1 Samuel 9:14

So Saul and his servant went up toward the city, and as they were entering it, there was Samuel coming toward them on his way up to the high place.

Study Bible

So they went up to the city
The phrase "went up" is significant in the Hebrew context, often indicating a journey of spiritual or religious significance. The Hebrew word "עלה" (alah) implies an ascent, not just physically but spiritually. In ancient Israel, cities were often built on elevated ground, symbolizing a closer proximity to God. This ascent to the city can be seen as a metaphor for seeking divine guidance or intervention, which Saul and his servant were unknowingly about to receive.

And as they were entering the city
The act of "entering" the city marks a transition from the ordinary to the extraordinary. In biblical narratives, cities are often places where significant events unfold. The Hebrew word "בוא" (bo) for "entering" suggests coming into a new phase or experience. This moment foreshadows the divine encounter Saul is about to have, highlighting the providential timing of God in orchestrating events for His purposes.

there was Samuel coming toward them
Samuel, the prophet, is a central figure in this narrative. His presence signifies the divine orchestration at play. The Hebrew name "שמואל" (Shemuel) means "heard of God" or "asked of God," reflecting his role as a mediator between God and the people. Samuel's approach towards Saul and his servant is not coincidental but divinely appointed, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His plans.

on his way up to the high place
The "high place" in ancient Israel was a site of worship and sacrifice, often located on elevated terrain. The Hebrew term "במה" (bamah) refers to these sacred sites. Samuel's journey to the high place underscores his role as a spiritual leader and his dedication to worship. This setting provides a backdrop for the divine encounter, illustrating the importance of worship and sacrifice in seeking God's will. The high place symbolizes a meeting point between the divine and human realms, where God's purposes are revealed and enacted.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is on a journey to find his father's lost donkeys. This journey leads him to a divine appointment with Samuel.

2. Samuel
The prophet and last judge of Israel, who is on his way to the high place to offer sacrifices. He is a key figure in the transition of Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy.

3. The City
The unnamed city where Samuel resides and where Saul is directed to find him. It serves as the setting for this pivotal encounter.

4. The High Place
A location of worship and sacrifice, significant in Israelite religious practice. It is where Samuel is headed to perform his priestly duties.

5. Divine Appointment
The orchestrated meeting between Saul and Samuel, which is part of God's plan to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance
God orchestrates events in our lives, often in ways we do not immediately understand. Trust in His guidance even when the path seems unclear.

Obedience in the Ordinary
Saul was simply obeying his father’s request to find lost donkeys, yet this led to a significant turning point in his life. God often uses our everyday obedience to lead us to His greater purposes.

Recognizing God's Timing
Samuel's timely appearance as Saul enters the city illustrates God's perfect timing. We should be patient and attentive to God's timing in our lives.

The Role of Prophets
Samuel's role as a prophet highlights the importance of spiritual leaders who guide and direct according to God's will. We should seek and respect godly counsel.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's journey and meeting with Samuel were preparatory steps for his future role as king. God often prepares us for future responsibilities through current experiences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's journey to find the donkeys illustrate the concept of divine appointments in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we be more attentive to God's guidance in our daily routines, as seen in Saul's encounter with Samuel?

3. How does the role of Samuel as a prophet inform our understanding of spiritual leadership and guidance today?

4. Reflect on a time when God's timing was evident in your life. How did it shape your faith and understanding of His sovereignty?

5. How can we prepare ourselves for future roles and responsibilities that God may have for us, as seen in Saul's preparation for kingship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9:15-17
These verses reveal that God had already informed Samuel about Saul's coming, highlighting God's sovereignty and foreknowledge.

1 Samuel 10:1
This verse describes the anointing of Saul by Samuel, fulfilling the purpose of their meeting.

Proverbs 16:9
This verse speaks to the idea that while humans plan their course, it is the Lord who establishes their steps, reflecting the divine orchestration seen in Saul's journey.

Acts 9:3-6
Saul's encounter with Samuel can be paralleled with Saul of Tarsus' encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, both being transformative divine appointments.