READING: 1 Samuel 9-12
Some months ago, a good friend whose wife was facing death gave me this report about their whereabouts that day: “Chuck, we’re just sitting here on the porch, grateful that we have no unfinished business to take care of.” I knew this couple fairly well, and I suspect they truly had nothing to fix as death approached. Their relationship was pure and godly. They always shared Christ with others. They didn’t miss opportunities to serve Christ fully. They really did have no regrets.
I think of them today as I read the words of Samuel defending himself as judge before God’s people: “As for me, I am old and gray, and my sons are here with you. I have been your leader from my youth until this day. Here I stand. Testify against me in the presence of the Lord and his anointed. Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated? Whom have I oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to make me shut my eyes? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right” (1 Sam 12:2-3). Samuel had lived a life of integrity, and he was prepared and willing for the people to judge his life. What a way to live — to so walk before God in full integrity that you’re willing to stand before others and let them evaluate your life!
I wonder today what unfinished business I have. Anyone I’ve not forgiven? Any conversations that ended poorly? That were ungodly? Any folks with whom I’ve not shared the gospel? Any relationships that need repair? Any callings I’ve not fulfilled? Any idols I’ve not forsaken? Any words I need to take back? Any faith risks I should have taken? If others were to testify against me, would they have grounds to accuse me?
I wonder if my wife and I are at a place where we can sit on the porch in peace. What about you?
ACTION STEPS: Consider these steps:
- Ask the person who knows you best, “Do you know of any area where I need to repent today?”
- Deal with whatever you need to deal with to be at peace today. Make that phone call. Write that letter.
- Live today with absolute integrity. No faulty dealings. No white lies. Full obedience.
PRAYER: “God, let me live today in such a way that if it were my last day, I would be at peace.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Samuel 13-14
