1 Samuel 7:3-17 | The Lord has helped us

Summary

After God’s display of power in returning the ark to Israel, Samuel leads the people in a public confession. Much like Joshua’s covenant renewal at Shechem, he focuses on God’s faithfulness to them over time and His continued promises to them as His people. As they are going through with a sacrifice, the Philistines attack, but God sends them into confusion allowing Israel to defeat them. They get a very clear picture of God’s guiding hand even as they are committing themselves to Him. All of this sets the scene for their rejection. For while they have clearly witnessed His power and mercy, this is not enough for them. While they use their words to repent, the act of repentance reveals itself in lives changed. This is Samuel’s challenge to them: direct your heart to the LORD and serve him only. As we will see, they do not.