How should believers respond to threats against their faith, as seen in 1 Samuel 11:1? Recognize the Nature of the Threat 1 Samuel 11:1: “Then Nahash the Ammonite came up and laid siege to Jabesh-gilead. And all the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, ‘Make a covenant with us, and we will serve you.’” • Nahash’s siege pictures how the enemy presses believers, seeking surrender (1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:12). • The pressure is real and intentional: it aims to “lay siege,” cut off resources, and erode courage. • First response: identify the attack as spiritual, not merely circumstantial (2 Corinthians 2:11). Refuse to Negotiate with Darkness • Jabesh-gilead’s first instinct—“Make a covenant with us”—shows how fear can nudge God’s people toward compromise. • Scripture warns against alliances that dilute devotion (2 Corinthians 6:14-15; James 4:4). • Believers stand firm: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). • Never trade spiritual vision or purity for temporary relief (compare Nahash’s demand in v. 2 with Matthew 16:26). Rally Together under God-Given Leadership • In verses 6-8 the Spirit empowers Saul, and Israel unites. Isolation invites defeat; unity under godly leadership invites victory (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Practical steps: – Seek counsel and accountability within the church. – Encourage one another daily (Hebrews 3:13). – Submit to leaders who themselves submit to Christ (Hebrews 13:17). Rely on the Spirit’s Empowering • “The Spirit of God rushed upon Saul when he heard these words” (1 Samuel 11:6). • Likewise, believers face threats “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). • The Spirit supplies: – Courage (2 Timothy 1:7). – Wisdom (John 16:13). – Bold speech (Acts 4:31). Respond with Confident Faith, Not Fear • Fear drove Jabesh to offer servitude; faith later drove Israel to victory (vv. 9-11). • Stand on promises: – Deuteronomy 31:6 – “Be strong and courageous…” – Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – 1 Peter 3:14-15 – “Do not fear their threats… but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts.” • Faith speaks life, prays earnestly, and acts obediently even before the outcome is visible. Remember and Testify to God’s Deliverance • After victory, Saul gives glory to the LORD (1 Samuel 11:13). • Rehearse past deliverances to fuel future faith (Psalm 77:11-12). • Share testimonies so others gain courage (Revelation 12:11). Summary: When faith is threatened, believers discern the spiritual siege, refuse compromise, gather in united fellowship, depend on the Holy Spirit, walk in fearless confidence, and recount the Lord’s saving acts. God still delivers today just as decisively as He did for besieged Jabesh-gilead. |
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