To know exactly what to expect is going to happen must be exhilarating! Think of the whirlwind young Saul has been on over the past day. While looking for his donkeys, he found Samuel. Samuel’s words will profoundly change his life forever. He has no idea what it will be like to be used by God in this moment.
Maybe you’ve felt like this before. You know you’re called to do something great to further God’s kingdom, but what does that look like? I’m sure we all wish we had Samuel in our corner preparing us for what is about to happen. The detail here is quite something, wouldn’t you agree?
Saul’s anointing as king was not full of pomp and circumstance. It was a private, intimate meeting with God. Samuel even sent the servant on ahead. If Saul’s head wasn’t already spinning, he now hears these words after being showered with oil. “I am doing this because the Lord has appointed you to be the ruler over Israel, his special possession.”
God would be transforming and empowering Saul for his new life. For starters, “God gave him a new heart.” What does that mean exactly? It is the power of God’s spirit coming upon Saul. This power of God is available to us, too. When we read about the newness Saul is experiencing, we can tap into that, too. God has given us access to that through his son, Jesus.
Word will spread fast because that’s what “gossip” does. Interesting that we see that’s alive and well at this point in history, too. Everyone has an opinion, and Saul was not acting in character for what people expected. When the Holy Spirit takes over, we can act in ways that aren’t “normal” for us, too.
As the reading concludes, we see Saul downplaying the events of the last 24-48 hours. He isn’t shouting about his anointing. He must surely still be processing it himself. Samuel didn’t tell him what he should or shouldn’t be saying to people. All he knows for sure is that God is with him, and he is to go at wait for Samuel. I do hope that Saul’s father is notified of his son’s safety.
Take some time today to thank God for his gift of the Holy Spirit power we have access to. How are you feeling empowered today?
Let’s pray …
Father, thank you for how you are working in my heart to refresh and renew me each day. I look forward to spending time with you, listening for your voice, and acting in ways that will glorify you. Fill me with your power to see clearly the direction you have for me. Use me for your purposes and equip me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
