1 Samuel Chapter 9
The first time Samuel was mentioned in the Bible, it was recorded that he “ministered before the LORD, even as a child” (1 Sam 2:18).
And the child Samuel grew in stature, and in favour both with the LORD and men (1 Sam 2:26).
Does this verse sound familiar?
Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and men (Luke 2:52).
In our youth, let us learn to listen to God’s commandments, and obey His teachings. Our character and personality will grow in a manner that is pleasing to God, and will draw people to come to know God. The most powerful testimony we can share when we preach to others is the way we lead our lives in this world.
In the last 8 chapters, we read of how Samuel grew, ears sensitive to God’s instructions. He carried out his duties faithfully in a time where even the priesthood in Israel was corrupt (1 Sam 2:12-17, Rom 1:28). As a result of his obedience, God was with him (1 Sam 3:19-20).
Without taking up arms, without any army contingency force to back him, without doing any heroic stunts, the Philistines had been subdued (1 Sam 7:10,13). He anointed Israel’s first two kings, Saul and David.
The first we hear of Saul the Benjamite, he was described as “a choice and handsome son”, and “there was not a more handsome person than he among the children of Israel” (v2).
In the incident recorded in this chapter, Saul came across as a considerate and filial young man. He spoke with his servant as his equal, and his servant interacted with him and responded in a similar way. Saul had been chosen by God to be Israel’s first king (v15-17,27, 1 Sam 10:24). Saul at that time had reacted in an unassuming and humble manner. He had felt unworthy and small (v21).
Saul had started as a fine, good-natured, and good-looking young man, with a humble background. If he had remained humble, and kept God’s words, any battle he fought would have been a chance to be a useful vessel for God’s work, and to point others to the living God.
As we continue to read about how the lives of Samuel and Saul unfolded, let us remember the time when God first chose us. And when the LORD has something to tell us in our ears (v15), we will be sensitive to His calling.