The lesson for Saul was “God is with thee” (1 Sam. 10:7). What king ever had so favorable a commencement to his career? The Holy Spirit, not dwelling within him but coming upon him as in the case of the soothsayer Balaam (Num. 24:2), was ever available for his help could he have appreciated it. Alas, for the hopelessness of flesh! Every divine provision is in vain. “Ye must be born anew” (John 3:7 JND).
Saul's present journey finished at Gilgal, the place of Israel's first encampment, when the sharp knives of circumcision were freely used (Joshua 5). This is the lesson of self-mortification, and no one can render any service to God, be it Saul or any other, who has left unlearned this great elementary lesson. Let Colossians 3 be carefully and prayerfully read, and let us humbly ask ourselves before God how far we have trained ourselves to carry out its solemn instructions.
Saul was still to be dependent upon Samuel; thus he was instructed to wait at Gilgal seven days, until the man of God arrived, when burnt offerings and peace offerings should be duly offered. Waiting times are a sore test for restless flesh. Two years later, a similar waiting time was the undoing of Saul (1 Sam. 13:12). Patience! Patience! Patience! Everywhere this is pressed in the New Testament as the most necessary of lessons for souls who would walk with God, and serve Him here below (Rom. 5:3; James 1:3; 2 Cor. 12:12; 2 Cor. 6:4; 2 Tim 4:10).