Saul could not understand how a man like him could lead the nation of Israel, so God gave him a series of “signs” to assure him for his new responsibilities.
A leader must trust God to solve problems (vv. 1–2), to provide needs (vv. 3–4), and to give the power needed for service (vv. 5–7). He must know how to hear God’s Word and wait obediently on the Lord (v. 8). Saul began his ministry in the strength of these assurances, but as time went on, he trusted more and more in himself and rebelled against God’s Word.
His modesty in saying nothing about the kingdom (v. 16) and his self-control in not answering his critics (v. 27) are commendable, but what about his hiding on coronation day? Was he genuinely humble, or was he unwilling to take responsibility? This much is sure: he did a great deal of “hiding” in the years of his leadership, but God found him out. As the book of Proverbs warns, “He who covers his sins will not prosper” (28:13).
