But if you do not obey the Lord, and if you rebel against his commands, his hand will be against you, as it was against your ancestors. – 1 Samuel 12:15
Israel gets the king they demanded. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
Israel was the only nation which did not have a king over them. They were a theocracy, where God was their Ruler and King. But the people wanted to be like the nations around them. God instructs Samuel and he anoints Saul as king over Israel.
Samuel gathered the people of Israel and gave his farewell speech. He reminded them how he had faithfully served the Lord and led the Israelites from his youth. He called them to testify against him, if in all these years he had been unfaithful in any way. The people were quick to affirm that Samuel had served faithfully and had not been dishonest.
Samuel recounts how the Lord had faithfully appointed leaders who had led the Israelites over the years. And how now, finally, gave them a king over them because of their insistence.
God had always answered their prayers and provided for them. Asking for a king was wrong and evil, in the sight of the Lord. Samuel proved it by praying and calling down thunder and rain on the harvest. The people realize they have sinned.
As God’s chosen people, we are called to trust and obey God, our King. To accept and yield to the Lord and His authority requires a trusting and submissive heart. Insisting on your own way is rebellion.
In what area of your life are you insisting on your own way today?
Forgive my rebellion, Lord, and help me submit to you, I pray.
Extended Reading — 1 Samuel 9-12
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