Day 101, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): 1Samuel 8:1–9:2
Wait—Count the Cost!
We want something just because all our neighbors or friends seem to have one. So, should we go ahead and buy it no matter what sacrifices we have to make? That is foolishness, but it is what many of us do. We are not satisfied with the good things God has already given, and so we purchase that much-desired item. Afterward, we find it does not make our lives any better, and in some cases, it makes it worse. That is called “buyer’s remorse.” Perhaps it is not a thing we desire but a new coach, manager, politician, pastor, or even a mate. The same principles apply. We must learn to count the cost of our decisions. It is best to wait on the LORD and not be hasty. God gives the best to those who wait on him.
In Samuel’s day, Israel has Judges to lead them. The Judges are their moral and military leaders. Israel, however, wants a king to lead them. What brings about Israel’s desire to have a king? When Samuel is old, his sons pervert justice and do not walk in his ways (1Samuel 8:1-5; 12:12 ). They would not be good Judges. Also, Nahash, king of the Ammonites, is on the verge of attacking the Israelites. They want a king to lead them into battle like all the other nations around them.
Samuel is displeased with their request and even takes it as a personal affront (1Samuel 8:6-9). God tells Samuel it is not him that the people are rejecting but the LORD. How does God feel about their rejection? If we could paraphrase God’s feelings and his words, they might sound like this: “After all that I have done for you—this is the thanks I get?”
Despite his feelings, the LORD instructs Samuel to give them a king. Instead of punishing Israel, God reserves judgment. He allows Israel to find out for herself that reliance on a human king will not make her happy. The LORD also permits her to have a self-seeking king like they are, so she will see her need for a true king, a king God prefers, a man after God’s own heart. Immediate solutions are not often the best solutions. It is good to wait on the LORD.
Later, in fulfillment of Moses' prophecy (Deuteronomy 18:15) and the promise to King David (2Samuel 7:16), Jesus will be Israel's king with an eternal reign (Isaiah 44:6; Zechariah 14:9; Revelation 1:5-6).
Permitting those who are stubborn the opportunity to try and fail may be the only way they can learn.
What would be the dangers of having a king?
- He might not follow the LORD and could be a tyrant. His natural heirs might not be better rulers than he is, so the influence of a bad king could last for many generations.
- There is danger in relying on the king and the strength of his military instead of the LORD.
- The king would exact heavy taxes and take the best of everything the people have.
- The king could lead the people into sin and unholy alliances, which would be the ruin of the nation.
People, and especially Christians, should count the cost before running ahead with their plans.
Although God is displeased with their request for a king, with foresight, he had given the Israelites directives to provide them the best chance for success when they asked for one (Deuteronomy 17:14-20). He gave strict regulations so each king might rely on the LORD, and his kingdom could endure.
Saul is the first king and is from the tribe of Benjamin. He is tall and impressive looking (1Samuel 9:1-2). Are these admirable characteristics of a king? The Israelites think so, but that shows how immature and rebellious they are. If they had waited, God would have given them, as their first king, a man after his own heart (David). Unfortunately, they first have to suffer the consequences of an insecure, self-willed leader. Will we trust in God or ourselves? Will we wait on God or run the risk of making poor choices and suffering for them?Focus Verse
Psalm 33:20 (NIV) “We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.”
Discussion
What can we learn from Israel wanting a king like the rest of the countries around them?
What should we do when pressed for immediate solutions?
How might we count the cost before we make decisions?
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Looking Ahead: Israel chooses Saul as their first king. He is tall and impressive looking but comes from a humble background. God is gracious to use Saul, however, because he is at first humble and dependent on the LORD. He is also Gracious to us but we need to accept Personal Responsibility for our actions for his grace to continue. Find out more in our Next Lesson.
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