The Demand for a King
The story of Saul begins with a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. The people demanded a king, rejecting the direct rulership of God. Despite warnings from Samuel about the consequences of their decision, they insisted, saying, “We want to be like other nations.” This demand reflects a deeper issue—a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty.
God’s response to their request was not one of rejection but accommodation. He granted their desire, demonstrating His mercy and willingness to work with their choices. This is a powerful reminder that even when we veer from God’s perfect will, He can still work through our decisions to bring about His purposes.
Saul: Chosen but Hiding
When Saul was chosen as king, he did not immediately step into his calling. In 1 Samuel 10:22, we see a curious detail—Saul was hiding among the baggage. The imagery here is profound. The word “baggage” represents more than physical objects; it symbolizes the burdens, distractions, and fears that hold us back.
Saul’s hesitation reveals the human tendency to shrink back from responsibility and divine calling. How often do we, like Saul, hide behind our insecurities, unwilling to trust God’s empowerment for the tasks He has set before us? This act of hiding speaks to a spiritual condition that affects us all—the struggle to believe in what God has already provided.
God’s Precise Answer
When Samuel prayed and inquired of the Lord about Saul’s whereabouts, the answer was immediate and specific: “Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff.” This response underscores a critical truth—God knows exactly where we are, even when we try to hide.
For New Testament believers, this reality should inspire confidence. Under the new covenant, we have even greater access to God through Christ. Hebrews 4:16 encourages us to “approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.” Just as God revealed Saul’s location to Samuel, He provides clarity and guidance to those who seek Him today.
What is the “Stuff” in Our Lives?
The “stuff” Saul hid among can be likened to the worldly distractions that prevent us from fully embracing God’s plan. Colossians 3:5 lists examples of these distractions: fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil desires, and covetousness, which is idolatry. These are the weights and sins that hinder our spiritual progress.
Worldly things may provide temporary comfort, but they ultimately wage war against our souls. 1 Peter 2:11 warns us to abstain from fleshly desires, as they fight against our spiritual well-being. When we allow these things to dominate our lives, we lose sight of God’s purpose and miss the opportunities He has prepared for us.
Breaking Free from Worldly Hiding Places
To overcome the tendency to hide among worldly “stuff,” we must take intentional steps toward spiritual alignment. Colossians 3:2 provides the first key: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” By shifting our focus to eternal matters, we gain clarity and purpose.
The second key is found in Galatians 5:16: “Walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Walking in the Spirit involves daily prayer, immersion in God’s Word, and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. These practices empower us to resist the pull of worldly distractions and embrace our divine calling.
Lessons from Samuel and Saul
Samuel’s name means “God has heard,” while Saul’s name means “prayed for.” Together, their lives offer valuable lessons about seeking God and responding to His answers. Samuel demonstrates the importance of prayer and dependence on God for direction. When faced with Israel’s demand for a king, he did not act on his own understanding but sought God’s counsel.
Saul, on the other hand, illustrates the danger of hiding from responsibility. When God calls us, He equips us. Hiding behind fear, insecurity, or worldly distractions only delays the fulfillment of His plans. Saul’s eventual emergence from the baggage led to his anointing as king, proving that stepping into God’s calling brings empowerment and purpose.
The Danger of Fear and Unbelief
Fear and unbelief are two of the most significant barriers to fulfilling God’s will. When we hide behind these emotions, we limit our potential and hinder God’s work in our lives. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that “without faith, it is impossible to please God.” Faith requires stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting that God’s strength is sufficient.
Unbelief often stems from a failure to recognize God’s past faithfulness. Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt and provided for them in the wilderness, He has proven His ability to meet our needs. Reflecting on His past works can build the confidence needed to overcome fear and embrace His plans.
Discovering Your Hiding Place
Saul’s story prompts an important question: where do you hide? There are two potential hiding places—worldly distractions or God Himself. Psalm 32:7 declares, “You are my hiding place; You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Choosing God as our refuge leads to peace, protection, and purpose.
Hiding in God involves seeking His presence, trusting His promises, and relying on His strength. It means laying aside worldly “stuff” and finding security in His unchanging character. When we make God our hiding place, we position ourselves to receive His guidance and fulfill His calling.
Practical Steps to Step Into Your Calling
To step out of hiding and into your divine calling, consider these practical steps:
-
-
Seek God Through Prayer: Like Samuel, inquire of the Lord. Ask Him to reveal His plans and provide clarity about your next steps.
-
-
-
Let Go of Worldly Attachments: Identify the “stuff” in your life that is holding you back. Confess these distractions to God and ask for His help in overcoming them.
-
-
-
Embrace God’s Promises: Meditate on Scriptures that affirm God’s faithfulness and ability to equip you for His purposes.
-
-
-
Take Action in Faith: Step out boldly, trusting that God will provide the strength and resources you need.
-
-
-
Surround Yourself with Encouragement: Connect with others who share your faith and can provide support and accountability.
-
Stepping Into God’s Plan
Saul’s story is a powerful reminder that God’s answers are often closer than we realize. Like Saul, we may find ourselves hiding among the “stuff” of life, but God sees us and calls us out. His plans are not hindered by our hesitations; they are waiting for our obedience. When we choose to step out of hiding and trust Him, we align ourselves with His purposes and experience the fullness of His provision.
Let this be the day you stop hiding and start walking in the destiny God has prepared for you. Your answer is not far away—it’s simply waiting for you to step out in faith.
☕ Blessed by our content? Buy us a coffee! ❤️
👨⚕️ Know About Dr. Arvind Ephraim
📚 Learn About Our Online Courses
📖 Find Answers to Bible Questions
🙏 Prayers for Every Occasion
🕊️ Read In-Depth Sermons