In our previous meditation, we learned that our choices will not leave us the same. We
concluded by saying that we must learn to defer to God in our decisions. Israel violated
this fundamental guideline. When they first mooted the idea of having kings like all
surrounding nations, Samuel was terribly grieved. He tossed the matter over and over
until God asked him to oblige them. Their desire for kings was technically passing a
vote of no confidence in God; but was respected anyway. He first gave them Saul, the
son of Kish, before David and Solomon in that order. By the time the kingdom split after
Solomon, Israel had completely forgotten how to consult God on most issues,
particularly with regards to the choice of kings, princes, and priests. That became a sin
and a snare. Most of their self-chosen leaders took them farther away from God.

“Making choices without God’s warrant will not only be a snare but will also be without God’s blessing.”

Our text makes a good read from the Amplified version. “They set up kings, but not from
Me [therefore without My blessing]; they have made princes or removed them [without
consulting Me; therefore], I knew and recognized [them] not. With their silver and their
gold they made idols for themselves, that they [the silver and the gold] may be
destroyed.” Making choices without God’s warrant will not only be a snare but will also
be without God’s blessing. It is for this reason that we must take Solomon’s counsel
seriously. “In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”
(Proverbs‬