Anointed: A Study in 1 SamuelSample

What does it say?

The nation of Israel rejected God’s leadership and asked for a king like other nations. Samuel warned the people of what a king would likely do.

What does it mean?

Samuel’s sons were given authority, and they took advantage of their position. This prompted the elders of Israel to ask for a king like other nations instead of trusting God to handle the situation. The problem with the elder's request issue was not wanting alternative leadership; Samuel's sons were wicked and perverted justice. Rather, they wanted to be "like all the nations." By doing so, they were rejecting their identity, their history, and God’s leadership. They didn’t trust God and wanted control to do what they believed was best. God warned the people that the cost of having a king would be great. Still, they chose to trust their own knowledge and understanding over God’s perfect wisdom.

How should I respond?

The great tragedy of 1 Samuel 8 is not that Israel wanted a king - Moses had made provisions for kingship in Deuteronomy 17:14-28. Rather, the tragedy was that Israel wanted to be like all the nations around them. In the same way, we too are often drawn to replicate the methods and actions of the world. Instead of being drawn to holiness, righteousness, and faithfulness to God, we slowly move towards temptation, sin, and idolatry. What situation or area of your life are you tempted to follow your own wisdom in instead of submitting to God? When are you drawn to replicate the worlds methods of manipulation and deception instead of demonstrating faithfulness and honesty? Determine today that you will not be like the other nations, but rather show and share the gospel of Jesus Christ in everything you do and say.