September 25

But today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your troubles and afflictions, and you have said to Him, ‘No, set a king over us.’ Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and clans. — 1 Sam 10:19 BSB

We are quick to recognize ingratitude in others when they forget our kindness or respond with unkindness. We often refer to the story of the frozen serpent, which, after being warmed by a kind passerby, repaid the kindness with a deadly bite.

But how do we treat God, who has done so much for us? How often do we forget His countless mercies and deliverances? We should judge ourselves by the same standard we use for others. What has God done for us? How many times has He delivered us from trouble? Who forgave our sins and saved us from eternal ruin?

The answer is clear. Now, we must ask ourselves how we are treating this Savior and Friend. Do we recognize Him as our King, or are we neglecting Him? It’s worth taking time to reflect on how we are responding to the God who has saved us.