Dear God, Aren’t You So Glad Someone Special Like Me Serves You? 1 Samuel 9, 10

Dear God, Aren’t You So Glad Someone Special Like Me Serves You?

1 Samuel 9, 10

If you have been following the theme of 1^st Samuel to this point, you would know that as Saul is described at the beginning of chapter 9, he will not be successful as king. He is described as physically gifted, “From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people”. Saul looks the part, the opposite of the kind of people God has been using thus far. Certainly God can use those who are physically blessed in this world but the author has purposely described Saul in this way. God is giving the people what they want, but it won’t be what is really best for them. He is letting them learn the hard way.

We can tell the Saul is definitely part of the plan though because of his interactions with the prophet (King maker) Samuel. We see lots of prophecy spoken and then take place as Saul bumbles around looking for donkeys (insert all the donkey jokes here). Saul first gets anointed in secret, and then chosen in front of all the leaders of Israel. The people love it and through a great party. Saul looks good and even acts good at first. He shows patience and perhaps some humility (he might just be shy which is not the same as humility but can be mistake for it).

Lessons: We shouldn’t just assume that the person who looks the part can play the role, especially in ministry. Of course only God can truly see the heart, but we can look for evidence of a humble and sincere life. Don’t be too quick to elevate someone to savior status.

If God has blessed you with gifts, make sure that you remember who gave them to you. Remember who should get the glory in their use. God doesn’t give you gifts for you. God isn’t blessed to have you on His team, you are blessed that He lets you play, so play hard, play well, and give Him the credit for your success.