Here, fresh from Saul’s great victory in battle, Samuel stands before the people, and lays down his role of Judge. He will continue to be a prophet of God, but Israel no longer needs judges appointed by God because, instead, they have chosen to have for themselves a king. Samuel’s speech here is a little strange. He seems to feel the need to justify himself, although nobody seems to be accusing him. Perhaps it is because he feels rejected and hurt that the people have demanded a king instead of him, or perhaps he wants it known that if Israel experiences future troubles with their new king, it is because of their sin alone and not because of Samuel.

It may have been hard for Israel to accept that there was anything wrong with demanding a king. Up to this point, everything Saul has done has been honourable and praiseworthy. He seems like he’s going to make a brilliant king. However, the thunder and the rain that God sent was enough to convince them, and they cried out to Samuel to pray for them.

Samuel’s words to the Israelites here are as reassuring to us, as they were to them. Yes, they have sinned, and yes, they will have to live with the consequences of that sin, but God will not turn his back on them as long as they fear the Lord and serve him with all of their hearts.

None of us can live a life without sin. Only Jesus did that. But our father in Heaven is merciful now as he was then. We may have to live with the consequences of our sin, but our sin no longer separates us from the Father as long as we come to him in repentance. Thank God for his mercy and grace towards us.

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NEWBOLD BAPTIST CHURCH