1 Samuel 8:7: “And the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.’”

May 17th, 2023 by Pastor Ed in devotional

The people followed Samuel, but as he grew old, they began to desire a king so they could be like the nations around them. Since they demanded a human monarch instead of a God-appointed one, God directed Samuel to describe what the consequences of their demand would be. They would get what they deserved: a Saul instead of a David. Often the Lord disciplines His children by letting them have exactly what they demand, even when it isn’t the best thing for them.

Many have observed that we can choose our choices, but not the consequences of our choices. The Psalmist said, “And He gave them their request, But sent leanness into their soul” (Psalm 106:15). A famous pastor told of a time when, as a young boy, he found a big, black cigar. He slipped into an alley, and lit up. It didn’t taste good but it made him feel very grown up until, that is, he saw his father coming down the alley. Quickly he put the cigar behind his back and tried to be casual. Desperate to divert his dad’s attention, he pointed to a billboard advertising a circus. “Can I go, Dad? Please, let’s go when it comes to town.” His father’s reply taught him a lesson he never forgot. “Son,” he answered quietly but firmly, “never make a petition while at the same time trying to hide a smoldering disobedience.” This is one of the many reasons we are better off simply praying the Lord’s Prayer:

“LORD, let Thy will be done, and Thy kingdom come.”