So, You Want a King

Passage: 1 Samuel 8

After years of being without leadership and direction, the Israelites have had enough. They approach God’s prophet, Samuel. They say, “Hey, all the other nations have a king. We want one, too.” Samuel sighs. He knew this day was coming, but he hoped it wouldn’t happen in his lifetime. He consults God. God tells him, “Don’t take it so hard, Samuel. They’re not rejecting you. They’re rejecting me. Go ahead. Give them the king they’re asking for. But make sure they know what they’re getting themselves into.”

Samuel goes back to the people. He says, “Fine, you can have your king. But here’s what you can expect from him: he’ll take the best of your sons to be cannon fodder in your wars; he’ll add the best of your daughters to his harem; he’ll take the best of your land and your livestock; he’ll take ten percent of your livelihood to add to his coffers. You will look back and think about how easy you had it when the only one you answered to was God.” The people insist. So Samuel obliges; follows God’s lead; finds and anoints a king.

In short order Samuel’s predictions prove true. With the exception of very few, the kings of Israel use the throne to further their own ends. In no time they mislead God’s people, adopting the practices and the religion of their pagan counterparts. In no time the Israelites, who wanted what the other nations have, look just like any other nation. God gives his people what they’ve asked for. And they discovery that it’s misery.

Life without God is misery. God seems like a harsh ruler, but he’s nothing compared to a king. God’s people constantly look to others to fill the place only God should fill. We expect our human leaders to do for us what only God can. No person can save us. No person can guarantee us food on our tables or roofs over our heads or protection from the world’s evils. No person’s motives can be completely pure. We rail against our leaders for failing to do what only God can. As God’s people we need to stop looking for a king. We've already got one.