Lent: Day 27

1 Samuel 6-10

Today I read the story of Samuel choosing Saul to be king. There is a very interesting detail to the story where Saul has hidden himself among the baggage at the time when Samuel declares to the tribes that he is king. I can identify with that feeling. There are times when the responsibility and care it takes to be the leader is something I'd just rather not have.

In many ways, I've always admired and desired the simple things in life. I think that I could really enjoy going to work, coming home to my family, spending time with my wife, and not ever having to worry about what Exodus is going to do this Sunday, whether people are truly growing in their faith, beginning to come closer to You, etc. There are many times when that is what happens, where I do just separate my time and spend time with family and let church responsibilities wait until later. I guess, maybe that is different from hiding in the baggage. That is more about priorities.

You know, I do have a lot of half-loves and half-talents, and so prioritizing does become a big deal for me. If my priorities get off the mark then usually my whole life becomes unbalanced. For example, I often rush off to the gym without ever really processing my devotional reading. That tells me that one of my highest priorities right now is working out. And that's probably true. But that doesn't mean that my list is particularly healthy.

So, that is one thing I'm going to have to try to make an intentional effort to do: make sure my priorities are in the right order, and then drop activities that infringe on these. And I certainly know that You need to go at the top of that list. Help me figure out how to make You the true number one in my life, and how to continue to place You there daily.

Thou and thou only, first in my heart.
High King of Heaven, my treasure thou art.