“The darkest hour is just before dawn.” I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase. I’m not sure if scientifically that’s true, but it holds a lot of water when it comes to God dealing with us.

The hour was very dark for Israel during the rule of the last of the judges. The priests themselves were corrupt extorting offerings and having illicit relations with women. They were so wicked God struck them dead. The ark of the covenant – the very thing that symbolized God – was captured by their enemies and taken from the temple of the Lord. (1 Sam 1-4)

But following this dark hour was the greatest era that Israel has ever known. King David and King Solomon come to the scene, and Israel experiences the greatest revival in spirituality, economy, influence and military power.

God did this by raising a few faithful people. The prophet Samuel was the start. And then the king David. Actually those two people made all the difference in getting Israel from its darkest hour to its brightest.

The hour is dark here in America. Do you see it? The glory of the Lord is departing from this once great country. This is visible even in the times I have been here (now 28 years…)

I’m praying for people like Samuel and David who do not mind being point persons. I’m praying for workers who will see the condition we are in and think “This cannot go on. Something must be done!” And I’m praying that people will follow people like that and support their leadership.

Would you be that leader? If not, would you follow such a leader?

PH