What actions can we take to avoid being "worthless men" like Eli's sons? The sobering example: Eli’s sons “Now the sons of Eli were wicked men; they had no regard for the LORD.” (1 Samuel 2:12) Hophni and Phinehas held priestly offices, yet God calls them “wicked” (many translations say “worthless”). Their failures spotlight choices we must avoid—and practices we must embrace—so our lives produce eternal value. Where they went wrong • Contempt for God’s commands (1 Samuel 2:13–17) • Sexual immorality at the tabernacle entrance (1 Samuel 2:22) • Hard hearts that ignored rebuke (1 Samuel 2:23–25) • A lifestyle that made others “despise the LORD’s offering” (1 Samuel 2:17) Actions that keep us from becoming “worthless” Know the LORD personally • Daily Scripture intake—“Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). • Obedient response—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). Guard reverence in worship • Offer God the first and best, not leftovers (Malachi 1:6–8). • Cultivate awe: “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). Honor God with the body • Flee sexual sin—“Flee from sexual immorality… you are not your own; you were bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6:18–20). • Practice self-control as fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Receive correction humbly • Invite trustworthy believers to speak truth (Proverbs 27:6). • Respond quickly when the Spirit convicts (Hebrews 3:13). Serve people rather than exploit them • Lead for God’s glory, not personal gain (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Remember Christ’s example: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). Live with eternal perspective • Present your body “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). • Work “with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23-24). Stay accountable in community • “Let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not forsaking meeting together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Iron sharpening iron keeps us sharp (Proverbs 27:17). Putting it into practice today 1. Schedule a consistent time in the Word and guard it. 2. Audit your giving, worship habits, and private conduct—adjust to honor God first. 3. Identify one mature believer who can correct you in love. 4. Serve someone this week with no expectation of return. 5. Memorize 1 Samuel 2:30b—“Those who honor Me I will honor, but those who despise Me will be disdained.” By embracing these actions, we become useful servants rather than “worthless men,” shining His glory in every sphere of life. |
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