God’s Purposes

by: Calvin Malefyt

The Lord accomplishes his purposes in the world even through leaders who do not know him. Saul was anointed king that he might bring to pass the divine plan for Israel. The people had to be united under a dynamic, central leader in order to withstand the military, social, and spiritual pressures of alien tribes. A centralized nation was required as a suitable vehicle and custodian for the saving truth, so important for present and future generations.

Saul was chosen by the Lord. Tall and handsome, he looked and acted like a king. He was a dramatic leader who united Israel to fight against the Amorites. Initially he was attentive to the Word of the Lord received from Samuel, modest and distrustful of self, kind and forgiving toward those who ridiculed him.

A closer study is disillusioning: Saul had little spiritual depth, and the people’s motives in desiring a king were merely selfish. Nevertheless God was fulfilling his purposes through them. Samuel reminded the people, “It has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself.” Therefore the prophet interceded for king and nation. Indeed it would have been a sin for him not to pray for them.

Our leaders are often imperfect and rule over a nation with glaring inadequacies. They need our prayers. Paul urged Timothy to intercede for “all who are in high positions.” Since divine purposes are being accomplished through such leaders, God forbid that we should sin by not praying for those in authority. – Dr. Calvin S. Malefyt (9-7-67)