1 Samuel Chps 9-11
This week a frequent topic among my Christian brothers is how God calls us up. Noah, Moses, Joshua, Caleb, and now Saul. While initially Saul does not express any resistance or worry, when the time comes to be publicly called out for the role God intends - King of Israel - Saul hides.
17 Samuel summoned the people of Israel to the LORD at Mizpah 18 and said to them, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I delivered you from the power of Egypt and all the kingdoms that oppressed you.’ 19 But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your disasters and calamities. And you have said, ‘No, appoint a king over us.’ So now present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and clans.”
20 When Samuel had all Israel come forward by tribes, the tribe of Benjamin was taken by lot. 21 Then he brought forward the tribe of Benjamin, clan by clan, and Matri’s clan was taken. Finally Saul son of Kish was taken. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found. 22 So they inquired further of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?”
And the LORD said, “Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies.”
And later after he is appointed King, there are those who are doubtful and Saul lacks the confidence to step into the role to prove his worthiness.
26 Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, accompanied by valiant men whose hearts God had touched. 27 But some scoundrels said, “How can this fellow save us?” They despised him and brought him no gifts. But Saul kept silent.
Ultimately, Saul routs the Philistines in chapter 11 and perhaps his confidence was there already and he was the strong silent type...regardless, for me I see that God call us up and often times this is a matter of being "pulled" up and maybe even dragged along if the resistance is great. Sometimes God has to take clear explicit steps to make us aware of our calling.
My Prayer: Lord, I have seen how you have shaped and molded me to serve for your glory. Your design and your plans are awesome! Forgive me for my doubt and concern. Help me trust you more that I can be an instrument of greatness in your hands.
