A Lesson from 1 Samuel 8: When the People Chose a King Over God

Dear Sisters,

As I have mentioned to most of you, I have found myself completely drawn into the message found in 1 Samuel 8. It is a chapter that speaks volumes—not just about the past, but about our present reality. It reveals a powerful lesson about leadership, idolatry, and what happens when people place their trust in man over God.

In this passage, the Israelites were faced with corruption. Samuel’s sons, meant to be just and righteous judges, had turned to dishonest gain, taking bribes and perverting justice. The people saw this injustice, and instead of asking God for wisdom, justice, or reform, they demanded a king—someone to rule over them like the nations around them. But what they didn’t realize was that in doing so, they were not just rejecting corrupt leadership; they were rejecting God Himself as their true ruler.

God warned them that having a king would come at a cost. This leader would take from them—he would oppress them, enslave them, and serve his own interests above the people’s well-being. Yet, despite God’s warning, they insisted, believing that a strong, powerful man would bring them prosperity and security.

A Modern Parable: Where We Stand Today

Sisters, does this not sound all too familiar?

Throughout history, we have seen leaders rise who thrive on division, who put power above people, and who convince many that their rule is the only way forward. They make bold promises, stoke fear, and cultivate devotion that blinds people to truth.

We’ve witnessed how words and actions from those in authority can deepen divisions, embolden harmful ideologies, and shift the focus away from God’s true calling for His people. And just as God warned in 1 Samuel 8, when trust is placed in a human leader over Him, the consequences are dire and felt by all.

As we reflect on this passage, it is not about partisan debate or political allegiance—it is about the timeless lesson of scripture. No leader, past or present, should ever take the place of God in our hearts. Our faith must always guide us first, calling us to pursue righteousness, unity, and justice—above politics, above fear, above division.

What We Are Called to Do

No matter where we stand politically, our calling remains the same:

• We must serve God first—not men. No leader, no president, no government should ever become an idol in our hearts.

• We are called to care for the poor, the needy, and the oppressed. Scripture does not tell us to align with power but to stand for justice, mercy, and righteousness.

• We must reject division. As Sisters in Christ, our mission is to bridge the racial divide and to be an example of what the Church should look like—united, loving, and Christ-centered.

God told Samuel, “They have not rejected you, but they have rejected me as their king.” (1 Samuel 8:7). Let us not make the same mistake. Let us seek God’s kingdom first, trust in His wisdom, and always choose righteousness over power.

A Call to Reflection

I invite you, dear sisters, to take time this week to read 1 Samuel 8 and reflect on its meaning in our world today. Let’s ask ourselves: Where have we placed our trust? How can we better serve God instead of man?

No matter where you stand, let’s continue to do the work of Christ—helping the poor, seeking justice, loving one another, and never allowing any leader to take the place that belongs to God alone.

In love and unity.

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