Definition: And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the LORD will not hear you in that day.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 8:18. It’s a really significant moment in the story of Samuel and it speaks to a very difficult situation. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Situation: King David is struggling: David was King of Israel, but he wasn't truly happy with his position. He felt like God wasn’t listening to him and that he wasn’t receiving the rewards he deserved. He wants a godly advisor: David had a powerful, ambitious young man named Uriah. Uriah was a soldier who was incredibly skilled and loved David dearly. David wanted to make Uriah his advisor – essentially, to have someone who could help him rule justly and make God’s will known. He pleads with God: David goes to God and asks for a godly advisor, specifically Uriah. He wants someone who will be loyal to God and will listen to His voice. What the Verse Says – The Cruel Twist: “And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the LORD will not hear you in that day.” This verse is a harsh warning. It means: David will be deeply, profoundly disappointed and heartbroken by his choice. God specifically wants to punish David for this action. The Lord doesn’t want him to receive the blessings he was seeking. Let's unpack it further: "You shall cry out in that day": This is a powerful image – it suggests intense sorrow and anguish. It's not just a simple complaint; it’s a monumental outpouring of pain. “Because of your king which ye shall have chosen”: David was choosing himself to be an advisor, making him the focus of this punishment. It emphasizes his own pride and ambition. “The LORD will not hear you in that day": This is the most important part. God doesn't want David to listen to his request. He’s intentionally withdrawing His favor from him. What does it mean for us today? This verse reminds us of several things: God’s Sovereignty: It highlights that God is in control and doesn't give in to our desires or ambitions without a reason. The Importance of Obedience: It underscores the importance of obeying God's commands – even when it’s difficult. Divine Justice: It speaks to a sense of justice, where God will hold people accountable for their choices and actions. In essence, this verse is a reminder that our desires can sometimes lead us astray, and that God’s judgment is a necessary consequence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Samuel 8? Discuss the context of this event in the Bible? Connect this verse to other biblical stories about obedience or divine wrath?