In 1 Samuel 12, Samuel the prophet recounts the sins of the Israelites and their desire for a King to rule over them, even though “the LORD your God was your king (12:12, NASB).” He must have been frustrated with them as he recounted their evil ways in this chapter and how they are acting just like their forefathers who worshiped foreign gods. Samuel warned them, “If you will not listen to the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the command of the LORD, then the hand of the LORD will be against you, as it was against your fathers (12:15).”
Despite this, Samuel says something to the Israelites that shows something different than frustration. “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way (23).” He doesn’t give up on them and leave them to their evil ways.
At times we may get frustrated with people who God places in our life. They may do sinful things and mimic the world around us, worshipping everything but God. It may seem pointless to continue to minister to them month after month with no sign of them turning to God. Yet Samuel reminds us that we should not cease to pray for them and show them “the good and right way.”
Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” – Isaiah 6:8, NASB
140 Character Christian 