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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 9 - Verse 15

9:15
Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying,

Meaning

In this verse from the first book of Samuel, the prophet Samuel receives a message from the Lord concerning the arrival of Saul, who would soon come to see him. This communication was delivered to Samuel in a private manner, as the text states that the Lord spoke "in his ear." This intimate form of communication highlights the close relationship between Samuel and God, emphasizing the special role that Samuel played as a chosen prophet and intermediary for the Israelites. The fact that the Lord provided this information to Samuel in advance also showcases the divine foreknowledge and control over events that would unfold. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to God's guidance and following His instructions, as demonstrated by Samuel's response in the subsequent verses.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "told Samuel in his ear" is significant in understanding the method by which the Lord communicated with Samuel. This phrase suggests an intimate and personal form of communication, where God whispered directly into Samuel's ear. This highlights the close relationship Samuel had with God, being able to hear the divine message in a private and exclusive manner. The phrase also emphasizes the importance of listening closely to the voice of God, as Samuel had to be attentive to receive the message. Additionally, the fact that this communication took place a day before Saul arrived indicates God's foreknowledge and sovereignty over future events. By revealing this information to Samuel beforehand, God demonstrated his control and authority over the situation, preparing Samuel for the events that were about to unfold.

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