1 Samuel 12

What happens when we get things wrong? How should we act when we do things wrong against God?

As Samuel gets pushed out of the way, he takes his chance to speak his piece to Israel. He gave them the opportunity to rebuke him for any wrong he did while he lead them. It's risky, but he knew that he had done what God desires and there were no charges against him. That lead him to his next item: the relationship between God and the people. He showed them the history of how God dealt with the people. He showed them the kind of God He had been. God had always been faithful, He had always responded with grace. He had been the perfect king.

Looking at Saul next, Samuel showed how even though it was an insult to God, He gave them a king. This is quite condemning of the people. Then Samuel gives them a choice. They can choose to continue to regard God as king and obey Him, or to turn away from God.

As a sign that what He said was from God, Samuel decided to act. The storm he called from God would have been devastating - and so finally the penny dropped and the people realised what they had done. They felt the shame of being caught in the act of disobeying God.

This kind of shame can be devastating. It can be enough to turn even strong Chrisitans away from God. But remember the prodigal son, remember that God is a father who even though we might turn from Him, and insult Him, will receive us back with gracious arms. Our idols can bring us great shame, they drive our hearts to places far away from God and tell us lies about what we need in life. We need God. Whatever is in our life cannot stop Him extending His arms to us and we need to run to Him and cling to Him.

That leaves a choice. Like the Israelites had: to choose God or turn away from Him. Samuel pleaded for the Israelites - just like Jesus pleads for us - to turn and accept Him.

We need to remember that our sin is dealt with. Jesus gave Himself on that cross for you to be the one running into Jesus' arms.