Who's In Charge, Here?
6 But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to govern us." Samuel prayed to the LORD, 7 and the LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to 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. 8 Just as they have done to me, from the day I brought them up out of Egypt to this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so also they are doing to you. 9 Now then, listen to their voice; only--you shall solemnly warn them, and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them." 10 So Samuel reported all the words of the LORD to the people who were asking him for a king. (1 Samuel 8:6-10)
The people of God wanted a king. God had been their king, and had appointed judges - prophets, like Samuel - to handle disputes and be intermediaries between God and the people. God had brought the people out of slavery, fought for them in battles, and performed miracles and wonders that they never imagined they would see. But the people of God wanted a king. Perhaps seeing the corruption of Samuel's sons combined with the rose-colored view of other nations that had kings convinced the people that life would be more just and they would have greater security if they had God AND a king. So, even after Samuel told the people all of the hazards and pitfalls of serving a human king, the people were determined to have a king.
So often we have the same combination of ingratitude and distrust that the people of Israel displayed. We want what we want and we are convinced that if we get it - and only if we get it - we will be happier and life will be better. Like toddlers we rail against the loving nature of the One who has always provided for us. If only we could uncurl our fists, open our eyes and stop screaming, we would find that we are in the arms of the God who made us, who saves us, and from whom our desires and fears are no secret. In times of discontent, may we be reminded that we already have a king.
6 For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly; but the haughty he perceives from far away. 7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve me against the wrath of my enemies; you stretch out your hand, and your right hand delivers me. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. (Psalm 138:6-8)
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