1 Samuel 12:13-18

Samuel’s challenge to obey God 12:13-18

The Hebrew grammatical construction translated "the king whom you have chosen, whom you have asked for" (1 Samuel 12:13), shows that the people had not just requested a king, but demanded him out of strong self-will. The key to Israel’s future blessing would be fearing Yahweh, serving Him, listening to His voice through the Mosaic Law and the prophets, and not rebelling against His commands (1 Samuel 12:14). The major message of the Books of Samuel thus comes through again clearly in Samuel’s final words to the nation, as we would expect. For the Israelites, obedience to the Mosaic Covenant would result in fertility of all kinds (cf. Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

God confirmed the truth of Samuel’s words supernaturally when He sent rain during the wheat harvest, normally the driest period of the year. The rain symbolized the blessing of God for obedience (cf. Deuteronomy 28:12). This storm was a sign that Yahweh was supporting Samuel. However, coming at this time of the year, it proved to be judgmental, since farmers do not appreciate rain during harvests, and a warning of future potential judgment.