June 8-14: 1 Samuel 8-10; 13; 15-16

Written By Center for Latter-day Saint Arts

"The Lord Looketh on the Heart"

Boyd K. Packer (American, 1924-2015)

The Bishop's Team, Harper, Utah (1999)

Acrylic on canvas, 22 x 30 inches

Private collection

To obey is better than to sacrifice. The Israelites demand a king so they can be as the other nations, and though Samuel warns them of the consequences, God tells him to grant their request. Saul is chosen and anointed as Israel’s first king. Saul is initially a humble leader, but he disobeys God by offering a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel. Samuel tells him his kingdom will not endure. Saul again disobeys by sparing King Agag and the best livestock instead of fully carrying out God’s command. This disobedience leads Samuel to declare that obedience is better than sacrifice and that Saul has been rejected as king. God sends Samuel to anoint David.

These chapters focus on leadership, obedience, and the dangers of valuing appearances over faithfulness. Israel’s request for a king reveals insecurity and a desire to conform to surrounding cultures rather than embrace God’s unique calling for them. Saul’s failures highlight how partial obedience and fear of public opinion can lead to spiritual downfall. David’s anointing emphasizes that God values inner character and humility more than status, strength, or outward impressiveness.

The pressure to conform is stronger than ever in the modern day, and the qualities people look for in leaders often seem different than what God looks for. Consider the humility depicted in Boyd K. Packers painting The Bishop's Team, Harper, Utah as you ponder on the themes or humility, service, and obedience.

Gospel Questions

1. The Israelites were granted a king even though it wasn't what was best for them. How should understanding future consequences impact what you pray for?

2. Saul sometimes chose what seemed practical or popular instead of fully obeying God. When have you gone along with what was popular instead of what was right? How would you counsel someone falling into the same mistake?

3. What leaders do you admire because of their hearts?

For Children and Youth

Hi. The people of Israel ask for a king, so Saul becomes king, but he does not always obey God. Because Saul disobeys, God chooses a young shepherd named David to be the next king, showing that God cares about what is in a person’s heart.

1. God chose David to lead because of his good heart. Who is somebody you would choose to be a good leader because of their heart?

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June 8-14: 1 Samuel 8-10; 13; 15-16
June 8-14: 1 Samuel 8-10; 13; 15-16

To obey is better than to sacrifice. The Israelites demand a king so they can be as the other nations, and though Samuel warns them of the consequences, God tells him to grant their request. Saul is chosen and anointed as Israel’s first king. Saul is initially a humble leader, but he disobeys God by offering a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel.

Center for Latter-day Saint Arts
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June 15-21: 1 Samuel 17-18; 24-26; 2 Samuel 5-7

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June 1-7: Ruth; 1 Samuel 1-7