1 Samuel 9:19

“And Samuel answered Saul, and said, I am the seer: go up before me unto the high place; for ye shall eat with me today, and tomorrow I will let thee go and will tell thee all that is in thine heart.”

Context: The book of 1 Samuel records the transition of Israel from a period of judges to a monarchy. In this particular verse, Saul, who later becomes the first king of Israel, is in search of his father’s lost donkeys and seeks the prophet Samuel’s guidance.

Background: Prior to this verse, Saul had consulted his servant about returning home as their search for the donkeys proved unsuccessful. However, the servant suggests seeking Samuel’s counsel, knowing he is a man of God who can provide guidance.

• Samuel’s Response: When Saul approaches Samuel, the prophet introduces himself as the seer, or a visionary prophet who receives messages from God. Samuel tells Saul to go up to the high place, likely referring to a location where they could worship and offer sacrifices to God. He assures Saul that they will share a meal together and that on the following day, he will reveal all that is in Saul’s heart.
• Divine Guidance: The significance of this verse lies in Samuel’s acknowledgment that God has a message for Saul. Samuel, as a prophet, serves as the intermediary between God and the people, relaying divine guidance and instruction.

Lessons to Learn:

• God’s Appointment: Saul’s encounter with Samuel and the subsequent events highlight the providential hand of God in appointing leaders and guiding His people. Saul’s quest for lost donkeys led him to the prophet, but it was God’s plan to anoint him as king (1 Samuel 9:16). This teaches us that God can use unexpected circumstances to fulfill His purposes in our lives.
• Seeking God’s Guidance: Saul’s decision to consult Samuel exemplifies the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our lives. When faced with challenges or uncertainties, we can turn to God and seek wisdom through prayer, reading His Word, and seeking counsel from godly individuals.
• Trusting God’s Timing: Samuel tells Saul that he will reveal all that is in his heart the next day. This demonstrates the need for patience and trust in God’s timing. Sometimes, we may desire immediate answers, but God’s timing is perfect, and He will reveal what we need to know at the appropriate moment.
• God’s Knowledge of Our Hearts: Samuel’s assurance to Saul that he will reveal what is in his heart shows that God knows and understands the depths of our hearts. God sees beyond the external circumstances and knows our innermost thoughts, desires, and concerns. We can approach Him with openness and trust, knowing that He cares for us.

Application:

• Seek God’s guidance: In times of decision-making or uncertainty, seek God’s guidance through prayer and reading His Word. He will provide wisdom and direction.
• Trust in God’s timing: Even when answers don’t come immediately, trust that God’s timing is perfect. Be patient and wait for Him to reveal His plans.
• Open your heart to God: God knows the deepest parts of our hearts. Approach Him with honesty, surrendering your thoughts, desires, and concerns to Him.
• Recognize God’s providence: Be mindful of God’s providential leading in your life. Even seemingly insignificant events can be part of His plan for you.

Remember, studying the Bible not only involves understanding the historical and textual context but also drawing personal applications from the verses to apply in our lives today.