Always Pointing

HIGHLIGHT: 1 Samuel 11:12-13 “Then the people exclaimed to Samuel, “Now where are those men who said, ‘Why should Saul rule over us?’ Bring them here, and we will kill them!” But Saul replied, “No one will be executed today, for today the Lord has rescued Israel!””

EXPLAIN: At the end of Chapter 10, after it has been revealed that Saul is the first King, there are a few people in the land who are not happy with having a King, and with Saul being the guy. Chapter 11 has the Israelites being attacked by the Ammonites, Saul rising up in his leadership role, and leading the Israelites to defeat their enemy.

The highlighted verses are a moment where the crowd wants to take revenge on the scoundrels who didn't like Saul. Saul then shows great restraint by not joining the crowd's call for revenge. In addition, He even begins to fulfill his Kingly role by pointing the people back to the grace of God.

APPLY: it is always important to remember that when God calls you to do something, it does not mean that everyone will be excited. In this moment, we see at the end of chapter 10, that even though Saul had been chosen by God, and even confirmed to the entire nation of Israel, that there were some people that just were not thrilled about him being in this position.

As we live out our lives, and the calling that God has placed on our lives, we need to know upfront, that not everyone will be excited about us, fulfilling our calling. That doesn't mean we should back down, but it does mean that we should continue to follow through with what God has asked us to do.

I am thankful for Saul's leadership for the people of Israel during this time. Samuel had told him once he was confirmed as king to do what he needed to do for God would be with him. I am also thankful that Saul fulfilled his role well by pointing the people back toward God.

This is always our role as leaders in the Kingdom! In this moment, Saul says don't forget what God has done in our lives.

RESPONSE: Lord, thank you for allowing me to play a part in your Kingdom. May I always use the gifts, graces and influence I have at my disposal in order to point people toward the work you have done and long to do in their lives.