1 Samuel 12:16-25

16 Now therefore stand still and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes.

17 Isn't it wheat harvest today? I will call to the LORD, that he may send thunder and rain; and you shall know and see that your wickedness is great, which you have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king.

18 So Shemu'el called to the LORD; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Shemu'el.

19 All the people said to Shemu'el, Pray for your servants to the LORD your God, that we not die; for we have added to all our sins [this] evil, to ask us a king.

20 Shemu'el said to the people, "Don't be afraid; you have indeed done all this evil; yet don't turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart:

21 and don't turn aside; for [then would you go] after vain things which can't profit nor deliver, for they are vain.

22 For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you a people to himself.

23 Moreover as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will instruct you in the good and the right way.

24 Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart; for consider how great things he has done for you.

25 But if you shall still do wickedly, you shall be consumed, both you and your king."

1 Samuel 12:16-25 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.