How should believers respond when witnessing God's work in others' lives? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 10:12: “And a man who lived there responded, ‘And who is their father?’ So it became a saying: ‘Is Saul also among the prophets?’” • Saul, freshly anointed, is prophesying with a band of prophets. • Bystanders, startled by God’s sudden work in an unlikely candidate, ask, “What just happened?” What the Verse Teaches About Our First Response • Notice, not deny. The crowd could not overlook what God was doing; they voiced it. • Admit surprise. Their question, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” shows honest amazement. • Acknowledge God’s initiative. “Who is their father?” points to a Source outside human pedigree. Respond with Humble Recognition, Not Skepticism • God chooses and empowers whomever He wills (1 Corinthians 1:27–29). • Guard against scoffing; dismissing a genuine work of the Spirit is dangerous (Matthew 12:24–32). • Instead, give glory where glory is due—straight to the Lord (Psalm 115:1). Celebrate, Don’t Compete • “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Romans 12:15). • Envy quenches joy and grieves the Spirit (James 3:14–16). • A shared win for the kingdom strengthens the whole body (1 Corinthians 12:26). Turn Amazement into Praise • “Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wonders” (Psalm 105:2). • Public acknowledgment multiplies faith in the community (Acts 11:18). • Let your words echo the psalmist’s: “Come and see what God has done” (Psalm 66:5). Let the Moment Grow Your Expectation • If God could transform Saul, He can transform anyone (Ephesians 3:20). • Past interventions fuel future faith (1 Samuel 7:12). • Keep eyes open for the next surprise from heaven (Habakkuk 1:5). Practical Ways to Respond Today • Speak up: verbally affirm God’s work when you see it. • Encourage: send a note, text, or call the person God is using. • Share: tell others the story to magnify God’s name. • Guard your heart: confess jealousy the moment it arises. • Pray privately: ask God to keep the flame burning in the one He’s using. • Prepare yourself: be willing when God’s spotlight shifts to you. |
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