Solemnly Forewarned

After the prophet Samuel had served many years as the Israelite’s judge—years during which he judged the people fairly—they decided they wanted a king like the nations that surrounded them.

Samuel was distraught. He felt they were rejecting him and his ministry, but God spoke to Samuel and provided a different viewpoint: they have rejected Me . . . However, you shall solemnly forewarn them and show them the behavior of the king who will reign. . . . ( I Sam. 8:7,9 NKJV)

Samuel obeyed God and warned the people as God said he should. He listed the cruel demands and devices of kings. But when they persisted, and when God arranged the circumstances, Samuel followed God’s Word to him. He anointed Saul—and the people of Israel made Saul their king.

But Samuel was still disturbed. Although he had warned the people once, he warned them again: if you do not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel . . . that Lord will be against you. . . . 12:14,15) He emphasized that the people must serve and obey God rather than the king, but he knew it his heart, that his warnings would not have a lasting effect. He knew the people would turn to their king. And yet, as a prophet, he felt compelled to warn them. (12:14,15)

Originally published September 19, 1986.

She Made a Vow

Sometimes God’s people have to get serious when they pray. And sometimes, when they get serious, they make a vow.

Hannah did. After years of taunting and emotional persecution by members of the family, she had a purpose when she went on the family’s yearly pilgrimage to the Tabernacle in Shiloh. There she wept and bared her heart before God, and then she prayed, [I]f you will only look upon your servant’s misery and remember me and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord . . .” (I Sam. 1:11a NIV)

After Eli the priest blessed her, Hannah returned home, and within a year she gave birth to Samuel. Several years later, when Samuel was weaned, Hannah fulfilled her vow. She took him back to Shiloh, and there she gave him to the Lord by placing him with Eli.

Samuel ministered to the Lord in Shiloh. He became a prophet who called Israel back to God. He was also the last judge to serve as the governmental leader of Israel. He even anointed Saul, the first king—and then he anointed King David.

The heart-felt vow of the desperate Hannah helped shape the history of Israel.

Originally published May 13, 1983.