“Now the Lord had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying.”
1 Samuel 9 is part of the historical narrative of the Old Testament, where Samuel is established as a prophet and the last judge of Israel. This verse sets the stage for an important event that is about to unfold.: Here are some key points to consider in understanding this verse and its context:
Divine Communication:The verse begins by highlighting that the Lord had spoken to Samuel “in his ear.” This phrase signifies a personal and intimate form of divine communication. It emphasizes the direct and private nature of the message from God to Samuel. This suggests that God’s communication with His chosen servants can occur in various ways, including through direct revelation.
Timing of the Message:The verse indicates that the Lord had spoken to Samuel “a day before Saul came.” This reveals that God had already informed Samuel about the future arrival of Saul, who was to become the first king of Israel. It demonstrates God’s foreknowledge and His ability to communicate future events to His servants. God’s foreknowledge and His ability to reveal His plans in advance highlight His sovereignty and control over human affairs.
Preparation and Providence:This verse reflects God’s divine plan and providential care. By informing Samuel about Saul’s arrival in advance, God ensured that Samuel was prepared for the encounter. God’s guidance and direction were crucial in shaping the course of events and the establishment of Israel’s monarchy. This highlights God’s sovereignty and His active involvement in the affairs of His people.
The Rise of Saul:The verse sets the stage for the subsequent events where Samuel would anoint Saul as king over Israel (1 Samuel 10:1). Saul’s rise to power was part of God’s plan to provide leadership to the nation of Israel in response to the people’s request for a king (1 Samuel 8). The events that follow in the book of 1 Samuel reveal the unfolding of God’s purposes through Saul’s reign and the eventual transition of power to David.
In summary, 1 Samuel 9:15 highlights the divine communication between God and Samuel, emphasizing the personal and intimate nature of this interaction. It also reveals God’s foreknowledge and His providential care in preparing Samuel for the arrival of Saul, who would become the first king of Israel. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent events that unfold in the book of 1 Samuel, demonstrating God’s sovereignty and His active involvement in the affairs of His people.
