April 11th

1 Samuel 9:1-12:25

Samuel the prophet anointed Saul the first king of Israel, and, just like that, the Period of Judges ended and the United Kingdom or era of monarchy began. Of course, it was not quite that easy. The people weren’t sure if Saul was the right man for the job, until he led the army against the Ammonites and won a great victory. At that point, no one questioned his authority. They were ready to follow him no matter what.

Choosing a human king was a sin against God’s rule, for He was already King (12:12). After all that He had done for the people of Israel, to deliver them from bondage and from the hands of their enemies, to provide and protect them all these years, they rejected His reign, demanded He abdicate from His throne, and called for someone else to lead them. In essence, this ungrateful request was paramount to overthrowing the government; the people demanded that God be replaced with a ruler of their choosing.

All sins have consequences, and this sin, of rejecting God’s perfect rule to follow a fallen imperfect human ruler would have tremendous consequences. As the last judge and spiritual leader of the nation, Samuel rebuked them for their decision and unfaithfulness. “Have I ever cheated you?” he asked. “Have I ever oppressed you or taken a bribe? Tell me and I will right whatever wrong I’ve done” (12:3). Though it was Samuel asking these questions, he was doing so on behalf of the Lord. God’s leadership of the people had been flawless. The people were never treated unfairly; there was liberty, justice, and prosperity with Him on the throne.

The people acknowledged God’s sinless reign. Then Samuel reminded them “all of the great things that the Lord had done for them” (12:7). Samuel also warned them against a king’s abuses (8:10-22). Human rulers tend to enrich themselves at the people’s expense and, in time, enslave them to do their bidding. Oppression is the norm for human governments; the fallen nature of men cannot wield power without exercising it corruptly. Despite all the baggage that comes with a human king, it was the people’s choice “to be like all the nations,” so God gave them what they wanted.

Daily Reflection

It is so easy to judge others for their terrible decisions, when it seems so obvious to us that they are making a mistake. But, have you ever rejected God’s best to follow after your own desires? Sure you have, probably many times.

Why do you think that is? Why do you demand your way, when His way is so much better?

Unfortunately, there are times when God gives you what you ask for. Why would He do that?

When you get what you ask for, there is no room for complaining. You must live with the consequences. The people of Israel asked for a king and got one. We will see how that choice haunts them for generations to come.

BiAY.org | Day 101 — 264 Days to Go