1 Samuel 8:1-22

8:4-5 | Like the surrounding nations, the people of Israel wanted a king who would visibly symbolize power and security and lead them into battle (Deut. 17:14-15). The Israelites, influenced by other nations, were no longer listening to Samuel.

8:6-9 | A literal rendering of displeased Samuel is “evil in his sight.” He knew the decision to appoint a king was a rejection of God’s authority – with dire consequences for the nation. Compounding his sorrow was Samuel’s awareness that his sons were not fit to succeed him.

8:11-18 | God warned Israel that a king would pervert justice and exact taxes. Indeed, Israel had 43 kings over a period of 450 years, and only eight followed the Lord. A human leader only created more problems for the nation.

8:22 | These are God’s words of resignation as He grants the people’s request. God sometimes lets people have their way so they will one day recognize their need for Him.