“Do not be afraid,” Samuel replied. “You have done all this evil; yet do not turn away from the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart. I Samuel 12:20 (Chapter 12) There is much to reap from verses 23-25 as well.
Samuel has faithfully served Israel since his early childhood. Still, Israel begged for a king and God provided, but all is not well. Now old, Samuel begins his goodbye, “You have your king, but you are full of sinful ways. Idolatry has become habitual and you must reteach yourself to fear the LORD!” While your sin is great, the grace is greater!”
This ends the era of judges. Politically it was a wise move to choose a king, but religiously it was a devastatingly wrong move, a first step away from God as the only sovereign King. Samuel clearly warns that when God ceases to be King, the nation and monarchy will be wiped away. But! This old man is not ready to give up. He will pray with what breath he has left.
The Bible has over 366 ‘Do not be afraid’ phrases. That is no coincidence. One for each day of the year and one to spare. Samuel leaves this message with Israel, his life’s love. “DO NOT BE AFRAID! There is hope in God alone!” In other words, God’s got this if you will give it to Him.
Love,
Gretchen