Scripture

“Don’t be afraid,” Samuel reassured them. “You have certainly done wrong, but make sure that you worship the Lord with all your heart, and don’t turn your back on him.”

Observation

Samuel addresses the people of Israel. He tells them that the king is now their leader. They testify that Samuel has never taken a bribe or cheated anyone.

Samuel reminds the people of their history. Despite the Lord being their God, they turned to idols repeatedly.

He calls on them and the king to follow the Lord so that all will go well with them. Even though they have rebelled by seeking a king, the Lord will not abandon them because they are His chosen people.

Application

Samuel remains convinced that in requesting a king, the people of Israel had rejected the Lord as their King. But he held out a promise. If they worship the Lord and reject idols then the Lord will bless them and look after them.

With the Lord, the door to mercy is always open. There is no sin too big or too egregious that the Lord will not forgive.

All that is necessary is the desire to walk in humble obedience with the Lord. We don’t have to be perfect to be forgiven; just acknowledge our imperfections. The Lord loves each one of us with an unquenchable love that is greater than any simple rebellion.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for this assurance that your love for me will never run out. Amen.