שמואל א, פרק י״ב, פסוק כ״ה

The destiny of a nation and its newly appointed leader is permanently bound together, resting entirely on their moral and spiritual choices. Even after past failures, committing to a good and honest life guarantees God's ongoing support, while turning toward wickedness ensures absolute ruin [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

A stark warning is issued against intentionally choosing a path of bad actions [רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. If the people commit to doing evil, the inevitable outcome is total annihilation [מצודת ציון, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This destruction does not discriminate; it sweeps away everyone in its path, permanently linking the citizens and their ruler to the exact same punishment [רד״ק].

When sin takes hold to this degree, all avenues of rescue are closed. The prayers of a prophet will offer no protection, the king will be powerless to save his subjects, and the masses will be equally unable to rescue their king [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. The reason a monarch suffers alongside his failing nation comes down to the heavy burden of leadership. A ruler is responsible for guiding his people. If the citizens sin and their leader fails to correct them, he fully shares in their guilt and must face the severe consequences of their actions [רד״ק].