1 Samuel 9:18

“Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, ‘Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer’s house is.’”

Context: The book of 1 Samuel recounts the transition of leadership in Israel from the time of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. Samuel, the last of the judges, was also a prophet and played a crucial role in anointing Saul as the first king of Israel.

Saul’s Encounter with Samuel: In this verse, Saul, who would later become the first king of Israel, was on a quest to find his father’s lost donkeys. He sought guidance from Samuel, known as a seer or prophet, regarding the location of the donkeys. Saul approached Samuel at the gate, the central meeting place of the city, to inquire about the seer’s house.

God’s Sovereignty: It is important to recognize God’s providential hand in Saul’s encounter with Samuel. Saul’s journey to find the lost donkeys was part of God’s plan to bring him to Samuel and reveal his future role as king. God used seemingly ordinary circumstances to set in motion the fulfillment of His purposes.

The Role of the Seer: The term “seer” refers to a prophet who receives divine revelations from God. Samuel served as a seer, receiving messages from God and conveying them to the people of Israel. Saul recognized Samuel’s authority as a prophet and sought his guidance, demonstrating his acknowledgment of God’s presence and power in Samuel’s life.

Seeking Divine Guidance: Saul’s actions provide us with an example of seeking divine guidance in times of uncertainty. Rather than relying solely on his own abilities, Saul sought the counsel of a prophet, recognizing the importance of seeking God’s direction. This teaches us the value of seeking wisdom from God and godly individuals when making important decisions in our lives.

Application: As believers, we can learn from Saul’s example. When facing challenges or seeking direction, we should approach God with humility, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance through prayer and studying His Word. Additionally, seeking counsel from wise and godly individuals can provide valuable insights and perspectives.

Remember to read the surrounding verses and consider the broader context of the passage to gain a deeper understanding of the message conveyed in 1 Samuel 9:18.