Today’s Scripture: 1 Samuel 8:4-9 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Tyler Connoley):
In the verses immediately following this passage, Samuel goes to the people of Israel and tells them all the bad things a king will do. He tries to convince them that having a king will be a big disaster, because kings tax their subjects and send young men off to wars. The whole chapter has traditionally been read as a reminder that God should be our leader, and not any human.
I also read something else in this chapter. In the section we read today, God reminds us that we are not anyone’s ruler.
When the people asked for a king, Samuel was really angry. He went to God to complain, because he thought the people had rejected him. I picture Samuel saying, “Hey, God! The people are asking for a king. Don’t they know I’m their leader? I’m the one you chose to be prophet and judge of Israel. You need to tell these people how things work around here!”
And God says, “They have not rejected you, but they have rejected me.”
God gently reminded Samuel that he was not in charge. God always is. God’s response invites us to think about who our leaders are. It also invites us to think about our own status.
Thought for the day: Don’t give authority to someone who doesn’t deserve it. And don’t assume authority you don’t have. God is the the real boss.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.