Grace and peace be unto you.
The story is told that the Israelites wanted a king like the other nations. Hence, they expressed their desire to Samuel who was displeased. Nonetheless, he consulted with God who assured him that the Israelites had rejected him and not Samuel.
God shared with Samuel the disadvantages of having a king. These include (1) the king would take the Israelites’ daughters to be perfumers, cooks, and bakers, (2) he would take a tenth of their flocks and they would become his slaves. Samuel gave the information to the Israelites but they insisted that they wanted a king. Therefore, God told Samuel to give them what they want (1 Samuel 8).
God’s desire was to be the Israelites’ king. He knew that he was the only one who could meet their needs, love them unconditionally, and guide them according to his plan. Sadly, they did not want him as their king. Although their decision hurt him, he was not willing to be king for a nation who did not want him to govern them. And so, he did not twist their arms to accept him as king. Instead, as a loving father, he gave them the pertinent information they needed to make an informed decision. After which, he gave them their desire; an earthly king.
Sometimes we are so focused on obtaining a particular goal that no amount of evidence can dissuade us. In fact, we have convinced ourselves that the desired goal will bring us satisfaction and happiness. The error with this thought process is that satisfaction and happiness are only found in God’s plan. Consequently, if our decision is not directly aligned with his plan, we will be discontent.
God has not changed; he will not coerce us to accept his plan. Nonetheless, he will tell us why his path is best and allow us to make our decision (Jeremiah 29:11).
Heavenly Father, thanks for your love. Grant us a heart that love you so that we will accept your guidance. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Born for a Purpose 