1 – Verse 1 says Samuel is old. How old is he? Samuel is old with two sons who are not walking with the Lord. How is this like Eli and his two sons in Chapter 2? How is it different? What type of work are Samuel's sons doing? (religious or secular)Why would Samuel appoint them?

2 – What reason do the elders give Samuel in verse 5 for their desire for a king? Is this the real reason? Why does this request displease Samuel? Is their request in their best interest? Why or why not?

3 – In verse 7, what does God direct Samuel to do? Why? Why would God give them something not good for them? Why should Samuel warn them?

4 – What does Samuel's warning involve/include? What is the cost of big government? Why would they be willing, even eager, to accept the horrible cost? What advantage do the elders see in having a king, "like every other nation?"

5 – If God gives not only good gifts to us, but also bad ones, how can we exercise caution in our requests? What are some guiding principles in our prayer requests?