And the Lord said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee. Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them. (1 Samuel 8:7-9)
Have you ever felt rejected? Have you ever felt like people don’t acknowledge your hard work?When the people of Israel asked for a king, Samuel could have felt that they were dismissing him as God's mouthpiece. In this moment, God said to Samuel, “They have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.” The Israelites’ demand for a king wasn’t about Samuel’s leadership but rather it was about their refusal to submit to God’s authority.
Similarly, when you follow God, people may reject you because they reject the Holy Spirit within you. Following God associates you with His ways, commands, and rulership. God instructed Samuel to solemnly protest to the people and warn them about the consequences of their choices. He explained that God had a perfect plan, presented it to them, and they chose to reject it. When we turn away from God’s direction in our lives, it’s not just a practical decision; it’s a spiritual one. It’s personal for God because He desires to guide us in love, wisdom, and truth. When we turn away from Him, we forfeit the blessings of His perfect leadership.
Practical Application
If you ever feel rejected, remember that people may be rejecting the Holy Spirit in you. Determine to let Him shine through your words and actions regardless of others' opposition.