Bible Text: 1 Samuel 12:19 | Speaker: Darlene Sala | Series: Encouraging Words | The Children of Israel wanted a king so they could be like the nations around them. At the time they were a theocracy—that is, a government with God at the head and judges to advise them.

But now they wanted a monarchy, because “everybody else had one.” It was like saying, “God, You’re not good enough for us.” God granted their request but He showed his disapproval by sending a thunder-and-rain storm during their wheat harvest. Quickly the people realized their mistake. They needed God to be for them, not against them, for they were dependent on Him for even the food they ate.

Samuel, their judge at the time, helped them restore their relationship with God, and what he said to them gives us a pattern to follow when we blow it.

First, admit wrongdoing. They said to Samuel, “We have added to all our other sins the evil of asking for a king” (1 Samuel 12:19).
Step two: Turn with all your heart to the Lord, as Samuel advised: “”Do not turn away from the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart” (verse 20).
Third, understand that when you repent, God will restore you. Samuel said, “For the sake of his great name the LORD will not reject his people, because the LORD was pleased to make you his own” (verse 22).
Fourth, let mature Christians pray for you, and humbly accept their instruction. Samuel said, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right” (verse 23).
Then thank God for forgiveness and determine from this point on to serve Him. “Be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart;” said Samuel. “Consider what great things he has done for you” (verse 24).

When we blow it, it’s not the end. In fact, it can be a new beginning if we fully turn to the Lord.