1 Samuel 9:7 - Verse Explanation
Verse Spotlight
Imagine being on a quest, unsure of what lies ahead. That’s Saul right now, feeling the weight of uncertainty as he turns to his servant. He’s realizing they’re low on supplies, and he’s worried about how to approach this man of God without any gifts. It’s a moment filled with anxiety and a bit of desperation—he knows he needs help, but he’s unsure how to make the right impression. This isn’t just about what’s in their bags; it’s about respect, honor, and the age-old tradition of bringing something meaningful when seeking guidance. You can almost feel Saul’s tension as he grapples with this predicament, asking himself, ‘What do we have to offer?’
Who Wrote It
The book of 1 Samuel is traditionally attributed to the prophet Samuel himself, along with some contributions from the prophets Nathan and Gad. Samuel had a unique perspective; he was a key figure in Israel's transition from judges to kings. By including this detail about Saul’s concern over what to bring, he’s showing the human side of Saul, a relatable moment of doubt. Samuel wanted us to see that even someone who was about to be anointed as king had moments of insecurity. This detail serves to remind us that we all have our worries, no matter how grand the calling we might have.
What It Means
Imagine being on a quest, unsure of what lies ahead. That’s Saul right now, feeling the weight of uncertainty as he turns to his servant. He’s realizing they’re low on supplies, and he’s worried about how to approach this man of God without any gifts. It’s a moment filled with anxiety and a bit of desperation—he knows he needs help, but he’s unsure how to make the right impression. This isn’t just about what’s in their bags; it’s about respect, honor, and the age-old tradition of bringing something meaningful when seeking guidance. You can almost feel Saul’s tension as he grapples with this predicament, asking himself, ‘What do we have to offer?’
Where and When
1 Samuel was written during a pivotal time in ancient Israel, around 1000 BC, when the nation was transitioning from a loose collection of tribes ruled by judges to a monarchy. People were looking for strong leadership, and there was a lot of tension between wanting to stick to their traditions and embracing change. This context helps you understand why Saul felt the need to bring something to Samuel—it was about honoring the customs of the time and seeking favor in a society that placed great value on respect and proper etiquette.
Why It Matters
This verse resonates today because it touches on a universal theme: the struggle with feeling inadequate and the desire to make a good impression. How many times have you walked into a situation feeling like you don’t have enough to offer? Maybe it’s a new job, a big presentation, or even meeting someone important. Saul’s worry can mirror your own—what do you bring to the table when you feel ill-equipped? This verse invites you to reflect on the gifts and resources you do have, no matter how small they may seem, and to trust that they can be enough.
How to Apply
Think about a situation where you feel like you’re lacking what it takes to succeed. This week, take a moment to list out what you do have—skills, support from friends, or even a willingness to learn. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, lean into those strengths. Maybe you can offer a kind word, share your time, or bring your unique perspective. When you approach your challenges with what you have, you might be surprised by how it opens doors you didn’t expect!
Chapter Context
This moment is crucial in the story of Saul and sets the stage for the bigger narrative unfolding in 1 Samuel. Just before this, Saul and his servant were on a mission to find his lost donkeys, but they’ve hit a dead end. Now, Saul is suggesting that they seek out a prophet for guidance, which was a common practice back then. This verse serves as a turning point; it highlights Saul’s hesitance and the pressure to present himself well before the prophet Samuel. After this moment, they decide to go see Samuel, and it’s during this meeting that Saul’s destiny will dramatically change. So, this little worry about what to bring is actually a big deal—it’s the start of something monumental in his life.