How can we apply Saul's example to modern-day leadership challenges? Scene Setting: Saul Steps From the Field “Just then Saul was returning from the field, behind his oxen, and he asked, ‘What is wrong with the people? Why are they weeping?’ Then they relayed to him the words of the men of Jabesh.” (1 Samuel 11:5) • Israel’s newly anointed king is still tending oxen—ordinary work, no royal trappings yet. • He immediately notices the emotional climate and seeks the reason for the people’s distress. Faithfulness in the Ordinary • Saul is found “behind his oxen.” Before leading armies, he leads livestock. • Leadership lessons today: – Embrace tasks that seem small; God often trains leaders there. – Luke 16:10: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” – Mark 10:45: Christ Himself models servant-leadership. Attentive Compassion • Saul sees tears before he hears words. He is present, observant, and emotionally engaged. • Application for managers, pastors, coaches: – Keep eyes and ears open to morale and pain points. – Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” – Proverbs 27:23: “Be sure to know the state of your flocks.” Gathering Facts Before Acting • “He asked… Why are they weeping?” He seeks information, not rumors. • Modern parallel: research, listen, verify before decisions. – Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.” – James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” Spirit-Empowered Resolve • The next verse records, “The Spirit of God rushed upon him” (1 Samuel 11:6). Righteous anger, not self-indulgent fury, fuels action. • For contemporary leaders: – Let indignation align with God’s purposes, avoiding personal vendettas. – Ephesians 4:26: “Be angry, yet do not sin.” – Galatians 5:16: Walk by the Spirit; depend on divine strength, not mere charisma. Clear, Motivating Communication • Saul later sends pieces of oxen throughout Israel (1 Samuel 11:7). The message is graphic yet unmistakable. • Key takeaways: – Communicate vision vividly; rally teams with clarity. – Match urgency of the situation with appropriately compelling words or symbols. Humility After Victory • When success comes, Saul says, “Today the LORD has worked salvation in Israel” (1 Samuel 11:13). He redirects credit upward. • Present-day application: celebrate wins, but spotlight God’s provision and the team’s contribution rather than personal glory. Summary Snapshot 1. Serve faithfully in everyday assignments. 2. Notice and value people’s emotions. 3. Listen first; gather full information. 4. Respond under the Spirit’s guidance, not impulsively. 5. Communicate decisively and creatively. 6. Stay humble, giving God the honor. Saul’s first recorded leadership act shows that godly leadership is forged in ordinary fields, revealed through compassionate inquiry, empowered by the Spirit, and crowned with humility. |
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