Isn’t it crazy how God can tell us something, or show us something,
“Plain as Day” but we refuse to listen
for whatever reason? For example, staying connected to individuals who only
bring us down: mentally, emotionally, physically, and/or spiritually.
As I read the Old Testament stories of the bible, it shows
me just how human we are. We are not perfect. We want what we want. We make
some bad choices, despite the red flags. We may go the other way instead of
choosing the high road.
Well we are not Christ, but glory to God, we can strive to
be like Christ.
“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed
to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and
sisters.” (Romans 8:29)
As I read First Samuel 8,
I get the conclusion that God Will Not Force Your Hand. Mines Neither. Simple
as that.
The Israelites begged Samuel, a prophet, for a king. Even
after Samuel explained what would happen if a King was to reign over them. What is that you ask? Long story short, the
king would take their sons, daughters, tenth of their crops, and tenth of their
livestock. They would become his slaves. But the people refused to listen to
Samuel and said “No!”. They wanted a king over them to lead them and fight
their battles. They wanted to be like
all the other nations.
Now I am just appalled as I read the text, because they still
desire to have something that is not good for them. All the while knowing how
the Lord has led them and fought their battles thus far. Yet, they wanted an
earthly king to reign over them versus the Heavenly King who created the earth,
brought them out of Egypt, crossed the Red Sea on dry land, and the list goes
on! However, the Lord answered, “Listen to them (Samuel) and give them a king”(1
Sam. 8:21).
So, what are some key points I get from this story?
·
Listen- be still and know that God is
God. Reverence Him in all things concerning you and your relationship with others
(family, spouse, friends, coworkers, strangers, etc.).
·
Be Content- the Israelites rejected God
because they wanted to be like the other nations. They had the Lord, who is mighty
and strong, strong in battle, on their side. But they stopped focusing on Him
and how they had everything they needed in Him because they were comparing
themselves to others.
·
Be wise– just like Solomon, ask for wisdom
and understanding from God. In return, God promised Solomon with earthly riches
if he remained obedient (rightly so). So “seek first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).
So, will you be faithful, receptive, obedient, and patient in
allowing God to lead you?
Do not ignore the big red flags or subtle signs. Wasting
time that can never be replaced. You can replace money, but not time.
Prayer,
Father, I pray that we are receptive of Your Word and heed
to the warning signs that you provide us. May we have the courage to trust You.
To get out of our feelings and what we think we want. To let You lead us instead.
Thank You for your commandments that are not just a list of rules, but a reward
system. Because acknowledging them lead to more of the blessings and less of
the curses that You have set before us. Amen.
Be Blessed.
