The people of Israel wanted a king like all the other nations; someone to lead them into prosperity and victory.  Someone who even looked the part.  God gave them Saul, comely and a head taller than the rest.  Philistines had their giant and so did Israel. 

Three truths hit me as I studied his passage this morning. 

We Have A King Already

Who has been leading the Israelites thus far?  God has led them out of the bondage of Egypt, declaring, “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt”. He provided manna, water and later meat as well.  He is led them to the Promise Land.  He protected them from Pharoah’s elite army of chariots, guiding them every step of the way.  What king in all of history has done such things? Only one and you already have Him!

A King Apart From God Is Rejection Of God

God chose to give them their hearts desire.  Why would he do that?  Sometimes stubbornness can only be conquered by self-realization. A person may have to see the failure of their choices to see their rejection of and need for God. God is not anxious because He is sovereign.  While we have free will, He is still sovereign.  Know this, there is one throne in our lives and it is meant for God.  Any other king means rejection of God. 

Our Greatest Threat Of Wanting A King

We may compare this example to the upcoming elections in some ways.  We are all wanting the “best” president.  We invest emotions and argue point along with the best of them.  When it’s all said and done rulers are overseen by our God.  We should not desire a president more than we desire our God to be king. Traffic on this going to be sad or

Furthermore, an external ruler is chosen infrequently, the greater threat is the tendency for us to take the throne as king of our lives.  We think we can do it better than anyone else, including at times, God Himself.  If we are to live the life God has purposed for us, we must abdicate our throne and be overjoyed to have Him sit it, calling all the shots as our King of kings. 

Personal Reflection

Feeling convicted yet?  I am.  Today’s reflection is short and sweet…surrender.  Take time today to confess any part of your life where you have not welcomed God as king over.  Rejoice that we have a King above all kings!

Prayer Focus

King of kings, we humbly ask for forgiveness as we continue to try to sit in your seat.  We praise you for your mercy and patience as you show us your lovingkindness and just rule.  May you be fully King of our hearts today and may we serve you with all of our hearts, now and forevermore in Christ Jesus, Amen!

#KingOfKings #OneKingOnTheThrone #TruthTalk4Life

@brianfriedl