1 Samuel 9:15

Now on the day before Saul's arrival, the LORD had revealed to Samuel,

Study Bible

Now the day before Saul came
This phrase sets the stage for divine orchestration. The Hebrew word for "day" is "yom," which can signify a specific time or period. Here, it emphasizes God's precise timing in His plans. The mention of "the day before" highlights God's foreknowledge and preparation, indicating that events in our lives are not random but are part of a divine timeline. This serves as a reminder that God is always at work, even when we are unaware, preparing the way for His purposes to unfold.

the LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, often vocalized as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenant faithfulness. In the context of this verse, it underscores that it is the covenant-keeping God who is actively involved in the affairs of Israel, guiding and directing the selection of their first king. It reassures believers of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people.

had revealed
The Hebrew word used here is "galah," which means to uncover or disclose. This indicates that God communicates His will and plans to His prophets, in this case, Samuel. The act of revealing is a divine initiative, showing that God desires to make His purposes known to those who are in tune with His Spirit. It highlights the role of prophecy in the Old Testament as a means through which God guides His people.

to Samuel
Samuel, whose name means "heard of God," is a pivotal figure in Israel's history. He serves as a prophet, priest, and judge, bridging the period between the judges and the monarchy. The mention of Samuel here emphasizes his role as God's chosen instrument to anoint the first king of Israel. It also reflects the importance of being receptive to God's voice, as Samuel was, to fulfill one's divine calling.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is actively involved in the lives of His people and communicates His will through prophets.

2. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, who serves as a mediator between God and the people. He is instrumental in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy.

3. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is about to be anointed as the first king of Israel. His arrival marks a significant turning point in Israel's history.

4. Revelation to Samuel
The divine communication from God to Samuel, indicating His sovereign choice and plan for Israel's leadership.

5. The Day Before Saul’s Arrival
A specific time frame indicating God's foreknowledge and preparation in the unfolding of His plan.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
God orchestrates events according to His perfect timing and purpose. Trust in His timing, even when it is not immediately clear to us.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets serve as God's messengers, revealing His will to His people. We should value and heed the guidance of those who faithfully communicate God's Word.

Divine Preparation
God prepares His people for the roles He has for them, often long before they are aware of it. Reflect on how God might be preparing you for future service.

God's Foreknowledge
God's knowledge of future events assures us of His control over history. This should encourage us to rest in His plans and purposes.

Leadership in God's Kingdom
God chooses leaders according to His criteria, not human standards. Consider how God might be calling you to lead in your community or church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in 1 Samuel 9:15 impact your view of current events in your life?

2. In what ways can you discern and respond to God's guidance, similar to how Samuel received revelation from the Lord?

3. Reflect on a time when you realized God had been preparing you for a specific role or task. How did that experience shape your faith?

4. How can the concept of divine preparation and foreknowledge, as seen in 1 Samuel 9:15, encourage you in times of uncertainty?

5. Considering the role of leadership in God's kingdom, how can you apply the principles of godly leadership in your own life and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 3
The calling of Samuel as a prophet, establishing his role as God's spokesperson.

Deuteronomy 17
The guidelines for a king in Israel, showing God's forethought in establishing a monarchy.

Jeremiah 1
The concept of God knowing and appointing individuals for specific purposes before they are aware of it themselves.

Acts 9
The conversion of Saul (Paul), illustrating God's sovereign choice and preparation in calling individuals for His purposes.