God Still Reigns: Choosing Surrender Over Self

“They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.” – 1 Samuel 8:7

The Reign of God: Then and Now

In 1 Samuel 8, the people of Israel demanded a king. They cited Samuel’s corrupt sons as the reason—but God saw deeper. “They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me.” For over a millennium, God directly reigned through judges, prophets, and priests. But Israel wanted to look like the world—to govern themselves.
God still desires to reign today—but He reigns through those He appoints.

Modern Rebellion Wears a New Face

We don’t always say “give us a king,” but the spirit is the same:
- “I need to do me.”
- “I don’t need a pastor to tell me what to do.”
- “I can hear God for myself.”
Yes, God speaks to individuals—but He also appoints covering: leaders, mentors, shepherds.
Resisting God’s appointed people can mean resisting God Himself.
God uses imperfect vessels to guide us into His perfect will.

The Cost of Self-Governance

God gave Israel what they asked for—but He warned them first. A king would take—their freedom, family, and fields.
When we step out of God’s reign, we often:
- Feel spiritually dry
- Strive harder with less peace
- Carry burdens we weren’t meant to
But when we submit, Jesus says: “My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”

Joy in Surrender

“If what you're pursuing isn't God, you'll get tired. But if it's Him—it's joy.”
Surrender isn't losing control—it's giving control back to the One who leads best.
- Ministry becomes fuel, not fatigue
- Obedience becomes delight, not duty
- Life becomes lighter—not always easier, but graced

Rejecting God’s People = Rejecting God

“Don’t judge another man’s servant.” – Romans 14:4
God reigns through people—pastors, mentors, parents. They’re not perfect, but God put them there. If they fall, He corrects them. Your role? Stay humble. Stay teachable.

Return to His Reign

Will you be like Saul and Judas, who chose pride?
Or like David and Peter, who repented and returned?
There is always grace when we return.

Let This Be Your Prayer

“Lord, help me to stay under Your reign.
I surrender my independence.
I choose Your will over mine.
Reign in my life again.”

Reflection Questions

1. Where am I resisting spiritual authority in my life?
2. Have I misunderstood or dishonoured someone God placed over me?
3. What would full surrender look like this week?