Israel's Return to God

Israel's Return to God

The Ark of God had been returned to Israel, but not every Israelite abandoned their idols, so Samuel spoke to the people, instructing and encouraging them to return to God truly. And they did! But as Israel was worshiping God, the Philistines launched an attack against them. However, this time, Israel sought God on His terms instead of reacting out of fear, and God showed up. All was peaceful in Israel from that time until the day they asked for a King.

<iframe id="embedPlayer" src="https://embed.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/israels-return-to-god-the-book-of-1-samuel/id1646273281?i=1000594480284&amp;itsct=podcast_box_player&amp;itscg=30200&amp;ls=1&amp;theme=dark" height="175px" frameborder="0" sandbox="allow-forms allow-popups allow-same-origin allow-scripts allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation" allow="autoplay *; encrypted-media *; clipboard-write" style="width: 100%; max-width: 660px; overflow: hidden; border-radius: 10px; transform: translateZ(0px); animation: 2s ease 0s 6 normal none running loading-indicator; background-color: rgb(228, 228, 228);"></iframe>
1 Samuel 7:4
In yesterday’s reading, we heard how God punished the Philistines for stealing the ark and attempting to use God for their own benefit. After being afflicted with horrible tumors in two different cities, the terrified Philistines returned the ark and guilt offerings to Israel. The people of God rejoiced and praised God for returning to them. Today we’ll hear how they turn back to God and try to follow Him with the integrity of their heart. They will experience prosperity and success in battle as long as they remain committed to God. But Israel will still be plagued by a desire to be like other nations. They will insist on a king, despite God’s promise to rule over them. God will hear them and though wounded by their rejection, will give them what they want. But they don’t understand what they’re asking or what they will get.
Share this devotional:

More Bible in a Year Episodes

Stories of the Kingdom

As Jesus continued to teach the crowds using parables, he began to teach them what God’s Kingdom was like.

The Four Soils

As Jesus was teaching crowds on the shores of Galilee, He began to tell a parable about a farmer sowing seeds.

Broken and Forgiven

Jesus was sitting among the Pharisees at a feast when a woman of questionable repute came in.

The Roman Soldier

As a Roman centurion sat beside his sick servant, he called his officials and sent them to find Jesus.