God's Sovereignty in the Ordinary: Saul's Transformation
Summary
In our journey through the book of 1 Samuel, we have been exploring the theme of living after God's own heart, as exemplified by David. Today, we delve into 1 Samuel chapter 9, a passage that might seem mundane at first glance but is rich with divine insight. This chapter introduces us to Saul, a young man from the tribe of Benjamin, who embarks on a seemingly ordinary task of searching for his father's lost donkeys. This narrative, however, is a profound reminder of God's sovereignty over our ordinary lives.
In our daily routines, we often question whether God is actively working in our lives, especially when we don't see dramatic signs or wonders. Yet, 1 Samuel 9 teaches us that God is intricately involved in the mundane aspects of our lives. Saul's search for the donkeys was not just a trivial errand; it was a divinely orchestrated event that led him to Samuel, who would anoint him as the first king of Israel. This story illustrates that there are no coincidences with God. Every detail, even those that seem insignificant, is part of His grand design.
The passage also highlights the transformative power of God's Spirit. When Saul meets Samuel, he is anointed and filled with the Spirit, which changes him into a different person. This transformation is a precursor to the New Testament teaching that those in Christ are new creations. As believers, we are called to allow the Holy Spirit to continually transform us, making us more Christ-like in our daily walk.
However, Saul's story also serves as a cautionary tale. Despite his transformation, Saul hesitates to share the news of his anointing with his family. This reluctance to witness is a challenge for us today. We are often silent about the work God is doing in our lives, missing opportunities to share His love and truth with others. As we approach the holiday season, let us be mindful of the opportunities to be ambassadors for Christ, sharing His message with those around us.
Key Takeaways:
1. God's Sovereignty in the Mundane: Even in the ordinary and routine aspects of life, God is at work. Saul's search for lost donkeys was a divinely orchestrated event leading to his anointing as king. This reminds us that there are no coincidences with God; every detail of our lives is under His sovereign control. [14:55]
2. Transformation by the Spirit: Saul's encounter with Samuel and the subsequent anointing by the Spirit transformed him into a new person. This mirrors the New Testament promise that those in Christ are new creations. As believers, we should allow the Holy Spirit to continually transform us, making us more Christ-like. [22:59]
3. The Challenge of Witnessing: Despite his transformation, Saul hesitated to share the news of his anointing. This serves as a reminder of the importance of witnessing. We often miss opportunities to share God's work in our lives with others. Let us be bold in sharing His message. [31:29]
4. Divine Timing and Providence: God's timing is perfect. Saul's anointing came at the right moment in Israel's history. Similarly, God orchestrates events in our lives according to His perfect timing, even when we don't understand it. Trust in His providence. [15:32]
5. Living as New Creations: The Spirit's work in Saul's life is a reminder that as Christians, we are new creations. Our lives should reflect this transformation, becoming more aligned with God's will and less with worldly desires. This ongoing transformation is a testament to the Spirit's power in us. [24:32]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [02:16] - Questioning God's Presence
- [03:45] - Prayer for Guidance
- [07:18] - Saul's Search for Donkeys
- [08:39] - The Mundane and the Divine
- [10:10] - Modern Parallels
- [12:15] - Divine Providence Revealed
- [14:55] - No Coincidences with God
- [16:29] - God's Guidance in Our Steps
- [17:22] - Power in the Mandate
- [18:12] - Saul's Anointing
- [21:02] - God's Detailed Knowledge
- [22:59] - Transformation by the Spirit
- [24:32] - New Creation in Christ
- [31:29] - The Challenge of Witnessing
- [34:02] - Invitation to Reflect and Respond
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- 1 Samuel 9
- Proverbs 16:9
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
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Observation Questions:
1. What task was Saul initially undertaking when he encountered Samuel, and how did this task lead to a significant change in his life? [07:18]
2. How does the sermon describe God's involvement in the mundane aspects of our lives, as illustrated by Saul's search for the donkeys? [14:55]
3. What transformation did Saul undergo after meeting Samuel, and what role did the Spirit of God play in this change? [22:59]
4. How did Saul respond to his anointing and the news of his future role as king when questioned by his uncle? [31:29]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Saul's story in 1 Samuel 9 illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty in our everyday lives, and what does this suggest about the significance of our daily routines? [14:55]
2. In what ways does Saul's transformation by the Spirit serve as a precursor to the New Testament teaching that those in Christ are new creations? How does this relate to 2 Corinthians 5:17? [24:32]
3. What might Saul's hesitation to share the news of his anointing with his family reveal about the challenges of witnessing, and how can this be applied to modern believers? [31:29]
4. How does the sermon use the example of Saul's anointing to discuss the importance of divine timing and providence in our lives? [15:32]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a recent mundane task or routine in your life. How might God be working through it, and how can you become more aware of His presence in these moments? [14:55]
2. Saul was transformed by the Spirit and became a new person. In what areas of your life do you feel the Holy Spirit is calling you to change or grow? How can you actively pursue this transformation? [22:59]
3. Saul hesitated to share his anointing with his family. Are there aspects of your faith journey that you find difficult to share with others? What steps can you take to become more open about your faith? [31:29]
4. Consider a time when you felt God's timing was perfect in your life. How did this experience strengthen your trust in His providence, and how can you apply this trust to current situations? [15:32]
5. As we approach the holiday season, what specific opportunities do you have to be an ambassador for Christ among your family and friends? How can you prepare to share His message with them? [31:29]
6. Saul's story reminds us that there are no coincidences with God. How can this perspective change the way you view unexpected events or challenges in your life? [14:55]
7. Identify one area in your life where you feel stuck or ordinary. How can you invite God to work through this area, trusting in His sovereignty and timing? [15:32]
Devotional
Day 1: God's Sovereignty in Everyday Life
In the story of Saul searching for his father's lost donkeys, we see a profound example of God's sovereignty in the mundane. What appears to be a simple errand is actually a divinely orchestrated event that leads Saul to Samuel, who anoints him as the first king of Israel. This narrative reminds us that God is actively involved in every detail of our lives, even those that seem insignificant. There are no coincidences with God; every moment is part of His grand design. As we go about our daily routines, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes, guiding our steps and orchestrating events according to His perfect plan. [14:55]
"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29-31, ESV)
Reflection: Think of a recent mundane task or routine in your life. How might God be using it to guide you or teach you something important?
Day 2: Transformation Through the Spirit
Saul's encounter with Samuel and his subsequent anointing by the Spirit transformed him into a new person. This transformation is a powerful illustration of the New Testament promise that those in Christ are new creations. As believers, we are called to allow the Holy Spirit to continually transform us, making us more Christ-like in our daily walk. This ongoing transformation is not just a one-time event but a lifelong journey of becoming more aligned with God's will and less with worldly desires. The Spirit's work in us is a testament to God's power and love, shaping us into the people He created us to be. [22:59]
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you feel the Holy Spirit is prompting you to change. What steps can you take today to allow the Spirit to transform you in this area?
Day 3: The Importance of Witnessing
Despite his transformation, Saul hesitated to share the news of his anointing with his family. This reluctance serves as a reminder of the importance of witnessing. As believers, we are often silent about the work God is doing in our lives, missing opportunities to share His love and truth with others. The story of Saul challenges us to be bold in sharing God's message, especially as we approach times of gathering and celebration. Let us seize the opportunities to be ambassadors for Christ, sharing His message with those around us and allowing our lives to be a testament to His transformative power. [31:29]
"But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15, ESV)
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who needs to hear about God's work in you. How can you share your testimony with them in a way that is gentle and respectful?
Day 4: Trusting in Divine Timing
Saul's anointing as king came at the perfect moment in Israel's history, illustrating God's impeccable timing. Similarly, God orchestrates events in our lives according to His perfect timing, even when we don't understand it. Trusting in God's providence means believing that He knows what is best for us and that His plans are for our good. As we navigate life's uncertainties, we can find peace in knowing that God is in control and that His timing is always perfect. This trust allows us to surrender our plans and desires to Him, confident that He will lead us in the right direction. [15:32]
"For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay." (Habakkuk 2:3, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on a situation where you are waiting for God's timing. How can you practice patience and trust in His perfect plan during this season of waiting?
Day 5: Living as New Creations
The Spirit's work in Saul's life is a reminder that as Christians, we are new creations. Our lives should reflect this transformation, becoming more aligned with God's will and less with worldly desires. This ongoing transformation is a testament to the Spirit's power in us, shaping us into the people God created us to be. As we embrace our identity as new creations, we are called to live in a way that honors God and reflects His love to the world. This means continually seeking to grow in our faith, allowing the Spirit to guide us, and striving to live in a way that is pleasing to God. [24:32]
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)
Reflection: Consider one habit or mindset that reflects your old self. What practical steps can you take to embrace your identity as a new creation in Christ today?
Quotes
So that raises the question, is God really working in my life right now? I'm not seeing his hand moving in my life. I'm not seeing things that really prompt the Lord working. Am I in the will of God at this present moment? There are these questions that we have asked ourselves. Thankfully, the Bible tells us over and over again that in these moments, we must remember in the sermon title today, His sovereignty over our ordinary. His sovereignty over our ordinary. It seems like the road is long, and not a whole lot of excitement going on, and just the quietness. God is not quiet in your life. He is still sovereign, and the actions that we are going through, and the things that we... We are deciding he is still seeing over. [00:02:16] (53 seconds)
Well, his sovereignty over our ordinary, how does his providence show in ways in our lives? The first thing that we see is the providence in the mundane, the providence in the mundane. If you have your Bible up in the first theme of chapter nine, let's read with me, and we're going to read a little bit here, so get your reading glasses on, and let's get going. There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, and the son of Zeror, the son of Bekaroth, and the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power. The Benjamites were known as military guys. They were the the marines of Israel, and he had a choice, an handsome son whose name was Saul, and there was not a more handsome person than he among the children of Israel. From his shoulders upwards, he was taller than any other people. [00:04:48] (51 seconds)
Then Saul said to his servant, well said, Tom, let us go. So they went to the city where the man of God was. And as they went up the hill to the city, they met some young women who went out to draw water and said to them, is the seer here? And they answered them and said, yes, there he is, just ahead of you. Hurry now for today he came to this city because there is a sacrifice of the people today on the high place. As soon as you come into the city, you will surely find him before you can see him. Before he goes up on the high place to eat. For the people will not eat until he comes because he must bless the sacrifice. Afterwards, those who are invited will eat. Now, therefore, go up for about this time. You will find him. [00:06:54] (42 seconds)
And so there was a boy named Saul. Oh, Johnny Cash song said a boy named Sue. We're listening to hear of a boy named Saul. And let me be honest with you for a moment. I mean, no injustice to the word of God today. Between verse number one and verse number four, I'm going to read to you a little bit more about this. Verse 13, I should say, or verse 14. You probably asked yourself the moment I asked myself when I looked upon this passage of scripture. Why is this in the Bible? Pastor, I tuned out about halfway through you reading of that scripture. You know, all we're reading about from verse one to verse 14 is about a guy named Saul, a farmer boy named Saul and a servant chasing donkeys halfway through Israel. [00:07:37] (39 seconds)
All the Bible says is he went from one city to the next city, to the next city, to the next city. And oh, shocker, spoiler alert, the donkeys weren't there. Why spend eight verses reading about missing donkeys? because we see in the mundane, the Bible is setting it up, that anything like this could happen at any time in the history and even today. We don't lose our daunties today. We live in a little bit more of an industrial society, a modern society. But the equivalent to Saul losing his daunties is the equivalent to you losing your keys to your car. And that was the only pair of keys that you had. I mean, you were stuck as stuck to be. I mean, the daunties to Chiesh was his means of labor, his means of travel, and everything in between. [00:08:15] (48 seconds)
And this is normal problems of everyday life. This was not Peter drowning in the Sea of Dalai. This was not the woman with the blood issue touching Jesus's robe. This was just a poor farmer boy who lost his daunties, I should say. He lost his cattle. I remember. It was, oh, it had to have been several months ago. I can't remember exactly when. I think it was this time last year. A tourist alley, or no, me and Alina were driving on a Sunday morning, just really just much like this normal Sunday morning. And we were driving over to Baselers. We were just going down 48, you know, where the Parsonage is. We were driving east to go to 41, go to Baselers, picked up the church's donut. [00:09:03] (48 seconds)
And we were coming around the bend, and all of a sudden, I saw right there in the middle of 48, just walking. I don't know how long, a towel. I mean, just a random towel walking down 48. And, you know, I stopped my brakes, and I'm looking out, and I'm like, there's a towel here. And it's not just some random towel. I had, like, a tat on his ear, and Alina's like, tat, dad, towel. And I'm like, yeah, there's a towel. And, you know, the cars were flying and everything there. And I'm like, well, what am I supposed to do? And I'm feeling sorry for the towel. And then here comes Woody, like the Good Samaritan in my time of need. Woody and Ethan are right here coming behind me. And I'm like, oh, thank God. And I think you guys were getting water for the well, if I can't remember. We were crossing paths. Are you still getting water for your still getting? So not much has changed in the time frame. [00:09:51] (44 seconds)
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