Anesti Ministries

Saul, the Benjaminite.

The first 8 chapters of 1 Samuel focused on the life of Samuel. Chapter 8 ends with the Israelites demanding a king. 1 Samuel 9 begins in the same way as 1 Samuel 1 and introduces readers to Saul; a man from the tribe of Benjamin. The name Saul (שָׁאוּל֙) means “asked”, pointing to Saul as the king that Israel asked for. Outwardly, it seems that Saul would make a good leader according to worldly standards. He comes from a wealthy family, he has charisma and looks like a strong leader that people will follow.

Saul’s unexpected journey.

God used lost donkeys to accomplish His purpose for Saul’s life. Saul had gone out in search of his father’s donkeys but his search was unfruitful. Even though Saul had not yet accomplished his task, he was exactly where God wanted him to be. Sometimes God leads you on an unexpected journey to accomplish His plan for your life. Nothing happens by chance. God uses events in your life to put you in the right place at the right time. At times you might feel like you are going nowhere, but you are right in the centre of God’s will.

Saul’s divine encounter with Samuel.

v15 Saul’s meeting with Samuel was not a coincidence but a divine encounter orchestrated by God. God gave Samuel specific signs to point him to a specific person. In v23, Samuel obeyed the Lord by setting aside the special portion for Saul. When you struggle with discerning God’s direction for your life, pray to God. God will reveal His plans to you in advance. He will give you clear signs so that you can be prepared.

v20 Samuel assured Saul not to worry because the donkeys were safe. You do not have to worry about how things will work out. When you answer God’s call, He will take care of the rest.

v21 Saul was surprised that God would choose him because he belonged to the smallest tribe. You may feel inadequate, that there are other people better than you. But God often uses the most unexpected and insignificant individuals to accomplish His will.