Ichabod

“She named the boy Ichabod, saying, “The glory has departed from Israel”-because of the capture of the ark of God and the deaths of her father-in-law and her husband.” 1 Samuel 4:21

The story of Eli and his two sons— Hophni and Phinehas is very interesting because it teaches not only about proper parenting but equally the need to separate the chaff from the wheat.

Eli lacked the ‘strong’ paternal ability to discipline his sons. Hophni and Phinehas were priests and they supposed to follow the footstep of their father by obeying God but they rebelled. They collected briberies, committed lots of atrocities and deliberately sins against God.

When people get to the point where God is not their priority then these people have lot the touch and the glory of God in their lives. And where the glory of God is missing, there will be no peace.

God replaced Eli by anointing Samuel as the priest and this He (God) did long before the war that took Eli and his sons. Even God warned Eli through Samuel’s prophecy but Eli did nothing to avert the danger ahead. He just told Samuel that God is God and let Him (God) do as He said (1 Samuel 3:18).

Eli and his sons died the same day at war not just because they lost but also because they paid for their sins. Eli paid because the ark of God was captured at war and because he did not control his sons, and their debaucheries.

Phinehas’ wife died as she gave birth out of pain and loss of her husband, and she named the child Ichabod. This woman should not have died. There is nowhere mentioned that she too sins but then when a family is paying for their sins, the innocent ones would pay too.

The Glory of God is very needful in the life of every Christian. It protects, provides and uplifts. This is why YOU as God’s child need to be careful the way you are with God. Avoid messing up your life as if God is nothing. Follow His instruction. Obey Him. Live your life for Him and let Him the Lord of your life.

May His Glory not depart from you in Jesus name, amen.

Peace!