In 1 Samuel 9 What Does Sauls Initial Reluctance To Accept His Role As King Reveal About His Character?
Saul's Initial Reluctance: A Window into His Character
When we encounter Saul in 1 Samuel 9, he is not yet the mighty king that many later recognize. Instead, the narrative introduces him as an ordinary man from the tribe of Benjamin, searching for his father's lost donkeys. Saul’s journey to kingship is marked by humility, uncertainty, and a profound sense of inadequacy. Let’s explore what his initial reluctance reveals about his character and how this foreshadows both strengths and weaknesses in his leadership.
1. Humility and a Sense of Unworthiness
When Samuel reveals to Saul that he is the one chosen by God to be king, Saul responds with surprise and a sense of unworthiness:
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 to me after this manner? - 1 Samuel 9:21 ASV
Saul’s question reveals a genuine humility. He doesn’t see himself as qualified for such a high calling. In fact, the tribe of Benjamin had, in recent history, suffered great loss and disgrace (Judges 20:46), making Saul’s insecurity understandable. This humility can be viewed positively, as Scripture teaches that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
2. Lack of Ambition and Self-Promotion
Unlike later kings or leaders who might grasp for power, Saul is not seeking a throne. He is preoccupied with a simple task—finding lost donkeys—and shows no ambition for leadership. When presented with the possibility of kingship, he does not seize the opportunity but hesitates. This lack of self-promotion is rare among leaders and can be seen as a virtue, aligning with Jesus’ teaching:
But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be humbled; and whosoever shall humble himself shall be exalted. - Matthew 23:11-12 ASV
3. Insecurity and the Seeds of Future Struggles
While humility is commendable, Saul’s reluctance also hints at insecurity and a lack of faith in God’s calling. Later, these traits become more pronounced, leading him to make decisions out of fear rather than faith (1 Samuel 15:24). Saul’s initial doubts foreshadow his ongoing struggle with trusting God’s purposes and accepting his own role in God’s plan.
4. God’s Choice of the Unexpected
Saul’s background and hesitancy reinforce a recurring biblical theme: God often chooses the unlikely and the humble to accomplish His will. Paul later writes:
but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put to shame them that are wise; and God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put to shame the things that are strong; - 1 Corinthians 1:27 ASV
Saul’s story reminds us that God’s calling is based not on human status or ability, but on His sovereign purposes and grace.
5. Faith and Obedience: The Central Test
Saul’s journey invites every believer to reflect on our response to God’s calling. Do we shrink back out of insecurity, or do we trust that God equips those He calls? Like Saul, we may feel inadequate, but God’s Word assures us:
I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me. - Philippians 4:13 ASV
Ultimately, Saul’s initial reluctance is both a sign of humility and a warning of the dangers of ongoing insecurity. God calls us to humble dependence on Him, grounded not in our qualifications, but in His power and grace.