What are you asking for?

As I (Lindsey) have been continuing in my reading in 1 Samuel, I landed in 1 Samuel 8. Samuel finally gets to step up and make a decision for his people. The Israelites wanted a King to rule over them just like the other nations surrounding them. Besides being like the other nations, their main argument was that "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us such as the other nations (1 Sam. 8:5)". At this point most people would be convinced or shameful that they would give into the argument, but Samuel being righteous and of noble character retreated to the Lord for guidance. There the Lord reminded Samuel of all the ways that Israel has refused, rejected and walked away from God being their main Ruler and King. For Israel it was easier to follow an idol or King that they can see and hear. That is why when Samuel went back to Israel and said that they cannot have a king and continued talking about the power that God has in their life, the things He can give and take away, they wouldn't listen because they wanted a king like the other nations. Again Samuel retreats and asks for guidance from the Lord. This is where it gets interesting, the Lord says to Samuel "Listen to them and give them a king."

I find it interesting that God tried to speak to His chosen people and reminded them of His power and strength. In their ignorance, they decided to have another king rule over them, making the choice to walk away from Him again. I always find myself like the Israel making conscious choices to ignore God's calling to righteousness. I find myself thinking that I am more wise then Him and have falsely believed that I deserve or have earned something. By God's grace, it is never too long that He reminds me of where I am and where He is. Where our relationship was and where it is now, because of the choices I have made! Its hard to swallow knowing that I have turned my back on Him, but also that He never gives up on being my Father, my daddy, my King.