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Trusting God as Our True King

1 Samuel 8-11

The elders of Israel approach Samuel, demanding a king to rule over them like other nations. Despite God’s faithfulness, they reject His leadership, desiring a human ruler. God warns them through Samuel about the consequences: a king will take their sons for war, their daughters for service, and their wealth for his own gain. Yet, they persist in their request. This chapter warns us against desiring worldly solutions over God's perfect plan. When we place our trust in human leadership rather than God’s sovereignty, we invite unnecessary hardship.

Saul, a tall and impressive man from the tribe of Benjamin, is searching for lost donkeys when he unknowingly walks into his divine calling. God directs Samuel to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel. Despite Saul’s outward appearance of strength, he initially lacks confidence in his calling. This chapter reminds us that God is in control, even in seemingly ordinary circumstances. He orchestrates events to fulfill His purposes, often using unexpected people for His plans.

Samuel anoints Saul and gives him signs to confirm his divine appointment. As the Spirit of God comes upon him, Saul prophesies, demonstrating that God is equipping him for leadership. However, when it is time for him to be publicly chosen, he hides among the baggage, displaying his insecurity. The people rejoice in their new king, but his hesitant start foreshadows future struggles. This chapter teaches us that when God calls, He also equips, but we must step forward in faith rather than shrink back in fear.

Saul’s leadership is put to the test when the Ammonites threaten Jabesh-Gilead. Moved by the Spirit of God, Saul unites Israel to fight and secures a great victory. Afterward, Samuel leads the people in reaffirming Saul’s kingship. This moment of triumph shows that when God’s Spirit empowers someone, they can overcome great obstacles. However, lasting success depends on continued reliance on God, not just a single victory.

These chapters reveal the tension between human desires and God’s perfect will. Israel’s demand for a king reflected their misplaced trust, yet God used even their flawed request for His purposes. Saul’s journey from obscurity to leadership reminds us that God calls and equips those He chooses. However, reliance on the Spirit, not personal ability, determines success. True kingship belongs to God alone, and only in submission to Him can leaders and followers alike experience lasting victory.

Reflection Questions:

  • What does Israel’s request for a king in 1 Samuel 8 teach us about trusting God’s leadership over human solutions?
  • How does Saul’s unexpected anointing in 1 Samuel 9 show that God is in control of every detail of our lives?
  • What can we learn from Saul’s initial hesitation in stepping into his calling in 1 Samuel 10?
  • How does Saul’s victory in 1 Samuel 11 demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit in equipping us for God’s work?
  • In what areas of our lives are we tempted to put our trust in human strength rather than in God's sovereign rule?