1 Samuel 13-14

What God said to me – You will have battles throughout your life – maybe not physical battles, but battles none the less.  When the Philistines oppressed Israel they removed all the blacksmiths from Israel so they couldn’t make weapons to fight them.  Even though Israel was not properly armed they defeated the Philistines because I fought on their behalf.  The victory was theirs not because of their skill or the weapons they possessed, but because “I AM” their God.  When you face battles and various trials don’t be afraid that you are not equipped to handle them.  The weapons of your warfare are not physical or talents or abilities.  Your relationship with Me is what enables you to fight and win the battles you face.  That is why you must continually stay in My word and walk with Me.  “I AM” your strength and protector.  “I AM” your victory.

1 Samuel 4-8

What God said to me – My people want to be like the world and not like Me.  Israel was like that and My church has become like that.  There are very few of My children who are easily distinguished from the world.  They dress like them.  They act like them.  They talk like them.  You are in the world but not of the world.  You must act and live in such a way that you are easily distinguishable.  But you must not lord it over them and become proud and self-righteousness.  You must learn to see them as I see them.  You must learn to be kind yet stand strong.  You must learn to speak the truth in love.  You must learn to accept the sinner, but not the sin.  These things are not easy and you must walk closely with Me to learn how.  You must remain faithful to Me if you want to reach them because only I can change a heart and save a soul.