1 Samuel 9:5

When they reached the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant, "Come, let us go back, or my father will stop worrying about the donkeys and start worrying about us."

Study Bible

When they reached the land of Zuph
The land of Zuph is a region within the territory of Benjamin, significant for its association with the prophet Samuel, who was from Ramah, a town in this area. This location sets the stage for Saul's encounter with Samuel, which is pivotal in the narrative of Saul's anointing as king. The mention of Zuph connects to the broader biblical theme of divine providence and guidance, as God orchestrates events leading Saul to Samuel.

Saul said to his servant
Saul, the son of Kish, is introduced as a young man from the tribe of Benjamin. His interaction with his servant highlights his status and the social norms of the time, where servants accompanied their masters on journeys. This relationship also reflects Saul's initial humility and reliance on others for counsel, a trait that contrasts with his later kingship. The servant's role is crucial, as he suggests seeking the prophet Samuel, demonstrating God's use of seemingly minor characters to fulfill His purposes.

Come, let us go back
Saul's suggestion to return home indicates his concern for his father's peace of mind, showing his sense of responsibility and familial duty. This decision point is critical, as it leads to the encounter with Samuel, which was divinely orchestrated. The narrative tension here underscores the theme of divine intervention in human affairs, as Saul's mundane concern about returning home is part of God's larger plan for Israel.

or my father will stop worrying about the donkeys
The lost donkeys serve as a narrative device to bring Saul to Samuel. In the ancient Near East, donkeys were valuable assets, essential for transportation and agriculture, reflecting Kish's wealth and concern. This concern for the donkeys illustrates the practical and immediate worries of life, which God uses to direct Saul's path. The mention of donkeys also subtly foreshadows Saul's future role, as kingship involves both mundane and significant responsibilities.

and start worrying about us
Saul's awareness of his father's potential worry for their safety highlights the familial bonds and responsibilities in ancient Israelite culture. This concern for personal safety and well-being is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the human element in God's unfolding plan. Saul's statement also reflects his character at this point—considerate and mindful of his father's feelings, traits that are significant in understanding his initial suitability for leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who would later become the first king of Israel. At this point in the account, he is on a mission to find his father's lost donkeys.

2. Saul's Servant
An unnamed servant accompanying Saul on his journey. He plays a crucial role in suggesting they seek the prophet Samuel's guidance.

3. Kish
Saul's father, a wealthy and influential man from the tribe of Benjamin. His concern for his son reflects his paternal care.

4. The Land of Zuph
A region in the territory of Benjamin. It is significant as the area where Saul and his servant decide to seek the prophet Samuel.

5. The Lost Donkeys
The initial reason for Saul's journey, which ultimately leads him to Samuel and his anointing as king.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence in Daily Life
Saul's journey to find the donkeys was orchestrated by God to lead him to Samuel. This teaches us that God can use ordinary circumstances to fulfill His divine purposes.

Concern and Responsibility
Saul's concern for his father's worry shows a sense of responsibility and care. We should also be mindful of how our actions affect those who care for us.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Saul's servant suggests seeking Samuel's guidance. This highlights the importance of seeking godly counsel in times of uncertainty.

God's Sovereignty
The account demonstrates God's sovereignty in guiding Saul to his destiny. We can trust that God is in control of our life's journey.

Faithfulness in Small Tasks
Saul's initial task was to find donkeys, yet it led to his anointing as king. Faithfulness in small tasks can lead to greater responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's concern for his father's worry reflect biblical principles of honoring parents, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence in our daily routines, and how can this perspective change our approach to seemingly mundane tasks?

3. How does the servant's suggestion to seek Samuel's guidance illustrate the importance of seeking wisdom from godly sources, and how can we apply this in decision-making?

4. Reflect on a time when a small task or responsibility led to a significant opportunity in your life. How does this relate to the principle of being faithful in small things?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty when our plans do not go as expected, and what scriptures can we turn to for encouragement in these times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:2
This verse continues the account, where Samuel tells Saul about the donkeys being found, highlighting God's providence in Saul's journey.

Luke 15:4-7
The parable of the lost sheep can be connected to the theme of seeking and finding, illustrating God's care and concern for the lost.

Proverbs 16:9
This verse speaks to the idea that while man plans his way, the Lord directs his steps, which is evident in Saul's journey.