Another John dot Com

1 Samuel 9:27-10:8

Before Saul was king, he was a boy looking for his father’s donkeys (1 Samuel 9:3). When he couldn’t find them, he visited the man of God, or the seer, for direction (1 Samuel 9:6). The seer was Samuel who gave Saul directions for something else.

Samuel anointed Saul and assured him of what he would find on his journey back. Someone already found the donkeys. Others will meet you along the way to offer provision and, perhaps, worship. Finally, you will join a group of frenzied prophets and the experience will change you.

Saul would no longer be just the boy looking for donkeys. He would be God’s anointed. Then, Samuel told Saul, “do whatever you see fit to do, for God is with you” (1 Samuel 10:7).

People pray all the time for God to be with them. “Lord, be with my family. Be with our church. Be with those who are hurting.”

Now, I don’t mean to suggest that’s a wasted prayer. What we mean, I assume, is that God would bless us. Bless my family. Bless my church. Bless those who are hurting.

That makes more sense, doesn’t it? If not, to pray for God to be with us suggests God isn’t. And that’s not the promise we have. Our faith tells us God is always with us. Emmanuel wasn’t merely a Christmas special. It’s the reality of our life with God.

Such a belief inspires confidence and boldness, when necessary. It also changes our perspectives and shapes and reshapes our ministry.

We also often pray, “God, tell me what to do.”

I know there are times we sense God telling us exactly what to do in a situation. But I’m not sure that’s the way it always is. God’s told you what is most important to do: love God and love neighbor.

The greater question, then, is, how does your next decision help you or keep you from doing what you know God has told all of us to do?

I’m sure Samuel assumed Saul would have paid attention to the signs he gave to him along his journey. So, do whatever you see fit is wise. It assumes you’ve learned how to make decisions and that you’re paying attention.

Get advice and counsel from other people you trust. Consider your options and weigh the possible outcomes. Pray. Pray. Pray!

After that, knowing God wants you to love God and love your neighbor, do what you see fit.

Stay blessed…john