Saul the Diplomat


The people then said to Samuel, "Who was it that asked, 'Shall Saul reign over us?' Bring these men to us and we will put them to death." But Saul said, "No one shall 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 reaffirm the kingship." So all the people went to Gilgal and confirmed Saul as 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

When you first read this, it's almost as if the people have what is termed "buyer's remorse." This is what happens almost immediately after you purchase something expensive and regret it. Something similar happens in politics: you choose somebody and after further examination while the person is in office, you regret your decision. But we also see that Saul is starting to play the role of the diplomat, trying to smooth the rough edges of the people. They go to Gilgal and are "on the same page," seemingly for the first time in his brief reign.

Leaders strike a delicate balance at times. They have to make difficult decisions at times and will never please all of the people all of the time.

Pray for your nation's leaders. They must make difficult decisions amidst enormous pressures from many sides. Pray that they will have wise and upright counsel.

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