Renewing the Kingdom Under God's Authority

By Romina Chevren

"The people then said to Samuel, 'Who was it that asked, "Shall Saul reign over us?" Turn these men over to us so that we may put them to death.' But Saul said, 'No one will be put to death today, for this day the Lord has rescued Israel.' Then Samuel said to the people, 'Come, let us go to Gilgal and there renew the kingship.' So all the people went to Gilgal and made Saul king in the presence of the Lord. There they sacrificed fellowship offerings before the Lord, and Saul and all the Israelites held a great celebration."—1 Samuel 11:12–15 (NIV)

This passage marks a turning point for Saul and the nation of Israel. After his Spirit-led victory over the Ammonites (1 Samuel 11:1–11), Saul’s leadership was solidified in the eyes of the people. Previously, some Israelites had doubted Saul’s ability to reign, questioning his qualifications and dismissing his authority. But after seeing God work through him, the people rallied together in a moment of unity and celebration.

The Israelites’ initial response reveals a common human tendency: the desire for retribution. In their excitement and newfound confidence in Saul, they sought to punish those who had doubted him, demanding their execution. But Saul’s response is striking. Instead of allowing vengeance to sour the victory, Saul redirected the focus to God’s deliverance: “No one will be put to death today, for this day the Lord has rescued Israel.” This response demonstrates a moment of humility and wisdom in Saul’s early leadership, as he acknowledged the victory belonged to God, not to him or the people.

Samuel, the prophet and judge, seizes this moment to call the nation to Gilgal for the renewal of the kingship. This wasn’t simply a political event; it was a spiritual act of reaffirming that Saul’s authority as king was under God’s ultimate rule. At Gilgal, they offered sacrifices and celebrated, recognizing that their unity and victory were only possible because of God’s presence and intervention.

This passage highlights three key themes that are deeply relevant to us today: forgiveness, humility, and renewal.

Forgiveness:
Saul’s refusal to execute those who had doubted him shows the power of forgiveness in leadership and community. Instead of dwelling on past grievances, Saul prioritized reconciliation and unity. In our own lives, are we willing to let go of offenses and extend grace, even when we feel justified in holding onto resentment?

Humility:
Saul’s words remind us that all victories belong to God. It’s easy to take credit for successes, but true humility acknowledges God as the source of our strength and achievements. In moments of triumph, do we, like Saul in this instance, give God the glory He deserves?

Renewal:
Samuel’s call to renew the kingship at Gilgal underscores the importance of continually recommitting ourselves to God’s authority. Just as the Israelites renewed their dedication to Saul as king under God, we’re called to regularly examine our lives and realign ourselves with God’s will. Are there areas of your life where you need to renew your commitment to God’s rule and authority?

This passage invites us to reflect on how we handle success, relationships, and our spiritual walk. Therefore, take some time to think about and sincerely answer the following questions:

Do I seek reconciliation over retribution?

Do I honor God in my victories?

Am I willing to renew my commitment to His authority and celebrate His presence in my life?

Pause:

·Reflect on a recent success or victory in your life. How did you respond? Did you take credit, or did you acknowledge God’s role in it?

·Consider whether any of your relationships need forgiveness and/or reconciliation.

Practice:

1. Choose Forgiveness: Identify someone you may need to forgive or reconcile with. Take one step toward restoring that relationship this week.

2. Celebrate God’s Victories: Set aside time to thank God for His work in your life, recognizing His hand in your successes.

3. Renew Your Commitment: Spend time in prayer or worship, recommitting yourself to God’s authority and asking Him to guide you in every area of your life.

Pray: Lord, thank You for being the source of every victory and blessing in my life. Teach me to walk in humility, always giving You the glory. Help me to extend forgiveness and pursue unity with others, just as You have forgiven me. Renew my heart and realign me with Your will. May my life be a reflection of Your grace, love, and power. Amen.