The people didn’t just want a God, they wanted a King. Someone they could see, leading the way in battle, politics or diplomacy. The desire for a King may not be wrong in and of itself, per se. However, for God’s chosen people, the rationale behind it appears to dig their own graves. We are told that they wanted a King so that they could ‘be like all the nations’ around and that this King might ‘fight our battles.’

These people have been told and reminded time and time again that they are not called to be like other nations, they have been set apart and God alone will protect, defend and fight for them. Their ancestors saw it at the Red Sea, they saw it with Joshua and Gideon amongst others. And yet, this was not enough. Perhaps the other nations were recording more success under a Kingship with greater victories, greater wealth, greater prosperity and it was stirring up jealousy within God’s people.

Samuel warns them that this desire will not bring them true prosperity and fullness of life, but this does not waver their demands.

How often do we desire things whilst having no idea how messy the consequences might be if we actually got it! Much of it stems from not really trusting that God is in control.

The final verses of this chapter result in God’s people getting what they want, and yet it is undeniable that God is the one pulling the strings here… This King will never be able to truly take His place, no matter how hard the people try.

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Questions:

Have you ever had a prayer God has said ‘no’ to that you are able to look back on with thankfulness?

Prayer:

Father, thank you that you are the one we can rely on, help us to keep our eyes fixed on you before all other human leaders. Amen.