1 Samuel 11 & 12

In 1 Samuel 11 & 12, one month after Saul is recognized as king of Israel, he's out plowing fields. He hasn't truly stepped forward. Jabesh-gilead was a part of the nation and they were in a state of separation. The Ammonites rise up against them and they request peace for 7 days as they cry out to Israel for help. They don't know if they will get help, but brotherhood rises up in God's people, righteous anger rises up in Saul, and they join forces to rescue their brothers. We should never leave our brothers or sisters alone to face sin. We should be quick to rise up in unity despite any differences and fight sin together. God calls us to be united and fight together. We are an army - together. After the victory and reunion, Saul is officially recognized as king and steps into his role. Samuel gives one final farewell warning reminding them of all God has done in their lives and that this kingship was not God's plan because God was their King. They are convicted and repent and cry out for forgiveness. God hears and Samuel lets them know God is with them and as long as they cling to God moving forward, God will still bless them. We are not perfect, we are forgiven. We may fall, but as long as we repent when we do and keep striving after God, He will work around our imperfections. God is all powerful and His will is going to come forth. He loves us desperately and simply wants us to continually be a part of His story. He desires us to be a part of His plans. Choosing God is the one thing that will make God happier than anything else we do throughout life.