Friday, March 21

Scripture: 1 Samuel 9-12, Psalm 80

GodStory

God’s Story is revealed in 1 Samuel 8-12 as the tug and pull of the Israelites and God continues. Samuel is stuck in this internal conflict of trying to please God and men. How often have we wanted fulfillment and adoration from the world only to be let down? Samuel knows the word of God and is deeply connected to Him, but he also knows the deceitful hearts of men and feels   sorry for them.  I love Samuel's message to the Israelites in 1 Samuel 12:23-24, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” Samuel reminds the Israelites of what is most important—worshiping and honoring God daily. We see this play out by Asaph in his writing of Psalm 80. Asaph, a Levite, was set aside by King David to worship God in songs and Music. When you read Psalm 80, Asaph pleads with God for restoration three times by asking, “Restore us.” Psalm 80:19 concludes with, “Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us that we may be saved.”

OurStory

I see this story play out continually in our Celebrate Recovery ministry. Over the past three and a half years, I've seen many people enter our York City Campus doors on Wednesday nights. Some have stayed, and some have gone. I’ve seen total redemption in people’s lives, including my own when individuals accept Christ. They become different people dedicated to Christ, and their lives begin to reflect service to others first.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank you for Stillmeadow Church of the Nazarene, our York City Campus, and Celebrate Recovery. Bring revival in York County so that people will come to the cross and find healing in Jesus’ name. Just like Samuel, I pray that my sisters and brothers will know you deeply and intimately. Thank you, Lord!

~Joe Kidwell

 Daily Prayer Focus: York County Prison: prisoners & staff & Good News Global