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March 21 + Daily notes & readings

DAY 80

Today, we're reading about Saul's inauguration as king.  In a few short chapters, we read about where he comes from, what makes him different than others, maybe a bit about his humility and his first act of military power.

Let us know if you notice anything else?

Image result for saul anointed king

DAILY READINGS

1 Samuel 9-12 & Psalm 80

DAILY NOTES

1 Samuel 9

  • We are introduced to Saul.  His family is wealthy and he is a handsome young man.
  • Saul goes to search for his father's lost donkeys, but ends up meeting Samuel.  So far, Samuel does not give Saul any indication what is to come.  He only treats Saul to a special dinner that has already been prepared with other guests.  
    • He also gives him a place to sleep and assures him the donkeys are okay!
1 Samuel 10
  • Samuel anoints Saul as king of Israel.  That day Saul begins to prophesy as he joins a band of prophets.
    • Notice some of the expected behavior of prophets.
  • For some reason, Saul told his uncle about meeting Samuel, but he did not mention being anointed.
    • As the lots are taken, does Saul hide because he does not want to be king?  Doesn't feel worthy to be king?
1 Samuel 11
  • Whereas there were some who did not think Saul was right to be king (See 10:27), after this battle, everyone seems to affirm his kingship.  
1 Samuel 12
  • Samuel presents his lifelong ministry before the people.  They affirm that he has been faithful in his service to God and the people.
  • Samuel offers (to us) an observation that the first confrontation with Nahash is what spurred a desire to have a king (see 12:12).
Psalm 80
  • Read this psalm (you could do the same with others) and consider the difference between believing in God and depending on God.  You'll better appreciate what the psalmist is asking God to do.

OTHER OBSERVATIONS

Do you have people who speak life into you?

Here's what I mean.  Saul was just looking for his daddy's donkeys.  After a while, he was ready to call it quits and go home.  The servant who went with him, though, had a different idea.  He gave Saul the idea to go see Samuel.  And it changed Saul's life.

I'm sure you have friends.  But do you have spiritual friends?  These aren't just people that you can talk to about spiritual matters.  These are the people that you do, continually, talk to about your life.  These are the people you regularly pray with.  They encourage you; you encourage them.  You're willing to listen to what they have to say about your life.  

If you don't have people in your life like that, who knows what life change your missing!

Stay blessed...john

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