• Reflections on the scripture I read and meditated on today or this week:
[ Representative Verses ]
Israel Requests a King
**1 Samuel 8:1-9'**As Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons to be judges over Israel. Joel and Abijah, his oldest sons, held court in Beersheba. But they were not like their father, for they were greedy for money. They accepted bribes and perverted justice. Finally, all the elders of Israel met at Ramah to discuss the matter with Samuel. “Look,” they told him, “you are now old, and your sons are not like you. Give us a king to judge us like all the other nations have.” Samuel was displeased with their request and went to the Lord for guidance. “Do everything they say to you,” the Lord replied, “for they are rejecting me, not you. They don’t want me to be their king any longer. Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually abandoned me and followed other gods. And now they are giving you the same treatment. Do as they ask, but solemnly warn them about the way a king will reign over them.” '
[ My Reflection ]
As I read this story, it reminds me that the people of Israel were not content with what they had, especially with God as their King. They didn’t fear or value God as they should have. God had made them different from other nations so that others could see His power and glory through the Israelites. But instead, they compared themselves to other nations and wanted to be like them. They rejected God’s rule over them and asked for a human king.
Even so, God still accepted their request. This shows that God is compassionate, full of love and forgiveness. Through this story, I’m reminded to be content with what I have—my talents, my skills, and everything God has given me. Most importantly, I must always let God be the King of my life.
• Events of the day and my reactions/actions:
In the morning, I had my morning devotion and practiced the songs for today’s prayer set.
After lunch, I spent time reading the Bible and praying. Then I practiced again and stayed in the Bethel room until 5 p.m., before going for dinner.
After dinner, I returned to the Bethel room to rehearse before the prayer set with Pastor SJ. I thank God that I can now sing and lead with more confidence than before.
After the prayer set, Teacher Rachel told me that she saw more confidence in me today and noticed that I’ve improved. I thank God for always placing people around me who encourage and support me.
• My thoughts for today: