What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 9:7? “If we do go,” - Saul recognizes that obedience may involve action that costs something, echoing Abram’s prompt journey when called (Genesis 12:1-4). - Going to inquire of God’s prophet is treated as a serious venture, similar to Israel’s consult of Moses before battle (Numbers 27:21). - The phrase shows a pause of consideration, not unbelief; like Gideon’s cautious step before moving (Judges 6:36-40). “what can we give the man?” - In Saul’s day, bringing a gift to God’s servant was customary (2 Kings 4:42-44; 1 Kings 14:1-3). - Saul’s question reflects respect for the representative of God, paralleling the wise men who “opened their treasures” before Christ (Matthew 2:11). - The impulse underscores that worship and inquiry involve giving, not mere receiving (Proverbs 3:9-10). “For the bread in our packs is gone,” - Physical lack heightens dependence on God’s provision, as Israel learned with daily manna (Exodus 16:18). - The empty packs reveal that earthly resources can quickly vanish (Proverbs 23:4-5), steering the heart toward heavenly supply. - The detail highlights that Saul and his servant did not set out with lavish means, aligning with Jesus’ later instruction to the disciples to travel light (Luke 9:3). “and there is no gift to take to the man of God.” - Giving to God’s servant was not payment for prophecy but an honor offering (1 Timothy 5:17-18). - The absence of a gift mirrors the widow’s dilemma before Elijah, yet God multiplied her oil (1 Kings 17:8-16). - The statement underscores God’s pattern of acting when human sufficiency ends (2 Corinthians 12:9). “What do we have?” - The question redirects from what is lacking to what is present, just as Jesus asked about the loaves and fishes (Mark 6:38). - It invites inventory of small resources that God can magnify (2 Kings 4:1-7). - The servant’s later discovery of a quarter-shekel (v. 8) anticipates how God often answers through means already at hand (Exodus 4:2). summary Saul’s brief exchange exposes timeless truths: obedience includes thoughtful preparation; honoring God’s representatives is right; earthly shortages press us to divine sufficiency; and God delights in using the little we already possess. 1 Samuel 9:7 reminds believers to approach God’s work with respect, generosity, and faith that He multiplies even the smallest offering for His sovereign purposes. |
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