How should Saul's background inspire us to seek God's purpose in our heritage? Saul’s family tree in focus 1 Samuel 9:1: “Now there was a man of Benjamin named Kish son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of valor.” • Kish’s résumé is impressive—wealth, valor, respected standing. • Four generations are named, emphasizing a well-established lineage. • The tribe of Benjamin, though small and once nearly destroyed (Judges 20–21), is singled out by God for Israel’s first king. What Saul’s background tells us about God’s purposes • God’s sovereignty over family lines – Genesis 49:27 foretold Benjamin’s fierce character; centuries later that trait will show up in Saul’s military courage. – Acts 17:26 reminds us God “determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” • God redeems broken histories – Benjamin had a violent past, yet God places royal potential there (1 Samuel 9:16). – 1 Corinthians 1:27: “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise.” • God values both spiritual and natural heritage – Philippians 3:5 shows Paul (another Benjamite) recognizing his lineage while surrendering it to Christ. – 2 Timothy 1:5 highlights a legacy of faith that God weaves into calling. How our heritage fits into God’s plan • Your story—genes, geography, upbringing—wasn’t an accident (Psalm 139:16). • Strengths inherited from parents or culture can become tools in God’s hand. • Weaknesses, wounds, even family sin can showcase His grace when surrendered (Romans 8:28). Steps to seek God’s purpose in your family story 1. Acknowledge the facts • List the blessings and blemishes in your lineage as candidly as Scripture lists Saul’s. 2. Thank God for sovereign placement • Gratitude keeps us from envy of other backgrounds (Psalm 16:6). 3. Submit heritage to Christ • Offer skills, resources, traditions, and even family scars for His use (Romans 12:1). 4. Cooperate with His shaping • Let Him refine inherited strengths—courage, creativity, work ethic—into kingdom service. 5. Expect redemptive surprises • If God raised a king from troubled Benjamin, He can raise kingdom influence from your line. Living it out today • Celebrate God’s authorship over your roots. • Walk in humility, knowing lineage is a gift, not an achievement. • Lean into purpose: serve, lead, and love with the unique flavor your heritage supplies. |
    |