“Return to the Lord and Be Restored”
Full repentance brings restoration, victory, and peace.
Step 1: Read the Chapter Slowly
Visualize Israel gathering at Mizpah, praying, and laying aside idols.
Notice how prayer and repentance come before the victory.
Section 1: Repentance and Renewal (Verses 1–6)
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 7:3
Israel laments for 20 years and Samuel calls for full surrender.
They fast, confess sins, and pour water out before the Lord.
Reflection Question:
What idol or distraction do I need to remove to return to God fully?
Section 2: God Fights for His People (Verses 7–11)
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 7:10
Philistines attack, but Samuel intercedes and God responds with thunder.
Israel wins because God fought for them.
Reflection Question:
How can I invite God into my battles instead of fighting in my own strength?
Section 3: Ebenezer – Remembering God’s Help (Verses 12–17)
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 7:12
Samuel sets a stone to remember God’s help: “Thus far the Lord has helped us.”
Memorials strengthen faith for future battles.
Reflection Question:
Where has God “helped me thus far,” and how can I mark that moment in gratitude?
Prayer Prompt:
Lord, I return to You with my whole heart. Remove every idol and distraction. Thank You for helping me thus far. I trust You to fight my battles and bring peace to every area of my life. Amen.
Journal Prompts:
Where in my life is God calling me to deeper consecration?
How can I practically remove “idols” (habits, distractions, or relationships)?
What spiritual “Ebenezer” can I set to remind myself of God’s faithfulness?
Which battle do I need to surrender to God today?
Key Takeaway:
Repentance restores, prayer wins battles, and remembering God’s help strengthens faith for the future.