How should we respond when others doubt our spiritual transformation, as seen in 1 Samuel? A surprising scene “All those who formerly had known Saul saw him prophesying with the prophets and asked, ‘What has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?’ ” (1 Samuel 10:11) Why doubt erupts • People cling to old snapshots—Saul, the timid donkey-seeker (10:16). • Radical change threatens comfort; it’s easier to question than to adjust. • Spiritual realities are invisible until fruit matures (Matthew 7:16). God’s verdict over people’s voices • Saul’s anointing (10:1) and filling with the Spirit (10:10) settled the matter long before neighbors saw evidence. • 1 Thessalonians 5:24—“The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” • Our identity is anchored in divine declaration, not human opinion. Let the Spirit do the convincing • 2 Corinthians 5:17—“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…” • Time + obedience allow others to “see your good deeds and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16). • Paul’s story mirrors Saul’s: rejection turns to praise once transformation proves durable (Galatians 1:23-24). Practical ways to respond 1. Stay humble – Saul “kept silent” when ridiculed (10:27). – Resist self-defense; let God defend you (Romans 12:19). 2. Keep walking in the Spirit – Regular worship, Scripture intake, fellowship. – Transformation remains visible only while we abide (John 15:4-5). 3. Serve consistently – Good works silence ignorance (1 Peter 2:12). – Small faithfulness outweighs loud rebuttals. 4. Extend grace to skeptics – They react to past memories; show them present reality through patience and love. 5. Trust God’s timing – Fruit grows slowly; endurance showcases authenticity (Hebrews 10:36). Encouraging scriptural echoes • Psalm 37:6—“He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn…” • Proverbs 16:7—When ways please the LORD, even enemies find peace with you. • 1 Corinthians 4:5—God “will bring to light what is hidden… and praise will come to each.” A lasting witness Skepticism becomes a platform for God’s glory when we respond with steady obedience. Let the doubters watch; in due season they will marvel, “Is he also among the transformed?”—and the answer will magnify the One who made it so. |
    |