Our scripture this morning is 1 Samuel 8:9 (ESV).
Now then, obey their voice; only you shall solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them.
God created us with free will, and as so many times before, the people are about to follow their own way instead of the Lord’s. They have a dangerous idea that they want to be like the countries around them with a visible but fallible human king. God tells Samuel to give them what they want, but with the caveat to be careful what they wish for! God has always been willing to be our King, to provide for us and protect us. Only our selfish disobedience keeps us from His kingdom.
Heavenly Father, we are sorry for our willful ways! Forgive us and bless us to be good stewards of Your gifts, sharing our faith and love with the world. Amen.
