Saul has been anointed, and proclaimed king, but has yet to prove his metal. He already has loyal allies and haters. In 1 Samuel 11, we read the story of his first battle. As the situation is laid out before us, we witness Saul’s part in it and rejoice in God’s salvation.
The Situation
The situation came about when Nahash the Ammonite encamped around Jabesh Gilead. The men of Jabesh were ready to negotiate, but not Nahash. He did however give them seven days to find help. When the news surfaced, the people wept, and Saul heard them.
Saul’s Part
Saul had been anointed by God to deliver his people from their enemies. When he heard their cries, the Spirit of God came upon him, and he was angry. He slaughtered a pair of oxen, cut them up, and sent the pieces out to collect an army. “Whoever does not go out with Samuel and Saul to battle, so shall it be done to his oxen.” It worked. 300,000 from Israel and 30,000 from Judah came. Notice of aid was sent and Saul organized his troops. A fierce battle ensued.
The Result
The people, rejoicing in their victory, asked Samuel for those who were against Saul. They wanted them dead. But Saul said, “Not a man shall be put to death, this day, for today, the Lord has accomplished salvation in Israel.”
It was a day of celebration. Samuel gathered the people to Gilgal where they made Saul King before the Lord. Then they made sacrifices of peace offerings before the Lord. Thus, we have read of Saul’s first battle, witnessed his part in it, and rejoice in the salvation of God for His people.