EPIC: Daily Reading

EPIC: The Story of God
Thursday, March 12

Return of the Ark
1 Samuel 6-8

Summary:
The Philistines returned the Ark to Israel. The people of Israel rejoiced yet many still failed to treat God with respect. During the following 20 years Samuel led a spiritual revival and the Israelites got rid of their idols and confessed their sins to God. Samuel begged for mercy on the people of Israel to protect them against from their enemies, the Philistines. God was able to answer these prayers because the people’s hearts had turned toward Him again. But when Samuel became an old man the people of Israel rebelled again. They cried out that they wanted a king to rule over them because they wanted to be like their neighboring countries. The people were warned that a king was not in their best interest, that they should rely on God as their leader. God allowed Samuel to appoint a king because the people’s hearts were hardened towards Him and He gave them what they asked for.

Sample of Today’s Reading:
1 Samuel 7:2-4

It was a long time that the ark remained at Kiriath Jearim, and all the people of Israel mourned and sought after the LORD. 3 And Samuel said to the whole house of Israel, “If you are returning to the LORD with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” So the Israelites put away their Baals and Ashtoreths, and served the LORD only.

To read today's full reading click here: 1 Samuel 6-8

Question of the Day:
Is there something that you continue to ask for that may not be in your best interest? What do you think God would like to give you?

Prayer Focus:
Father, I trust you - I believe that you know what is best for me. Please show me the way - one step at a time, starting today.