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 buy it no matter what sacrifices we have to make? That's foolish, but it's what many of us do. We're not satisfied with the things God has already given, so we purchase that much-desired item. Afterward, we find it doesn't improve our lives, and sometimes, it makes it worse. That's called “buyer's remorse.”
Perhaps, it's not new clothing, a vehicle, or something else we desire but a new coach, manager, politician, pastor, or mate. The same principles apply. We must learn to count the cost of our decisions. It's best to wait on the LORD and not be hasty. God gives the best to those who wait on him.
The Cost of Rejecting God
In Samuel's day, Israel had Judges to lead them. The Judges were their moral and military leaders. However, in today's Bible reading Israel wants a king to go before them.
What brings about Israel's desire to have a king? When Samuel is old, his sons pervert justice and don't follow his example (1Samuel 8:1-5; 12:12). They wouldn't judge with integrity. Also, Nahash, king of the Ammonites, was on the verge of attacking Israel. The people want a king to lead them into battle like all the other nations around them. Their request displeases and offends Samuel (1Samuel 8:6-9).God tells Samuel it's 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?”
The Cost of Not Waiting on God
Even though Israel is rejecting her LORD, He instructs Samuel to give her a king. Instead of punishing Israel, God reserves judgment. He allows her to find out reliance on a crowned military leader won't make her happy. The LORD also permits her to have a self-seeking ruler like she is. Then, she will see her need to wait on God for the king he prefers. When the time is right, God will choose a man after his own heart.
Immediate solutions aren't often the best solutions. It's 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 with opportunities to fail may be the only way they can learn.
What would be the dangers of having a king?
• He mightn't follow the LORD and could be a tyrant. His natural heirs might be worse rulers than he. The influence of an evil king could last for many generations.
• There's 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. This could 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's 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 risk 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?
Write a private prayer response to today’s Bible study:
Please send your comments to me, Rod, the author
Looking Ahead: Israel chooses Saul as their first king. Saul is tall and impressive looking, but comes from a humble background. God is gracious to use him, 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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