Day 25: Leadership and Obedience

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 7–16

Date: Friday, 25th July 2025

To the Faithful Readers

As you continue, you are witnessing the transition of Israel from tribal confederation to monarchy. This period is rich with lessons on leadership, obedience, and God’s guidance. Saul’s rise and Samuel’s role remind us that God’s plans often require patience and trust, even when human leadership falters.

Reading Instructions

Read 1 Samuel 7–16 carefully, focusing on the interactions between Samuel, Saul, and the people of Israel. Notice how obedience to God impacts leadership success and how Saul’s disobedience begins to reveal the need for a different kind of king.

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Guided Devotional

1. Who is God?

The Sovereign King – God is the ultimate ruler who chooses leaders according to His will (1 Samuel 9–10).

The Patient Teacher – Through Samuel, God teaches Israel about repentance and obedience (1 Samuel 7).

The Just Judge – God honors obedience but punishes disobedience, as seen in Saul’s story (1 Samuel 13–15).

The God of Redemption – Despite Saul’s failures, God prepares a new leader—David—for His purposes.

2. What Are the Ways of God?

God calls for repentance and renewal – Samuel leads the people to turn back to God to find victory.

God chooses leaders with purpose – Saul’s anointing shows God’s sovereign choice, even if flawed.

God requires obedience, not sacrifice – Saul’s disobedience demonstrates that ritual without obedience is meaningless (1 Samuel 15:22).

God is preparing a heart for His throne – David’s anointing signals the coming of a king after God’s own heart.

3. What Is His Character?

Sovereign – God is in control of kings and kingdoms.

Merciful – God provides second chances but will not tolerate continued rebellion.

Faithful – God’s promises are fulfilled through generations.

Wise – God’s timing in leadership transitions is perfect.

Golden Nugget

True leadership in God’s kingdom depends on obedience to His will, humility, and a heart aligned with His purposes.

Prayer

Lord, help me to obey You wholeheartedly and lead with humility. Teach me to listen to Your voice above all others. Prepare my heart to serve You faithfully in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Activation Challenge

• Reflect on areas where you need to align more fully with God’s will.

• Consider how obedience is shaping your leadership or influence.

• Pray for God to prepare your heart to lead with humility and wisdom.

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Next Reading:

Day 26 – 1 Samuel 17–26 Explore David’s rise, his faith in God’s power, and lessons on courage and trust in the face of giants.