He Endured Despite Disappointments - He "Effected Righteousness"

 The Bible record turns away from Samuel at this point and follows the sacred Ark, showing us how the Philistines suffered for taking it and were forced to return it. When we again come upon Samuel, some 20 years have passed.  (1 Samuel 7:2) How was he occupied during those years? We need not guess. 

We learn that before this period began,  "the word of Samuel continued to come to all Israel . (1 Samuel 4:1) The record reveals that after the period was over, Samuel made a custom of visiting three cities in Israel, making a circuit each year, handling disputes and resolving questions.  Then he would return to his hometown of Ramah. (1 Samuel 7:15-17)  Clearly, Samuel alweays kept busy, and during that 20-year interval, he had much to do.

The immorality and corruption of Eli's sons had ended the people's faith.  Many, it seems. turned to idolatry as a result. After two decades of hard work, though, Samuel delivered  this message to the  people. "If it is with all your heart you are returning to Jehovah, put away the foreign gods from your midst and also Ashtoreth images, and direct  your heart unswerveringly to Jehovah and serve him alone, and he will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines." - 1 SAMUEL 7:3.

"The hand of the Philistines" had grown heavy on the people. With Israel's army effectively smashed, the Philistines felt that they oppress Gods' people with impunity. But Samuel assured the people that things would change if only they returned to Jehovah.  Were they willing?  To Samuel's delight, they put away their idols and "began serving Jehovah alone." Samuel convened an assembly at Mizpah, a town in the mountainous country north of Jerusalem.  The people gathere, fasted, and repented for their many sins of idolatry. -  Read 1 SAMUEL 7:4-6. 

Next time: He Endured  Despite Disappointments - He "Effected Righteousness"

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