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"Places of Panic"



1 Samuel 13:11-12 "When I saw that the men were scattering and that you did not come at the set time and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, I thought, now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the Lord's favor. So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offerings." 

His own army was frightened and many began to retreat and hide from the enemy. The enemy was assembling to fight and outnumber the Israelites. Saul panics. He offers the burnt offerings to God. Samuel returns and gets angry with Saul for not trusting God and taking matters into his own hands. Why does Samuel get so upset?

Two reasons: 1. In Deuteronomy, it was a law that only the priest could offer the burnt offerings in certain times and in certain places. 2. Samuel said that he would surely offer the burnt offerings when he returned and Saul had not waited.

In the midst of difficulties and challenges, we can sometimes panic. Our fears get the best of us and we choose our way over God's way. While Saul's self-made maneuver seemed to be practical and necessary, Saul chose to react to his own thoughts and feelings in this place of panic instead of relying on God. This choice was one among many that put Saul on a path that led to self-imposed pride, self-reliance, and insecurity.

 In good times, it seems easier to be faithful to God's Word. But when difficulties arise, I can sometimes panic and choose my thoughts and feelings over God's way. Recognizing those places of panic as true opportunities for trusting God's way can become a true breakthrough moment for my journey of faith! (Proverbs 3: 5-6) The key question in those panic places of life: Will I trust God's love and good plan for my life over my circumstances and my own thoughts and feelings?

 Lord, when life seems uncertain and I find myself going into panic mode, help me to be steadfast in trusting You and Your way instead of relying on my own circumstances, thoughts, and feelings. Amen.

Jerry Sweat-
Jerry Sweat is Lead Pastor at Beach Church in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

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