1 Samuel 12:18-25

18 Samuel called upon the LORD, and God sent thunder and rain on that very day. Then all the people were in awe of the LORD and Samuel.

19 All of them said to Samuel, "Please pray for us, your servants, to the LORD your God so we don't die because we have added to our many sins the evil of asking for a king."

20 But Samuel answered the people, "Don't be afraid. Yes, you've done all this evil; just don't turn back from following the LORD. Serve the LORD with all your heart.

21 Don't turn aside to follow useless idols that can't help you or save you. They're absolutely useless!

22 For the sake of his reputation, the LORD won't abandon his people, because the LORD has decided to make you his very own people.

23 But me? I would never sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. I will teach you what is good and right.

24 Just fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Look at what great things he has done for you!

25 But if you continue to do evil, then both you and your king will be destroyed."

1 Samuel 12:18-25 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST SAMUEL 12

In this chapter Samuel, resigning the government to Saul, asserts the integrity with which he had performed his office, and calls upon the people of Israel to attest it, who did, 1Sa 12:1-5, he then reminds them of the great and good things the Lord had done for them in times past, 1Sa 12:6-11 and whereas they had desired a king, and one was given them, it was their interest to fear and serve the Lord; if not, his hand would be against them, 1Sa 12:10-15 he terrifies them by calling for thunder in an unusual time, 1Sa 12:16-19 and then comforts and encourages them, that in doing their duty God would be with them, and not forsake them, otherwise they might expect nothing but ruin and destruction, 1Sa 12:20-25.