A Promising Beginning

“Now there was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Becorath, the son of Aphiah, the son of a Benjamite, a mighty man of valor. He had a son whose name was Saul, a choice and handsome man, and there was not a more handsome person than he among the sons of Israel; from his shoulders and up he was taller than any of the people.”
1 Samuel 9:1-2

Then it happened when he turned his back to leave Samuel, God changed his heart; and all those signs came about on that day. When they came to the hill there, behold, a group of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him mightily, so that he prophesied among them. It came about, when all who knew him previously saw that he prophesied now with the prophets, that the people said to one another, ‘What has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?’” 1 Samuel 10:9-11

One of the most important elements in a race is a good start. In swift competition a poor start is tantamount to losing. For believers, that start is the decision to trust Christ as Savior. Just as essential is the character building that begins in the ensuing months and years.

When the prophet Samuel identified Saul as king, it was obvious that Saul had begun his journey with admirable qualities. After Samuel anointed him king, Saul demonstrated patience and humility by enduring the taunts of “certain worthless men” who mocked him, saying, “How can this one deliver us?” (1 Samuel 10:27).

Perhaps your beginning hasn’t been so favorable. Perhaps circumstances beyond your control have thwarted you at every turn. Perhaps you have never chosen to follow Christ. You can begin today. If you are not a believer, receive Jesus’ offer of salvation by inviting Him in as your personal Savior.

If you do know Jesus but are continually frustrated, submit completely to His Lordship, asking Him to take control of you and your circumstances. Trust Him to use even your problems for your welfare. He can do it if you turn to Him.

“...God changed his heart...” 1 Samuel 10:9