1 samuel 13:5-6,7,15 1 samuel 13:23, 14:6 1 samuel

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Jan. 3/4, 2015

Bob Merritt

Stronger Courage

WITH A NEW YEAR COMES ANOTHER CHANCE TO DO LIFE BETTER. God provides strength to the weary and develops our character so we can be better for each other. So we can lead our families well. So we can love people well. So we can make an impact in our communities. Let’s get stronger.

1 SAMUEL 13:5-6,7,15 (PARAPHRASE)

The Philistines mustered an army of 3000 chariots, 6000 horsemen, and soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore. When the men of Israel saw the vast number of enemy troops they lost their nerve and tried to hide in caves, holes and rocks; many fled. The remaining troops trembled with fear, their number was about 600.

1 SAMUEL 13:23, 14:6

A detachment of Philistines had camped near a mountain pass at Micmash, and Jonathan, son of Saul, said to his armor-bearer, “Come, let’s go over to the camp of those heathen Philistines. Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf.”

1 SAMUEL 14:7

Do all that you have to do, I am with you heart and soul.

LUKE 17:13-14

They called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were healed.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:10

When I am weak, then I am strong.

Don’t we all prefer to see God’s power and receive his courage before a showdown, before a crisis, or before facing 100:1 odds? But God wants us to take a step first, and he promises to show up and give us strength along the way. As you look forward to this new year and face goals and resolutions, choose courage and start walking.

1. In 1 Samuel 13, God’s people found themselves in a bad situation—outnumbered and surrounded by enemies—even after they entered the Promised Land. In the same way, even after we become Christ-followers, we will face difficulties. Where are you feeling overwhelmed and outnumbered in life? Where have you lost your courage? In what areas would you like to get stronger? 2. Jonathan, the son of the king, was sick of hiding in caves and decided to attack the Philistines in the hope that God would show up. His armor-bearer responds, “I am with you heart and soul.” Who in your life will stand with you no matter what? 3. What part of your future seems unknown and hopeless? Where are the odds stacked against you? Jonathan didn’t know the outcome of the battle, but he realized he needed to take a step in order for God to work. What might that first step be for you to gain courage and get stronger? 4. Jesus told the lepers to go to the priests and they would experience healing along the way. What goals or resolutions have you made that look seemingly impossible today? How can you trust God and start walking?

In which area of life will you get stronger in 2015? Tweet your answer using #EBCstronger.

Jonathan said to his armor bearer, “Perhaps the Lord will help us, for nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!” 1 Samuel 14:6