But when they said,"Give us a king to lead us," this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord.
But the servant replied, "Look, in this town there is a man of God; he is highly respected, and everything he says comes true. Let's go there now. Perhaps he will tell us what way to take.
From Samuel 6-9 NIV
Samuel is understood in Israel to mean "his name is God," or "name of God." He was the last judge, first kingmaker, priest and prophet. He lived about 1050 - 1000 BC. He was responsible for revival of the Shiloh sanctuary and God was with him. Samuel called Israel to repentance and did deliver them from foreign domination. He warned of potential dangers of a monarchy, setting the background for future prophets to speak against future disobedient kings. Samuel had such an influence that his appointed king, Saul sought to seek with Samuel's spirit after his death.
Samuel is a role model for us. He, like Moses, is a leader and is prayerful. Here, he is encouraged to be in constant prayer. One might consider the throne in heaven where there is constant praise:
"Holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God Almighty,
who was, and is, and is to
come."
Revelation 4:8b NIV
Our prayers should contain praise, thanks and petition. When we are challenged, we should follow Samuel's example and bring the challenge to the Lord. God will answer in ways that are beyond human understanding. With prayer, with giving our personal challenges to God, He can share the burden and through the gifts of the Spirit allow us to respond.
Thoughts:
What kind of prayers do you raise up to the Lord?
Where in your life are you looking for a "king?"
How are you looking to and raising up Jesus?
Pray for the Spirit to open up; your eyes to see blind spots and other's needs; your heart to be soft to lovingly hold the word of God; your time to allow you to participate in opportunities to serve.
In Christ,
David P
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