In 1 Samuel 7 we see a positive turn of events. The Israelites, with the help of Samuel, their prophet/leader/judge, have become pious, seeing the error of their sinful ways, and wanting to follow in the proper way of the Lord. It shows all things are possible with God. And it also shows what a good spiritual leader looks/acts like. Samuel is a holy man, the likes of whom we haven't seen since Moses and Joshua. He is truly called by God. He is more than a judge, though we do see in Chapter 7 that as a judge he has done more to unify Israel than any judge before him. But he is more importantly a spiritual guide for the people. He is in some ways an oracle, a mouthpiece of God, who has been given a special role to redirect the people away from sinful idolatry and toward the way called for by God. We see this play out in Chapter 7 in which the Ark (after its time being disrespected in Bethsames) moves to Cariathiarim. Samuel then instructs the people in proper reverence and piety. They fast, pray, offer sacrifices. God is appeased. And we see this illustrated most powerfully by the Philistines being soundly defeated in battle and never again attacking the Israelites during Samuel's reign. The whole chapter leaves one feeling hopeful that the Israelites have finally figured it out. And it shows just how important it is that our spiritual leaders need to be close to God. Samuel isn't out to make nice with the Philistines or interpret God's plan in devious and perplexing ways. He lays it out straight, and what he calls for is the most orthodox and traditional practices going back to the very beginnings of the Mosaic Law, not some newfangled interpretations of that sacred covenant. Samuel is a true holy leader because what he wants is the people to be right with God. He cares nothing for what the Philistines are going to think, or other pagan nations. He is an example for us now more than ever. And the fruits of his labors? An Israel more united than ever. Instead of bringing division, as most inept rulers do, his message of piety and reverence brings a renewed sense of togetherness, which of course is what sets the stage for the national monarchy to follow.
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