Verse from 1 Samuel

It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king. 1 Samuel 8:7

Not all decisions that seem logical are God-honoring or wise. For example, it seemed natural for the Israelites to ask for a king. The prophet Samuel’s sons weren’t fit to lead (1 Samuel 8:3), and other nations seemed to be doing well with a king (vv. 5, 20). But God warned them about trusting solely in people; only He was their true king who could protect and provide for them perfectly (vv. 7, 11-18). Still, the Israelites insisted (v. 19), leading God to tell Samuel, “It is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king” (v. 7). Later, the Israelites would suffer under the rule of a string of evil kings.

Human wisdom can lead us to rely on ourselves rather than God. His ways may be counterintuitive, but they’re truly wise and lead to good. May we learn to trust Him and accept His rule in our lives, for He alone is our loving King.

Verse from Romans

As far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18

Often, we can change distressing situations through kindness. Although our natural response might be to find fault and hold on to anger, the apostle Paul challenges us to let God’s goodness radiate through us, even when we feel it’s undeserved. Through the Holy Spirit’s power and with His wisdom, we can show kindness by being hospitable, thoughtful, and helpful (Romans 12:13-14).

Verse from Genesis

The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” Genesis 12:1

At that moment, there seemed little to look forward to; all Abram could see was a long, arduous journey through a foreign and inhospitable land where hardship and enemies awaited. The only assurance he had was God’s presence and promise of becoming “a great nation” (v. 2). Yet “Abram went, as the Lord had told him” (v. 4). Only many years later would he see the promises fulfilled.

Sometimes God may call us to a challenging job, ministry, or task that seems unrewarding. But, as He helps us to trust Him and step out in faith, He’ll always be there. As we get going, He goes with us.

Verse from 1 Chronicles

Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. 1 Chronicles 16:10

Evil is present. Those in power will disappoint us. But thankfully God never abandons His people, no matter how dark things appear. We see evidence of this in King David’s song of praise after the ark of the covenant was moved to Jerusalem. David exhorted his people to praise God, who “remembers His covenant forever” (1 Chronicles 16:15) and faithfully led them to the promised land (v. 18).

Despite threats from powerful enemy nations around Israel and grumbling and idolatry among its people, God “allowed no one to oppress them” (v. 21). He guided the Israelites through the desert, displaying strength (v. 11), wonders and miracles (v. 12), and righteous judgments (v. 14). Because of God’s great love (v. 34), His people had hope for the future. The same is true today. We can trust that God won’t abandon us; He’s stronger than any evil we face.

Verse from Psalm

You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. Psalm 86:5

Whatever our age, there’s a tender heart of a child within each of us that aches to be seen, heard, and loved. But the psalmist David demonstrated how God delights in showing up for His children. David prayed with confidence in a love that never fails, forgets, or forsakes—the love of our heavenly Father. 

Confessing his need, David prayed with faith in God’s trustworthiness (Psalm 86:1-4). He declared that God is “forgiving and good, abounding in love” (v. 5). He sang, “When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me” (v. 7). David cried out with expectation because God had proven His faithfulness (v. 11).

Like David, we can trust our heavenly Father to show up because He promises to do so. We too can sing, “I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever” (v. 12). Why? Because God is incomparable; He alone is God (vv. 8, 10).

Verse from 2 Timothy

[God] has saved us and called us to a holy life . . . because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:9

In 2 Timothy, writing while “being chained like a criminal” (2:9), the apostle Paul expressed his deep gratitude to those who’d loved and cared for him (1:3-4, 16). He asked for Timothy to bring his “scrolls, especially the parchments” (4:13).

And he lifted up the greatest gift God has given—“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we’ve done but because of his own purpose and grace” (1:9). The grace revealed through Christ—who “destroyed death” and “brought life and immortality to light” (v. 10)—brought Paul peace and purpose even in his suffering.

Verse from Isaiah

I have summoned you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1

When Isaiah reminded the Israelites about God’s love for them, he said, “[God has] summoned you by name; you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1). The prophet was reminding the people of God’s covenant agreement with them formed with their forefather Abraham many years before (see Genesis 12:1-3). 

And even though the people may have felt abandoned during the time these words were spoken, Isaiah’s reminder showed that God knew their needs and was with them (Isaiah 43:2-5).

Similarly, those who believe in Jesus are known by God. John 10:3 says, “He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” We’re known by God when we seek to follow Him and follow His commands outlined for us in Scripture. We’re known and we’re loved. God sees us and knows us by name.