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HomeBible Commentary1 SamuelChapter 91 Samuel 9:21

1 Samuel 9:21 meaning

In a moment of divine providence, Saul, who is unaware of the significant role he is about to play as Israel's first king, finds himself on a quest to retrieve his father's lost donkeys. This seemingly mundane task brings him to Samuel, the prophet, who has been informed by God about Saul's future as a leader. When Saul converses with Samuel, he expresses self—doubt due to his humble background, identifying himself as a Benjamite from the least of the tribes of Israel. This moment highlights the theme of God's choice being often unconventional, as He selects someone seemingly unqualified for such an important role.

While initially focused on the tangible issue of lost animals, Saul's encounter with Samuel reveals God’s sovereign plan for Israel. Samuel's assurance that God has chosen Saul as a significant figure in Israel's future not only emphasizes God's power to see beyond human expectations but also prepares the reader for the complexities of Saul's imminent kingship. This underscores a critical lesson: God often chooses the humble and unlikely candidates to fulfill His purposes, reminding us that greatness in His kingdom is not determined by human standards but by His divine will.

The commentary on this can be summarized in the verse: "Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel?" .

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Exodus 27:1-8 meaning. God gives instructions on how to build the high altar that would be used for burnt offerings. The account of its construction was recorded in Exodus 38:1-7.
  • Joel 2:28-32 meaning. The LORD promises to pour out His Spirit on the inhabitants of Judah in the end times. All the Israelites in Jerusalem who invoke the name of the LORD with a heart full of faith will be delivered from His judgment.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 meaning. Paul shows the Corinthians how they are thinking the way the world thinks, and should rather think as God thinks. Instead of fighting about which apostle they follow, they ought to be united in serving the eternal Jesus Christ, the Son of God. To the world, it seems foolish that they would worship someone who died an embarrassing death on a cross, but God’s ways seem foolish to fallen man. The world promotes following rich and powerful people. Jesus did not live a rich or powerful life. God does not follow the expectations of humans; He does as He wills, for true wisdom and truth come from Him. Throughout history, God works through men and women who the world considers insignificant and weak to do deeds that are great in His kingdom. In so doing, glory can be given to God, not feed the pride of men. Jesus is the ultimate example of something weak shaming the strong by rising from the dead and reconciling humanity with God.