Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for May 13

“Then Saul said, ‘Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.’ His men replied, ‘We’ll do whatever you think is best.’ But the priest said, ‘Let’s ask God first'” (1 Samuel 14:36 NLT)

From: May 13, 2014

It’s difficult to read the stories about King Saul, Israel’s first king. Although he reigned for 40 years, his leadership style was fraught with short-sighted and ill-conceived tactics, blustering, macho-inspired dictates, people-pleasing priorities, and most of all – a failure to seek God first in all things. In spite of this, God used Saul to lead Israel and in many ways he was one of its better kings. It’s just so tragic to watch from a distance though, because Saul may have been one of Israel’s greatest kings if only he would’ve feared God more than man. And sought God’s pleasure more than pleasing people. Saul’s kingship is a study in leadership failure.

“Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised. It may be that the LORD will work for us, for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few” (1 Samuel 14:6 ESV)

From: May 13, 2013

This is what Jonathan, son of King Saul, said to his armor bearer before they routed a garrison of Philistines. I think God must love this kind of risk-taking faith. Perhaps the great missionary to India, William Carey, had Jonathan’s story in mind when he said, “Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God.”

“Help me, O Lord my God! Save me because of your unfailing love” (Psalm 109:26)

From: May 13, 2012

Hebrew – checed (kheh’-sed) love, lovingkindness, covenantal love. David prays for God’s salvation, not according to his own merit, but according to God’s checed love. God answers the prayer of one who prays this. Jesus, Son of David, Son of God, is the answer to David’s prayer.

“A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence” (Proverbs 15:5)

From: May 13, 2011

Are you teachable? Wise followers of Christ listen to their spiritual mentors. At WCC we look for F.A.T. disciples- Faithful, Available, Teachable. Are you a FAT disciple?