Israel faced a national crisis. Nahash besieged Jabesh Gilead and would only accept surrender on the condition that all the men would gouge out their right eye. The elders of Jabesh sent messengers throughout Israel, pleading for help. Making the problem worse was that there was no leader to rally the people and plant courage in their hearts. The anointed king, Saul, had gone back to his farm to plow his fields (5). Saul had previously tried to shy away from being king (10:22).

God worked in Saul. When Saul heard about Jabesh, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul. He burned with anger for what was happening to his people at Jabesh Gilead. The terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they followed Saul’s leadership. Saul mustered them to fight. They attacked the Ammonites and God gave them a great victory.

Does God want you to rise above comfort or circumstances to be courageous and bless others? Ask God to empower and embolden you by his Spirit. Saul could not be king in his own strength. But God’s Spirit enabled him to lead, and he will do the same for you.
Application: Father, people are in a spiritual crisis. But like Saul, I am weak and selfish. Empower me by your Holy Spirit to lead others to Jesus Christ.
One Word: Depend on the Holy Spirit