Wednesday Thought – February 3, 2016

Good Morning Friends,

Israel wanted a king and God granted their desire God chose for king a man who would be what they thought a king should be, impressive to look upon and from a respected family. “There was a Benjamite, a man of standing, whose name was Kish son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah of Benjamin. He had a son named Saul, an impressive young man without equal among the Israelites - a head taller than any of the others.” (1 Samuel 9:1-2)

Saul had other characteristics that also fitted him to be king. Saul was a humble young man. When told that Israel wanted him Saul answered, “But am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel, and is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why do you say such a thing to me?” (1 Samuel 9:21) Saul did not consider himself, his family, or his tribe worthy of that kind of honor. He did not expect to be chosen for such a task.

Saul knew that Israel was asking for a king but he was not seeking the position. Samuel had to convince Saul that God had chosen him through signs. The prophet predicted three specific things that would happen as Saul traveled back toward his home. “And all these signs were fulfilled that day.” (1 Samuel 9:9)

Saul was still hesitant to accept the position. When the ceremony to select a king was held and all Israel was gathered, the tribe of Benjamin was chosen, then Saul’s clan was chosen, and finally Saul was chosen. When they sought Saul he could not be found until Samuel told them, “He has hidden himself among the baggage.” (1 Samuel 9:22)

Humble and hesitant, yet Saul was finally willing to accept what God had chosen and he was anointed king. The people rejoiced, “Long live the king!” (1 Samuel 9:24) They got what they desired.

Saul would have great difficulty as king. He started humble, but he would grow arrogant. He began with hesitancy, but he would cling tenaciously to his crown. He started well, but would forget that it was God’s choice that made him king, not his worthiness.

His, by Grace, Steve