As I read through the Books of Samuel in my devotions right now, I've noticed some preconceived thoughts that I've always had. For instance...I've always believed that Nathan was someone that Samuel mentored. There is no blatant scriptural evidence for this...but there is some indirect evidence. Allow me some room here...

1 Samuel 19:20 (paraphrasing)

"But when they saw a group of prophets prophesying, with Samuel standing there as their leader, the Spirit of God came upon Saul's men and they also prophesied."

Take the time to look it up. It's pretty awesome stuff. Samuel basically tackled the task of raising up young men to be holy, set-apart, and passionate men of God. You will find that this educational system went on long after Samuel passed away. I find it all fascinating.

Getting back on track...

So I don't know if Nathan actually attended the school, but you could easily see how I might draw that conclusion. Can you imagine any of that? You thought your first day of school made you nervous. How would you like to show up to "altar building 101" or "war winning" (which would be all about prayer) and see Samuel as the teacher. You would just about faint wouldn't you? I can't even fathom the pressure.

This leads me to my subject...Nathan. I don't know if he was a star pupil or remembered the most scripture. I don't know if he was teachers favorite or the guy that sat in the back of the room. But we do know that he was a man of great faith, prayer, wisdom, and had excellent of discernment in the political realm.

Samuel and Nathan are two guys with different approaches...yet have one common bond, their passion for God and their commitment to see His will manifested upon the earth. Samuel was for one era of ministry...Nathan was for another. In the days of Samuel a single direct prayer brought down the enemies of God. In the days of Nathan a long intercessory prayer praying wisdom upon the chosen kings of God brought success.

Can I stop here and make a statement? I feel like a Nathan.

That isn't a brag or a boast. Let me explain...

I feel as if I have served under and am right now serving under "Samuel's". I'm serious. The last pastor I served under, and the current pastor I'm serving, are both Samuel's. How does that make me feel? Like a Nathan. That is not a bad thing...it's just that there are just some big shoes to feel when these guys call it quits or even just step out of the office for a few days. Being next to guys like these makes me feel dry compared to their spiritual "wetness". I feel as if they have the type of prayer that doesn't hit the ground (like Samuel)...and my prayer is more a prayer for discernment and wisdom to get through the battle...

Just being transparent today...