God made humanity superior to all other earthly creatures. Among the evidences of man’s superiority is the ability to make choices. When a human being makes a choice, God honors the choice, and he mediates the results. A good choice can lead to God’s approval and his blessings. A poor choice often leads to heartache and judgment. Saul, the first king of Israel, experienced first hand the power of choice.
My choices (1 Samuel 13:8-14)
Israel remained at war with the Philistines. In a strategic move, Saul called for the people of Israel, particularly men who were able to fight, to join him at Gilgal. It was customary for the armies of Israel to be blessed before going to battle and Samuel, the prophet of God, was scheduled to come and offer a sacrifice and to pray for the blessings of God.
Saul and Samuel had established a time for Samuel to make his appearance some seven days from their initial conversation (v. 8). As the time of battle moved closer, the soldiers of Israel grew increasingly fearful and some abandoned their posts (vv. 6-7).
When Samuel failed to appear at the appointed time, Saul perhaps feeling he might lose strategic advantage, offers the sacrifice himself (v. 9). Just as he finished making the offering, Samuel appeared. After interrogating Saul concerning his actions, Samuel pronounced judgment over Saul’s reign as king (vv. 13-14).
Saul made a poor choice when he determined to offer the sacrifice. There are at least three egregious mistakes in Saul’s actions. First, God had not charged Saul with the responsibility of offering a sacrifice for his soldiers. That was Samuel’s task to perform. Saul determined not to wait on Samuel which was a rash decision made in the flesh and devoid of faith. Finally, Saul allowed the actions of others to become the motivation for his decisions. Saul took matters into his own hands and now had to suffer the consequences.
Like Saul, many believers today act from a sense of expediency rather than follow the expressed wishes and instructions of God. And like Saul, many believers suffer the consequences of their poor choices. Kingdoms may not be affected, but lives will be changed.
Their choices (1 Samuel 16:6-10)
Samuel announced God’s judgment for Saul’s sinful acts—“your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and anointed him leader of his people” (1 Samuel 13:14). Following God’s instructions, Samuel went to the house of Jesse to find the next king of Israel. One by one, Jesse’s sons were brought before God’s prophet. Each time a new son appeared both Jesse and Samuel believed he would be the Lord’s choice.
Yet, when all the sons had been interviewed without God’s definitive instruction, Samuel inquired concerning other sons. Jesse replied one remained. Not even his father believed David was the man for the job. Jesse saw David as an apprentice—“he is tending the sheep” (v. 11). Yet, it was David who was God’s choice and he gave Samuel these words of affirmation: “rise and anoint him; he is the one” (v. 12).
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A man can only judge another man by outward appearances and actions. No one can look into the heart of another person. God is not enamored with exterior attributes because he sees right into the heart. It should come as no surprise that God’s criterion is higher than man’s because he has indicated, “my thoughts are not your thoughts and my ways are not your ways” (Isaiah 55:8). Believers of little stature and position can rest assured of their ability to do great things for the kingdom of God if they possess a pure heart before God.
His choices (1 Samuel 16:11-13)
David was God’s choice to become king following the failures of Saul. As previously discussed, God often chooses someone to serve him who by outward appearances is not qualified to hold the post. Why did God choose David? Why does God choose anyone for his service?
While not specifically delineated in this text, it is apparent God makes his choices based on two criteria: He chooses those who, from exterior appearance, are least qualified so through their actions he can receive glory. But God also chooses those whose hearts are pliable and moldable; those who will allow him to direct their steps.
The church today should pay particular attention to this story and these Scriptures. Far too often believers are called to places of service based on what is perceived to be ability. While unable to look into the heart of another man, every believer has the ability to hear the voice of God. When making choices of leadership, believers today, like Samuel of old, should listen for the voice of God to say, “rise and anointed him; he is the one” (v. 12).
Conclusion
Whether making personal choices related to individual actions or seeking out God’s leader for the greater good, choices matter. They are so important they require insight into God’s choices. Every choice of life has long lasting consequences. Prayer and careful discernment of the voice of God’s spirit will reveal his will. When his will is revealed, a new choice is required and the cycle of decision begins again. Pray for the courage to follow God’s revealed will.
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