"Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?"
Context:First Samuel is a book in the Old Testament that focuses on the transition of Israel from a period of judges to a monarchy. This particular verse takes place at a time when Israel was seeking a king, and the prophet Samuel played a significant role in anointing Saul as the first king of Israel.
In this verse, Saul, who would later become the king, is having a conversation with his servant while searching for Samuel, who is known as a "man of God" and a prophet. Saul is concerned about what they should bring as a gift or present for Samuel. They were in need of bread, and they didn’t have any suitable offering to bring to the man of God.
Key Lessons:
- Reverence for the man of God:Saul’s concern about bringing a present to Samuel indicates a level of respect and reverence for the prophet. In those times, it was customary to bring an offering when visiting a prophet or a man of God. Saul recognizes the significance of Samuel’s position and wants to honor him appropriately.
- Provision and trust in God:Saul’s concern about the lack of bread or a present reveals his practical need for provisions. However, it also highlights his dependence on God’s provision. Saul realizes that they don’t have the necessary supplies, but he still decides to go and seek Samuel. This demonstrates trust in God’s ability to provide for their needs and guidance through His appointed prophet.
- Sacrificial giving:Saul’s question about what they have to bring before the man of God reflects the custom of giving gifts or offerings to show honor, gratitude, or seek favor. It teaches us the importance of sacrificial giving when we approach God or His chosen servants. It encourages us to offer our resources, time, and efforts as acts of worship and obedience.
Application:
- Respect for spiritual leaders:We should show respect and honor to spiritual leaders and those who serve God faithfully. This includes pastors, teachers, mentors, and other individuals who guide us in our spiritual journey. We can express our gratitude through acts of kindness, support, and prayers.
- Trust in God’s provision:Like Saul, we may face situations where our resources seem insufficient, and we may feel inadequate. However, we can rely on God’s provision and trust Him to meet our needs. It’s crucial to seek Him and His guidance, even when we feel lacking, and have faith that He will provide what is necessary.
- Sacrificial giving:Giving sacrificially is a way to demonstrate our love for God and others. It goes beyond mere material offerings and extends to our time, talents, and resources. By giving sacrificially, we express our devotion to God and contribute to the work of His kingdom, supporting ministries and those in need.
Remember, studying the Bible allows us to gain insights into God’s character, His plans, and how we can live according to His principles.
