Bible Text: 1 Samuel 4 | Preacher: Rev. Dr. Lou Saldiveri | Series: Sunday Morning Worship | Intro: If Christ followers are not careful in their personal relationship with God, we can be in danger falling into the trap of the routine. If you and I continue to be careless in our relationship God, it can erode further into a religion of convenience.

This passage in 1 Samuel 4 illustrates the dangers that can happen if we become careless in our relationship with God.

Let me put this passage in context. First of all, God’s Word will always be true and come to pass. God was now working through Samuel. Through the prophet, the people heard God’s Word for the first time in a long time. Then, God allowed a test of Israel’s faith when the enemy attacked. Isn’t that a pattern that seems to happen even to us? So, how will we do when our test comes?

Here are some of the warning signs that indicate we are becoming careless in our relationship with God.

1. Our Prayer Becomes Almost Non-existent
2. We Neglect Reading and Hearing God’s Word
3. God Becomes a Good Luck Charm
4. We Invite God’s Discipline

Closing:
So, what can you and I learn from this? First, you and I need to continue to cultivate our relationship with Jesus. We need to spend time with Him in His presence. Second, we need to study His Word and ask the Holy Spirit to help us obey. Third, we need to understand that God desires us to freely love Him and trust Him. Last, God’s discipline is+ meant to get our attention so we repent and come back to Him. So, will we let the the Word of God and the Spirit of God speak into our lives the grace and love of Jesus Christ? You and I can recognize and avoid the trap of the rut of religion and cultivate a dynamic relationship with God.