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In this episode of Reading Through the Bible Together, we’re reading 1 Samuel 6–10, where God proves His power over idols and Israel demands a king.

The Philistines discover that possessing the ark of God is not a victory but a curse. Plagues and chaos follow until they send it back to Israel. Even the pagan priests recognize that Israel’s God is not like their idols.

But Israel still struggles to trust the Lord as their true King. They ask Samuel for a human king so they can be “like the nations.” God tells Samuel that the request is really a rejection of His rule. Still, He allows it and warns them what a king will take from them.

Then we meet Saul, an impressive-looking man chosen as Israel’s first king. At first he appears humble and hesitant, but the stage is set for a complicated reign.

These chapters show the tension between God’s kingship and human longing for visible leadership. Israel wants security that looks like the world. Yet God is already working out a bigger plan.

And that plan ultimately leads to Jesus, the true King who rules not by taking from His people, but by giving His life for them.

If you haven’t read 1 Samuel 6–10 yet, pause and do that now, then come back and let’s read it together.

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