The Story of Samuel | The Return | 1 Samuel 10.25-27 | revivetexas.org/blog

by | Oct 18, 2024

“Samuel explained to the people the rights and duties of kingship. He wrote them down on a scroll and deposited it before the Lord. Then Samuel dismissed the people to go to their own homes. 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. 1 Samuel 10.25-27

Some jobs are harder than others. Being a heart surgeon is much more difficult than being a mechanic. Being a rocket scientist is more difficult than being a coach. Samuel’s role as Israel’s priest and prophet was not easy. It was demanding and challenging. As God sought to guide His people, Samuel was the voice through which God spoke.

When Israel wanted a king, God gave them up to their own devices and used Samuel as His mouthpiece. When the choosing was complete and Saul began to reveal his immediate weaknesses, Samuel returned home with godly men, while Saul hid in the corner.

The contrast between Samuel and Saul is stark. While Samuel was filled with God’s Spirit, listening to and following God’s heart, Saul was afraid to be king. And who could blame him? He did not choose this calling. He did not want this job. But Saul was a reflection of the heart of Israel. Even after the choosing, some still despised the new king and brought him no gifts. Is there no satisfying these people?

In truth, we often act like Israel. We ask God for one thing and then do another. We tell Him we will follow, but then we run our own way. Like Saul, we sometimes hide in fear and shame of being discovered.

But let us not allow these insecurities to guide us. Let us allow the Lord to direct our steps so that we might be His people, and He might be our God. Let us look more like Samuel, who walked in the Spirit and lived in the way that leads to life eternal.

“O Lord God, You are good and faithful. When my love fails, Your love remains steadfast. Thank You for saving me and for allowing me to become the person You have called me to be. I love You, Lord, and I praise Your name. Fill me with Your Spirit and keep me on the way that leads to righteousness. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen

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