In today’s episode of Lifespring! One Year Bible Rewind, Steve Webb reads 1 Samuel 6–10, tracing Israel’s transition from God as King to their demand for a human ruler. The narrative explores the tension between trust and control, obedience and fear, as Saul is anointed and revealed as the king the people wanted. Along the way, the episode reflects on leadership, humility, and the cost of choosing to be like the surrounding nations rather than relying fully on the Lord.

The King They Wanted

Today’s reading is 1 Samuel 6–10.

1 Samuel 8:18 — “When that day comes, you will cry out because of the king you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord will not answer you on that day.”

Israel’s story takes a decisive turn in these chapters. After years of being led directly by the Lord through judges and prophets, the people demand a king so they can be like the nations around them. God grants their request, but not without warning them of the cost.

Saul’s anointing is filled with tension. Chosen by God, yet reluctant and hidden, Saul embodies the uncertainty of a people stepping away from trust toward control. The episode invites us to consider how often our own desires mirror Israel’s — choosing what feels secure or familiar instead of resting in God’s leadership.

Today’s church history reflection focuses on Epiphany, the celebration of Christ being revealed to the nations. From the visit of the Magi to the global reach of the gospel, Epiphany reminds us that Jesus is not only Israel’s Messiah, but the Savior of the world.

A reminder that a new episode of Verses We Missed is available tomorrow. It’s  a midweek breath of Scripture and grace, inviting deeper reflection on passages we often pass by too quickly.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s reading and what it means to trust God’s leadership.

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The question beneath today’s episode is timeless: Will we trust God to lead us, or will we insist on our own way? Israel wanted a king they could see. God was calling them to faith they could live. That question still meets us right where we are.