“But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed to the LORD.” (v.8)
Here we have a great lesson on how to react upon being confronted. Instead of lashing out at the elders of Israel who; called him old (v.5), disrespected his sons (v.5), and suggested a new form of government by demanding a king (v.8) – Samuel prayed.
Oh, he could have taken this personal (after all he was the current prophet and judge) and blew his top or given someone a piece of his mind but he didn’t. He simply took it to God.
I must say, the political culture in our society today lends itself to quite a bit of confrontation. However, blowing your top, letting of steam, giving someone a piece of your mind (if they asked for it or not), I have found usually ends in regret and only causes more division.
Rather than feeling we must respond immediately, better to take a step back, and gather your composer before reacting. If possible as Samuel did, slip away to a quiet spot, take your displeasure to God, leave it at His feet - you’ll have an entirely different perspective, countenance, attitude and outcome.
The Truth: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6)
