1 Samuel 8 tells of an event that would forever change the destiny of the Israelites. For protection against their enemies, the Israelites wanted what their neighbors had—a king to rule over them. As you read about their request and the Lord’s response, think about who you look to for safety and guidance. Consider what it means to let the Lord “reign over [you]” (1 Samuel 8:7).

Over the coming weeks, you will read about a number of kings called to lead Israel. As you learn about them, consider the following questions:

• How were the Lord’s warnings fulfilled in 1 Samuel 8:10–18?

• How were the children of Israel affected by their choice to have an earthly king?

• How is Jesus Christ different from earthly kings? Consider what worldly influences you may need to remove from your life to let Christ be your King.

See also “Rejoice, the Lord Is King!,” Hymns, no. 66.
DOWNLOAD “My Redeemer Lives” song visuals (HERE or below) showing Jesus as our King

Read about how God chose Israel’s kings in 1 Samuel 9–10 and 16 (see especially 9:15–17; 10:1–12; 16:1–13). Look for passages that help you understand what it means to “be called of God, by prophecy” in the Lord’s Church today (Articles of Faith 1:5). You might consider putting yourself in the place of the leader extending the calling (Samuel), the person being called (Saul and David), and the people they are called to serve (the Israelites). What do you learn from their words and actions in these chapters?

Considering how timid Saul seemed in 1 Samuel 10, it’s surprising to read about his “rebellion” and “stubbornness” after he became king (1 Samuel 15:23). Why do you think this happened? In 1 Samuel 13:5–14, what attitudes and behaviors do you see that led to his downfall?

In 1 Samuel 15, you’ll read about a commandment from the Lord that Saul didn’t obey because he thought he had a good reason. To learn from Saul’s poor choices, look at verse 22 and replace the words “sacrifice” and “fat of rams” with things that seem good but are not as important as hearing and obeying the Lord. How have you been blessed as you’ve put the Lord’s will first in your life?

Have you ever made a decision based on “the outward appearance” of something or someone, only to find out that you were wrong? Maybe you ate something that wasn’t as good as it looked. Or maybe you judged someone unfairly.

When Samuel was looking for a new king of Israel, the Lord taught him a better way. Read about it in 1 Samuel 16:6–7, and consider making a list of ways people judge others “on the outward appearance.” You can find some examples in Elder Christophe G. Giraud-Carrier’s message “We Are His Children” (Liahona, Nov. 2023, 114–16). What does it mean to look “on the heart,” as the Lord does? (1 Samuel 16:7). You can find examples of this, too, in Elder Giraud-Carrier’s message. Maybe you can think of other times when the Savior looked past a person’s outward appearance. (See, for instance, Mark 12:41–44; Luke 5:1–11; 19:1–9; John 4:5–30; Moses 6:31–36.) What do you learn from these examples?

How can you follow the Savior’s example in the way you see others—and yourself? How might doing so affect your interactions with others? Consider telling someone about the goodness you see in their heart.

See also Ulisses Soares, “Brothers and Sisters in Christ,” Liahona, Nov. 2023, 70–73.