December 13

“And the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them.” 1 Samuel 8:7 ESV

The people of Israel wanted a king. They told their prophet, Samuel, that they wanted him to appoint someone that would “judge us like all nations.” We see in Chapter 9 that they get Saul who was a man of good looks, tall stature, and from a wealthy family. He was just what the people wanted—but he was not what they needed.

By calling on Samuel to anoint a king as ruler, they were rejecting the kingship of God. They didn’t like Samuel’s sons as judges because of their corruption. Instead of asking for the removal of Joel and Abijah—and continuing with God’s plan for Israel— they ask for a ruler that will have even more power over them than the corrupt judges.

Samuel knows this is a terrible idea. He warns the people against kings. But Israel rejected the Lord. They forgot who had rescued them from Egypt. And even worse, they began worshipping other gods. Samuel’s warning fell on deaf ears and Israel was granted a king.

We shouldn’t be too quick to point a finger of judgment at the Israelites, however. First, we ought to examine our own lives. How often have we broken God’s commandments because we knew “better” or because “one time won’t hurt anything?” And how many times have we tried to make things work in our own strength with our own shortsighted plans? These deceptive thoughts are no different than the original sin of Adam and Eve who thought that by eating some fruit they would be as wise as God.

The good news is that nothing surprises our all-knowing LORD. His plans weren’t in shambles at this request of the Israelites. They are the ones who missed out on the fullness of his provision by choosing their own way. God still put David on the throne. Jesus still came from the lineage of Judah. No person or power will stop God’s plans from happening. Praise the LORD!

Prayer for today:

Heavenly Father, I thank you for your son, the King of kings and Lord of lords. I repent of the times I have broken your commandments. I ask the Holy Spirit to help me when I want to do what is easier, instead of what is holy. Help me receive the King this Advent and everyday. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.