“Here I am; testify against me before the LORD … Whom have I defrauded? Whom have I oppressed, or from whose hand have I taken a bribe to close my eyes with it?” (1 Samuel 12:3)
Toward the end of his life, Samuel paused to reflect. He had been the leader of Israel, but that was about to change. Not only was he approaching death, but Israel was also getting a king.
It was an opportune moment for him to think about his own life, ministry, and legacy. He described his opposition to the decision to name a king but reminded the people that he had listened to their desires (v. 1).
He reminded everyone how he had lived among them. They knew him and everything he had done. Looking back, he could say he had a clean conscience and no regrets. And if he had done anything wrong, he was prepared to make it right.
His statement is like Paul’s thoughts as he approached the end of his life. He wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course” (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Just like Samuel, Paul had a clear conscience. He had served God faithfully and not left anything undone.
Think about your life. What kind of legacy are you leaving? When I officiate at a graveside service I point out grave markers around us which have the name and birth and death date. I comment that our names are known to God and that we are living between our birth and ending time. I ask people to think, what resources has God given you? Have you completed all the assignments He has given you? Do you have a clear conscience?
Ask God to help you live with no regrets. Do the things He has called you to do. Mend any broken relationships. Seek forgiveness if necessary. Live with a clear conscience. Leave nothing undone.
Prayer
Father, search my heart. Reveal anything that is not pleasing to You. Help me to be a clean and pure vessel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
