1 Samuel 11—13; Psalm 38; Acts 9

Saul became king not immediately but only after the victory over the Ammonites. From this moment, Samuel relinquishes his duties as the judge of Israel, rebuking the Israelites for their lack of trust in God's desire to appoint a king for them and warning them of the importance of fearing God and being obedient to Him. Despite being rejected by the people, Samuel continues to pray for them.

As king, Saul acquired an army, but within two years, he failed the test of trust in God. Faced with the threat from the Philistines, he relied more on human capabilities than on God. Consequently, he offered a sacrifice without Samuel's presence out of fear that the people would scatter and he would not be able to withstand the Philistines. This led to God rejecting Saul's kingdom to replace him with a man "after His own heart."

Psalm 38 describes the complex situation where David found himself due to sinfulness. Understanding that God punishes him for his sins, he asks for mercy, languishing under the weight of punishment. He acknowledges his iniquity and is brokenhearted over his sins, seeking God's help in his condition.

Acts 9 The conversion of Saul is a great miracle through which God shows the power of the saving action of Jesus Christ. He can take "a Pharisee of the Pharisees" and be a Church persecutor, making him one of the most influential instruments for spreading the Gospel and building the Church in history. This is another demonstration of God's providence and His election.

Upon turning to Christ, Saul immediately began preaching about Him. In his mind, everything fell into place. His good knowledge of the law allowed him to see all the prophecies about Christ.

The radical nature of Saul's conversion was so significant that even the apostles, who had witnessed thousands of conversions by this point, feared him. This forced him to return to Tarsus and spend considerable time there. This time was necessary for his establishment as a Christian. The formation of personal experience in following Christ is an important element in the life of every Christian.