Saul
1 Samuel 9:15-19,13:5-13,15:22-23
The people of Israel wanted a king, so God spoke to Samuel to anoint Saul as prince and then, king. The majority of 1 Samuel includes the life story of Saul. Scripture wants us to know from the jump that Saul was a very good looking man. Long hair, tall, and from the outside, he presented himself as a great candidate for king. What we later discover throughout Saul’s story is the lasting impact of his poor character. He was dishonest and disobedient. Even though he defeated many nations, he disobeyed God’s word. It all comes to a point when battling the Philistines; Samuel comes to Saul with words of regret for appointing him, king.
It’s easy to get caught up in what a good leader should look like. From the outside and through perception, they could carry the right qualities of being a good leader… But God is more concerned with what is happening in this heart. An honest and humble character marks good leadership to God. Hannah (the mother of Samuel), at the beginning of 1 Samuel, writes a poem that displays God’s desire for Samuel in what it means to follow Him and pursue His desires. This poem reminds us that “God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble.” He sees the inworking of our hearts (Psalm 139).
The tragic ending to the story of Saul is that he falls on his sword. What we need to remember throughout this story is the hope that is presented to us through repentance. We get the opportunity to turn away from dishonesty, pride, self-sufficiency, and selfishness and turn toward God, who is merciful. When we place God and His desires above ourselves and own desires, we get to see how He is working and moving. One commentator says this about his death:
“It is a very solemn thought! No career could begin with fairer, brighter prospects than Saul had, and none could close in more absolute midnight of despair; and yet such a fate may befall us, unless we watch, and pray, and walk humbly with our God.” (FB Meyer)
What do you feel like God is teaching you while reading this text?
