Sunday, April 27, 2014

Samuel, O Samuel

In the book of 1 Samuel, the Israelites gain posession back of the Covenent Box--AKA Ark of the Covenent--starting in chapter 7.  They appeal to Samuel, crying out for the Lord's help.

Samuel advises the people that when, and only when, they rid themselves of all other idols will the Lord help them.

The Israelites do so.  They offer sacrifices, and drive the Philistines out of their lands.

In chapter 8, as Samuel grows old and his two sons take over as judges, the people ask for a king to rule over them.  Samuel's sons are not as obedient as Samuel, and are both dishonest and accept bribes when deciding cases.

Samuel prays to the Lord.  God tells him that he must paint a picture of what life would be like under a king.  It was not a pretty picture.  They would be like slaves.

The Israelites did not care.  They wanted a king.

And God said, "Give them what they want."

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