PaulM

Saul is focused on his relief (which is temporary). It seems to me that Saul is still focused on worldly solutions. Rather than crying out to God in true repentance and sorrow over the loss of relationship with God's Holy Spirit, Saul is desperate for temporary relief. From God's perspective, He is placing David in the court from which he will soon rule. David will be able to witness the functioning of the royal court. When we are focused on our selfish goals, we miss God's bigger picture and plans. We remain teachable when we are seeking God first in all things. When we humble ourselves to loving God and seeking the heart of God, He will teach us His ways and help us follow in His path.

Samuel is the Lord's servant and the Lord's instrument to anoint David physically as God anoints him spiritually. God empowers David with His presence. God the Holy Spirit is present and leads David into leadership. I need to be fully aware that God has anointed me with His presence--the Holy Spirit in me and upon me to lead me in my ministry!

We see previously how Saul did not carefully hear and follow the Lord's voice (spoken through Samuel). In contrast, Samuel has thoughts and opinions but he is also listening carefully for the voice of the Spirit and obeying God's instructions. Our instinct is to judge from outward appearance. God is teaching us to discern by His leading and His criteria to look at the heart of a person rather than the outward appearance. Grow mature in the Lord and seek Him in relational prayer so that we might be still before Him and listen for His voice.

Rebellion is a deliberate act of disobedience against God. If we claim that the Lord is our King and that we belong to Him; and yet we willfully disobey, then we have committed the gravest sin. It is just as if we had committed witchcraft. Rebellion is arrogance and pride that we are placing ourselves above God and His ways. We must repent, ask forgiveness and turn away from our sin. If we do nothing, then we do not belong to the Lord. We are lost until we turn back to Him.