Then I will raise up for myself a faithful priest. He will do what is in my heart and soul. I will build for him a secure dynasty and he will serve my chosen one for all time.

The Lord said to Samuel, “Look! I am about to do something in Israel; when anyone hears about it, both of his ears will tingle.

On that day I will carry out against Eli everything that I spoke about his house – from start to finish!

Be strong and act like men, you Philistines, or else you will wind up serving the Hebrews the way they have served you! Act like men and fight!”

These are the gold sores that the Philistines brought as a guilt offering to the Lord – one for each of the following cities: Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron.

But this request displeased Samuel, for they said, “Give us a king to lead us.” So Samuel prayed to the Lord.

So now do as they say. But seriously warn them and make them aware of the policies of the king who will rule over them.”

He said, “Here are the policies of the king who will rule over you: He will conscript your sons and put them in his chariot forces and in his cavalry; they will run in front of his chariot.

In that day you will cry out because of your king whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord won’t answer you in that day.”

When they came to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant who was with him, “Come on, let’s head back before my father quits worrying about the donkeys and becomes anxious about us!”

So Saul said to his servant, “That’s a good idea! Come on. Let’s go.” So they went to the town where the man of God was.

When Samuel saw Saul, the Lord said, “Here is the man that I told you about! He will rule over my people.”

“When these signs have taken place, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God will be with you.

Samuel said to all Israel, “I have done everything you requested. I have given you a king.

Now take your positions, so I may confront you before the Lord regarding all the Lord’s just actions toward you and your ancestors.

You should not turn aside after empty things that can’t profit and can’t deliver, since they are empty.

However, fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Just look at the great things he has done for you!

Jonathan attacked the Philistine outpost that was at Geba and the Philistines heard about it. Then Saul alerted all the land saying, “Let the Hebrews pay attention!”

He waited for seven days, the time period indicated by Samuel. But Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and the army began to abandon Saul.

His armor bearer said to him, “Do everything that is on your mind. Do as you’re inclined. I’m with you all the way!”