SCRIPTURE:
6 But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. 7 And the LORD told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.
1 Samuel 8: 6, 7
OBSERVATION:
Israel forgot that they were a people called His own by the greatest King of all, God Himself. So, they go ahead and beg Samuel to provide for them a King. Instead of cherishing their place as a people chosen by God to be called His own, they wanted to be like everyone else, common. They were set apart by the King of the universe, yet they still desired to be ruled by a man.
When I look at some of the reasons behind Israel’s request I can sympathize. Samuel’s sons were blowing it and the people probably were getting a little nervous for what the future held with these two chumps leading the way. They probably saw prosperity happening around them, other nations doing well under their kings.
What they failed to remember though is the promise of God to care for His people. They forgot about their true King who brought them out of Egypt and continually and consistently cared for His people.
APPLICATION:
At times it’s easy to forget whom I really serve. There are assignments given, requests made, vision casts, etc., and while they’re all good and all worthy of following, the real is that Jesus is King, Jesus is the reason and Jesus is the motivation. The assignments are to bring Him fame, the requests are to bring Him glory, the vision is His Holy Spirit alive in His people.
I can quickly get caught up in desiring a Saul to represent and lead me, waiting for his inspiring words before moving. I at times can forget my heritage and desire someone to “rule” over my life. And while I believe in those God has placed in authority over me and cherish the honor to be led by humble men and women of God, I also believe that the King of kings rules my life and can speak to me directly. Yes, He has placed people in authority and my rightful response is obedience and honor, but I need to remember not to be quick in crowning these as kings over the King of kings in my life.
PRAYER:
Jesus, You are King. Because of this I find confidence in who You’ve called me to be and what You’ve called me to. I surrender and allow Your spirit to move me, to guide and direct my steps. I acknowledge You as King and place my hope I You. Amen
