“Don’t turn away to follow worthless things that can’t profit or rescue you; they are worthless. The LORD will not abandon his people, because of his great name and because he has determined to make you his own people. As for me, I vow that I will not sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you. I will teach you the good and right way. Above all, fear the LORD and worship him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things he has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:21–24)
The Israelites had made Saul their king in the Lord’s presence, sacrificing and rejoicing greatly. The age of kings had begun, and Samuel was no longer the judge of Israel. But Samuel remained Israel’s prophet. That is why Samuel prayed and taught them regularly. Samuel’s hairs turned greyed from his old age, filling his bones with wisdom and words. He had served from a young age, never wronging or mistreating anyone. The Israelites testified to this.
Then Samuel spoke to them, focusing on their relationship with the Lord. Israel had wanted to have a human king more than have God as king. Covering parts of Israel’s past, present and future, Samuel admonished them with love and made three main points:
1. God alone rescues
2. Yahweh rescues when people pray and repent
3. God’s people must fear the Lord and serve him
In the same way today, we cannot look to politicians or kings to rescue us, because they will disappoint us and fail to rescue. It is God who never abandons and rescues us, as we call to him and repent. And we must honor Him and serve Him, for He cares for us more than any human leader can. It is not a sin to want a king, as Genesis 17:6 and Deuteronomy 17:14-20 projected a time of kings. But it was wrong for Israel to entrust its future to a human savior instead of anchoring in the Lord.
The God-man Christ Jesus is the King you are searching for. Come to Him in prayer, knowing that He hears your prayers. Teach and remind others of His good and right ways. Love Him with your whole being, for He has done wonderful things for you.