own man to being God's man. Are you confused today? Go low before the Holy God, for no man can stand before him. #ClarityThroughHumility #SeekingGodsWill #FromConfusionToClarity Ask This: How can you cultivate a more profound sense of humility in your daily life, especially during times of confusion or uncertainty? Reflect on a recent experience where you faced confusion or difficulty. How did your response align with seeking God's clarity, and what adjustments can you make moving forward? Do This: Go low! Pray This: Father, in moments of confusion, I humble myself before You. Please give me clarity of mind and heart to discern Your will and follow Your direction faithfully. Amen. Play This: Gracefully Broken.

Do you really want to know what's in the Ark of God? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 6. I've titled this chapter "From Confusion to Clarity." In chapter 6, the Ark of God returns. The priests offer a sacrifice upon the return, but they make a fatal mistake: And he struck some of the men of Beth-shemesh, because they looked upon the ark of the Lord. He struck seventy men of them, and the people mourned because the Lord had struck the people with a great blow. — 1 Samuel 6:19 One Quick Peek We're curious beings, aren't we? I've been curious since my teens. I remember taking things apart to understand how they worked. But as I've grown older and wiser, I've learned there are lines and limits to curiosity. Sometimes curiosity pays off positively; other times, it brings severe consequences. In our relationship with God, it's good to be curious about Him and His will in our lives. Yet, we must tread carefully when our curiosity leads to selfish thoughts, attitudes, or actions. God sets boundaries that shouldn't be crossed. When we defy these boundaries, we distance ourselves from Him and face the consequences. Why Do The Priests Peek? Here's the big question: Why did these 70 priests of God dare to peek into the Ark? They knew better—they were explicitly instructed never to touch, open, or even look inside it. That's basic priestly training. Their curiosity may have stemmed from eagerness to see if the Philistines took anything from the Ark, or perhaps it was their first chance to see it outside the Tabernacle. Whatever the reason, their disobedience cost them their lives. What Was In The Box? So, are you curious? Do you want to know what was in the Ark of God? I know you do. According to Hebrews 9:4, the Ark contained three objects: The Tablets of Stone: The tablets on which God wrote the Ten Commandments. Aaron's Rod: This was a stick that belonged to Aaron, who was a high priest of Israel. A Jar of Manna: This was the bread that God provided for the Israelites when they were wandering in the desert. They represented the rule, protection, and provision of God. Hard Lessons for Men of The Cloth God's boundaries apply to all. His justice doesn't spare insiders who defy His will. Recent events involving prominent spiritual leaders prove this point. For example, consider James McDonald, Ravi Zacharias, Bill Hybels, and the latest, Tony Evans. For some, this is heartbreaking, but it is simply a strong reminder. Curiosity within God's will is safe and beneficial, but beyond it lies danger. So be curious, but don't be tempted to step outside the will of God. #CuriosityAndConsequences, #GodsBoundaries, #WisdomInObedience Ask This: How can we maintain a healthy balance between curiosity and obedience in our daily walk with God? Reflecting on times when curiosity led to positive outcomes versus negative consequences, how can we apply lessons from the priests' mistakes to our own lives today? Do This: Be appropriately curious. Pray This: Father, help me discern between healthy curiosity that seeks Your will and selfish curiosity that leads astray. Guide me to honor Your boundaries, knowing Your wisdom protects and guides me always. Amen. Play This: Every Direction.

Here is something you should always do when walking into a confusing season. Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 6. I've titled this chapter "From Confusion to Clarity." In chapter 6, after enduring the consequences of holding the Ark of God for seven months—plagued by both the Black Plague and severe hemorrhoids—the Philistines decided they couldn't bear it any longer. Their solution was to send the Ark back. They placed it on a cart led by a couple of milk cows and watched as it returned to Israel. Here's what unfolds next in verses 13-16: Now the people of Beth-shemesh were reaping their wheat harvest in the valley. And when they lifted up their eyes and saw the ark, they rejoiced to see it. The cart came into the field of Joshua of Beth-shemesh and stopped there. A great stone was there. And they split up the wood of the cart and offered the cows as a burnt offering to the Lord. And the Levites took down the ark of the Lord and the box that was beside it, in which were the golden figures, and set them upon the great stone. And the men of Beth-shemesh offered burnt offerings and sacrificed sacrifices on that day to the Lord. And when the five lords of the Philistines saw it, they returned that day to Ekron. — 1 Samuel 6:13-16 Intriguing Details This is a pretty interesting moment. The Philistines are satisfied with returning the Ark of God, and the Israelites are also satisfied with its return. But there are four details worth noting: The five kings of Philistine followed behind the Ark of God the entire way back to Israel. The town it comes to is called Beth-Shemesh, the closest Israelite town. The cows stop at a great stone, which they took as a divine sign that God wanted a sacrifice to be made. They strip down the cart and sacrifice the animals as burnt offerings right there on the spot. Then the five kings return. But the most intriguing detail was the town it came to: Beth-Shemesh. This town was not just any Israelite town; it was the home of the priestly tribe, the Levites. This tribe should have been especially careful in following Torah guidelines regarding the proper treatment of the Ark of God. However, in the coming verse, we see that in their excitement, they will fail to adhere to the appropriate care of the Ark of God (Num 4:15, 1 Chr 15:11–15). Strict Obedience When we seek clarity in confusion, we must commit ourselves to strict obedience to God. The priesthood, led by Eli and his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, had strayed. Their sinful actions led to the capture of the Ark of God. After its return, we would have expected Israel and the priesthood to repent and resume strict adherence to the Law's customs during the seven months that followed. However, as we will see in the coming verses, they drifted too far. Pain and punishment were about to become their harsh teachers. Our Strict Obedience If you are going through a confusing time in your life, let the wisdom of these Scriptures train you. It's essential to make every effort to obey God strictly. Nothing makes a confusing situation worse than sinful reactions; it only brings unnecessary attention to yourself and your sin. So, if you are facing a difficult divorce, recent layoff, financial crisis, or family conflict, stop making stupid and sinful choices. Instead, strive to be as strictly obedient in this season as possible. Seek the wisdom you need in the Word of God and only make right and righteous decisions. This will prevent further complications and bring clarity to your confusion. If this happens to be you today. Here's a prayer for you today: God, give me clarity in my time of confusion. May my actions and reactions be in strict alignment with your Word and ways. Amen. #ClarityThroughObedience #SeekingGodsWisdom #FromConfusionToClarity Ask This: How can we maintain strict obedience to God's Word in the midst of confusion or challenging circumstances in our own lives? Reflecting on the story of Beth-shemesh and their response to the Ark's return, what steps can we take to ensure our reactions to God's interventions align with His will and bring clarity rather than confusion? Do This: Be obedient in seasons of confusion. Pray This: Father, grant me the strength to obey Your Word diligently in times of uncertainty, seeking clarity and wisdom in every decision I make. Guide my steps and actions to reflect Your will, bringing honor to Your name and peace to my heart. Amen. Play This: Clarity.

Are you trying to discern what God wants you to do? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 6. I've titled this chapter "From Confusion to Clarity." In chapter 6, the Philistines have had enough of the Ark of God. Since capturing the Ark seven months ago, they have been tortured with the Black Plague and severe hemorrhoids. Some pagan priests devised a plan to rid themselves of the Ark, and they decided to try this unusual experiment with a couple of cows. Here is how this plays out in verses 7-12: Now then, take and prepare a new cart and two milk cows on which there has never come a yoke, and yoke the cows to the cart, but take their calves home, away from them. And take the ark of the Lord and place it on the cart and put in a box at its side the figures of gold, which you are returning to him as a guilt offering. Then send it off and let it go its way and watch. If it goes up on the way to its own land, to Beth-shemesh, then it is he who has done us this great harm, but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that struck us; it happened to us by coincidence." The men did so, and took two milk cows and yoked them to the cart and shut up their calves at home. And they put the ark of the Lord on the cart and the box with the golden mice and the images of their tumors. And the cows went straight in the direction of Beth-shemesh along one highway, lowing as they went. They turned neither to the right nor to the left, and the lords of the Philistines went after them as far as the border of Beth-shemesh. — 1 Samuel 6:7-12 Test It For some reason, after seven months of torture, the Philistines are still unsure if God was behind the disease and pestilence that had struck their land. It had poisoned people, weakened wealth, and created conflict among their people. Yet still, the five kings of Philistine wonder if this is just a coincidence or if it is the God of the Ark. So they devise a plan to deploy a cart that will carry the ark, pulled by milk cows, to test and see if the God of the Ark takes it home. Milk It The pagan priests decided to use milk cows, not draft animals. Typical draft animals in their day were castrated oxen mainly because they were strong, steady, and orderly. Milk cows would not be the choice, mostly because they were tribal and protective mothers who primarily produced milk. Strapping them to a cart, freshly separated from their young, was a remedy for disaster. But we see they respond unexpectedly. They head directly for the closest Israel territory, lowing as if they were being called and guided to their home. This was highly unusual given all the factors that could have gone awry. Discern It God, by nature of his supreme authority, is always "leading the cart" of his creation. Yet there are times in our lives when his leading is more difficult to discern. When it is difficult, we will often look for his leading in and through the circumstances of this life. We look for his move so we can determine our move. We are trying to discern his general revelation, or how he reveals himself to us through the natural world and human experience. General revelation has a whole lot to say about God. The apostle Paul clarifies this in Romans 1:19-20: For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. — Romans 1:19-20 Thus, through general revelation, we, like the Philistines, are without excuse. God demonstrates through creation that he exists. But we don't just have a general revelation. We have more specific revelations. God gave us Jesus, Scripture, and the Spirit. He also gave us a means to talk with him in prayer and a means to hear of him through the wisdom of other believers. When it comes to discerning God's leading, we have all kinds of resources at our disposal daily and all the time. Seek It So, if you need direction today, you could look merely to general revelation. Or, if you don't want to wait through seven months of torment and track down a couple of milk cows, you could turn to the resources and tools God has already given you. But I will leave it up to you. #DiscerningGodsWill, #SeekingClarity, #DivineGuidance Ask This: How can you distinguish between God's leading and mere coincidence in your own life circumstances? What specific steps can you take today to deepen your reliance on God's guidance through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel from fellow believers? Do This: Seek general and specific revelation. Pray This: Father, help me discern Your will clearly amidst life's uncertainties, relying on Your guidance through Scripture, prayer, and the wisdom of others. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your leading with confidence and obedience. Amen. Play This: Lead Me On.