CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Samuel 12:23 As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. And I will continue to teach you the good and right way.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_samuel/12-23.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/09_1Sa_12_23.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Samuel 12:23 - Samuel's Farewell Address" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. And I will continue to teach you the good and right way." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_samuel/12-23.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_samuel/12-23.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/">1 Samuel</a> > <a href="/1_samuel/12.htm">Chapter 12</a> > Verse 23</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_samuel/12-22.htm" title="1 Samuel 12:22">◄</a> 1 Samuel 12:23 <a href="/1_samuel/12-24.htm" title="1 Samuel 12:24">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_samuel/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_samuel/12.htm">New International Version</a> As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> “As for me, I will certainly not sin against the LORD by ending my prayers for you. And I will continue to teach you what is good and right. <a href="/esv/1_samuel/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <a href="/bsb/1_samuel/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. And I will continue to teach you the good and right way. <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/12.htm">King James Bible</a> Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: <a href="/nkjv/1_samuel/12.htm">New King James Version</a> Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way. <a href="/nasb_/1_samuel/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Furthermore, as for me, far be it from me that I would sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> &#8220Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. <a href="/nasb77/1_samuel/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. <a href="/lsb/1_samuel/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and upright way. <a href="/amp/1_samuel/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way. <a href="/csb/1_samuel/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> “As for me, I vow that I will not sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. I will teach you the good and right way. <a href="/hcsb/1_samuel/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> &#8220As for me, I vow that I will not sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. I will teach you the good and right way. <a href="/asv/1_samuel/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against Jehovah in ceasing to pray for you: but I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <a href="/cev/1_samuel/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I would be disobeying the LORD if I stopped praying for you! I will always teach you how to live right. <a href="/erv/1_samuel/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <a href="/gwt/1_samuel/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> It would be unthinkable for me to sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. I will go on teaching you the way that is good and right. <a href="/gnt/1_samuel/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> As for me, the LORD forbid that I should sin against him by no longer praying for you. Instead, I will teach you what is good and right for you to do. <a href="/isv/1_samuel/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> Now as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. I'll also instruct you in the way that is good and right. <a href="/msb/1_samuel/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. And I will continue to teach you the good and right way. <a href="/net/1_samuel/12.htm">NET Bible</a> As far as I am concerned, far be it from me to sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you! I will instruct you in the way that is good and upright. <a href="/nheb/1_samuel/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <a href="/wbt/1_samuel/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Moreover as for me, Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: <a href="/web/1_samuel/12.htm">World English Bible</a> Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against Yahweh in ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_samuel/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> I, also, far be it from me to sin against YHWH, by ceasing to pray for you, and I have directed you in the good and upright way; <a href="/ylt/1_samuel/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> 'I, also, far be it from me to sin against Jehovah, by ceasing to pray for you, and I have directed you in the good and upright way; <a href="/slt/1_samuel/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Also I, far be it to me sinning against Jehovah ceasing to pray for you: and I taught you in the good and straight way.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_samuel/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And far from me be this sin against the Lord, that I should cease to pray for you, and I will teach you the good and right way. <a href="/cpdv/1_samuel/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> So then, far be it from me, this sin against the Lord, that I would cease to pray for you. And so, I will teach you the good and upright way. <a href="/nabre/1_samuel/12.htm">New American Bible</a> As for me, far be it from me to sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you and to teach you the good and right way. <a href="/nrsvce/1_samuel/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you; and I will instruct you in the good and the right way.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_samuel/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way; <a href="/hpbt/1_samuel/12.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And I, God forbid me that I would sin against LORD JEHOVAH and I would not pray for you, and I shall teach you the good way and uprightness<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/1_samuel/12.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and the right way. <a href="/sep/1_samuel/12.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And far be it from me to sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will serve the Lord, and shew you the good and the right way. <a href="/parallel/1_samuel/12-23.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H8oQfYUMRZg?start=3085" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_samuel/12.htm">Samuel's Farewell Address</a> …22Indeed, for the sake of His great name, the LORD will not abandon His people, because He was pleased to make you His own. 23<a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: gam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">As for</a> <a href="/hebrew/595.htm" title="595: ’ā·nō·ḵî (Pro-1cs) -- I. Sometimes; a primitive pro. I.">me,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2486.htm" title="2486: ḥā·lî·lāh (Interjection:: 3fs) -- Far be it! Or chalilah; a directive from chalal; literal for a profaned thing; used Far be it!">far be it from me</a> <a href="/hebrew/lî (Prep:: 1cs) -- ">that I</a> <a href="/hebrew/2398.htm" title="2398: mê·ḥă·ṭō (Prep-m:: V-Qal-Inf) -- A primitive root; properly, to miss; hence to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, lead astray, condemn.">should sin</a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">against the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/2308.htm" title="2308: mê·ḥă·ḏōl (Prep-m:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To cease. A primitive root; properly, to be flabby, i.e. desist; be lacking or idle.">by ceasing</a> <a href="/hebrew/6419.htm" title="6419: lə·hiṯ·pal·lêl (Prep-l:: V-Hitpael-Inf) -- To intervene, interpose. A primitive root; to judge; by extension, to intercede, pray.">to pray</a> <a href="/hebrew/1157.htm" title="1157: ba·‘aḏ·ḵem (Prep:: 2mp) -- From ad with prepositional prefix; in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc.">for you.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3384.htm" title="3384: wə·hō·w·rê·ṯî (Conj-w:: V-Hifil-ConjPerf-1cs) -- Or yara; a primitive root; properly, to flow as water; transitively, to lay or throw; figuratively, to point out, to teach.">And I will continue to teach</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ·ḵem (DirObjM:: 2mp) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self.">you</a> <a href="/hebrew/2896.htm" title="2896: haṭ·ṭō·w·ḇāh (Art:: N-fs) -- Pleasant, agreeable, good.">the good</a> <a href="/hebrew/3477.htm" title="3477: wə·hay·šā·rāh (Conj-w, Art:: Adj-fs) -- Straight, right. From yashar; straight.">and right</a> <a href="/hebrew/1870.htm" title="1870: bə·ḏe·reḵ (Prep-b:: N-csc) -- Way, road, distance, journey, manner. From darak; a road; figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb.">way.</a> 24Above all, fear the LORD and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/james/5-16.htm">James 5:16</a> Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. <a href="/philippians/1-4.htm">Philippians 1:4</a> In every prayer for all of you, I always pray with joy, <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Colossians 1:9</a> For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Ephesians 6:18</a> Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints. <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:17</a> Pray without ceasing. <a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9</a> God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-11.htm">2 Thessalonians 1:11</a> To this end, we always pray for you, that our God will count you worthy of His calling, and that He will powerfully fulfill your every good desire and work of faith, <a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">1 Timothy 2:1</a> First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— <a href="/acts/12-5.htm">Acts 12:5</a> So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him. <a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Luke 18:1</a> Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart: <a href="/jeremiah/29-7.htm">Jeremiah 29:7</a> Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” <a href="/isaiah/62-6.htm">Isaiah 62:6-7</a> On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD shall take no rest for yourselves, / nor give Him any rest until He establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth. <a href="/ezekiel/22-30.htm">Ezekiel 22:30</a> I searched for a man among them to repair the wall and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, so that I should not destroy it. But I found no one. <a href="/job/42-8.htm">Job 42:8</a> So now, take seven bulls and seven rams, go to My servant Job, and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. Then My servant Job will pray for you, for I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly. For you have not spoken accurately about Me, as My servant Job has.” <a href="/genesis/18-23.htm">Genesis 18:23-33</a> Abraham stepped forward and said, “Will You really sweep away the righteous with the wicked? / What if there are fifty righteous ones in the city? Will You really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous ones who are there? / Far be it from You to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Will not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?” ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:God forbid<a href="/acts/12-5.htm">Acts 12:5</a> Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.<a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9</a> For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;<a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Colossians 1:9</a> For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;in ceasing [heb] from ceasing <a href="/psalms/34-11.htm">Psalm 34:11</a> Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.<a href="/proverbs/4-11.htm">Proverbs 4:11</a> I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.<a href="/ecclesiastes/12-10.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:10</a> The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.the good<a href="/1_kings/8-36.htm">1 Kings 8:36</a> Then hear thou in heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, that thou teach them the good way wherein they should walk, and give rain upon thy land, which thou hast given to thy people for an inheritance.<a href="/2_chronicles/6-27.htm">2 Chronicles 6:27</a> Then hear thou from heaven, and forgive the sin of thy servants, and of thy people Israel, when thou hast taught them the good way, wherein they should walk; and send rain upon thy land, which thou hast given unto thy people for an inheritance.<a href="/jeremiah/6-16.htm">Jeremiah 6:16</a> Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_timothy/1-3.htm">Ceasing</a> <a href="/joshua/11-9.htm">Directed</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/24-8.htm">Instruct</a> <a href="/1_samuel/2-19.htm">Moreover</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-15.htm">Orders</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-8.htm">Prayers</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-21.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-17.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/judges/13-8.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/1_samuel/8-3.htm">Upright</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-21.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/esther/2-1.htm">Ceasing</a> <a href="/1_samuel/17-20.htm">Directed</a> <a href="/nehemiah/9-20.htm">Instruct</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-21.htm">Moreover</a> <a href="/1_samuel/13-14.htm">Orders</a> <a href="/1_kings/8-30.htm">Prayers</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-13.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-33.htm">Sin</a> <a href="/1_samuel/14-12.htm">Teach</a> <a href="/1_samuel/29-6.htm">Upright</a> <a href="/1_samuel/13-14.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">1 Samuel 12</div>1. <a href="/1_samuel/12-1.htm">Samuel testifies his integrity</a> 6. <a href="/1_samuel/12-6.htm">He reproves the people of ingratitude</a> 16. <a href="/1_samuel/12-16.htm">He terrifies them with thunder in harvest time</a> 20. <a href="/1_samuel/12-20.htm">he comforts them in God's mercy</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/12.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_samuel/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_samuel/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>As for me, This phrase indicates a personal commitment and responsibility. Samuel, as a prophet and judge, distinguishes his role from that of the people. His leadership is not just political but deeply spiritual, emphasizing his personal dedication to God and the people of Israel.far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD Samuel acknowledges that failing to fulfill his duties would be a sin against God. This reflects the biblical principle that leaders are accountable to God for their actions (<a href="/james/3.htm">James 3:1</a>). It underscores the seriousness of spiritual leadership and the moral obligation to remain faithful to God's calling.by ceasing to pray for you. Prayer is seen as an essential duty of spiritual leaders. Samuel's commitment to intercession highlights the importance of prayer in maintaining a relationship with God and seeking His guidance and mercy for the people. This is consistent with the New Testament teaching on the priesthood of all believers and the call to pray for one another (<a href="/1_timothy/2.htm">1 Timothy 2:1</a>).And I will continue to teach you Samuel's role as a teacher is crucial. Teaching the people the ways of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, seen in the roles of Moses, the prophets, and ultimately Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate teacher (<a href="/matthew/28-20.htm">Matthew 28:20</a>). This reflects the ongoing need for spiritual instruction and guidance.the good and right way. This phrase emphasizes moral and ethical instruction according to God's standards. The "good and right way" is a recurring theme in Scripture, pointing to the path of righteousness and obedience to God's commandments (<a href="/deuteronomy/6-18.htm">Deuteronomy 6:18</a>). It foreshadows the teachings of Jesus, who declared Himself the way, the truth, and the life (<a href="/john/14-6.htm">John 14:6</a>), and calls believers to follow His example.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/s/samuel.htm">Samuel</a> The last judge of Israel, a prophet, and a leader who anointed the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. In this passage, Samuel addresses the Israelites, emphasizing his commitment to intercede for them and guide them in God's ways. 2. <a href="/topical/i/israelites.htm">Israelites</a> The people of Israel, who demanded a king to lead them like other nations. This request led to the anointing of Saul as their first king, marking a significant transition in their governance. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD</a> The covenant God of Israel, who has been faithful to His people despite their repeated disobedience and desire for a human king. 4. <a href="/topical/p/prayer.htm">Prayer</a> A central theme in this verse, highlighting the importance of intercession and communication with God. 5. <a href="/topical/t/teaching.htm">Teaching</a> Samuel's role as a spiritual leader includes instructing the Israelites in the ways of the LORD, ensuring they follow the path of righteousness.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_intercessory_prayer.htm">The Importance of Intercessory Prayer</a> Samuel's commitment to pray for the Israelites underscores the vital role of intercessory prayer in the life of a believer. We are called to pray for others, lifting their needs before God. <a href="/topical/p/prayer_as_a_duty_and_privilege.htm">Prayer as a Duty and Privilege</a> Samuel views ceasing to pray as a sin against the LORD, highlighting that prayer is both a duty and a privilege for believers. It is an essential part of our relationship with God. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_spiritual_leadership.htm">The Role of Spiritual Leadership</a> Samuel's dedication to teaching the Israelites the "good and right way" serves as a model for spiritual leaders today. Leaders are called to instruct and guide others in accordance with God's Word. <a href="/topical/f/faithfulness_in_ministry.htm">Faithfulness in Ministry</a> Samuel's unwavering commitment to his responsibilities, despite the Israelites' demand for a king, teaches us about faithfulness in our own ministries and callings. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_righteous_living.htm">The Power of Righteous Living</a> Samuel's life exemplifies the impact of living righteously and the influence it can have on others. Our actions and prayers can lead others toward God's path.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_samuel_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 12</a> <a href="/q/why_stress_over_tomorrow_today.htm">What happens to young children after they die?</a> <a href="/q/how_verify_1_sam_12_19_repentance.htm">How could the people's immediate repentance in 1 Samuel 12:19 be verified historically or culturally?</a> <a href="/q/why_promise_restoration_if_judgment_remains.htm">Why does Solomon's prayer in 1 Kings 8:33-34 promise national restoration to Israel if they repent, when other biblical passages suggest God's judgment can remain despite repentance?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'incline_your_ear'_mean.htm">Should we escape to the mountains for safety?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_samuel/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(23) Moreover, as for me.--"In this he sets a glorious example to all rulers, showing them that they should not be led astray by the ingratitude of their subordinates or subjects; and give up on that account all interest in their welfare, but should rather persevere all the more in their anxiety for them."--Berleb. Bible, quoted in Lange. Moses and Samuel, wrote S. Gregory, are especially brought forward by the Prophet Jeremiah (<a href="/jeremiah/15-1.htm" title="Then said the LORD to me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, yet my mind could not be toward this people: cast them out of my sight, and let them go forth.">Jeremiah 15:1</a>) as having extraordinary power with Him, and why? because they prayed for their enemies. Samuel's impassioned answer when the Elders asked his prayers, "Pray for you!" God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you.I will teach you.--The old man felt that in the future, although his powers as Judge were not abrogated yet, there would be, comparatively speaking, save on special occasions, but little opportunity for their exercise. In the presence of the regular authority of a king surrounded by armed men, such authority as he had wielded as Judge over the hearts of Israel must fall into abeyance.But one, and that a still higher office, still remained to him untouched by the great constitutional change that had passed over Israel--that of prophet. In this sphere, while he lived, he said he would work ceaselessly on; and the words he used on this solemn occasion tell out to all ages that the true function of the prophet or the preacher of the Eternal is to teach the people the good and the right way; and Samuel's own life of brave self-denial and noble self-effacement showed men that this teaching must be pressed home by something more than mere words. "Only a Samuel could thus quit office, proudly challenging all to convict him of one single injustice in his past career; and by the act of resignation gaining, not losing, greatness. No longer judge and ruler, but simple prophet, he is able now to discourse with greater freedom of the monarchy about to be introduced, and he seizes the moment to cast a more distant glance into all the past and future of the community."--Ewald: History of Israel, Book III., 1-3.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_samuel/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 23. - God forbid, Hebrew, "Far be it from me." That I should sin... in ceasing to pray for you. In no character of the Old Testament does this duty of intercessory prayer stand forward so prominently as in Samuel (see ver. 19); nor does he rest content with this, but adds, I will teach you the good and the right way. This was a far higher office than that of ruler; and not only was Samuel earnest in discharging this prophetic office of teaching, but he made provision for a supply of teachers and preachers for all future time by founding the schools of the prophets. <a href="/commentaries/1_samuel/12-23.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>As for גַּ֣ם (gam) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and me, אָנֹכִ֗י (’ā·nō·ḵî) Pronoun - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_595.htm">Strong's 595: </a> I far be it from me חָלִ֤ילָה (ḥā·lî·lāh) Interjection | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2486.htm">Strong's 2486: </a> For, a profaned thing, far be it! that I לִּי֙ (lî) Preposition | first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> should sin מֵחֲטֹ֣א (mê·ḥă·ṭō) Preposition-m | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2398.htm">Strong's 2398: </a> To miss, to sin, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, lead astray, condemn against the LORD לַֽיהוָ֔ה (Yah·weh) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel by ceasing מֵחֲדֹ֖ל (mê·ḥă·ḏōl) Preposition-m | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2308.htm">Strong's 2308: </a> To be flabby, desist, be lacking, idle to pray לְהִתְפַּלֵּ֣ל (lə·hiṯ·pal·lêl) Preposition-l | Verb - Hitpael - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6419.htm">Strong's 6419: </a> To judge, to intercede, pray for you. בַּעַדְכֶ֑ם (ba·‘aḏ·ḵem) Preposition | second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1157.htm">Strong's 1157: </a> In up to, over against, at, beside, among, behind, for And I will continue to teach וְהוֹרֵיתִ֣י (wə·hō·w·rê·ṯî) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3384.htm">Strong's 3384: </a> To flow as water, to lay, throw, to point out, to teach you אֶתְכֶ֔ם (’eṯ·ḵem) Direct object marker | second person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_853.htm">Strong's 853: </a> Untranslatable mark of the accusative case the good הַטּוֹבָ֖ה (haṭ·ṭō·w·ḇāh) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2896.htm">Strong's 2896: </a> Pleasant, agreeable, good and right וְהַיְשָׁרָֽה׃ (wə·hay·šā·rāh) Conjunctive waw, Article | Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3477.htm">Strong's 3477: </a> Straight, right way. בְּדֶ֥רֶךְ (bə·ḏe·reḵ) Preposition-b | Noun - common singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1870.htm">Strong's 1870: </a> A road, a course of life, mode of action <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_samuel/12-23.htm">1 Samuel 12:23 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_samuel/12-23.htm">OT History: 1 Samuel 12:23 Moreover as for me far be it (1Sa iSam 1 Sam i sa) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_samuel/12-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Samuel 12:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 12:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_samuel/12-24.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Samuel 12:24"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Samuel 12:24" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>