Anointed: A Study in 1 SamuelSample

What does it say?

Samuel anointed Saul as king. Samuel gave him signs to look for and the promise of God’s presence with him. Saul was then sent to Gilgal to wait for Samuel.

What does it mean?

Because God knew Saul’s reluctant, unassuming disposition, He offered him two gifts: confirmation and confidence. The signs Samuel told Saul to look for would offer validity to Samuel’s statements, confirm the promise of kingship, and answer any doubts Saul might have about his calling. Saul lacked confidence, feeling unworthy to be king. God then gave Saul the promise of His presence to instill confidence. God’s promise to be with him should have been a comfort to him as it had been with Moses and Joshua, leaders before him. Saul would not have to doubt that he was the one God had chosen.

How should I respond?

God loves to call the ill equipped, the lowly, and the weak to do the impossible because that is when He gets the most credit. Rest assured that if God calls you to do something, He did not make a mistake in choosing you or the task He has for you. The extraordinary thing is that He cares enough about us to provide the assurance we need when doubt comes. What is God calling you to do in ministry, life, or family? What are your doubts? Has He already addressed them? Take a moment to talk with God about your doubts and the calling. Choose to move forward, trusting God’s wisdom.