DONKEYS

1 Sam 9 gives us some background information about Saul who was the kind man Israel wanted as king. He ticked the boxes for those wanting someone who looked the part:

- young

- rich

- good-looking

- a head taller than everyone else.

But some glaring weaknesses show up:

- His search for the donkeys seems aimless and indecisive.
- He seems very dependent on his servant's advice (who seems to have more initiative).
- He has the chance to talk to a prophet and yet he only thinks to ask for information about donkeys. No big, deep questions from Saul!
- He is worryingly ignorant about Samuel, worship and other matters concerning seeking God's will.

Think: How will traits like this play out if Saul becomes king? What was Israel really doing when it marginalised Samuel in favour of a shiny new king?


How could you apply this? 

Personally: What donkeys are we chasing aimlessly when we should be seeking God?  What are we doing with the opportunities to pay attention to the Word of God? What godly helpers has God put near us? 

Understanding God's Kingdom: Compare Saul with Christ (the Leader God has chosen for us). How did Jesus go about finding his Father's path in the world?

Building the Church: What does godliness look like? Cf Samuel and Saul.  What traits and gifts should the church value?