Definition: For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part [is] that goeth down to the battle, so [shall] his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 30:24. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex passage about leadership and God's plan. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse describes a situation where God is setting a challenge for Samuel, the prophet, and he’s essentially being told to actively engage in a difficult and potentially dangerous task – a battle. But there's a crucial catch: God has given him a specific role that demands he stay focused on the battle itself, rather than focusing on the outcome or the results. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For who will hearken unto you in this matter?” – This is asking a question: "Will anyone listen to your instructions?" It’s implying that Samuel is facing a significant challenge and needs someone to follow his lead. “…but as his part [is] that goeth down to the battle, so [shall] his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff.” – This is where it gets more complex. Let's break it down: “His part”: This refers to Samuel’s specific role and responsibility within the larger context of God's plan. It's his duty, his job. “Goeth down to the battle”: This means he must be present and involved in a significant struggle – a battle, perhaps a conflict with enemies. It’s a demanding task. “So his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff.” – This is the key phrase. It means that Samuel must remain focused on the details of the battle itself . He shouldn't be thinking about the bigger picture, the victory or defeat, or how it will all play out. He has to concentrate solely on what’s happening right now in the battle – the actions, the strategies, the challenges. It’s about being present and attentive. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is a reminder that God doesn't just give us instructions; He also gives us specific roles and responsibilities. It speaks to the idea of active participation in God’s plans. Samuel needs to be fully present, focused on the immediate task at hand – the battle itself – rather than getting lost in thoughts about what might happen later. Why is this important? This verse highlights a few key themes: God's Sovereignty: God controls everything, but He doesn’t want us to be distracted by our own desires or ambitions. Responsibility: We are entrusted with specific duties and must fulfill them fully. Present Moment Focus: It emphasizes the importance of being fully engaged in what is happening right now . In short, this verse encourages Samuel to remain steadfast and focused on the immediate challenge – the battle itself – rather than getting lost in thinking about future outcomes. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Give you a real-world example of how this principle applies?