1 Samuel 9:8

The servant answered him again. "Look," he said "I have here in my hand a quarter shekel of silver. I will give it to the man of God, and he will tell us our way."

Study Bible

The servant answered him again
This phrase indicates a dialogue between Saul and his servant, emphasizing the servant's role in guiding Saul. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "na'ar," which can mean a young man or attendant. This highlights the servant's loyalty and wisdom, as he takes initiative in their quest. In the biblical narrative, servants often play crucial roles, reminding us that God can use anyone, regardless of status, to fulfill His purposes.

Look, I have here in my hand
The phrase "Look" is a call to attention, suggesting the servant's eagerness and resourcefulness. The Hebrew word "hineh" is often used to draw attention to something significant. The servant's possession of the silver demonstrates preparedness and foresight, qualities that are valuable in seeking divine guidance. This moment underscores the importance of being ready and willing to offer what we have in service to God's plans.

a quarter shekel of silver
The "quarter shekel" refers to a specific weight of silver, indicating the servant's willingness to offer a tangible gift. In ancient Israel, a shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency. The mention of silver, a precious metal, signifies the value placed on seeking God's guidance. This act of giving reflects the biblical principle of honoring God with our resources, acknowledging that all we have is ultimately from Him.

I will give it to the man of God
The term "man of God" is a title of respect for a prophet or seer, in this context referring to Samuel. The Hebrew "ish ha-Elohim" denotes someone who speaks on behalf of God, a mediator of divine will. The servant's intention to give the silver to the man of God highlights the practice of offering gifts to prophets, a cultural norm that underscores the respect and honor due to those who serve as God's messengers.

and he will tell us our way
This phrase reflects the belief in divine guidance through prophets. The Hebrew word "derekh" for "way" can mean path or journey, symbolizing life's direction. The servant's confidence in the prophet's ability to reveal God's will illustrates the trust placed in God's representatives to provide wisdom and direction. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance in our own lives, trusting that He will lead us on the right path.

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. He is unaware that he is about to be anointed as the first king of Israel.

2. Saul's Servant
Accompanies Saul on his journey and suggests seeking the counsel of the man of God, showing resourcefulness and faith in divine guidance.

3. Man of God (Samuel)
The prophet and judge of Israel, who is known for his wisdom and connection to God. He is the one who will anoint Saul as king.

4. Quarter Shekel of Silver
A small amount of money offered as a gift to the man of God, reflecting the cultural practice of honoring prophets with gifts.

5. Zuph
The region where Saul and his servant are searching for the donkeys, and where they encounter Samuel.

Teaching Points

Seeking Divine Guidance
Just as Saul's servant suggests consulting the man of God, we should seek God's guidance in our decisions through prayer and scripture.

Value of Wise Counsel
The servant's suggestion to seek Samuel's counsel highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise and godly advisors.

Faith in God's Provision
The willingness to offer a gift to the man of God demonstrates faith that God will provide the necessary guidance and resources.

Cultural Practices and Respect
Understanding cultural practices, such as offering gifts to prophets, can deepen our appreciation for biblical accounts and their context.

God's Sovereign Plan
Even in mundane tasks like searching for lost donkeys, God is orchestrating His greater plan, as seen in Saul's journey leading to his anointing as king.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the servant's suggestion to seek Samuel's guidance reflect a principle we can apply in our decision-making today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are seeking wise and godly counsel in our lives?

3. How does the practice of offering a gift to the man of God relate to our understanding of giving and generosity in the church today?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's involvement in the seemingly ordinary events of our lives?

5. How can we discern God's sovereign plan in our own lives, especially when we are focused on immediate concerns or tasks?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 3:20
Establishes Samuel's reputation as a prophet throughout Israel, which is why Saul's servant suggests consulting him.

1 Kings 14:3
Illustrates the practice of bringing gifts to prophets, as Jeroboam's wife brings a gift to Ahijah the prophet.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages seeking God's guidance in all our ways, similar to Saul and his servant seeking direction from Samuel.