Definition: And he had a son, whose name [was] Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and [there was] not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward [he was] higher than any of the people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 9:2. It's a really important verse that sets up a key part of God’s plan for David! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “God chose Saul, a young man, to be the leader of Israel. He was exceptionally good and talented, far better than any other person among the Israelites.” Let's unpack that a little further: “God chose Saul…” This means God decided to select someone specifically for a very important role. “…to be the leader…” This establishes that Saul would eventually become King David’s successor. “a young man…” It emphasizes that he wasn't an old or experienced leader; he was relatively new and had potential. "...and a goodly: and [there was] not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he:” This is the really significant part. “Goodly” means exceptionally good, excellent, or outstanding. The phrase "there was not a goodlier person than he" means he was beyond compare – he was far better than everyone else in Israel. So, what’s the big takeaway? God chose Saul because he was so talented and kind that he was considered superior to all other leaders among the Israelites. Why is this important? This verse is a foundation for understanding how God’s plan works. It shows that God doesn't just choose people randomly; He chooses them for specific reasons, often based on their inherent goodness and potential. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail?

Definition: And as for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them; for they are found. And on whom [is] all the desire of Israel? [Is it] not on thee, and on all thy father’s house?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:20 together. It's a really important and slightly mysterious passage in the Bible! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about trusting God and not worrying about things you can’t control. It’s essentially saying, “Don’t obsess over things that are lost or gone.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And as for thine asses that were lost three days ago…” – This refers to something that was misplaced or lost – perhaps a valuable item, a person, or even an opportunity. “…set not thy mind on them; for they are found.” - This is the key part. It means don't dwell on these things. Don’t try to fix them, search for them endlessly, or get upset about them. Just let it go. “And on whom [is] all the desire of Israel?” – This is where it gets a bit more profound. “Desire” here means desire , want , longing . It’s about what people are yearning for. “Is it not on thee, and on all thy father’s house?” – This suggests that you are the one who holds the most important desire of Israel (the Jewish people). What does this mean in a broader sense? The Bible is often talking about God’s plan for humanity. This verse is suggesting: 1. God wants what's best for Israel. He has a purpose, and he doesn’t want things to go wrong. 2. We should trust that God will handle things as He sees fit. It’s okay to not worry about every little thing that can happen. Let go of anxiety and fear. 3. Our focus should be on fulfilling God's plan for us, rather than obsessing over the details. In short, it’s a reminder to be patient and trust in God’s wisdom and control. It encourages a shift from worry to faith. --- To help me explain it further or answer any specific questions you might have, could you tell me: What part of the verse are you finding confusing? Are you curious about its historical context (when was this verse written)?

Definition: And Saul answered and said, [Am] not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:21. It's a really important part of the story about God choosing David as King of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Saul was very proud and felt like he belonged in a smaller, less important place than everyone else in his tribe, the Benjamites. He felt he wasn't part of the "family" of Benjamin. Let's unpack it further: “And Saul answered…” : This means Saul was speaking to God. “[Am] not I a Benjamite…” : This is the key part. “Am” is a Hebrew word that means “not.” So, Saul is saying, "I am not a Benjamite." He's rejecting his tribe. “and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin?” : This clarifies even more. He’s saying he doesn’t belong in the top few ranks of the Benjamites – the most important and influential part of his tribe. What's the point? Saul was feeling like he wasn't valued or important enough to be a leader among his own people. He felt he didn't have the same importance as those who were the closest to the throne of God. The Big Picture: This verse is about God’s choosing. God is deliberately setting someone – David – up to lead, even though Saul initially resisted. It shows that God values people differently and chooses them for a purpose. In short, this verse describes Saul's pride and his desire to be in a less significant position within his tribe. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Give you a more detailed explanation of the historical context? Answer any specific questions you have about this verse?

Definition: And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought them into the parlour, and made them sit in the chiefest place among them that were bidden, which [were] about thirty persons.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:22. It’s a really important passage about God's choosing someone for leadership. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is setting Saul (a young man) and his servant aside so he can be the leader of a group of people. Let’s unpack it further: “Samuel took Saul and his servant…” – This tells us who is involved. Samuel was God's chosen person to lead the Israelites, and he had a servant with him. “…and brought them into the parlour…” – “Parlour” means a room or space for meetings. So, they were being brought into a special area where they would be seated. “And made them sit in the chiefest place among them that were bidden…” – This is the key part. "That were bidden" means the people God had called to listen and be involved. They were arranged in a specific order, with the most important people (the leaders) at the front. It’s like being seated in a VIP area. “…which [were] about thirty persons.” – There were around thirty people present. What does this tell us about God's plan? This verse shows that God is choosing someone to lead, and He’s putting them in a position of importance – a seat of authority. It's a sign that God wants to establish a strong leader for the Israelites. In short, it means God is setting Saul up to be the leader of a group of people. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what this passage might mean in the Old Testament story of Samuel?

Definition: And Samuel said unto the cook, Bring the portion which I gave thee, of which I said unto thee, Set it by thee.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:23. It’s a really important and somewhat mysterious phrase! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Essentially, Samuel is telling someone to keep a specific amount of food or resources that he gave them. Let's unpack the parts: “And Samuel said unto…” : This is Samuel speaking. He’s giving instructions. “…Bring the portion which I gave thee…” : He’s asking someone to retrieve something that he previously gave them. "The portion" could refer to a specific amount of food, money, or even a gift. “of which I said unto thee…” : This is key! Samuel is giving instructions to someone – likely a servant or someone who understands the situation. He’s saying, “I told you specifically that you should keep this.” “…Set it by thee.” : This means, "Keep this in a safe place for you." It's instructing them to put it somewhere they can easily access it. The Context is Important: This verse appears in the story of Samuel and Eli’s sons, when Eli’s son, Jesse, was about to be offered as a sacrifice. Samuel is essentially saying that he has a special gift or resource – perhaps a blessing or a promise – he's giving to Jesse. He wants to ensure this gift remains with Jesse. In short, it's a straightforward instruction to protect and safeguard a valuable item. --- Do you want me to: Explain the bigger picture of why Samuel is telling this to Jesse? (It’s connected to God's plan for Israel.) Give you another verse from 1 Samuel that relates to this concept?

Definition: And the cook took up the shoulder, and [that] which [was] upon it, and set [it] before Saul. And [Samuel] said, Behold that which is left! set [it] before thee, [and] eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people. So Saul did eat with Samuel that day.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 1 Samuel 9:24. It’s a really significant moment in the story of God’s choice of David to be King of Israel. Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, God is giving David a special responsibility – he’s being appointed as the king. Here's a breakdown of the key parts: “And the cook took up the shoulder…”: This describes a ritual where a symbolic item is placed on top of a large, heavy pot. Think of it like a crown or a symbol of authority. “…and [that] which [was] upon it, and set [it] before Saul.”: A significant object – likely a piece of cloth or a small offering – was placed on the pot. And God is placing this item before King David. This signifies that God is choosing him to be king. “And [Samuel] said, Behold that which is left! set [it] before thee, [and] eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people.”: This is a crucial part. A man named Samuel, who was God’s messenger, says, "Look! This remains! Place it before you, and eat – because it has been kept for you since I told you to invite the people." What does this all mean in terms of biblical context? God's Favor: This is a very powerful moment. It shows God is choosing someone specifically for a great purpose. David’s Role: It establishes David as the one God has chosen to be king. He’s being given this special position and responsibility. A Promise: The phrase "unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said" suggests that God is keeping something important for David, and that he will eventually fulfill his role as King. In short, this verse describes a deliberate placement of an item – symbolizing authority – before King David to demonstrate that God has chosen him to be the king. --- Do you have any specific questions about this passage that I can answer? For example, would you like me to: Explain its significance in the larger story of the Old Testament? Discuss what this verse might mean for David’s future role as King?

Definition: And when they were come down from the high place into the city, [Samuel] communed with Saul upon the top of the house.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:25. It's a really important moment in God’s plan to establish His kingdom in Israel! Here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, it says that God sent Samuel to meet with Saul – a powerful and important leader – in a specific location within the city. Let’s unpack it further: “They were come down from the high place…” - This suggests a special and perhaps somewhat elevated setting. "High place" could mean a rooftop, a tower, or even a significant vantage point. It implies a moment of reverence and importance. “…into the city.” – This tells us they are entering a town or urban area. “[Samuel] communed with Saul…” - “Commune” means to talk, to have a conversation. Samuel was sent to speak with Saul. It's not just a casual greeting; it’s a significant meeting. “…upon the top of the house.” – “Top of the house” is a bit figurative. It doesn't necessarily mean a literal top floor. It likely refers to a high, prominent place within a building - perhaps a window or balcony overlooking the city. What’s the significance? This encounter was crucial because it marked the beginning of God’s plan to establish His kingdom in Israel. It's seen as a step towards David becoming king and ultimately leading God’s people. It shows that God is working through this man – Saul – to eventually become the King. In short, this verse describes a meeting between God and Saul, signifying a pivotal moment in establishing His kingdom. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a broader story or theme in the Bible?

Definition: And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day, that Samuel called Saul to the top of the house, saying, Up, that I may send thee away. And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Samuel 9:26. It’s a really important moment in the story of God choosing David to be King of Israel! Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very specific and significant meeting between God and Samuel. It’s about God wanting to give David a chance to become king. Let’s unpack the parts: “And they arose early…” – This means it was a morning gathering, likely before sunrise. “…and it came to pass about the spring of the day…” – "The spring of the day" is a poetic way of saying around midday. It's a time when the sun is at its highest point and light is strongest. It’s a symbolic moment. “That Samuel called Saul…to the top of the house…” - Samuel was God's messenger, and he was calling David to a specific location – the top of a house. “saying, Up, that I may send thee away.” – This is the key part! Samuel wasn’t calling him to the house; he was sending him away. He was essentially saying, “David, you need to go out and find your own way.” “And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.” – Now, David and Samuel were going on a journey together. The word "abroad" means "outward" or “away from home.” So, what’s happening? God is setting David up for a big role in the future. He's giving him a chance to prove himself and become king. This is a pivotal moment – it’s like God is planting the seeds of his plan for David. Why is this important? This verse shows that God doesn’t just choose people; He orchestrates their lives. He has a plan, and He's guiding events to lead someone to fulfill His purpose. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of 1 Samuel 9? Discuss the significance of this verse in a broader context (like God’s plan)?

Definition: [And] as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from 1 Samuel 9:27. It’s a really important moment in the story of Samuel and David. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: David is Seeking God’s Favor: David was trying to get God’s blessing on his new position as king of Israel. He needed to show that he was worthy and obedient to God. Samuel Sends a Messenger: Samuel, the leader of the Israelites, sent a messenger to bring David to the city ofbethlehem (a very important city). A Request for Obedience: Samuel asked David to be very careful and follow instructions. He wanted to make sure David was acting in God’s best interest. What Happened Next - The Key Verse: “And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, ‘Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.’” Let’s unpack this: "As they were going down to the end of the city..." – This refers to the journey from Jerusalem tobethlehem. It's a moving and significant step for David. “Samuel said to Saul…” – Samuel is instructing David. Saul was David’s opponent, a powerful king who was jealous of David’s growing influence. "...Bid the servant pass on before us..." - This is the crucial part. Samuel asked Saul to let a servant (a person of service) go ahead of them. It's like giving someone a signal to step aside. "...and he passed on..." – This is a key phrase. – Saul, following the command, actually did pass on. He stepped aside. "...but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God." – Samuel waited for Saul to remain still and listen. He wanted to give David a chance to hear God’s message – which is a very important part of the story. What Does it Mean? This passage is about God's invitation to listen. It's a way for God to communicate with David, and ultimately, to prepare him for his role as King. It highlights that God wants us to listen to His word, even when we don’t understand it yet. In essence, Samuel was giving David an opportunity to hear the message of God through a moment of quiet reflection. --- Think of it like this: It's like waiting for a sign – a signal to pay attention – and then receiving a powerful message from God. Do you want me to: Explain any part of this passage in more detail? Discuss the significance of Saul’s actions in relation to David’s journey?