“Now stand here quietly before the Lord as I remind you of all the great things the Lord has done for you and your ancestors.” (1 Samuel 12:7 NLT)
Samuel had served the Lord and the nation of Israel quite literally his whole life: having grown up in the Tabernacle. He had acted as both a prophet and a judge, partnering with the Spirit many times over. He responded to the people’s request and God’s leading; he had appointed Saul as king. He’d seen the king through his first conflict. The people confirmed his faultless service. He was ready to retire and do whatever it is that former prophets when their season of national leadership comes to a close. But before he rode off into the sunset, he stopped to remind his people of God’s glory. Samuel invites the nation of Israel to revel in the goodness of the Almighty extended toward them.
I think this is fine time for us to do the same thing. Still your soul for just a moment and let the great things of God wash over you. Revel in His righteous acts on your behalf, but also towards your predecessors. Don’t hurry this recollection. Savor it. Perhaps pick up a pen and write it down.
You likely won’t compile a complete list in the first go-through; probably only the things you can think of in the time you alot. But let awe grow over the details you’ve gathered – realize how much greater His list of righteous acts toward humanity might be.
The truth is God was saving us before we drew first breath. He loved us before we even existed. The very idea of us was enough to make God act blamelessly on our behalf two thousand years ago.
“See, God has come to save me. I will trust Him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; He has given me victory. With joy you will drink deeply from the foundation of salvation! In that wonderful day you will sing: “Thank the Lord! Praise His name! Tell the nations what He has done. Let them know how mighty He is! Sing to the Lord, for He has done wonderful things. Make known His praise around the world. Let all the people of Jerusalem shout His praise with joy! For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you.”” (Isaiah 12:2-6 NLT)
Lord, thank You for being so kind and good and merciful. Thank You for saving us again and again. May we keep Your righteous acts towards us ever in proper perspective. Amen.