In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit. (Judges 21:25)
For centuries most people throughout the world lived under the authority of a king. Whether it was the king of France, the czar of Russia, or the lords of Chinese dynasties, such men exercised a great deal of control over their people. Their commands were law, and they demanded that their subjects give their land, money, and even lives for the purpose of extending their power and glory over the earth.
Americans, of course, are proud of the fact that they have never had a king. That was what the Declaration of Independence was all about, and our freedoms are immense compared with those who have lived under kings. Unfortunately, it is easy for this democratic, independent attitude to effect our Christianity. Americans are not use to having a king, but, unlike most Americans, Christians have a King and need to learn how to live under one. It is easy for American Christians to live as if we are only in the free, democratic country of the United States of America. However, no matter where a Christian lives, we live in a Kingdom, with a King who demands absolute allegiance in everything, just as any mere human king ever has.
What system of government is most reflected in our life? Do we live more like citizens of a free, democratic America, or like subjects (even slaves!) to an all powerful, autocratic King? Are we as loyal to our King as anyone has ever been to theirs? Will we sacrifice land, money, and our life to advance His Kingdom and glory? Of course our King is a wonderfully benevolent monarch who loves us, but He is still a King, and we should be living like it!