Old Testament
1 Samuel 9:20
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As for your donkeys that were lost three days ago, don't worry about them; they have been found. And who is the desire of all Israel? Is it not you and your entire father's house?
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And as for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them; for they are found. And on whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not on thee, and on all thy father’s house?
What 1 Samuel 9:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Saul is reassured about the donkeys he has been searching for. The message is clear: he should not worry because they have already been found. This reassurance serves a deeper purpose, as it hints at Saul's significant role in Israel's future. The question posed about who is the desire of all Israel points to Saul himself, suggesting that he is destined for greatness. This moment marks a turning point in Saul's life, as he is being called to a higher purpose. It emphasizes that sometimes, what we think is a distraction or a problem can lead us to our true calling. The focus shifts from lost donkeys to the weighty responsibility of leadership that awaits him. This passage invites us to consider how our own worries might be overshadowed by greater plans in our lives, urging us to trust in the unfolding journey ahead. Saul's story begins here, reminding us that we are often called to step into roles we never expected to fill, guided by a purpose greater than ourselves.
How to apply 1 Samuel 9:20 to your life
When faced with worries, remember that they may lead you to unexpected opportunities. Trust that your concerns can be part of a larger plan. Embrace the idea that you might be called to something greater than you realize. Stay open to the possibilities that life presents to you each day. Your journey may hold surprises that shape your future significantly.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Samuel Anoints Saul (1 Samuel 9:1–10:16)
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Samuel
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 9:20
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 9:20 mean?
1 Samuel 9:20 reassures Saul that the donkeys he has been searching for are found, indicating he should not worry. It also hints at Saul's significant future role as the leader of Israel, suggesting that he is the one whom the people desire.
What is the significance of the phrase 'the desire of all Israel' in 1 Samuel 9:20?
The phrase 'the desire of all Israel' refers to Saul, indicating that he is chosen for a special purpose as the future king. This highlights the shift in focus from his immediate concerns to his destiny as a leader.
How does 1 Samuel 9:20 relate to personal worries?
1 Samuel 9:20 suggests that personal worries, like Saul's search for donkeys, can lead to unexpected opportunities and greater purposes. It encourages individuals to trust that their concerns may be part of a larger plan.
What lesson can we learn from 1 Samuel 9:20?
The lesson from 1 Samuel 9:20 is to remain open to the idea that our worries might lead us to significant opportunities. It teaches us to trust in the unfolding of our journey and to be receptive to our true calling.
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