Vv. 1-2 We are given a description of Saul that sets a precedence for who he will be as king. He is son of a prominent and wealthy man. Saul is considered more handsome than his countrymen, which often bodes well for a king. Height also was important for a king, as most people of the time were very short. He appeared imposing, powerful, and a physically natural choice as king.

Vv. 3-14 We are given a story of how Saul first came to meet Samuel. Saul’s father came to him and said that they donkeys had escaped and become lost. Saul and the servant must search them out. They travel a great distance looking for these donkeys and cannot find them. They just so happen to come to the place where Samuel was and decide to speak with him as a last chance shot of finding the donkeys. They are told that they have come just in time and that they will catch him right before he goes up to bless the sacrifice. We see a lot of coincidences, which of course as believers should not accept as happenstance. Clearly God is at work.

Vv. 15-21 Samuel was told by the Lord that Saul is to be the anointed king of Israel. To be anointed king is to be part of this larger story in which the person being anointed is connected to the story of the Messiah. They are to be the picture of the Messiah to come. Samuel invites Saul to eat with him in a unique way, saying he will give him answers over the meal. Yet he answers the question of the donkeys before they even start up the hill! The donkeys are already safe at home. Surely God drew Saul to Samuel.

Vv. 22-28 Samuel treats Saul with the respect of a royal guest. Samuel shows great honor to Saul and more importantly to the Lord by respecting the word of the Lord. As he sends Saul to his own home, they send the servants away before them so that Samuel might anoint Saul as king.