The Making of a King

Jonathan, King Saul's oldest son overheard the argument between his father and Samuel, the Prophet. The argument was fierce and tense. He had never seen Samuel so distraught. Samuel had just finished telling his father that he was no longer to be king of the country when Jonathan reached them. It must be a mistake, Jonathan thought.

Samuel turned from Saul and ordered the two soldiers, "Bring King Agag before me." In minutes, King Agag stood before them with a confidence that he would soon be free. He had been the only one spared from the attack of the city. Without hesitation Samuel turned and pulled the sword from King Saul's sheath and began to slay King Agag. After Samuel was through he returned the sword to Saul and stared intensely into Saul's face and said, "It is done as God has commanded." The flesh of King Agag laid waste on the ground.

The prophet began his journey back to his home and began to pray as he walked down the hill. His mind was racing with questions and concerns. Who would be the next king of Israel? Would he be able to lead the country? Israel was in a war with the Philistines, the Moabites, and other countries. Losing a king at this time could destroy their country.

He loved King Saul. It was unfortunate that King Saul went his own path rather than the path that was chosen for him. Regardless, a new leader was needed. Let Gods' will be done. He headed for his home and began to prepare himself for the selection of a new king.