1 Samuel 10:1 Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, and kissed him. He said, “Do you see what this means? God has anointed you prince over his people.

God’s people wanted a king. Although in this way they were actually choosing not to have God as their leader, God still gave the people what they wanted. A visible king who could lead them and serve them wisely.

Saul was looking for his father’s donkeys and became very discouraged when he couldn’t find them. One of his servants then said that he had heard of a man of God who was in the village. Saul went to find the man in the hope that he would help him find his father’s donkeys.

That is how Saul came to Samuel. A small suggestion from a servant on a day that felt like a waste of time to him, and then he arrived to meet his future.

When Samuel saw Saul, he knew, because God had shown him the day before that he would send him a man from the tribe of Benjamin. Samuel invited Saul to a feast, blessed him and said that he would be the new king.

Saul lacked the full picture, so he objected right away. He was from the smallest tribe, just an ordinary young man. But Samuel confirmed it: “God has chosen you! Your future is in God’s hands, and the picture is completely different from what you think.”

That’s how God chooses each of us, every day. We are God’s hands and feet, and I suspect that this is not new news to you. Every child of God was placed on earth for a purpose: to make a difference wherever we go.

Yet we don’t do it. Probably because we don’t know what God is calling us for. Maybe we’re so busy with “donkey” things that we don’t know what God is calling us for. Our lives are so cloudy and foggy that we’re just trying to survive.

But God wants to use us right there in the fog, while we’re searching for the meaning of everything. I know we also sometimes feel like Saul, too young or unfit for the task, but know that God doesn’t think that way. He will make you capable. Don’t believe in your own abilities. Believe in God. He can make it work.

Prayer
Father, like Saul, I’m rather scared, but if You go before me, I can manage it …

Questions
Where do I currently feel too small or inadequate for what lies ahead?
Am I so caught up in everyday things that I overlook God’s calling?
Do I really believe that God can use me just as I am?

Do this now
Stop today and ask God, “Where do you want to use me?”
Today, intentionally look for an opportunity to help, encourage, or give hope to someone.
When you feel insecure or inadequate, remind yourself out loud, “God can work through me.”