Israel's First King Part 1

    

    People want what they think they need.  Many of us don't realize that we have all we need.  We just need to learn how to use what we have: abilities, confidence, personality, gifts, wits, and things around us.  God has made us special for our part in this world.  

    We have a certain level of independence, but God made it where we need others.  It can be frustrating because we all have different mind sets, personalities, and temperaments.  We have to learn how to work for the greater good instead of personal gain.

    Saul was a beautiful boy with an impressive body.  He made heads turn when he was around.  He was strong, tall, and wealthy.  The type of person that gets noticed.

    One day his father's donkey went missing, so Saul went to find it.  His servant was with him.  They searched for three days without finding the donkey, so the servant suggested that they go talk to a man of God.  Saul did not want to go because he did not have a gift.  It was expected that if you wanted something that you bring something.

    The servant kindly offered what money he had on him, so they went to find Samuel.  Samuel had a dream that Saul would be the Israelite king.  When Saul showed up, Samuel was not too surprised.  Samuel began to talk to Saul before Saul could tell him the reason for the visit.  That night Saul was Samuel's guest.  Samuel already knew that the donkey had been found and told Saul, so he would relax.  

    Saul sat at the head of the table and got the best food at dinner.  The experience humbled Saul.  He must have been overwhelmed by his mind racing, full of emotions, and trying to catch up with all that was happening.  In the morning Samuel told Saul that he would reveal God's path for Saul.  What Samuel was about to tell Saul would change his life and the nation forever.

1 Samuel 9