The elders of Israel now waited upon Samuel in Ramah, and said unto him, “Behold, thou art old and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.” The bearing of the man of God at this moment was delightful. There was no word of resentment at the charges made against his sons, neither was there any effort put forth to bolster the order that he had so mistakenly established. “Samuel prayed unto the Lord.” How different everything would have been had he prayed before he made his sons judges. Brethren, is it our holy habit to take everything to God in prayer? Have we really learned that we are utterly dependent upon Him for every step?
The hand of Satan is surely discernible in Israel's demand for a king, and especially in the wilfulness with which they persisted in the demand after the seriousness of it was pointed out to them. The malignant adversary is ever seeking to forestall God—for mischief of course. The divine purpose concerning a king had now been revealed; Satan would then furnish a king. In like manner he will bring forward the beast of Revelation 13:11And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. (Revelation 13:1) just before God's time comes to bring out His King of kings and Lord of lords. But whatever the measure of forbearance, God always has His way at the last, and every purpose of His love for His own glory and for the blessing of men is carried into full effect. What rest to the heart to be assured of this!