1 Samuel 13:11

"What have you done?" Samuel asked. And Saul replied, "When I saw that the troops were deserting me, and that you did not come at the appointed time and the Philistines were gathering at Michmash,

Study Bible

“What have you done?” Samuel asked.
This question from Samuel is a direct confrontation of Saul's actions. In the biblical context, Samuel is the prophet and judge of Israel, serving as God's mouthpiece. His question implies a breach of divine command. This echoes God's question to Adam in Genesis 3:13, highlighting a moment of accountability. Samuel's role as a prophet is to guide and correct, and this question sets the stage for Saul's failure to adhere to God's instructions.

And Saul replied, “When I saw that the troops were deserting me,
Saul's response reveals his fear and insecurity as a leader. The desertion of troops indicates a lack of confidence in Saul's leadership, which is a recurring theme in his reign. This situation reflects the Israelites' earlier demand for a king to lead them like other nations (1 Samuel 8:5), showing the human tendency to rely on visible leadership rather than divine guidance. Saul's focus on the troops' actions rather than God's command reveals his misplaced priorities.

and that you did not come at the appointed time
Saul's accusation against Samuel suggests impatience and a lack of faith. The "appointed time" refers to the seven days Samuel instructed Saul to wait (1 Samuel 10:8). Saul's impatience leads him to take matters into his own hands, a common human failing when divine timing seems delayed. This impatience contrasts with the patience and obedience exemplified by figures like Abraham, who waited for God's promise (Genesis 21:1-2).

and the Philistines were gathering at Michmash,
Michmash is a strategic location in the central highlands of Israel, significant in military campaigns. The Philistines, Israel's persistent adversaries, are gathering here, creating a sense of urgency and threat. Historically, the Philistines were a technologically advanced people, known for their iron weaponry, which posed a significant threat to Israel. This gathering at Michmash sets the stage for the ensuing conflict and highlights the constant pressure Israel faced from surrounding nations. Saul's focus on the Philistine threat rather than seeking God's guidance foreshadows his eventual downfall.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel was a key figure in the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He anointed Saul as the first king of Israel.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, chosen by God but later rejected due to his disobedience. Saul's reign is marked by his struggle to follow God's commands fully.

3. Philistines
A significant enemy of Israel during this period, the Philistines were a constant threat, often engaging in battles with the Israelites.

4. Michmash
A strategic location in the territory of Benjamin, where the Philistines gathered to fight against Israel. It was a place of military significance.

5. Troops Deserting
The Israelite soldiers were leaving Saul, which contributed to his fear and impatience, leading to his disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Saul's failure to wait for Samuel as instructed shows the critical nature of obedience to God's commands. Disobedience, even with seemingly good intentions, leads to negative consequences.

Trust in God's Timing
Saul's impatience reflects a lack of trust in God's timing. Believers are encouraged to wait on the Lord, trusting that His timing is perfect.

The Consequences of Fear
Saul's actions were driven by fear of losing his troops and the threat of the Philistines. Fear can lead to hasty decisions that are not aligned with God's will.

Leadership and Responsibility
As a leader, Saul's decisions had significant implications for the entire nation. Leaders are called to act with integrity and faithfulness to God's instructions.

The Role of Faith in Crisis
In times of crisis, faith should guide decisions rather than fear or human reasoning. Saul's lack of faith led to his downfall.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's response to Samuel reveal his priorities and understanding of leadership?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of Saul's disobedience in our own lives when we fail to wait on God's timing?

3. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's timing in our daily decisions and challenges?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that fear does not drive our decisions, especially in leadership roles?

5. How do other biblical figures demonstrate the importance of obedience and trust in God, and what can we learn from their examples?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:8
Samuel's earlier instruction to Saul to wait for him at Gilgal, highlighting Saul's failure to obey this command.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's later rebuke of Saul, emphasizing that obedience to God is more important than sacrifice.

Proverbs 3:5-6
The call to trust in the Lord and not lean on one's own understanding, contrasting Saul's reliance on his judgment.

Isaiah 40:31
The promise of strength for those who wait on the Lord, contrasting Saul's impatience.