This post was started back in September. I just couldn't get this one going for some reason, I'll post what I have and maybe something else will come to mind later.
Saul is one of those tragic Bible figures. He is known for his pride. He is known for his rebellion. He is known for his murderous attempts on David. It would be nice to point to some point of Saul's life, prior to his rebellion, where he was not the man he would be remembered for, and show where he went wrong. There are a few stories that display courage and humility. His hiding among the baggage when he knew he would be pronounced king.
When I started really evaluating though what stuck out with me about Saul is how he never really pursued God. Along his path to being anointed by Samuel the initial departure is due to missing donkeys. His father wants him to go find the donkeys, he sets out and journeys far and wide looking for a pair of difficult jackasses. It is his servant that recommends going to see Samuel or "the seer" to find the donkeys.
Saul's reaction to the suggestion of going to the seer is interesting. He asks what they will bring to pay Samuel off. I haven't been able to find (due to lack of trying - I have to admit it) how large of an issue that custom was, this was not something that seemed to concern the servant when he suggested going to Samuel. What I do know is that Saul goes to Samuel looking for a favor, and there is a certain business like nature to the arrangement. David does not go to Samuel, Samuel goes to David. Saul is man's attempt to appease God with whatever we happen to bring. David is God coming to us because we really have nothing worth bringing.
This is the difference between the two men. I have another post where I talk about how much alike they are, but this is the essential difference. Saul is a religious man, David is Godly man. David realizes that you can't buy favor with God, he created the fullness of the world including you and I, what could we possibly bring? Saul wants a favor from God, but he will not pursue God and inquire of God, he will attempt to pay.
I have more on Saul but I figured I would post this up. These post are way more exhausting that I expected.
