Saul’s Calling

We pick up today at the beginning of 1 Samuel chapter 10 with the culmination of the story of how Israel’s first king is anointed.  Samuel is in the process of sending Saul home after honoring him at the feast the night before. Samuel sends the servant on ahead, asks Saul to stop.  He takes a vial of oil and pours it on Saul’s head, kisses him, and says, “The Lord hereby anoints you leader of his people Israel.  You will rule the Lord’s people and save them from the power of the enemies who surround them” (1 Samuel 10:1).  Saul finally gets the answer to the question of why Samuel has been acting strangely around him; Samuel reveals the person God has chosen to be king, to lead the people, and to save them from their enemies.  

Saul is chosen for a purpose and given authority by God to care for God’s people.  He has a new calling in life, and I can only imagine what is going through his mind when Samuel utters these words.  I know I would be shocked, overwhelmed, anxious, curious, concerned, and so much more.  I imagine Saul experienced many of those same emotions and thoughts and probably many more. 

Samuel goes on though and gives Saul some signs by which he will know that Samuel is telling the truth.  This is not some big prank; rather this is God’s word and God’s will.  Saul must have looked like he needed some reassurance at this moment and who would blame him.  Samuel’s words of comfort and instructions conclude with this “Once these signs have happened to you, do whatever you would like to do because God is with you.  Then go down to Gilgal ahead of me. I’ll come down to meet you to offer entirely burned offerings and to make well-being sacrifices. Wait seven days until I get to you, then I’ll tell you what you should do next” (1 Samuel 10:7-8).  God will be with Saul, and Samuel with help show him the way.  Saul may be set apart to lead and to rule, but he will not be alone.  God will be with him and God has provided an experienced leader and mentor in Samuel.  Together they will guide the Israelite people into this new chapter for their nation.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• Have you ever been asked to do something you didn’t feel ready for?
• Who helped you along the way?
• How can you rely on God in this chapter of your life?
• Is God calling you to a new chapter?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• Has anyone ever predicted something to you?  
• Did it come true?

PRAYER
Holy God, wherever you are calling me to go I know you will be with me.  Thank you for walking with me in every chapter of my life.  Thank you for sending mentors to guide me.  Help me to discover where you are calling me.  Amen.