When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. The Lord answered, “Listen to them and give them a king.” Then Samuel said to the Israelites, “Everyone go back to your own town.” 1^st Samuel 8:21-22 (NIV)

A New King in Town

There is much historical background in these books of the Bible. For brevity, I will encapsulate the story to just the essential context. I encourage you to read the books of First and Second Samuel for yourself. It is both an enlightening and encouraging read in God’s imminence (presence and work) among His people.

The people of Israel wanted to be like the other nations (v 8:5). It was not God’s will for His people to have a king, but He gave them what they wanted in Saul, the son of Kish.

Saul was everything we find attractive in physical looks and power. He was tall, extremely handsome, and from a wealthy family (vv 9:1-2). In searching for some of his father’s donkeys that had strayed he was brought to Samuel. God had told Samuel the previous day about Saul and that he was His choice to be king. After telling Saul God had ordained him to be king Samuel anointed him with olive oil, kissed him in the middle eastern fashion and said, “Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?”

Saul was off to a good start as king. He demonstrated a willingness to follow God’s leading. He even opened himself to being used by the Holy Spirit and it changed him into a different person (vv 10:6,10). Then he demonstrated humility at his presentation to the nation by Samuel at Mizpah (vv 10:20-23). But, alas, as admirable as these traits were, they were not firmly set convictions and they did not last. Saul could have allowed his good start to carry him into a monarchy blessed and strengthened by the hand of the LORD. He began as a popular leader but because of a headstrong and disobedient heart, God would eventually give the kingdom to another.

A point I wish to leave you with is how the Israelites said they wanted a king “to be like the nations.” That can be a huge problem for us as believers when we look around and want to be like everybody else. God calls us to a different way of living, not just for our satisfaction but for His glory. He chose Israel as His own particular people to serve and represent Him to the nations, not to mimic them. He has chosen us in the same manner.

We have one King and Lord who is seated at the right hand of the Majesty on high (Hebrews 1:3), and His Majesty the King has called and ordained us to a higher calling, as a specially chosen royal priesthood (1^st Peter 2:9). In Christ, we have received His highest honor.

 People often become angry when discussing their opinions, but that is seldom the case with convictions. Let us hold to convictions of righteousness. Are your convictions anchored in the righteousness of Christ the King? What are yours and what will you do with them?

Ken