1 Samuel 7

Theme of chapter: The Ark was back in Israel's hands 20 years, before they repented to the Lord for their idolatry. During this time the Philistines beat them repeatedly in battles and were set to destroy them. Only when they turn back to God, does God save them. He hears the prayers and sacrifice of Samuel and answers them.

Most important verse: 1 Samuel 7:3 And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.

Most prominent word: Ebenezer (stone of help)

Teaching about Christ: God is a jealous God.

Command to obey: do not trust in the things of this world, trust in Christ.

Promise to claim: There is safety in the will of God.

New truth learned: The people of Israel continue their vicious cycle of idolatry, judgement with defeat and destruction, and then finally coming back to God. They seem to repeat this all through the old testament.