1 Samuel 10:6 The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.
I must admit that I read this chapter with just a bit of confusion. If chapters 9 and 10 were all I knew of the situation and Saul, I wouldn’t be very skeptical about his abilities and call as king. He seems kind and respectful. He’s physically tall and handsome. In this chapter Saul is anointed by God and the power of God’s Spirit comes upon him. He is a changed man. All that sounds great, so what’s the catch?
1 Samuel 10:7 Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you.
The catch is that God’s will isn’t a king for Israel (yet). The events unfolding here represent the will of the people. And even though Saul is a changed man, anointed by God, he is still a man—human, fleshly, fallible. As commentary puts it, Saul has to “choose to walk in the advantages God gave him and choose not to go his own way.” There is hope, even now, IF Saul will put God first.
1 Samuel 10:9 As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all these signs were fulfilled that day.
Lord, Thank You for this day and for this scripture. Thank You for Your willingness to bring hope from our pigheadedness. If we choose Your way and not our own, You can use us powerfully. Help me to put You first always. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Samuel 10:24 Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see the man the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.” Then the people shouted, “Long live the king!”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.