Influence of God's GlorySample

A Shepherd King

1 Samuel 10–15, describes the first years of King Saul’s reign. Saul was a reluctant king at first but quickly became a powerful man of ambition. Eventually, Saul’s ambition led him to a place of self-reliance, and soon his leadership caused Israel to be viewed by other nations as a threat. Scripture describes the years of Saul’s reign saying, “All the days of Saul there was bitter war with the Philistines, and whenever Saul saw a mighty or brave man, he took him into his service” (1 Samuel 14:52).

William Booth, a British Methodist preacher who founded the Salvation Army, said, “The greatness of the man’s power is the measure of his surrender.” Jesus said, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” When Saul stepped away from God’s authority and power, he weakened his ability to lead.

1. Gilgal was the location of an altar that was used by the judges and Saul had been anointed as king in that place. 1 Samuel 13:1–15 describes a significant moment in Saul’s reign when he ignored God’s commands and chose to act on his own. What was Saul’s army and the situation that caused his men to scatter? (1 Samuel 13:1–7)

2. Consider your own circles of influence. What circumstances bring out the “Saul” in your life? The “David”? How might your witness be impacted as a result?