Why is it important to discuss spiritual experiences with family, as Saul did? The Moment in 1 Samuel 10:15 “Saul’s uncle asked him and his servant, ‘Where have you been?’ ‘Looking for the donkeys,’ Saul replied. ‘When we saw that they were not to be found, we went to Samuel.’” Saul had just been anointed and filled with the Spirit (10:1, 10). His uncle’s simple question opened the door for Saul to mention Samuel and hint at what God was doing in his life. Why Sharing Matters—Four Core Reasons • Family is God’s first classroom. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 urges parents to talk about the Lord “when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.” Spiritual conversations weave truth into daily life. • Testimony strengthens faith. “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). Relating fresh encounters with God invites encouragement, accountability, and mutual growth. • God designs households for salvation. Acts 16:31-34 shows an entire family coming to Christ through one believer’s report. A personal story can become the spark that ignites collective faith. • It affirms God’s sovereignty in family history. Psalm 78:4 commands, “We will not hide them from their children, but will declare… the wonders He has performed.” Retelling God’s works keeps His deeds alive across generations. Biblical Threads of Family Testimony • Joshua 24:15—“As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” A leader’s declaration influences the whole household. • Luke 8:39—Jesus sends the delivered man home first: “Return home and describe what God has done for you.” Home is mission field number one. • John 4:53—The healed boy’s father “believed, and all his household.” A miracle recounted in the living room led to household faith. • Malachi 4:6—God’s end-time work turns “the hearts of the fathers to the children.” Conversation is one instrument He uses. Observing Saul’s Caution Saul spoke of Samuel yet withheld the kingdom prophecy (10:16). Healthy sharing includes wisdom—some revelations await God’s timing. Balance transparency with discretion, but do not silence His works altogether. Practical Takeaways for Today • Tell the simple story. Even a brief mention—“God answered a prayer today”—plants a seed. • Use ordinary moments: car rides, meals, bedtime. Deuteronomy 6 makes spirituality part of the flow of life. • Invite every voice. Children and elders alike recounting God’s activity creates family unity. • Keep a household journal of answered prayers and spiritual milestones; future generations can “declare… His might” (Psalm 78:4). • Discern what to reserve and what to reveal, yet always acknowledge the Lord’s hand—Saul named Samuel; that name alone pointed family attention God-ward. |
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