1 Samuel 11:1 About a month (after Saul was chosen by God to be the first kind of Israel), Nahash the Ammonite went up and besieged Jabesh-gilead (a city of Israel); and all the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, “Make a treaty with us, and we will serve you.” 2 But Nahash the Ammonite said to them, “On this condition I will make a treaty with you, namely that I gouge out everyone’s right eye, and thus put disgrace upon all Israel.” 3 The elders of Jabesh said to him, “Give us seven days’ respite that we may send messengers through all the territory of Israel. Then, if there is no one to save us, we will give ourselves up to you.” 4 When the messengers came to Gibeah of Saul, they reported the matter in the hearing of the people; and all the people wept aloud. 5 Now Saul was coming from the field behind the oxen; and Saul said, “What is the matter with the people, that they are weeping?” So they told him the message from the inhabitants of Jabesh. 6 And the spirit of God came upon Saul in power when he heard these words, and his anger was greatly kindled.

This passage sets up the very first battle Israel was to undertake under the kingship of Saul. As we continue reading in 1 Samuel we will learn the battle was a great success. V.6 got my attention this morning, “And the spirit of God came upon Saul in power…”.

Remember Saul didn’t ask to be made king. In fact, Saul initially protested his selection thinking his low status as one from the smallest clan of the smallest tribe of Israel would disqualify him. But God chose him anyway and then empowered him with the “spirit of God”.

When God chooses someone for a particular task, God doesn’t leave them to sink or swim on their own merit. That would be disastrous. Instead God also empowers and equips that person for the job. If you’re feeling a bit in over your head today, let this passage encourage you. The Lord is with you every step of the way.