Leading Others to Faithfulness

So Samuel said to all the Israelites, “If you are returning to the LORD with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods…” - 1 Samuel 7:3

I was recently struck by this remarkable moment of spiritual leadership from Samuel, one of the Old Testament's godliest men.

In 1 Samuel 7, he recognises a fresh work of God among the people. Samuel knows them well enough to discern what is happening in their hearts, and he cares enough to act.

He is also attentive to the work of God's Spirit and willing to be used by him. Rather than settling for small talk, he courageously and directly speaks at the heart level about their spiritual commitment: "If you are returning to the LORD... rid yourselves of the foreign gods."

His words carry weight because his life does too. There is no hint of hypocrisy. He can call Israel to forsake their idols because he has done it himself. His godly character gives credibility to his exhortation.

Samuel doesn't settle for simply celebrating this renewed zeal; he leads them towards greater faithfulness. He sees where they are, discerns what God is doing, and urges them to take the next step.

None of this would have been possible without trust. Samuel knew the people, and they knew him. He had earned the privilege of speaking hard truths.

His example is both inspiring and humbling. Whether we lead in church, a small group, our family, a discipling relationship, or simply our own hearts and lives, may God make us men and women like Samuel: discerning, courageous, and godly people whose lives give weight to our words.

Blessings,

Geoff