By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture Reading: Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah, and said to him, “Look, you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now make us a king to judge us like all nations.” But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” So Samuel prayed to the Lord. 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. According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt, even to this day–with which they have forsaken Me and served other gods–so they are doing to you also. Now therefore, heed their voice. However, you shall solemnly forewarn them and show them the behavior of the king who will reign over them.” (Samuel 8:4-9).
Greetings to All!
Blessed be the name of our Eternal, Everlasting and Endless Savior, Jesus Christ-our true King, who reigns in righteousness and truth forever.
Our above-mentioned passage presents one of the most educational moments for those who seek leadership while rejecting God. Some people, when driven by personal desires and frustrations, can reject God s leadership in favor of human solutions. This particular account noted in the Bible offers undying lessons for us today, especially when we are choosing leaders, whether in politics, our communities, or within the church.
Understandably, as the prophet Samuel grew older, he appointed his sons Joel and Abijah as judges over Israel. However, unlike their father, they were corrupt. Dissatisfied by their behavior, the elders of Israel gathered and demanded that Samuel appoint a king to rule over them, like all the other nations. Samuel was grieved and turned to the Lord in prayer, and God s response was arresting. He said, They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.
This passage challenges us to think deeply about how we choose leadership today. Whether in government, organizations, or church settings, we often come with our own expectations, qualifications, and checklists. However, if we leave God out of the process, our decisions, even with good intentions, can lead us away from His will. Before we appoint or follow any leader, we must first seek the face of God.
Ultimately, Jesus Christ is our true and eternal King. He has provided everything for us, including His life, for our redemption. Unlike the kings of this world, who rule for power or gain, Jesus rules in love, justice, and truth. May we never trade His perfect leadership for flawed human rule. And may we always remember consulting God is essential when seeking leaders. This is the wise thing to do.
Jesus Saves!
