Whilst we must be careful of thinking that the Lord is like us, and recognize that Scripture uses anthropomorphic language in describing the Lord,1 there is, nevertheless, an emotional element that has been revealed and must be considered.2 In terms of understanding the Lord’s regret, we can consider it as being parallel to the regret of a parent when they discipline their child. The parent does not enjoy the discipline and wishes that it did not have to take place, but the parent does not think that discipline is unnecessary.3
11 “I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned back from following me and has not performed my commandments.” And Samuel was angry, and he cried to the LORD all night.