How can we discern God's calling in our lives like Saul in 1 Samuel? Key Verse: 1 Samuel 10:11 “All those who had formerly known Saul saw him prophesying with the prophets, and they asked one another, ‘What has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?’” Setting the Scene • Saul had been anointed by Samuel (1 Samuel 10:1) • Multiple prophetic signs confirmed the call (10:2-6) • “God changed Saul’s heart” before the public evidence appeared (10:9) • Verse 11 captures the moment outsiders realized something supernatural was taking place Principles for Discerning God’s Call • Clear word from Scripture or prophetic message aligns with God’s revealed will • Inner transformation parallels the outward assignment, just as Saul’s heart was changed first • Tangible confirmations arrive at the right time, never contradicting Scripture • The Holy Spirit empowers obedience; human strength alone proves insufficient Recognizing God’s Confirmations • Consistent agreement among godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14) • Providential circumstances that fit the calling (Acts 13:2-3) • Internal peace that guards heart and mind (Philippians 4:7) • Fruit of the Spirit evident in daily life (Galatians 5:22-23) Guarding Against Counterfeit Voices • Measure every impression against the whole counsel of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Reject any guidance that exalts self or contradicts holiness (James 3:13-17) • Stay alert through prayerful vigilance and sober thinking (1 Peter 5:8-9) • Remember that God never tempts or deceives (James 1:13) Walking Forward in Obedience • Act promptly when direction is clear, as Saul joined the prophets immediately (1 Samuel 10:10-11) • Depend on ongoing filling of the Spirit rather than past experiences (Ephesians 5:18) • Embrace humility; public recognition may surprise onlookers but must not inflate pride (1 Peter 5:5-6) • Remain teachable; future instructions will build on present obedience (Psalm 25:9) Verses for Further Meditation • Romans 12:1-2 – mind renewed for discerning God’s will • Proverbs 3:5-6 – trusting and acknowledging Him directs paths • Isaiah 30:21 – hearing a word behind you saying, “This is the way” • John 10:27 – sheep hearing the Shepherd’s voice • 1 Thessalonians 5:24 – faithful is He who calls, and He will do it |
    |