April 10, 2013 (1 Samuel 8-10; 2 Corinthians 10)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “So Samuel repeated to the Lord what the people had said, and the Lord replied, ‘Do as they say, and give them a king.’ Then Samuel agreed and sent the people home.” 1 Samuel 8:21-22 NLT
Observation: The people of Israel were not content with the provision and protection God had provided. They wanted to be like to other nations that surrounded them. They wanted a king to rule over them even though God warned them it would not be good. They refused to listen to the warning God gave. Their hearts were hard and they did not even consider the consequences they would face. They wanted what they wanted and they wanted it now! So God said, ok give it to them. They will regret it, but give them what they want. Samuel knew this was not best for the people but after consulting God about the matter he agreed and sent them home.
Application: How many times we act just like the children of Israel. We want what we want and we want it now! Who cares about the consequences? Who cares about the pain and suffering our choices will lead us to? Our feelings today are what’s most important. Oh how often we forfeit God’s best for our good enough. How often we reject God and His will and settle for what we think is best. How often our eyes are blinded by our own desires. If we continue to ignore God and refuse to listen to His warnings, He will eventually give us what we want. Many want God to get out of their lives; they don’t want to hear anything about holiness or righteousness. He has patiently and faithfully provided warnings, and we have ignored them. Make no mistake about it; we will suffer the consequences of our actions.
Prayer: Dear Lord, protect me from myself! I don’t realize the heartache and pain that I’m choosing when I reject Your warnings. Save me from my own ignorance! Help me submit to You completely. Deliver me from my own desires. Make Your desire my desire. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Without them I would be in much despair. In Jesus name, Amen!