1 Samuel 9:13

As soon as you enter the city, you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat. The people will not eat until he comes, because he must bless the sacrifice; after that, the guests will eat. Go up at once; you will find him."

Study Bible

As soon as you enter the city, you will find him before he goes up to the high place to eat.
This phrase sets the scene in the city of Ramah, where Samuel, the prophet, resides. The "high place" refers to a location used for worship and sacrifices, common in ancient Israel before the temple was built in Jerusalem. High places were often on elevated ground, symbolizing closeness to God. Samuel's presence at the high place indicates his role as a spiritual leader. The immediacy of "as soon as you enter" suggests divine orchestration, emphasizing God's providence in guiding Saul to Samuel.

The people will not eat until he comes, because he must bless the sacrifice;
In ancient Israel, it was customary for a priest or prophet to bless a sacrifice before it was consumed. This blessing was an invocation of God's presence and favor. Samuel's role in blessing the sacrifice underscores his authority and the respect he commanded among the people. It also highlights the importance of seeking God's blessing before partaking in communal meals, a practice that reflects the sacredness of fellowship and thanksgiving.

after that, the guests will eat.
The sequence of events—blessing followed by eating—illustrates the orderliness and reverence in worship practices. It also points to the communal aspect of sacrifices, where the act of eating together signifies unity and shared faith. This practice foreshadows the New Testament concept of the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in communion, remembering Christ's sacrifice.

Go up at once; you will find him.”
The urgency in "go up at once" reflects the divine timing and purpose in Saul's encounter with Samuel. This meeting is pivotal, as it leads to Saul's anointing as the first king of Israel. The phrase "you will find him" assures Saul of God's guidance and the certainty of His plans. This encounter is a turning point in Israel's history, transitioning from the period of judges to the monarchy, and it sets the stage for the eventual rise of David, a type of Christ, who would establish a kingdom foreshadowing the eternal reign of Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The future king of Israel, who is on a journey to find his father's lost donkeys and is about to encounter Samuel.

2. Samuel
The prophet and judge of Israel, who is about to meet Saul and anoint him as king.

3. High Place
A location used for worship and sacrifices, often on elevated ground, where Samuel is expected to bless the sacrifice.

4. City
The unnamed city where Samuel is located, and where Saul is directed to find him.

5. Sacrifice
A ritual offering to God, which Samuel is to bless before the people eat.

Teaching Points

The Role of Divine Timing
God's timing is perfect, as seen in the precise moment Saul is to meet Samuel. Trust in God's timing in your own life.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
Samuel's role in blessing the sacrifice underscores the importance of spiritual leaders in guiding and blessing the community. Seek and respect godly leadership.

Preparation for God's Calling
Saul's journey to find donkeys leads to his anointing as king. Be open to God's calling, even in mundane tasks.

The Significance of Blessing
The act of blessing the sacrifice before eating highlights the importance of acknowledging God’s provision. Cultivate a habit of gratitude and blessing in your daily life.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of waiting for Samuel to bless the sacrifice before eating emphasizes the importance of unity in worship. Engage actively in your faith community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of divine timing in 1 Samuel 9:13 encourage you to trust in God's plan for your life?

2. In what ways can you seek and support spiritual leadership in your community, as seen in Samuel's role?

3. Reflect on a time when a seemingly mundane task led to a significant opportunity or calling in your life. How does Saul's journey inspire you?

4. How can you incorporate the practice of blessing and gratitude into your daily routine, similar to the blessing of the sacrifice?

5. What steps can you take to foster a sense of community and unity in worship within your church or faith group?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:1
This verse describes Samuel anointing Saul as king, fulfilling the divine appointment that begins in 1 Samuel 9:13.

Genesis 14:18-20
Melchizedek blesses Abram, similar to how Samuel blesses the sacrifice, highlighting the role of a spiritual leader in blessing.

Matthew 14:19
Jesus blesses the loaves and fish before feeding the multitude, paralleling the act of blessing before a communal meal.