Most of us have wanted something so badly that even though we knew it
was wrong, we plunged after it anyway. Later we have felt sorrow for our
spiritual stubbornness and stupidity. In the aftermath of willfully disobeying
God, we may become angry with ourselves, numbed by regret, or resigned to the
consequences of our foolish mistake. But there is another choice.
When the people of Israel insisted on having a king despite the warnings
of Samuel the prophet (1 Sam. 8:4-9), God allowed them to have their way. But when
they realized the tragic results of their choice, they asked for Samuel’s help
and prayers (12:19). Samuel told the people, “Do not fear. You have done all
this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the
Lord with all your heart” (12:20).
We can’t undo yesterday, but we can act today to influence tomorrow.
Samuel promised to pray for them and teach them the right way. He urged them,
“Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider
what great things He has done for you” (v.24).
God invites us to serve Him today, humbly acknowledging His forgiveness
and His faithfulness.
Don’t let yesterday’s failures bankrupt tomorrow’s efforts. (RBC)
