Leader Guide
This week we look into a time in Scripture where the Israelites wanted to be like all the other people around them. Other nations had kings, so they wanted one as well, so they asked God for a king. As you can imagine, and as we will see, this was not God’s plan or His best for His chosen people. But like we often do, they demanded their way and so begins a long journey of difficult consequences to the choice they made to have a king “like everyone else,” instead of God as their true King.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. Have you ever had “yard envy”? Maybe it’s someone’s lawn, or maybe it’s something else—like a job, newer car, nicer kitchen, or even someone’s vacation photos. Share a time when what looked so much better at first glance turned out not to be as great as you thought. Or maybe you discovered that your own “grass” just needed a little care and attention.
2. Read 1 Samuel 8:11-20. Like Israel, why do we struggle with choosing to trust a man (or woman) to lead us instead of God? Why do you think God allowed them to have what they wanted? What are some modern examples of how we try to be “like everyone else”? Why is the pull toward cultural acceptance so strong?
Leader: Israel already had leadership. God was their leader, and He had already given them prophets and judges. They wanted what others had so they could “fit” in. God allowed it but warned them of the cost. Sometimes His discipline comes by letting us experience the weight of our own demands and sins.
3. Read 1 Kings 3:3, 9-14. What do we see about Solomon’s heart at the beginning of his reign? What was God’s promise to him if he followed faithfully? How does this encourage you about the importance of starting with humility?
Leader: Solomon began with a sincere, humble heart, and a desire for wisdom to lead God’s people. Yet notice that even on, Solomon compromised by offering to other gods, also. Still God promised him blessing, honor, and long life—if he walked in obedience. Starting strong is important, but finishing strong is even more important.
4. Read 1 Kings 11:1-4, 9. How did Solomon’s heart change over time, and why? How can we see the same pattern in leaders today—in churches, workplaces, and even in our own lives? What dangers come when we allow others to influence and pull our hearts away from God? How is drifting from God often gradual? How can community and accountability guard against this?
Leader: Solomon’s heart drifted slowly, influenced by relationships and cultural compromise. We need others in our lives that will be honest, truthful, and lead us closer to Christ. Letting others that are not living out God’s Word influence us is a dangerous game.
5. Read Revelation 19:13-16. How does this picture of Jesus as the “King of Kings” reshape our desire to follow worldly patterns? What difference does it make to know our King is perfect, eternal, and victorious?
Leader: This is the ultimate contrast. Where Israel longed for a human king, Jesus is the King who will never fail. He is our hope and trust, not human leaders, influencers, or bosses of this world.
6. Action Steps: This week identify, one area where you’ve been tempted to want what others have instead of trusting God. What voices, people, or platforms are influencing you most? Is there an area of your life where you have refused to make Jesus Lord and Master: finances, thought life, relationships, work ethics, or something else?
Deeper Dive (Optional): Read Genesis 13:10-13, 19:12-16. What looked so appealing to Lot at first? What hidden cost came with his choice? How was Abraham's faith-filled posture different?
Leader: Like Israel wanting a king, Lot wanted what looked good on the surface. But “greener” doesn’t always mean better. Trusting God’s provision, even when it looks less appealing at first, always leads to the better outcome. Lot’s choice placed him near Sodom, and the consequences were devastating for him and his family.