What can we learn about obedience from Saul's encounter in 1 Samuel 10:3? Setting the scene “Then you shall go on from there until you reach the oak of Tabor. Three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there, one carrying three young goats, another three loaves of bread, and the other a skin of wine.” (1 Samuel 10:3) Key observations about obedience in this moment • Specific directions: Saul is told exactly where to go, whom he will meet, and what they will be carrying. • Ordinary details: Goats, bread, and wine seem mundane, yet God weaves His will through them. • Divine confirmation: The precise fulfillment of these details will reassure Saul that God’s word through Samuel is certain. • Immediate compliance required: Saul’s role is simply to proceed “from there” and keep moving until the sign appears. Lessons on obedience drawn from verse 3 • Obedience begins with attentiveness. Saul has to listen carefully to Samuel’s instructions before he can act on them (cf. Deuteronomy 28:1). • God meets us on the road of obedience, not before we start moving. The men appear only “then … until you reach,” underscoring that confirmation follows forward motion. • Faithfulness in little things matters. Accepting loaves of bread (v. 4) may look minor, yet it demonstrates readiness to submit to God’s plan (Luke 16:10). • The Lord orchestrates details beyond our control. Saul cannot stage-manage three strangers with specific items; his task is simply to obey and watch God work. • Obedience positions us for greater assignments. This initial step prefaces Saul’s anointing and later victories; ignoring it would cast doubt on everything that follows (1 Samuel 15:22). Why these insights still matter • God’s word is accurate and trustworthy down to the smallest detail; obeying it invites tangible assurance. • Our willingness to act on clear instruction, even when it seems routine, proves our love for the Lord (John 14:15). • Each obedient step strengthens faith for larger challenges that lie ahead. Putting it into practice today • Pay close attention when reading Scripture; note concrete instructions and put them into action. • Move forward even when you only understand the next step, trusting God to confirm His guidance along the way. • Look for God’s hand in everyday encounters—He often uses ordinary people and objects to affirm His direction. • Cultivate faithfulness in small responsibilities; they are often the proving ground for future service. Supporting Scriptures • “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” (Luke 16:10) • “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Look, to obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22) |
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