1 Samuel 11-17: The Rise of King Saul and the Early Reign of King David
The Ammonite Threat and Saul's Victory (1 Samuel 11)
The people of Jabesh Gilead were threatened by the Ammonites, who demanded that they surrender and allow their right eyes to be gouged out. The people of Jabesh Gilead asked for seven days to send messengers throughout Israel to seek help. Saul, who was working in the fields, heard about the situation and was moved by the Spirit of God. He took a yoke of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent them throughout Israel, warning that anyone who did not come to the aid of Jabesh Gilead would suffer the same fate.
The Saul's Anointing as King (1 Samuel 10:1, 11:1-15)
The people of Israel gathered at Gilgal, and Samuel anointed Saul as the first king of Israel. Saul was initially hesitant, but the people celebrated his anointing and shouted "Long live the king!" Saul then led the Israelites to victory against the Ammonites, and they were greatly rejoiced.
Saul's Disobedience and Rejection (1 Samuel 13-15)
Saul's early reign was marked by disobedience and rejection. He offered a sacrifice to God without waiting for Samuel, which was against God's instructions. As a result, God rejected Saul as king, and Samuel declared that his kingdom would not endure. Saul also failed to fully obey God's command to destroy the Amalekites, keeping Agag, the Amalekite king, and the best of the livestock for themselves.
David's Anointing as King (1 Samuel 16:1-13)
The Lord sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king, as He had rejected Saul. Samuel was instructed to invite Jesse and his sons to a sacrifice, where he would anoint the chosen one. David, the youngest son, was not initially considered, but God chose him, saying, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
The Philistines, led by Goliath, a giant of a man, challenged the armies of Israel. David, who was not yet a soldier, came to the battlefield and heard Goliath's insults against God. David, trusting in God, chose five smooth stones and, with his sling, struck Goliath in the forehead, killing him. The Philistines fled, and the Israelites triumphed.
Conclusion
The stories of 1 Samuel 11-17 reveal the contrasts between King Saul's disobedience and rejection, and King David's faith and trust in God. While Saul's reign was marked by failure, David's early reign was characterized by faith and obedience, paving the way for a long and successful rule.
