The Last Meal of a Condemned Man by Pastor Jim Wilson

Even as an old man, Samuel was faithful and on a mission. He listened to the voice of God, just as the old priest told him to. Remember 1 Samuel 3:9–10? It says, “Therefore Eli said to Samuel, ‘Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.’ ‘So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ And Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant hears’” (ESV). Samuel knew well what he told Saul, “To obey is better than sacrifice.” His real contribution was not that he offered sacrifices to the Lord as a Priest, but that he obeyed God when he heard his voice. Foundational in the life of people who love God, love people, and make disciples is the willingness to obey God. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15 ESV).