1st Samuel 9 | Pastor Harley Doneburg | February 26th, 2026
Calvary Chapel of Perry | Messages · Gospel Creation Studio by MJ Productions
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (content.rss.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
In this teaching through 1 Samuel 9, we see the beginning of Israel’s transition from a theocracy—where God Himself was their King—to a monarchy shaped by their desire to be like the world. Despite their rejection of His leadership, God, in His mercy, allows their request and begins raising up Saul as Israel’s first king. Saul appears to be everything people would want—handsome, tall, influential—but God uses his story to reveal a deeper truth: what looks right outwardly is not always aligned with what God values inwardly. The Lord is always concerned with the heart, not just appearance or ability.
As Saul sets out on a simple task to find his father’s lost donkeys, we see how God works through ordinary circumstances—even inconveniences—to accomplish His greater purposes. What seems random or frustrating is often divine positioning. This chapter reminds us that God is always orchestrating events behind the scenes, leading us step by step—even when we’re unaware of it. At the same time, we’re warned not to rely on coincidence alone, but to stay grounded in God’s Word, which is the true foundation for discerning His will.
The message also highlights the importance of humility, obedience, and making space to hear from God. Saul begins with commendable character—he is obedient, considerate, and humble—but his future will depend on whether he continues to walk in God’s ways. Like Saul, we must learn to pause, be still, and seek the Lord intentionally. In a noisy and busy world, hearing God requires time, surrender, and a heart ready to listen. Ultimately, God desires relationship—not just activity—and He faithfully guides those who seek Him.
►► Connect with us: https://linktr.ee/ccperry
►► Check out the Calvary Perry store: https://thechurch.shop/shop/calvaryperry/
🙏 If you need prayer, please comment down below, or let us know by reaching out to the church office at:
►► Telephone: (585) 237-2720
►► Email: [email protected]
►► Website: www.calvarychapelperry.com/contact/prayer
Audio edited & mastered by:
Michael Gross