The Book of 1 Samuel opens with Samuel’s story. From boy to leader, he would go on to witness both good and bad times. In that way, it’s not a story unlike yours. The people he is around during his lifetime make good and bad choices which are not unlike you.
To Think About:
- Read 1 Samuel 8:1-5. While God had been using judges to lead Israel, the people wanted a king. What was their reasoning? Were their reasons legitimate or not? Why do you answer the way you do?
- Read 1 Samuel 8:6-9. Samuel prayed, and God listened. That alone should have taught the people something about both Samuel and God. What does it teach you?
- Samuel went on to explain what all a king would take from the people. Even so, they persisted in their cry for a king. Read 1 Samuel 8:19-21. After all God had done for them over the years, they still wanted more than that. Ultimately, they wanted it their way. And God gave them their way. How do you balance praying for what you want, yet continue to be mindful of what God wants?
- Israel’s first king, Saul, was given specific instructions by Samuel. Read 1 Samuel 15:1-3. Saul’s response was not obedience. Read verses 7-9. This would lead to the end of Saul’s 42-year reign (13:1). Why would disobedience, great or small, be problematic for someone whom God chose to lead others? Who are the people you lead?
To Live Out:
Get a piece of paper or the Notes app on your phone. Take 2-3 minutes and list the ways God has done something for you. It can be what he’s given you (like life) or what he’s saved you from. What’s he healed or even what he helped.
To Pray About:
- After making your list, thank God for all he has done for you.
- Seek forgiveness from God for the times you thought another way would be better than his way. If you’ve looked for another “king” in your life, honestly tell him why you didn’t (or don’t) want to do what God indicated.
- Praise God, using words, lyrics, or whatever your hands find to do so that he will know you love him and his ways.
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