“When he turned his back to leave Samuel, God gave him [Saul] another heart. And all these signs came to pass that day. When they came to Gibeah, behold, a group of prophets met him, and the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he prophesied among them. And when all who knew him previously saw how he prophesied with the prophets, the people said to one another, ‘What has come over the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?'” 1 Samuel 10:9-11

“Has not the Lord anointed you?” (1 Samuel 10:1)

The donkey’s were lost and Saul was sent to find them. In the course of his normal day’s work, the young son of Kish, ran headlong into God’s plan. Samuel the prophet declared the word of God to Saul and poured oil over his head anointing him “to be prince over his people Israel.” Three signs were given him and each came to pass: that which was lost, the donkeys, were found so his work was completed, provision (bread) was provided for his journey, and the Spirit God came upon him in power.

I love what Samuel told Saul about the Spirit of God:  “Then the Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man. Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you. Then go down before me to Gilgal And behold, I am coming to you to offer burnt offerings and to sacrifice peace offerings. Seven days you shall wait, until I come to you and show you what you shall do.” 1 Samuel 10:6-8

I’m drawn to three lessons in those signs, that Saul would have done well to hold onto in his future service as king. Each of these only required his obedience to the word of God as he went about his day.

1. God can grant success in our work.

2. God can make provision for our daily life.

3. God can transform our lives in the power of His Spirit.

As you go about your day and your calling from Jesus, beware the forgetfulness that can invade your mindful dependence on His Spirit.

Here’s a prayer by Keith Green, Rushing Wind, that has been nicely covered by the band at Sevenoseven.

Lyrics for Rushing Wind by Keith Green

Rushing wind, blow through this temple,
Blowing out the dust within;
Come and breathe your breath upon me:
I’ve been born again.

Holy Spirit, I surrender; take me where you want to go.
Plant me by your living water,
Plant me deep so I can grow.

Jesus, you’re the one who sets my spirit free;
Use me, Lord; glorify your Holy Name through me.

Separate me from this world, Lord;
Sanctify my life for you.
Daily change me to your image,
Help me bear good fruit.

Ev’ry day you’re drawing closer;
Trials come to test my faith.
But when all is said and done, Lord,
You know it’s been worth the wait.

Jesus, you’re the one who set my spirit free;
Use me, Lord; glorify your Holy Name through me.

Rushing wind, blow through this temple,
Blowing out the dust within;
Come and breathe you breath upon me,
For I’ve been born again.