1 Samuel 15:29
And also the Glory of Israel will not lie or have regret, for he is not a man, that he should have regret.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The crucial point here is that God's unchangeableness isn't just about His consistency, but His divine nature itself. Unlike humans who fluctuate with changing emotions and circumstances, God's "Glory" signifies His inherent, unchanging essence, meaning His word and promises stand firm because of who He is. This isn't a matter of Him choosing not to regret, but that regret is fundamentally incompatible with His perfect, eternal being.
King Saul has just been told by the prophet Samuel that he is being rejected by God for disobeying a direct command concerning the Amalekites. This verse is Samuel's explanation, emphasizing that God's decision is final and unlike human fickleness; God's faithfulness, unlike Saul's actions, is unwavering. Immediately after this, Samuel departs, and Saul is left to grapple with the devastating consequences of his disobedience.
Have you ever felt let down by someone changing their mind or breaking a promise? God's Word assures us of something different.
God's Steadfast Nature
This verse declares that the "Glory of Israel"—a powerful title for God Himself—does not lie or have regret. Unlike humans, who can be fickle, change their minds, or feel remorse for decisions, God's nature is eternally consistent. His purposes are set, and His promises are sure.
Why 'Glory of Israel'?
This title connects God to His chosen people. His glory, His manifest presence and majesty, is uniquely associated with Israel. When the text says this Glory won't lie or regret, it's speaking about the very character of God as He relates to His covenant people.
Does God ever feel sorry about things He's done? This verse unpacks a crucial distinction between human feelings and divine action.
A Divine Perspective on 'Regret'
The Bible sometimes uses language that sounds like regret for God, often in response to human sin (e.g., Genesis 6:6). However, 1 Samuel 15:29 clarifies what this doesn't mean.
Not Human Emotion, But Consequence
God is not a man who experiences emotional turmoil or wishes He could undo His actions. When the Bible speaks of God 'regretting' a decision, it often refers to Him changing His action or method in response to sin, not changing His fundamental character or purpose. It highlights the serious consequences of disobedience and God's just response, rather than Him feeling personal remorse.
This verse assures us that God's decisions are rooted in His perfect knowledge and righteous will, not in fleeting emotions.
Understand the original words
netsach · Hebrew Noun
A reference to God Himself, emphasizing His majesty, radiance, and the visible manifestation of His presence and holiness among His people.
nacham · Hebrew Verb
To change one's mind or purpose, often resulting in a reversal of previous actions; while humans often regret, God’s 'regret' in scripture refers to a change in his dealings based on human response, yet here it specifically denies a change in His decree.
This passage echoes the very same truth about God's unchanging nature and His faithfulness to His promises, directly linking to the idea that God does not lie or regret.
Hebrews 6:17This New Testament passage reinforces the immutability of God's character and His counsel, highlighting that His promises are confirmed by an oath because He cannot change His mind.
Malachi 3:6This verse directly states, 'For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.' It beautifully illustrates God's steadfastness, a quality that prevents Him from lying or regretting.
Psalm 89:34Here, God Himself declares that He will not break His covenant or alter the word that has gone from His lips, emphasizing His faithfulness and truthfulness, which are the very reasons He doesn't lie or regret.
The crucial point here is that God's unchangeableness isn't just about His consistency, but His divine nature itself. Unlike humans who fluctuate with changing emotions and circumstances, God's "Glory" signifies His inherent, unchanging essence, meaning His word and promises stand firm because of who He is. This isn't a matter of Him choosing not to regret, but that regret is fundamentally incompatible with His perfect, eternal being.
King Saul has just been told by the prophet Samuel that he is being rejected by God for disobeying a direct command concerning the Amalekites. This verse is Samuel's explanation, emphasizing that God's decision is final and unlike human fickleness; God's faithfulness, unlike Saul's actions, is unwavering. Immediately after this, Samuel departs, and Saul is left to grapple with the devastating consequences of his disobedience.
King Saul has just been told by the prophet Samuel that he is being rejected by God for disobeying a direct command concerning the Amalekites. This verse is Samuel's explanation, emphasizing that God's decision is final and unlike human fickleness; God's faithfulness, unlike Saul's actions, is unwavering. Immediately after this, Samuel departs, and Saul is left to grapple with the devastating consequences of his disobedience.
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"And also the Glory of Israel will not lie or have regret, for he is not a man, that he should have regret.”" — The crucial point here is that God's unchangeableness isn't just about His consistency, but His divine nature itself. Unlike humans who fluctuate with changing emotions and circumstances, God's "Glor…
