Scripture to Read: 1 Samuel 10–11
In 1 Samuel 10, we find Saul’s anointing and Samuel’s prophetic confirmation. Samuel privately anointed Saul with oil and gave him prophetic signs to confirm he was to be king. Samuel told Saul he would meet three men (prophets) and that God would change his heart. Saul also prophesies with the prophets, which reassures the people of Israel that God is at work in Saul. We also see how Saul first hid, but then accepted his role as king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 11, we see Saul face his first major test as a military leader. But God blessed Saul, Saul called upon and mobilized an army (300,000 men from Israel, 30,000 from Judah), and Saul led a surprise attack at night, routing the Ammonites and rescuing Jabesh. The victory brought widespread rejoicing. The people confirm Saul again as king at Gilgal with a renewed covenant before the Lord. Then, Samuel sacrificed peace offerings and the people celebrated. God had chosen Saul for this particular time in the life of the nation of Israel. There is no mention of Saul being the godliest man of Israel, but God used him to carry out His perfect will. We also see in 1 Samuel 11:6, “the Spirit of God came upon Saul mightily,” which happened before Saul and the 330,000 went into battle. In the Old Testament, we see God’s Spirit come upon people at different times for different reasons. Thankfully, as Christians, God’s Spirit dwells in us and never leaves us, but we must still submit to His leadership in our lives to carry out God’s will.
Challenge & Application
How did God empower and use Saul to help deliver some of the Israelites from becoming slaves to the Ammonites?
How does God empower you to live your life for Him each day and how are you submitting to His leadership?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!