MAIN IDEA
When we begin to drift in our faith, God in His grace often places red flags along the way, warning signs meant to call us back to Him. These spiritual red flags are not meant to shame us, but to guide us into deeper dependence on and devotion to the only true King, Jesus.

There are three thoughts to consider when it comes to reacting to a drifting faith:

RECOGNITION OF THE RED FLAGS

1. RED FLAG #1: DISSATISFACTION
   The Israelites were unhappy with God’s sovereign plan through Samuel, a sign their hearts were drifting. They voiced their dissatisfaction, not just with leadership, but ultimately with God’s will. Dissatisfaction leads to:
   
   

2. RED FLAG #2: COMPARISON
   In their dissatisfaction, the Israelites looked at other nations and longed to be like them. They wanted a king like everyone else. This comparison distorted their trust in God and led to covetousness, envy, and greed rooted in a lack of contentment. This leads to:
   
   

3. RED FLAG #3: REJECTION
   The people refused to listen to Samuel’s warning and ultimately rejected God as their King. This rejection marked a shift from trusting in and obeying divine leadership to self-reliance. 

REASON FOR THE RED FLAGS
In response to the rejection of God and His sovereign plan, the warnings Samuel gave were meant to open the people's eyes before it was too late. God allows these red flags not to condemn us but to confront our wayward hearts. It was part of His amazing grace. They are invitations to repent and return before deeper consequences unfold.

RESPONSE TO THE RED FLAGS
Despite the people’s rejection of Him as King, God remained merciful and gracious towards the people. Even after poor choices, His desire was restoration and renewal. Like the prodigal son returning home, we can respond to these red flags by repenting, recommitting, and receiving God’s grace, knowing He runs to welcome us back. When we do so, we will restore satisfaction, remove comparison, and remain obedient.

DISCUSSION QUESTION
Which one of these red flags have you noticed in your spiritual life lately and how do you sense God calling you to respond?