1 Samuel 12:24
ESV
Only fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.
NIV
But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.
NASB
Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
CSB
Above all, fear the Lord and worship him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things he has done for you.
NLT
But be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve him. Think of all the wonderful things he has done for you.
KJV
Only fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.
NKJV
Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
What does 1 Samuel 12:24 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on 1 Samuel chapter 12, verse-level content coming soon!First Samuel 12:20–25 concludes Samuel's speech declaring his transition out of the role of judge. Although the nation now has a king, their basic obligations towards the Lord have not changed. Samuel will still pray and teach the people—becoming the nation's last judge (Judges 2:16–19) and its first national prophet. Samuel warns that the people risk disaster if the nation fails to follow God.
Samuel gives a speech to the gathered people of Israel, including Saul, the new king. This marks the end of his time as judge over Israel (Judges 2:16–19). He establishes a legal declaration that he is innocent of any corruption. After summarizing God's faithfulness to Israel, Samuel demonstrates that it was wrong of the people to ask for a human king. Yet he assures them of the Lord's faithfulness. He tells them to follow the Lord or be swept away along with their king. Samuel also affirms that he will continue to pray for the people and instruct them in the ways of God.