August 2025 Devotoinal | renewchurchcleveland

August 4 Devotional on 1 Samuel 1 — When the Heart Prays What the Lips Can’t Say Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1 opens not with triumph, but with tears. She’s barren, mocked, misunderstood—even by her husband and her priest. Her pain runs so deep that when she finally prays, the words don’t even form on her lips. It's just anguish poured out in silence. This isn’t a polished prayer. It’s raw. Desperate. Honest. And that’s exactly the kind of prayer that moves heaven. What we see in Hannah is the paradox of biblical faith: power expressed through weakness, breakthrough born through brokenness. In a culture that measured a woman’s value by her children, Hannah would have seemed like a failure. But in God’s upside-down kingdom, her empty womb becomes the setting for divine intervention. Her prayer isn’t transactional. She’s not trying to bargain with God. She’s surrendering. In offering her future son back to the Lord, she’s saying: Even the answer to my deepest longing won’t belong to me. It’s Yours, Lord. And God responds—not just by giving her a son, Samuel, who would go on to anoint kings and shape Israel’s future—but by reminding us all: He sees. He hears. And He is moved by the cries we can’t always express. Reflection: Are there places in your life where hope feels buried beneath disappointment? What would it look like to bring your unspoken pain honestly before God? Can you trust that He is working through your surrender—not just your strength? Prayer: Father, You are the God who hears when we whisper and understands when we can’t speak at all. Teach us to bring our whole selves—our hopes, hurts, and hollow spaces—to You. And may we believe that even in silence, You are working redemption. Amen.

August 5 Devotional on 1 Samuel 2 — A Song That Turns the World Upside Down Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2 doesn’t sound like the quiet gratitude of a woman who just had her prayers answered. It sounds like a revolution. Her song is filled with deep theological truths about who God is—and how He works in the world. She’s not just thanking God for a child. She’s declaring that the way God rules the world flips every human system on its head. “The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble bind on strength... The Lord makes poor and makes rich; he brings low and he exalts.” (1 Samuel 2:4, 7) This is the heartbeat of Hannah’s faith: God is not just a personal comforter—He is the great reverser. The proud fall, the lowly rise, and the barren woman becomes the mother of many. The song isn’t about Hannah—it’s about a God who lifts the humble and shatters the illusion of human power. Her words echo across the whole biblical story. You’ll hear it later in the Psalms. You’ll hear it again in Mary’s Magnificat in Luke 1. It’s the pattern of the gospel itself—where victory comes through weakness, and salvation comes not by might but by surrender. Reflection: Where are you tempted to rely on your own strength, status, or success? Are there parts of your story that feel too small or broken to be part of God’s bigger purpose? How might God want to use your weakness to reveal His strength? Prayer: Lord, Your ways are not like ours. You don’t need our power, you want our trust. Break down the pride in us that clings to control, and lift us up by your mercy. Use our stories to point to Yours—the story where the weak are strong, the last are first, and grace rewrites everything. Amen.

August 6 Devotional on 1 Samuel 3 — Hearing God in the Silence The story of 1 Samuel 3 begins with a chilling line: “In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.” (1 Samuel 3:1) Israel was spiritually dry. God seemed distant. The priests were corrupt, the tabernacle had become a shell of its former glory, and people were no longer hearing from heaven. And into that silence, God speaks—but not to a prophet or a priest. He calls a child. A boy named Samuel, lying down in the tabernacle, hears his name spoken in the night. Three times he runs to Eli, thinking it was the old priest. But it wasn't Eli—it was God. This moment is both deeply personal and profoundly theological. It tells us that God's voice often breaks in when we least expect it—and through people we least expect. In a time of spiritual decay, renewal begins not with power, but with a whisper. Not through hierarchy, but through humility. And what does God say? He speaks truth. Painful, necessary truth about judgment coming to Eli’s house. Samuel’s first prophetic word isn’t comforting—it’s hard. But it’s also hope-filled, because it marks the return of God’s active presence among His people. Key Insight: God’s silence isn’t always absence—it may be preparation. And when He speaks, it’s not always soothing, but it is always good. Application Questions: Where in your life do you feel like God has been silent? Are you making space to listen—or just asking God to speak on your terms? What if God’s word to you isn’t easy—but meant to heal something broken? Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize your voice—not just in the spectacular moments, but in the quiet ones too. Teach me to listen like Samuel—with humility, courage, and obedience. And when your word comes, even if it’s hard, give me the grace to receive it, and the faith to respond, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Amen.

August 7 Devotional on 1 Samuel 4 — When God Refuses to Be Used The Israelites went to war against the Philistines—and lost. Badly. So, they came up with a strategy: “Let’s bring the ark of the covenant into the camp. Then God will fight for us.” (1 Samuel 4:3) At first glance, this seems spiritual. They’re involving “God” in the battle. But look closer: the ark becomes a means to an end, a tool to manipulate divine power rather than a symbol of God's presence and authority. The result? Israel suffers an even more devastating defeat. The ark is captured. The priests die. And when Eli hears the news—not just that his sons have died, but that the ark of God is taken—he falls backward, breaks his neck, and dies. Then we meet a woman giving birth, naming her son Ichabod, which means “The glory has departed from Israel” (1 Samuel 4:21). It’s a tragic, theologically weighty moment. God has allowed Himself to be “exiled” from His people—because His people tried to use Him. Here’s the hard truth: You can be surrounded by religious symbols and spiritual language and still miss the living God. You can go to war in God’s name and yet be acting in self-interest, fear, or pride. God refuses to be manipulated. He’s not a talisman. He’s not a charm you carry into battle. He is holy. And when we treat Him as anything less, we risk losing not just a battle—but the very presence of God among us. Reflection Questions: Do I ever treat God more like a tool than a King? Am I seeking God's presence—or just His power for my plans? Where might God be calling me to repent of using spiritual things to serve myself? Prayer: Lord, forgive me when I try to use You instead of surrendering to You. Help me to revere Your holiness, trust Your wisdom, and walk in humble dependence. Even when I don’t understand what You’re doing, teach me to want You more than what You can give me. Amen.

August 7 Devotional on 1 Samuel 5 — When Idols Fall Face Down The Philistines think they’ve won. They’ve captured the ark of the covenant—Israel’s sacred chest, the sign of God’s presence. So, naturally, they bring it into the temple of their god Dagon, placing it beside their idol as if to say, “Our god defeated yours.” But the next morning, Dagon is face down before the ark. They stand him back up. The morning after that, Dagon is face down again—this time with his head and hands broken off. It’s not subtle. It’s divine satire. God is making a point: He doesn’t need defending. He’s not a trophy to be won. And He will not share space with idols. The story that follows is equally unsettling. Wherever the ark goes in Philistine territory, people suffer. Tumors, chaos, fear. City after city begs to send it away. God’s presence has become unbearable—not just to the Israelites, but now to their enemies too. Here’s what this chapter reveals: God is not domesticated. He’s not defeated just because His people are. He doesn’t lose power when we misrepresent Him. In fact, when His glory is ignored or mocked, He acts in unmistakable ways. But there’s also grace here. God could have destroyed the Philistines outright. Instead, He simply dismantles their idols and disrupts their false peace. He reveals Himself not only as a God of judgment but as one who wants to be known—even by enemies. Application: Many of us try to place God alongside our modern “Dagons”—success, comfort, identity, politics, control. We want God to bless our lives but not disrupt them. We want His presence without His authority. But God doesn’t coexist with idols. He topples them. Not out of cruelty, but out of mercy—because only He can truly save, rule, and give life. Reflection Questions: What “idols” have I tried to place beside God in my heart? Where have I attempted to control or tame God's presence? How is God disrupting false peace in my life so that I might know Him more? Prayer: God, You are holy and unmatched. Forgive me for placing anything beside You. Topple every idol in my heart. Disrupt my self-made peace. Show me that life is only found in surrender to You—because You alone are worthy. Amen.

August 11 When the Glory Comes Home 1 Samuel 6 The ark of the covenant has been in Philistine hands for seven long months. What began as their “victory trophy” quickly became a source of terror, plagues, and humiliation. The Philistines’ gods crumbled before the presence of Yahweh, and their land suffered under His heavy hand. Finally, in desperation, they send the ark back to Israel—not as an act of repentance, but as an act of survival. The return of the ark is strange and beautiful. It’s placed on a new cart, pulled by two cows that have never been yoked before. These cows, with calves left behind, walk straight toward Israelite territory without turning aside—an unmistakable sign that the God of Israel Himself is directing the journey. This chapter confronts us with two truths. 1. God’s glory cannot be manipulated. Israel thought they could carry the ark into battle like a good-luck charm in chapter 4, but they lost. The Philistines thought they could display the ark as proof of their victory, but they were struck with plagues. God refuses to be a pawn in human power plays—whether religious or political. He is not “useful”; He is holy. 2. God’s presence is both gift and danger. When the ark returns, the Israelites rejoice, but some treat it casually, looking inside without reverence. They die instantly. The same presence that topples idols and routes enemies is also the presence that judges irreverence. This is not because God is cruel, but because His holiness is utterly incompatible with casual, sinful hearts. And here’s where the gospel breathes life into the tension. Centuries later, the presence of God would come to His people again—not in a gold-covered chest, but in the person of Jesus. In Him, holiness and mercy meet. In Him, the presence that once meant judgment for sinners becomes salvation for sinners. The ark could reveal God’s holiness, but only the cross could make sinners safe in His presence. So the question isn’t whether God will be on our side, but whether we have bowed in reverence to be on His. Reflection Questions: In what subtle ways might you be tempted to “use” God for your plans rather than submit to His? How does the holiness of God challenge casual or comfortable views of faith? What difference does it make to see Jesus as the true and final presence of God among His people? Prayer: Lord, You are holy and unshakable. Forgive me for the ways I try to “use” You for my own plans. Teach me to revere Your presence, rejoice in Your mercy, and follow wherever You lead. Amen.

August 12 Devotional — 1 Samuel 7:3–13 The Israelites had been living under the weight of defeat and fear. The ark of the covenant had returned, but their hearts had not yet returned to the Lord. Samuel’s words cut to the center: “If you are returning to the LORD with all your heart, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the LORD and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.” Notice the order—before God brings deliverance, He calls for repentance. Israel didn’t need a stronger army; they needed undivided hearts. They fasted, confessed, and Samuel prayed for them. The victory that followed was unmistakably God’s doing. The thunder that scattered the Philistines was a reminder that salvation comes from the Lord, not human strength. Samuel then set up a stone and called it Ebenezer, meaning “stone of help,” saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” This was not just a monument to a single victory, but a marker for the faithfulness of God in their story. It told future generations: We stand here only because God has brought us here. We often want God to change our circumstances before He changes our hearts. But in His mercy, God starts with the heart—because when the heart is turned to Him, the victories that follow point back to His grace, not our power. Reflection Questions: What “foreign gods” or false sources of security might God be calling you to set aside? How has God “thundered” in your life—intervening in ways only He could? What would it look like for you to set up your own “Ebenezer” to remember God’s help so far? Prayer: Father, turn my heart fully toward You. Remove the idols I cling to and teach me to trust You alone for deliverance. Help me remember that every victory and every step forward is because of Your grace. May my life be marked by gratitude and faithfulness, so that others see not my strength, but Your power. Amen.

August 13 Devotional — 1 Samuel 8:1–22 When Samuel grew old, Israel’s leaders came with a request: “Appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.” On the surface, this seemed reasonable. Samuel’s sons were corrupt, and a centralized leader could bring stability. But underneath was something far deeper—a rejection of God’s kingship. God’s words to Samuel are telling: “It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.” Israel wanted what the nations had because they didn’t trust what they already had—God Himself. They thought a human king could give them safety, success, and identity. But God warned them: this king would take more than he gave—sons, daughters, fields, flocks, and freedom. The irony? The very thing they thought would make them free would enslave them. This moment exposes the human heart. We often think our problem is a lack of resources, leadership, or structure. But our deepest problem is misplaced trust. We look for salvation in what is visible and tangible, rather than in the unseen faithfulness of God. And in His mercy, God sometimes allows us to chase these false kings so that we can see their emptiness and return to Him. The hope of this passage isn’t found in Israel’s choice, but in God’s patience. Even after being rejected, He doesn’t abandon His people. He weaves their misguided desire for a king into His larger plan, eventually bringing the true King who would not take from His people, but give His life for them. Reflection Questions: Where in your life are you tempted to trust a “visible king” instead of God’s rule? How have you experienced the emptiness of placing your hope in human solutions? What does it mean for you today to live under God’s kingship instead of the world’s systems? Prayer Lord, forgive me for the times I have looked to others or to systems for the security only You can provide. Teach me to trust Your reign, even when it is unseen. Shape my heart to love Your ways and to see that in Christ, I have the only King who will never exploit me, but always lay Himself down for my good. Amen.

August 14 Devotional — 1 Samuel 9:1–27 Saul enters the story in an almost ordinary way—he’s searching for lost donkeys. The text describes him as impressive in appearance, but there’s no hint yet that he’s a man of deep faith or spiritual insight. His journey to find animals leads him, unknowingly, into God’s sovereign plan. This is one of Scripture’s great reminders: God works His purposes through what seem like random events. A servant’s suggestion to visit the prophet Samuel, a city at just the right distance, a meal prepared ahead of time—none of it is accidental. God is quietly orchestrating every step to fulfill His purposes for Israel. Yet there’s also a tension here. Saul’s rise to kingship is God’s gracious provision in response to Israel’s demand for a king, but it’s also a concession to their misplaced trust. The new king is chosen not because he’s the most godly, but because he fits the people’s expectations—tall, strong, and outwardly impressive. God is giving them the king they think they want, so that in time, they will see their deeper need for a different kind of king. This passage challenges how we think about success and leadership. We are prone to evaluate people by charisma, competence, and appearance. God does not ignore those qualities, but He is after something deeper—humble hearts that depend on Him. And through it all, we see God’s faithfulness: even when our desires are flawed, His purposes are never derailed. He can weave our short-sighted choices into His long-term redemptive plan, pointing us toward the One true King who surpasses every human leader. Reflection Questions: Have you ever seen God use “ordinary” or even inconvenient events to accomplish something significant in your life? Where are you tempted to evaluate leaders—or yourself—by appearance and ability rather than by heart and character? How does God’s ability to work through imperfect choices give you hope today? Prayer Father, thank You that nothing in my life is outside Your sovereign care. Teach me to value what You value and to trust Your hidden hand even when I can’t see the full picture. Shape my heart so I long for the true King who rules with perfect wisdom, justice, and love. Amen.

August 15 Devotional — 1 Samuel 10:1–27 The chapter opens with a private, intimate act—Samuel anoints Saul with oil and tells him, “Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?” This is God’s way of saying, This kingship isn’t about you; it’s about My people and My purposes. Saul’s authority will always be derivative—it flows from God, not from personal achievement. Samuel then gives Saul a series of specific signs he will encounter that day: meeting men near Rachel’s tomb, receiving bread from strangers, joining a group of prophets where the Spirit of the Lord will come upon him. These signs are not just proofs of God’s word—they are reminders that Saul’s reign will need to be Spirit-dependent. Without God’s empowering presence, the king will have no lasting strength or wisdom. Yet, even in this moment of calling, we see seeds of hesitancy in Saul. Later, when Samuel gathers the tribes to publicly reveal the king, Saul is hiding among the baggage. The man chosen by God is literally avoiding the spotlight. There’s a humility here, but also perhaps a fear—an uncertainty about stepping into the role God has given. The chapter ends with mixed reactions from the people—some follow Saul, others despise him. This tension foreshadows the reality of leadership: God’s call doesn’t guarantee universal approval. But it does guarantee God’s presence for those who remain faithful to Him. For us, this chapter is a reminder that calling is both a gift and a responsibility. God equips those He calls, but we must step out from hiding to walk in the role He gives us, trusting His Spirit to work through our weakness. Reflection Questions: When has God asked you to step into a role or responsibility you felt unprepared for? How can you depend more fully on the Spirit in your daily responsibilities? Are there ways you might be “hiding among the baggage” instead of stepping forward in obedience? Prayer Lord, thank You for calling me to serve You in ways I don’t always feel ready for. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can live and lead beyond my own strength. Give me the courage to step out from hiding and trust that You are with me every step of the way. Amen.

August 18 Devotional on 1 Samuel 11 “Salvation the Lord Worked for Israel” When we open 1 Samuel 11, we step into a moment of crisis. Nahash the Ammonite besieges Jabesh-Gilead and offers a humiliating treaty—he will spare them, but only if he can gouge out their right eyes. It’s not just brutality; it’s a strategy to disgrace Israel. Fear and despair grip the people. They are paralyzed. And then the Spirit of God rushes upon Saul. This fearful farmer, hiding among baggage only a chapter earlier, is suddenly filled with righteous anger. He rallies Israel, and God grants a decisive victory. At the end of the chapter, Saul is confirmed as king, and the people rejoice. But notice the real center of the story: • The enemy threatens with shame and bondage. Nahash embodies what sin and evil always do: enslave, disfigure, and strip away dignity. • The people are helpless. They cannot save themselves; they look for a deliverer. • The Spirit empowers a savior. Saul steps forward not in his own strength, but clothed with God’s Spirit. • The result is joy and renewal. Deliverance leads the people to worship and to embrace their true King. This chapter is more than ancient history—it’s a pattern of salvation. We all face a greater enemy than Nahash. Sin and death don’t just wound; they seek to disgrace us, to rob us of hope and identity. On our own, we are powerless. But God raises up His Anointed, clothed with the Spirit, to deliver. Where Saul won a temporary battle, Jesus wins the final one—through His cross and resurrection, He breaks the power of sin and restores our dignity as sons and daughters of God. The story ends with Samuel leading the people in renewal at Gilgal. That’s always the trajectory of grace: God rescues, and we respond with worship, surrender, and joy. Reflection: • Where do you feel surrounded by defeat or shame? • How might you be tempted to “make a treaty” with sin rather than cry out for deliverance? • In what ways can you turn today to the true King who fights for you and brings lasting freedom? Prayer: Lord, I confess my weakness and my tendency to make peace with things that enslave me. Thank You for sending Your Anointed to deliver me from shame and bondage. Fill me with Your Spirit, renew my heart, and lead me to live in the joy of Your victory. Amen.

August 19 Devotional on 1 Samuel 12 Scripture Focus: “Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:24) In 1 Samuel 12, Samuel gives what feels like a farewell address to Israel. The people have just demanded a king, and even though God has granted their request, Samuel reminds them that their deepest need was never a political leader—it was always a faithful heart before God. This chapter holds a deep tension: Israel has sinned in demanding a king, yet God does not abandon them. Samuel tells them plainly, “Do not be afraid. You have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the Lord” (v. 20). Notice the paradox: they are guilty, but they are not abandoned. They have rebelled, but God is still pursuing them. The gospel thread here is unmistakable. Our sin is real and undeniable—but God’s grace is even greater. The very fact that Samuel can say “you have done evil” and immediately follow it with “but do not be afraid” reveals God’s covenant faithfulness. God does not rescue us because we’ve avoided sin, but because He is committed to His people in love. Samuel’s charge in verse 24 is the key: “Fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.” True worship flows not from guilt or fear of punishment, but from remembering God’s great acts of deliverance. For Israel, that meant remembering the Exodus. For us, it means remembering the cross and resurrection. The antidote to fear, failure, and waywardness is not trying harder—it’s gratitude. When you “consider what great things He has done for you,” obedience becomes joy, not duty. Reflection Questions: Where in your life do you feel the tension between your failures and God’s faithfulness? How can remembering “what great things God has done for you” reshape your daily fears or struggles? What would it look like this week to serve the Lord “faithfully with all your heart” out of gratitude, not guilt? Prayer Lord, I confess that I often chase after things that cannot save me, just as Israel chased after a king. Thank You that my sin is real, but Your mercy is greater. Teach me to remember Your great works, especially the cross, so that my life flows with gratitude and faithfulness. Help me to fear You rightly—not with dread, but with reverent trust and love. Amen.

August 20 Devotional on 1 Samuel 13 Scripture Focus: “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time.” (1 Samuel 13:13) In 1 Samuel 13, Saul faces a defining test. The Philistines are gathering, his troops are terrified, and Samuel has not arrived on time. Fear grips the people, and under pressure, Saul takes matters into his own hands—offering a sacrifice that only the priest was authorized to give. On the surface, Saul’s actions look practical. He doesn’t want to lose his army. He doesn’t want to go into battle unprepared. But Samuel calls it what it is: foolishness. Saul substituted expedience for obedience. He trusted his own judgment more than God’s word. This moment is revealing. The true battle in 1 Samuel 13 is not between Israel and the Philistines, but between trust and control. Saul’s kingdom falters not because he lacked military skill, but because he could not wait on the Lord. He chose self-reliance over surrender. This story speaks directly to us. How often do we feel the pressure to “do something” when God seems slow to act? We rationalize shortcuts. We justify disobedience in the name of urgency. But in God’s kingdom, obedience is never optional. What matters most is not whether we can hold things together, but whether we trust the One who holds all things in His hands. The gospel comforts us here too. Where Saul failed, Jesus succeeded. In His wilderness temptation, under immense pressure, Jesus refused shortcuts. He trusted His Father’s timing and obeyed perfectly—even to the point of death. And because of His faithfulness, our failures do not disqualify us. Instead, they become invitations to deeper dependence on God’s grace. Reflection Questions: Where in your life are you tempted to take control instead of waiting on God? How does fear of loss or pressure from others lead you toward shortcuts instead of obedience? What would it look like for you to trust God’s timing this week—even when it feels slow? Prayer Lord, I see myself in Saul—anxious, impatient, quick to grasp control when I feel pressure. Forgive me for the ways I have chosen expedience over obedience. Teach me to wait on You, to trust Your timing, and to rest in Your promises. Thank You for Jesus, who was faithful where I am not. Strengthen my heart to walk in obedience, knowing that Your grace holds me fast. Amen.

August 21 Devotional on 1 Samuel 14 Scripture Focus: “Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, ‘Come, let’s go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.’” (1 Samuel 14:6) 1 Samuel 14 gives us a striking contrast to the failure of Saul in the previous chapter. Where Saul faltered in fear and impatience, Jonathan steps out in bold trust. With only his young armor-bearer, Jonathan takes on a Philistine outpost, declaring that the Lord is not limited by numbers or strength. Jonathan’s “perhaps” is important. He doesn’t presume upon God, as if faith meant demanding victory on his own terms. Instead, Jonathan shows the heart of faith: humble confidence in God’s power, coupled with a willingness to step into risk for His glory. He trusts that salvation belongs to the Lord, not human strategy. This chapter reveals a deeper truth about the nature of faith. Faith is not the absence of uncertainty, nor is it reckless bravado. Faith is entrusting yourself to God’s promises even when the odds look impossible. Jonathan’s courage didn’t come from his own ability, but from knowing who God is. We often face moments where the obstacles before us seem overwhelming. The temptation is to wait until conditions feel safe or the numbers are in our favor. But Jonathan’s story reminds us that God delights in showing His strength precisely when our resources look weakest. Our role is not to calculate the odds, but to trust the God who is not hindered by them. And in Jesus we see the ultimate Jonathan—not one who merely risked His life, but One who gave it fully, trusting His Father to bring victory through apparent weakness. The cross looked like certain defeat, but it became the very means of salvation. In Him, we learn that nothing can hinder the Lord from saving. Reflection Questions: Where are you tempted to wait for “better odds” rather than stepping out in faith? How does Jonathan’s “perhaps” correct both reckless presumption and paralyzing fear? What small, risky step of faith might God be inviting you to take this week? Prayer Father, thank You that You are not limited by my weakness, my resources, or my circumstances. Forgive me for the ways I let fear or the odds keep me from trusting You. Give me the courage of Jonathan—humble confidence in Your power, and a willingness to step out in faith even when the outcome is uncertain. Thank You for Jesus, who trusted You perfectly and won salvation through what looked like defeat. Help me to follow Him with boldness and joy. Amen.

August 22 Devotional on 1 Samuel 15 Scripture Focus: “But Samuel replied: ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.’” (1 Samuel 15:22) 1 Samuel 15 is one of the most sobering chapters in Scripture. Saul, commanded to carry out God’s judgment against the Amalekites, spares the king and keeps the best of the livestock. When confronted, he defends his actions by cloaking them in religious language: “We saved them to sacrifice to the Lord.” But Samuel exposes the truth—Saul’s heart is far from obedience. This chapter reveals that God is not impressed with external displays of religion when they are detached from a surrendered heart. Sacrifice without obedience is really self-will dressed up in piety. Saul’s downfall shows us that partial obedience is still disobedience, because it elevates our judgment above God’s word. There’s a subtle warning here for us: like Saul, we often rationalize our disobedience. We soften commands, justify compromises, or redefine obedience in ways that serve us. But true worship is not bargaining with God—“I’ll give you this if you let me keep that.” True worship is yielded trust that takes God at His word, even when it cuts against our desires. And yet, this chapter also points us to our need for a better King. Saul’s failure is ultimately our failure—we, too, cannot offer God perfect obedience. But Jesus did. Where Saul grasped for control, Jesus surrendered fully to the Father’s will, even unto death. He became the final sacrifice so that our obedience, imperfect as it is, could be received in Him. The call of 1 Samuel 15 is not to try harder at religious performance, but to yield ourselves more fully to the One who obeyed perfectly in our place. Reflection Questions: Where are you tempted to rationalize or “soften” obedience to God’s word? How do you see the difference between outward religious performance and true obedience of the heart? How does Jesus’ perfect obedience free you from fear and move you toward joyful surrender? Prayer Lord, forgive me for the ways I rationalize my disobedience or try to cover it with outward religious appearances. Thank You for reminding me that You desire my heart more than my performance. Thank You for Jesus, whose perfect obedience covers my failures and gives me hope. Teach me to trust and obey You fully, knowing that in Your will I find true freedom and joy. Amen.

August 25 Devotional: "The God Who Sees the Heart" (1 Samuel 16:1–13) Scripture Focus “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” — 1 Samuel 16:7 1. God’s Way Is Different Israel is in transition. King Saul — the people’s choice — has failed. On the outside, he looked like a perfect king: tall, impressive, strong. But his heart wandered from God. Now, God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king. Samuel arrives at Jesse’s house, and one by one, Jesse’s sons walk past him. The firstborn, Eliab, looks like a natural leader. Samuel thinks, “This must be the one.” But God interrupts Samuel’s assumptions with a life-changing truth: “The Lord does not look at what people look at… the Lord looks at the heart.” This single moment reshapes how we understand God’s kingdom. What we value and what God values are often completely different. 2. God Chooses the Overlooked David, the youngest son, isn’t even invited to the lineup. He’s out in the fields tending sheep while his brothers stand before Samuel. No one, not even his own father, sees David as king material. But God does. Throughout Scripture, we see this same pattern: God chooses Abraham and Sarah in their old age. God chooses Moses, a fugitive with a stutter. God chooses Mary, a teenage girl from an insignificant town, to carry the Messiah. God chooses the cross, an instrument of weakness and shame, to save the world. God’s choices are often upside down to human expectations. He delights in using the overlooked, the unlikely, and the humble to accomplish His greatest purposes. 3. The Heart That God Sees When God says He looks at the heart, He isn’t demanding perfection — He’s looking for surrender. David’s life proves this. He would have great victories, but he would also fail deeply. He would sin, make poor choices, and hurt people. Yet God calls him “a man after His own heart.” Why? David was quick to repent. David was quick to trust God. David was quick to worship, even in brokenness. God doesn’t measure us by our appearance, status, or achievements. He’s looking for hearts fully open to Him — hearts willing to follow His lead. 4. Pointing to the Greater King This chapter doesn’t just tell David’s story — it points us forward to Jesus, the greater King. Like David, Jesus was overlooked: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” (John 1:46) Like David, Jesus wasn’t chosen because of outward power but because of His perfect obedience. Unlike David, Jesus would never fail. Where David would sit on a throne, Jesus would carry a cross. Through His death and resurrection, He has made it possible for us to be chosen, forgiven, and brought into God’s family. 5. Reflection & Application Take a moment to reflect: Where am I tempted to value appearance and success over a surrendered heart? Who are the “Davids” in my life — the people I’ve overlooked — that God may be calling and using? How can I posture my heart daily to say, “Lord, here I am; I’m Yours”? Prayer Father, thank You that You see past the surface and into my heart. Forgive me for chasing appearance, status, and recognition more than intimacy with You. Teach me to value what You value and to walk in humility. Shape my heart to reflect Your character, and help me trust You fully, knowing You choose the unlikely to accomplish Your purposes. Amen.

August 26 Devotional: "Faith Over Fear" (1 Samuel 17:1–50) Scripture Focus “David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty… This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands.’” — 1 Samuel 17:45–46 1. The Scene of the Standoff The Israelite army stands paralyzed. On one side, Israel; on the other, the Philistines. In the valley stands Goliath — nearly ten feet tall, covered in armor, wielding weapons Israel has never seen. For forty days, he taunts God’s people, mocking their faith and daring anyone to fight him. Everyone is terrified. Even King Saul, who was chosen for his size and strength, refuses to step forward. Fear spreads like wildfire through the camp. And then comes David. Not a soldier. Not trained for war. Just a shepherd boy bringing bread to his brothers. But while everyone else sees an impossible giant, David sees an opportunity for God’s glory. 2. Faith Looks Beyond What Eyes Can See When David hears Goliath mocking God, something rises within him. He asks, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (v. 26). David sees what everyone else misses: Goliath isn’t fighting Israel — he’s fighting God. And when God is in the equation, the outcome is already decided. Faith doesn’t deny the reality of the giant; it simply sees a greater reality: Goliath is huge, but God is greater. The weapons are strong, but God’s power is stronger. The odds are impossible, but God specializes in impossible battles. 3. God Prepares Us in the Quiet Places When Saul questions David’s ability to fight, David responds by recalling God’s faithfulness: “The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” (v. 37) David didn’t suddenly become courageous on the battlefield. His confidence was built in secret places — tending sheep, facing danger, and learning to rely on God when no one was watching. Often, the giants we face publicly are defeated by the faithfulness we’ve cultivated privately. 4. The Victory Belongs to the Lord David steps onto the battlefield with nothing but a sling and five smooth stones. To Goliath, he looks like a joke. But David declares, “I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty.” One stone. One throw. One victory. David’s weapon wasn’t the sling — it was his faith. He understood the battle was never about his strength but God’s power. “The battle is the Lord’s” (v. 47). 5. Jesus, the Greater David This story is not ultimately about us defeating our giants. It points to Jesus, the true and better David: Like David, Jesus stepped into an impossible battle — facing sin, death, and Satan. Like David, Jesus was underestimated, mocked, and rejected. But unlike David, Jesus didn’t just risk His life — He gave it. On the cross, Jesus defeated the greatest giant we’ll ever face. Through Him, we now stand in victory, not by our strength but by His finished work. 6. Reflection & Application Take a moment to pause and reflect: What “giants” are mocking you right now — fear, addiction, anger, doubt, shame? Where do you need to step out in faith, trusting God to fight the battle for you? How is God preparing you today in the quiet, unseen places for what He’s calling you to tomorrow? Prayer Father, thank You that You fight for me. When fear rises, help me fix my eyes on Your power instead of my problems. Strengthen my faith to face the giants in my life, not with my own strength, but with Your Spirit. Thank You for Jesus, who has already won the ultimate victory for me. Teach me to walk in courage, confidence, and hope. Amen.

August 27 Devotional: “God’s Favor in the Midst of Opposition” (1 Samuel 18:1–16) Scripture Focus “Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly: ‘They have credited David with tens of thousands,’ he thought, ‘but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?’ And from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.” — 1 Samuel 18:8–9 1. The Rise of David After defeating Goliath, David becomes the hero of Israel overnight. Crowds cheer his name, and Saul promotes him into leadership. But there’s more going on beneath the surface — success brings new challenges. David enters a season of favor: He finds deep friendship with Jonathan (v. 1–4). He wins the hearts of the people (v. 5). He continues to walk faithfully before God (v. 14). But with David’s rise comes Saul’s jealousy. What started as admiration quickly turns into fear, suspicion, and resentment. 2. Godly Friendship Sustains Us One of the most beautiful moments in this chapter is the covenant friendship between David and Jonathan. Jonathan, Saul’s son and rightful heir, chooses humility over rivalry. Instead of seeing David as a threat, he blesses him: Jonathan gives David his robe, armor, and weapons (v. 4) — symbols of royal succession. He commits his loyalty to David, showing selflessness and sacrificial love. This is a picture of kingdom friendship — one that chooses honor over envy, loyalty over competition, and love over fear. Who we surround ourselves with matters. God often uses healthy, Spirit-led friendships to strengthen us when life becomes complicated. 3. Jealousy Distracts Us from God’s Plan While Jonathan responds with humility, Saul responds with insecurity. When he hears the women singing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands,” his heart turns bitter. Instead of celebrating God’s victory, he focuses on his own status. Jealousy does three dangerous things: It distorts reality — Saul stops seeing David as an ally and begins seeing him as a rival. It breeds fear — Saul feels threatened and loses confidence in God’s plan. It invites division — jealousy fractures relationships and destroys trust. If we’re not careful, jealousy can lead us to fight against the very people God has sent to bless us. 4. God’s Presence Is the Source of True Success Despite Saul’s hostility, David thrives: “In everything he did he had great success, because the Lord was with him.” (v. 14) David’s influence isn’t rooted in charisma, strength, or popularity — it flows from God’s presence in his life. Even when others oppose him, God continues to guide, protect, and prosper him. Our security comes not from titles, approval, or applause — but from the unshakable favor of God. When He is with us, no amount of opposition can derail His purpose for our lives. 5. Pointing to Jesus This chapter foreshadows Jesus in a powerful way. Like David, Jesus faced rejection and hostility despite doing good. Like Jonathan, Jesus gave up His royal position — clothing us in righteousness so we could inherit His kingdom. And like David’s victory, Jesus’ triumph over sin and death was God’s plan, not human achievement. Through Jesus, we have the ultimate assurance that no weapon formed against us can prosper (Isaiah 54:17). 6. Reflection & Application Take a few moments to reflect: Where do I need to trust God’s favor instead of striving for the approval of others? Are there areas in my heart where jealousy or comparison have taken root? Who has God placed in my life, like Jonathan, to encourage me — and how can I encourage someone else today? Prayer Father, thank You for Your favor that goes before me and follows me. Teach me to walk in humility, free from jealousy and striving. Help me to celebrate others’ victories instead of comparing myself to them. Surround me with Spirit-filled friendships that strengthen my faith and keep my heart anchored in You. I trust that Your presence is enough and that Your plans for my life cannot be stopped. Amen.

August 28 Devotional: “Protected by God’s Hand” (1 Samuel 19:1–24) Scripture Focus “Saul sent men to David’s house to kill him. But Michal, David’s wife, warned him, ‘If you don’t run for your life tonight, tomorrow you’ll be killed.’” — 1 Samuel 19:11 1. The Rising Storm David’s victory over Goliath and his growing influence have stirred deep jealousy in Saul’s heart. What began as silent resentment in 1 Samuel 18 now explodes into open hostility. Saul commands Jonathan and his attendants to kill David, but Jonathan warns David and advocates on his behalf. For a brief moment, Saul relents — but his jealousy returns stronger than before. This chapter reminds us that following God’s call doesn’t shield us from opposition. Sometimes, the greater the anointing, the greater the resistance. But it also shows us something greater: God’s protection is stronger than any threat. 2. God Uses People to Protect His Purposes In this chapter, David’s life is spared multiple times — and each time, God uses relationships to protect him: Jonathan’s loyalty: Saul’s son stands up for David, reminding Saul of David’s faithfulness and God’s victories through him (v. 4–5). Michal’s wisdom: David’s wife risks her safety to warn him and help him escape (v. 11–17). Samuel’s refuge: David flees to the prophet Samuel in Ramah, where God moves powerfully to shield him (v. 18–24). This is a powerful reminder: God often works through people to accomplish His purposes. In seasons of attack or uncertainty, He surrounds us with the right people at the right time. 3. God’s Presence Overpowers Human Opposition As Saul continues to pursue David, he sends men to capture him at Naioth in Ramah. But something unexpected happens — instead of arresting David, they are overcome by the Spirit of God and begin prophesying (v. 20). Saul sends more men, and it happens again. Finally, Saul himself goes, and he too is overtaken by the Spirit. This is no coincidence. It’s God declaring: “You cannot stop My plans.” When God has anointed, appointed, and called someone, no amount of opposition, manipulation, or control can derail His purposes. 4. Faith When Fear Rises David is still forced to flee for his life, even though God protects him. This tension is important: God’s protection doesn’t always mean the absence of danger. God’s presence doesn’t always remove the trial — but it guarantees victory through it. We, too, will face seasons where fear rises and the future feels uncertain. But like David, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes — orchestrating protection, surrounding us with help, and ensuring His plans prevail. 5. Pointing to Jesus David’s story points us forward to Jesus: Like David, Jesus was anointed yet opposed by religious and political leaders. Like David, Jesus was hunted by those threatened by His influence and calling. But unlike David, Jesus willingly laid down His life — not because He was overpowered, but because God’s plan required it. And just as God preserved David until his appointed time, Jesus was untouchable until the Father’s plan for salvation was fulfilled. 6. Reflection & Application Take time to pray and reflect: Where in your life are you facing opposition, fear, or uncertainty right now? Who has God placed around you to support, protect, and strengthen you in this season? How can you rest in the truth that God’s plan for your life cannot be stopped? Prayer Father, thank You for being my refuge and protector. When fear rises, help me trust that Your presence goes before me and surrounds me. Thank You for placing people in my life who encourage me, protect me, and point me back to You. Give me courage to keep walking in faith, knowing that Your plan and Your calling cannot be stopped. Amen.

August 29 Devotional: “Faithful Friendship in a Season of Fear” (1 Samuel 20:1–42) Scripture Focus “And Jonathan made a covenant with David, saying, ‘May the Lord call David’s enemies to account.’ And Jonathan had David reaffirm his oath out of love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself.” — 1 Samuel 20:16–17 1. When Life Feels Uncertain David is living in deep confusion and fear. Saul, once his king and father-in-law, now wants him dead. David turns to his closest friend, Jonathan — Saul’s son — to ask, “What have I done? What is my crime?” (v. 1). This is a moment many of us can relate to: when life feels out of control, when relationships fracture, and when the future feels unknown. Jonathan responds not with quick answers but with loyalty. Together, they seek God’s wisdom and develop a plan to discern Saul’s intentions. This shows us something important: in seasons of uncertainty, God often leads us through trusted relationships and Spirit-led community. 2. True Friendship Reflects God’s Heart One of the most beautiful themes in this chapter is the covenant between David and Jonathan. Despite Saul’s hatred for David, Jonathan chooses love and loyalty over family and politics. He risks his own safety to protect David’s life. This is a picture of kingdom friendship: It puts others above self It speaks truth when it’s costly It stands in loyalty even when culture, family, or pressure pull the other way In a world that often treats relationships as transactional, David and Jonathan remind us that true friendship is covenantal — grounded in sacrificial love that mirrors God’s covenant with us. 3. Trusting God When the Future Feels Fragile The plan is simple: Jonathan will attend the royal feast, watch Saul’s reaction, and secretly signal David whether it’s safe to return or time to flee. When Saul erupts in anger at Jonathan’s defense of David (v. 30–33), it becomes clear: David’s life is in real danger. David must now leave behind everything familiar — his position, his home, and even his relationship with Jonathan — and step into the unknown. But here’s the hope: God is still in control. Even when David’s world falls apart, God’s hand is guiding his steps toward the throne He promised. 4. God’s Covenant Faithfulness David and Jonathan part ways in tears, but their covenant points us toward something greater: God’s unbreakable covenant with us. Jonathan sacrifices his claim to the throne to protect David. Jesus gives up His throne in heaven to secure our salvation. Jonathan risked his life to keep David safe. Jesus gave His life to make us safe eternally. Even when circumstances shift and relationships change, God’s covenant love never fails. 5. Reflection & Application Take a moment to pause and consider: Where do you feel uncertainty, fear, or pressure right now — and how is God calling you to trust Him? Who has God placed in your life, like Jonathan, to walk with you in faith — and how can you be that person for someone else? How can you rest today knowing that God’s promises are secure even when your circumstances aren’t? Prayer Father, thank You for placing people in my life who encourage, strengthen, and walk with me through seasons of fear and uncertainty. Teach me to be a faithful friend like Jonathan and a trusting servant like David. Remind me that Your covenant love is unshakable and that my future is secure in You, even when life feels unpredictable. Amen.