Called and Equipped

1 Samuel 10:10 (NLT)
 When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah, they saw a group of prophets coming toward them. Then the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he, too, began to prophesy. 

If we know any of Saul's history, this verse takes us by surprise. Who would think Saul, the King who pursued David with the intention of killing him, could be filled with the Holy Spirit? I know I had to re-read this chapter to make sure I understood correctly. Saul, was annointed by Samuel as King. What was up with that?

Life Application Study Bible tells us, Saul in his early years as king, was a different person (10:1-10) as a result of the Holy Spirit's work in him. But as Saul's power grew, so did his pride. After a while he refused to seek God; the Spirit left him (16:14), and his good attitude melted away.  

When the Spirit of God came upon Saul, his heart was changed. He was given the heart of a statesman, a general, a prince. Whom God calls to any service he will make fit for it. This gives credance to the saying, "God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called."

Saul wasn't prepared to be king, he did not have the heart of a caring and brave leader, but God called him to be king and He equipped Him by giving Him the Holy Spirit.  Saul eventually threw this gift away. He believed He didn't need God's help or guidance.

We can learn lessons from Saul's life. He had it all and let it go because of pride. God's spirit rested on Saul, but Saul wanted to do it all by himself. We can turn to God, to His Holy Spirit for wisdom every day. Our hearts will be changed too.


1 Samuel 10:5-11