What lessons from Saul's anointing can guide our obedience to God's will? Setting the Scene “Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, ‘Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?’” (1 Samuel 10:1) God’s Initiative Comes First • Saul did not seek the throne; God selected him. • Obedience starts by acknowledging that every calling originates with God’s sovereign choice (John 15:16). • We respond, we don’t originate. That posture guards us from striving in the flesh. Submission to Divine Authority • Samuel’s kiss signified allegiance to the new king, illustrating that authority is conferred, not seized (Romans 13:1). • Our obedience involves honoring the structures God establishes, trusting His order even when we feel unqualified. Anointing Symbolizes Empowerment • Oil points to the Holy Spirit’s enabling presence (1 Samuel 10:6; Acts 1:8). • God never calls without equipping; obedience rests on His power, not our resources (Zechariah 4:6). Private Confirmation Precedes Public Service • The anointing happened in a quiet setting before Saul was proclaimed king (1 Samuel 10:17). • Faithfulness in hidden moments forms the character required for visible assignments (Matthew 6:4). Humility Guards the Heart • Saul initially hid among the baggage when presented to Israel (1 Samuel 10:22), showing a reluctant humility. • Genuine obedience holds humility before God and people (Micah 6:8). Self-promotion undermines divine purpose. Continuing Dependence Is Essential • Later, Saul’s disobedience (1 Samuel 13; 15) stemmed from drifting into self-reliance. • The anointing must be met with lifelong surrender; yesterday’s oil cannot sustain today’s obedience (Galatians 3:3). Living It Out • Remember daily that God initiated your calling. • Yield to His authority in every sphere—home, work, church. • Seek the Spirit’s filling for each task. • Cultivate integrity when no one is watching. • Keep humility by crediting every success to God. • Re-affirm dependence through regular time in Scripture and obedience to His promptings. |
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