God has said that he will never share his glory with anybody.In addition, He said that man cannot have two masters, choose God or choose watever else (but obviously it would be a very good choice if you choose God!).
In 1Samuel 4, The Israelites went into battle with the Philistines. At the beginning, 4000 soldiers died.They Isrealites realised that they needed God so they brought the ark to the 'Hebrew camp'. However, the result was a shock: 30,000 more Israelite soldiers went down!!
Among the deceased were Eli's sons: Hophni and Phinehas.
Further in the story, we see that Eli died and Phinehas's wife also died. These two last deaths were strange because they occured when these individuals heard that the Lord's ark had been taken away.
There are important lessons here:
1. Tracking back to 1Samuel 2, we see that Hophni and Phinehas disrespected the offerings brought to God and God decided to take action. He said he would cut off the priesthood from Eli's family..(that explains their death. It also explains why Eli was not shocked at the news 'cos he knew what was coming, it was only a matter of time before it happend).Honour God with you words, actions and thoughts!
2. The total number of people that lost their lives was 34,004.This was all because of just 2 people! It tells us that In the body of Christ we are all one.The bible says that when a part of the body suffers, the whole body suffers. So we need to pray for each other.When you don't see someone in church for an 'eternity', pray for them 'cos if they are sinning, it might affect you!
3. The Isrealites knew they needed God to win.(they didn't in this case because God wanted his word concerning Hophnin and Phinehas to be fulfilled.).When you are in a tight corner and there's no way out, don't go asking people for solutions because "the arm of flesh will fail you" but rather go on your knees and seek God. He is "your present help in time of trouble"
4. In the old Testament days, It was certain that once you dishonour God you would die! But today, we live in a time of grace. We have a choice because Jesus dies for us. So if you choose life, you WILL have life and have it Abundantly!
The Lord is good all the time!
