The Daily Lectionary
with Commentary
Friday, January 5, 2024
Guidance, Anointing, and Growth in Faith
Psalm 29; 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 1 Timothy 4:11-16
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Epiphany 1)
Introduction
with Commentary
Friday, January 5, 2024
Guidance, Anointing, and Growth in Faith
Psalm 29; 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 1 Timothy 4:11-16
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Epiphany 1)
Introduction
Psalm 29, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, and 1 Timothy 4:11-16 collectively explore themes of divine guidance, the anointing of leaders, and the personal growth in faith. Psalm 29 praises the voice of the Lord, illustrating His power and majesty in nature, and ends with a message of peace for His people. In 1 Samuel 16:1-13, we witness the anointing of David as king, symbolizing God's choice and the importance of inner qualities over outward appearance. Lastly, 1 Timothy 4:11-16 encourages young Timothy, and by extension all believers, to be an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, highlighting the growth and development in one’s spiritual journey. Together, these passages provide a rich tapestry of how God’s voice and guidance lead to the anointing of leaders and the nurturing of faith in individuals.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 29
The Voice of the Lord in Majesty and Power
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 29
The Voice of the Lord in Majesty and Power
Psalm 29, a profound hymn attributed to King David, exalts the awesome power and majesty of the Lord's voice. The psalmist vividly describes the impact of God's voice as it resonates through the natural world, from mighty thunderstorms to the delicate dance of forest wildlife. This psalm serves as a reminder of the unparalleled strength and glory of God, inviting us to marvel at His creation and acknowledge His sovereignty over all things.1 Ascribe to the LORD, you heavenly beings, *
Ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.
2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; *
Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.
3 The voice of the LORD is over the waters; *
The God of glory thunders,
the LORD thunders over the mighty waters.
4 The voice of the LORD is powerful; *
The voice of the LORD is majestic.
5 The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; *
The LORD breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.
6 He makes Lebanon leap like a calf, *
Sirion like a young wild ox.
7 The voice of the LORD strikes *
With flashes of lightning.
8 The voice of the LORD shakes the desert; *
The LORD shakes the Desert of Kadesh.
9 The voice of the LORD twists the oaks
and strips the forests bare. *
And in his temple all cry, “Glory!”
10 The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; *
The LORD is enthroned as King forever.
11 The LORD gives strength to his people; *
The LORD blesses his people with peace.
Heavenly Father, Lord of all creation, we come before You in awe of Your mighty power, as revealed in the splendor of the world around us. Your voice, O Lord, is powerful and majestic, echoing over the waters and thundering in the skies.
You sit enthroned as King forever, and we marvel at the strength and majesty that envelops Your presence. In the whisper of the wind and the roar of the thunder, we hear Your voice, reminding us of Your greatness and Your sovereignty over all the earth.
As the mountains tremble and the forests bow, we too bow our hearts in reverence to You, recognizing Your glory in every sunrise, in every storm, in every gentle breeze.
Lord, as You give strength to Your people, grant us also Your blessing of peace. May we always find our refuge and strength in You, trusting in Your mighty power and endless love.
Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
1 Samuel 16:1-13 presents a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, where God directs the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king. This passage is set against the backdrop of King Saul's rejection by God due to his disobedience. Samuel is sent to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse, where he is to anoint one of Jesse's sons as the next king of Israel. The narrative unfolds as a story of divine selection, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the principle that God's choices often defy human expectations.16 1 The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.”
2 But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.”
The LORD said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ 3 Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.”
4 Samuel did what the LORD said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?”
5 Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD’S anointed stands here before the LORD.”
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The LORD has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the LORD chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The LORD has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”
“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”
Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”
12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features.
Then the LORD said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”
13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.
Commentary
Divine Guidance in Leadership Choices: The passage highlights God's involvement in the selection of leaders. Unlike human beings who often judge by appearance, God looks at the heart. This theme is particularly poignant in the choice of David, the youngest son of Jesse, who was not even initially considered by his father for the anointing.
The Role of the Prophet: Samuel's role is crucial in this narrative. He obeys God's instructions despite his fears and reservations, demonstrating the importance of obedience and faith in God's plan. His actions set an example for how God's servants should respond to divine guidance.
God's Sovereign Choices: The selection of David, who was tending sheep and not present at the initial gathering, underscores that God's choices are often unexpected and can overturn societal norms and expectations. This act signifies a shift from human judgment to divine selection, emphasizing that God's ways are not our ways.
The Anointing of David: The anointing of David as the future king is a symbolic act that sets him apart for God's purposes. It signifies the transfer of God's Spirit from Saul to David, indicating a new chapter in the leadership of Israel.
Preparation for Kingship: Although David was anointed king, he did not immediately ascend to the throne. This period of waiting serves as a reminder that God's timing is perfect, and He prepares His chosen ones in His own time and way.
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 16:1-13 is a powerful testament to God's sovereignty in choosing leaders and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to the heart. It marks the beginning of David's journey to kingship, a path marked by both divine favor and significant challenges.
1 Timothy 4:11-16 presents a vital passage that emphasizes the importance of setting a positive example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. This scripture is particularly significant for young leaders within the Christian faith, encouraging them to be diligent in their duties and to use their youthfulness as a strength, rather than viewing it as a weakness. The passage underscores the necessity of focusing on reading the Scripture, preaching, and teaching to nurture spiritual growth and influence others positively.4 11 Command and teach these things. 12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.
15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Commentary
1 Timothy 4:11-16 serves as a powerful exhortation to young leaders, particularly Timothy, from the Apostle Paul. It begins with a directive to command and teach these principles, emphasizing the authority and responsibility that come with leadership roles.
Verses 12-13: These verses focus on being an example for believers in speech, life, love, faith, and purity, highlighting that leadership is not just about authority but also about personal example and integrity.
Verse 14: This passage then turns to the importance of using spiritual gifts, reminding leaders not to neglect the gifts given to them. This serves as an encouragement to recognize and utilize the spiritual abilities that God has bestowed, ensuring they are not wasted or overlooked.
Verses 15-16: The focus shifts to perseverance and progress in personal faith and teaching. Paul urges Timothy to be diligent in these matters, assuring him that by doing so, he will save both himself and his hearers. This final portion of the passage highlights the dual nature of Christian leadership: it involves personal spiritual growth and the spiritual growth of those they lead.
Overall, 1 Timothy 4:11-16 is a potent reminder for all believers, especially young leaders, to embrace their roles with humility, integrity, and diligence, ensuring their work not only benefits themselves but also positively influences those around them.
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Friday, January 5, 2024
Guidance, Anointing, and Growth in Faith
Psalm 29; 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 1 Timothy 4:11-16
Today's lectionary readings collectively explore themes of divine guidance, the anointing of leaders, and the personal growth in faith. Psalm 29 praises the voice of the Lord, illustrating His power and majesty in nature, and ends with a message of peace for His people. In 1 Samuel, we witness the anointing of David as king, symbolizing God's choice and the importance of inner qualities over outward appearance. Lastly, our reading in 1 Timothy encourages young Timothy, and by extension all believers, to be an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, highlighting the growth and development in one’s spiritual journey. Together, these passages provide a rich tapestry of how God’s voice and guidance lead to the anointing of leaders and the nurturing of faith in individuals.
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