Journeys

We now move forward in our search for biblical journeys to the days when God’s chosen people were looking for a king. We read in 1 Samuel 9 that God granted their wish by leading Saul out of Gibeah to Samuel in Ramah. 

We pick up the story of how this started with a journey “…Now the day before Saul came, the Lord had revealed this to Samuel: “About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over my people Israel; he will deliver them from the hand of the Philistines. I have looked on my people, for their cry has reached me.”

Here we see the origin of the anointing of kings so recently seen at our own coronation of King Charles III. It is a tradition dating back to the Old Testament and was originally meant to emphasise the monarch’s divine right to the throne. 

Saul, originally had no desire for political power and little interest in the spiritual ministry of Samuel. As the son of a wealthy landowner, he was more concerned about the loss of his father’s donkeys, and the worry he might cause his father by being away so long in search of them. This concern led him to seek help from Samuel. He thought that Samuel, with his ability to see visions and make predictions, could tell him where the donkeys were.

In the mean time God revealed to Samuel that he had chosen Saul to be Israel’s king. Saul would save Israel from the Philistines, who had recently renewed their attacks. Samuel prepared Saul to receive this startling news by treating him with special honour at a sacrificial feast that was being held at that time.

The next day Samuel told Saul privately that God had chosen him to be king, after which Samuel anointed him in a brief, private ceremony. Samuel then predicted three things that would soon happen as proof to Saul that Samuel’s predictions always came true. Most important of these three events would be the coming of God’s special power upon Saul to change him from an ordinary Israelite farmer into a national leader. 

Have you ever considered that “…. you are God’s “chosen generation”, his “royal priesthood”, his “holy nation”, his “peculiar people”—all the old titles of God’s people now belong to you. It is for you now to demonstrate the goodness of him who has called you out of darkness into his amazing light. (1 Peter 2:9)

Father, please awaken me, and awaken my brothers and sisters in Christ, to the astounding realisation that You have placed us in our relationships with a purpose. You have intentionally given us these relationships — our families, friendships, coworkers, neighbours,  and everyone we meet — so we may be Your blessing in them. Awaken me to my holy role of blessing others. Help me understand the opportunities You have given me for this divine calling. I ask all of this in Jesus' name. Amen.