Give Them What They Want

“And when Samuel had heard all the words of the people, he repeated them in the ears of the Lord. And the Lord said to Samuel, “Obey their voice and make them a king.” (I Samuel 8:21-22a)

Did you ever have a friend who was just determined to make what you knew was a bad decision? You tried to warn him (you knew it would end badly), but ultimately, you could not stop him from doing what he was determined to do. This is exactly how God felt when the Israelites begged for a king, like the other nations. He knew that a human king would lead them into wars and enslave their children while taking their wealth for himself. God warned them. However, Israel would not listen to Him, and He instructed Samuel to give them what they wanted.

Similarly, God has given us His Word as a guide for living in this world. When we obey His commands, we show our love for Him (John 14:15) and we enjoy His presence in our lives (John 15:14). While this is no guarantee that everything we experience will be enjoyable, it is a reassurance to us that God is in control and working out His purpose in our lives (John 16:33; Romans 8:28).

However, when we sin, we are in effect telling God that we know better. If our sin persists, God will discipline us to correct us and bring us back (Hebrews 12:11). At some point, however, if warning and discipline fail to result in repentance, God could treat us as He did Israel, and leave us to our sin (I Corinthians 5:5). What a terrible place to be. Friends–heed God’s Word. Do not presume to tell Him what is best. Be obedient and let His Truth be your guide.

-Pastor Mike