1 Samuel 8:6-9

Verse: 1 Samuel 8: 6-9

6 But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord told him: “Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king. 8 As they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are doing to you. 9 Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will claim as his rights.”

Title: Punishment in the form of approval

Message: Love and obedience to God and His commandments manifest when we seek His guidance in times of trouble. Samuel was distressed and he despised the people because he interpreted their act as rejection not only of him and his sons but of God's rule over them as a whole. Thus, he accounted his troubles before God. Surprisingly, God approved of the people's plea and instructed Samuel to let the people know of His decision.  

Promise to Claim: Turning to God guarantees us appropriate decisions and comfort.

Command to Obey: Let us cast all our troubles to God and He will provide us guidance and comfort.

Warning to Heed: God's approval of our pleas or requests does not mean blessing all the time. Sometimes, it could mean punishment. According to John Gill, God's consent in this part of the Book means "punishment of the people for their disloyalty and ingratitude, and as resenting their ill behaviour to him." The people's action angered God, thus making him permit their request (Hosea 13:11).

Application: I'll keep in mind this thought - casting all my burdens to God and asking Him of guidance as I decide on matters concerning life. Also, this same idea I will teach my children and students for them to be dependent on God.