S ) "23 So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him."
1 Samuel 16:23 (NASB)
O) The Bible is clear, that God does not tempt anyone (see James 1:13). God does, however, discipline and test us. As much as we could be fearful about the implications that the Holy Spirit was removed from Saul, and God afflicted him with an evil spirit (see v.14), the verse above concludes that the LORD provided a balance. God made a way for Saul to find relief. Saul, if he would humble himself to get help from a man of God (i.e. David, playing his harp), then he would find relief from his affliction. The entire Bible is the story of reconciliation, the gospel of God providing a way to bring His creation back into fellowship with Him. This verse is another example that, even in His judgment, God still desires restoration.
A) There are promises made to me, as a follower of Christ. For example, the Bible makes it clear that God will never leave me or forsake me. It also promises that nothing can separate me from God's love. As long as I am following Christ, living a life of repentance submitted to God (that is, when I am in covenant with Him), then I am promised very many, sure, eternal promises. There was a time, though, when I was not submitted to Him. I had abandoned God with my actions, if not with my words or beliefs. I was not living a life of faith in Him. Even still, He was faithful to send a man of God my way. Through the prayers of many faithful brothers and sisters in Christ, I repented and came back to my Father as a prodigal son. I am forever thankful that He still sought me out for reconciliation.
P) Father, the faithfulness You displayed in my life is amazing grace. You never stopped pursuing me, even when I had forgotten You. I thought I didn't need You anymore, and I tried to walk away, but You were faithful in sending Your servants to minister to me, even when I didn't recognize or appreciate it. Thank You for that grace. Lord, let me also be obedient. Help me to be the tool in Your hand, the instrument that can play a love song, that might bring troubled people back to You. Father God, only a right relationship with You, can heal broken hearts and restore souls. Open blind eyes, and open deaf ears, and let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
Why was evil spirit from God removed from alot of translations?
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