He Endured Despite Disappointments - "Do Appoint for Us a King-Concluson

 How, though, did Samuel obey?  In a resentful perfunctory way?  Did he allow disappointments to poison his heart, letting bitterness take root? Many a might might respond that way  in such a situation, but not Samuel.  He appointed Saul and acknowledge that the man  was Jehovah's own choice.  He kissed Saul, a sign of welcome and submission to the new king. And he said to the people:  "Have you seen the one Jehovah has chosen, that there is none like him among all the people?" - 1 SAMUEL 10:1, 24. 

Samuel focused, not faults, but on the good in the man whom Jehovah had chosen. As for himself, he focused on his own record of integrity to God rather than the approval of fickle people.  (1 Samuel 12:1-4)  He also worked faithfully at his own assignment, couseling God's people about the spiritual dangers they faced and encouraging them to remain faithful to Jehovah. His cousel reached their hearts, and the people begged Samuel to pray in their behal.  He gave them  this beautiful reply:  "It is unthinkable, on my part, to sin against Jehovah by ceasing to pray in your behal; and I must instruct you in the good and right way" - 1 SAMUEL 12:21-24. 

Have you ever felt disappointment when someone else was chosen for a certain position or privilege? Samuel's example was a powerful reminder that we must never let jealously  or bitterness take root in our heart.  ( Read Proverbs 14:30.) God has plenty of rewarding, fulfilling work for each of his faithful servants. 

Next time: He Endured Despite Disappointments - "For How Long Will You Be Mourning for Saul>" 

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