CHASING DONKEYS, DISCOVERING DESTINY

There was no indication that Saul aspired to greatness or leadership. The Bible describes him as a handsome man, taller than his peers, but there is no mention of him having any particular ambition or qualities that would mark him as a future king (1 Samuel 9:2).

What appeared to be an ordinary errand was, in fact, a carefully crafted step in God’s sovereign plan.

Saul and his assistant unsuccessfully searched the hills and valleys of Ephraim and Zuph for several days. As they were about to return home, his assistant suggested they consult with the prophet Samuel. Saul wasn’t familiar with the prophet but decided to play along. Unknown to him, Samuel had already been instructed by God that Saul would arrive and that he would anoint him as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9:15-17). What appeared to be an ordinary errand was, in fact, a carefully crafted step in God’s sovereign plan.

This story reminds us that no moment in our lives is insignificant when placed in God’s hands. Whether it’s a routine task, an unexpected detour, or a chance encounter, God can use the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary. The story of Abraham Lincoln offers a striking modern parallel. As a young man, Lincoln stumbled across a copy of Lord Blackstone’s Commentary on the Laws of England while rummaging through a barrel of odds and ends. This discovery ignited a passion for law and justice, ultimately shaping his path to becoming one of America’s greatest presidents. Like Saul’s search for donkeys, Lincoln’s discovery seemed mundane then, but it became a pivotal moment in his life’s journey.

When Saul met Samuel, he was surprised by the prophet’s greeting and puzzled when Samuel told him the donkeys had been found and hinted at a bigger purpose. During a private conversation, Samuel revealed that God had chosen Saul to lead His people (1 Samuel 9:20-21). Saul was taken aback, questioning his worthiness: “Am I not a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel?” (1 Samuel 9:21). His humility and hesitation highlight an essential truth—God often calls those who feel unqualified.

On the day of his public coronation, Saul’s anxiety resurfaced, and he hid among the baggage (1 Samuel 10:22). This powerful image is relatable. How often do we hide behind our insecurities or fear of failure? Yet, God’s plans prevailed, and Saul was brought forward and recognized as king. God doesn’t just call the equipped; He equips the called.