Scripture
1 Samuel 2: 18-21 “Now Samuel, though only a boy, was the Lord’s helper. He wore a linen tunic just like that of a priest. Each year his mother made a small coat for him and brought it to him when she came with her husband for the sacrifice. Before they returned home, Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife and say, “May the Lord give you other children to take the place of this one she gave to the Lord.” And the Lord gave Hannah three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord.”
1) Samuel was the Lord’s helper. Even as a child Samuel was an asset to God, he was God’s servant.
2) Samuel grew up in God’s presence. You grow in the presence of God. If I want to be like Jesus I have to spend time in His presence. I become more like him by spending time with him. I want Jesus to rub off on me.
3) Samuel not only learned about God but had a personal experience with God. He grew up in God’s presence. Children and Youth ministries must teach the eternal truths about God but that is not enough. Children and youth ministries must give them opportunities to have encounters with God. They need to experience God’s presence, His special touch.
Application
I want to be known as God’s servant, God’s helper. So many times we desire titles and position but Samuel was God’s helper before he became God’s prophet.
I want to spend more time in God’s presence. I want to be like Jesus by spending time with Jesus. I want to have a hunger and desire for Him. I want to learn all I can learn and grow in knowledge but I also want to have fresh encounters with God.
As a pastor I want our children and youth to experience God’s touch. They might not understand it all, but I want them to have encounters with God. I want them around and in God’s presence.
Prayer
Father I ask that you make me your helper. Remove all pride and selfish ambition from me. Give me a servant’s heart. Help me not to seek fame, position, or titles but to seek to be obedient to my calling and measure of faith.
I ask for a fresh filling of your Holy Spirit today. Give me a fresh touch of your grace and power upon my life. Tonight in the revival services I ask for you to once again shake the place. Pour out your Spirit upon all flesh. Let the young and old, rich and poor, highly esteemed and the unknown to experience you tonight. Give us more of You!
