Are We Serious?

The ark of the Lord had just been returned to Israel from the Philistines. The Philistines had a stomach full of God after taking the ark in an invasion. Plagues had been brought upon these heathen people and they wanted no more of this “God of Israel”.

Israel was overjoyed with the return of the ark. They had lost the visual reminder that God was with them and now they had it back. But Samuel challenges them with an interesting question: “If you are really serious about wanting to return to the Lord, get rid of . . .” (1 Samuel 7:3 NLT)
They had been worshipping idols (Baal and Ashtoreth) and Samuel ask them if they want to get serious.

I wonder if Samuel were among our churches today if he would ask that question? I wonder if he would list the idols that we have decided to worship? Things, our children, power, greed, occupation, pluralism, or even ourselves could top the list.

One day we will be asked if we had been serious about God. What will your life say?