What can we learn about divine appointments from 1 Samuel 9:14? Setting the scene Before Saul ever dreamed of being king, he was simply looking for lost donkeys (1 Samuel 9:3–4). Unknown to him, the LORD had already told Samuel, “About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin” (1 Samuel 9:16). The meeting we read about in verse 14 is therefore no accident but a divinely scripted moment. The verse itself “So they went up to the city, and as they were entering it, they saw Samuel coming toward them on his way to the high place.” (1 Samuel 9:14) Observations that reveal God’s hand • Timing: Saul and his servant arrive at the precise moment Samuel is walking toward them. • Direction: Samuel is moving “toward them,” not away; the very path he takes ensures the encounter. • Location: “the high place” is where sacrifices and worship occur—God’s turf, not man’s boardroom. • Preparation: The previous verses show Saul almost ready to give up, yet God leads him straight into destiny. Truths about divine appointments • God orchestrates details we cannot foresee (Proverbs 16:9; Psalm 37:23). • Ordinary errands often hide extraordinary purposes (Luke 5:1–10; Genesis 24:12–27). • Divine appointments serve a larger redemptive plan—in this case, launching Israel’s first monarchy (1 Samuel 10:1). • The human role is obedience in the small steps; God handles the intersection points (Acts 8:26–29). Supporting Scriptures • “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) • “The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey.” (Psalm 37:23) • “We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) • “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” (Ephesians 2:10) Practical takeaways • Expect divine choreography even in mundane routines—lost donkeys, grocery runs, commute traffic. • When plans stall or change, pause and look for God’s guidance rather than forcing your own way. • Stay spiritually ready; Samuel was on his way to worship, positioning himself to hear and obey. • Trust that seemingly random encounters may carry kingdom significance for you and others. Living it out Walk in daily dependence on God’s leading. When interruptions arise, remember Saul’s detour became a doorway to destiny. The same sovereign hand still orders steps today, arranging meetings, conversations, and opportunities so His purposes unfold precisely on time. |
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