April 4, 2026

Scriptures: 1 Samuel 9–12 |

God gives the people what they asked for…a king. Saul is chosen, anointed, and presented, and he looks the part! The selection feels ordinary, even strategic, but beneath it all, God is still at work. Grace shows up in God’s willingness to move forward with His people even when their request was misguided. He does not abandon them for wanting a king…He meets them within it.

As Saul begins to lead, there are early signs of promise. Victory comes, unity grows, and the people celebrate. But Samuel does not let the moment pass without truth. In chapter 12, he reminds them that asking for a king was a rejection of God’s direct rule. Still, he points them forward with hope. If they and their king will fear the Lord and follow Him, God’s presence will remain with them. Grace appears in warnings, too. God corrects, but He also offers a way forward.

What stands out to me is Samuel’s heart. He refuses to stop praying for the people, even when they have made poor choices. He reminds them that God will not abandon His people for His name’s sake. Grace is always found in God’s character, not human consistency.

Saul is the kind of king people expect…visible, impressive, and familiar. But Jesus is the King people need. Where Saul’s leadership will eventually falter, Jesus leads with perfect faithfulness…He is the King who will never fail us.

Challenge Question:

Write down one expectation you’ve had for how God should work in your life, and one way He may be working differently than you expected. Then choose one step you can take this week to trust Jesus as your King, even when His way looks different than your plan.