March 29

March 29

1 Samuel 9–12

Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 9:1–12:25

Series: Read the Bible in a Year

Our reading today begins with a description of Saul from the tribe Benjamin. He is tall, handsome, and wealthy. Sounds like he could run for public office; he has everything people too often desire. Perhaps he becomes the first king of Israel so that Israel might discover what they should not have desired, as well as what not to look for in their future leadership. 

Saul is on an errand for his father — finding his lost donkeys — that is taking more time than expected. He has looked throughout the land when he comes near to where a seer is, a prophet and judge named Samuel. Saul goes to him for direction in finding the errant donkeys but he gets more than he expected. Samuel is expecting Saul because God has told him that he is sending him to anoint as prince of the people, for he will save Israel from the Philistines. Though Saul has his share of victories, is it Saul who will truly accomplish this feat? God seems to have something (or someone) up his sleeve. 

Samuel anoints Saul prince of the people and tells him that God’s Spirit will rush upon him, transforming him into another man. God gives Saul another heart. Nonetheless, when it is time to make him king, he is found hiding from the responsibility, a trait that will show itself again when the second King of Israel first makes his appearance. He is proclaimed king in spite of his fear or hesitancy. He begins his reign by defeating the Ammonites, showing significant leadership as well after the Spirit rushes upon him again. This has brought the various tribes together as a nation again. They rally under King Saul’s leadership. 

Samuel suspects his work as prophet and judge is finished and he says his farewell to the people. In doing so, he reminds them of what has been accomplished by the Lord, yet how they forsook him, desiring a king as their leader instead of the Lord God. He tells them that though they have a man as king, it is still the Lord whom they must take pains to hear. Obey the voice of the Lord and all will be well. All they have to do is remember all that the Lord has done for them. But rebel, and God will be against both king and nation. Seems simple enough. “Fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart” (1 Samuel 12:24). Do otherwise and you will be destroyed — both you and your preferred king. Sounds like Samuel knows what is coming.    

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