1 Samuel 9:7
“Then Saul said to his servant, “But, behold, if we go, what should we bring the man? For the bread is spent in our sacks, and there is not a present to bring to the man of God. What do we have?””
What does 1 Samuel 9:7 mean?
Saul and his servant are on a search for a lost donkey when they decide to consult a local prophet (Samuel) for help. Before approaching him, Saul realizes they've brought nothing to offer, which was customary when visiting a holy man or seeking his guidance. His concern here shows both respect for the prophet's standing and practical awareness of social conventions, even as he's uncertain whether they have anything valuable enough to give. This small moment captures something true about how we approach God and seek His wisdom: we sometimes feel like we need to "bring something" or be worthy first. Saul's worry reflects a very human hesitation that many of us feel when we reach out for spiritual help or guidance. The good news is that what happens next in the story shows God working through Samuel to help Saul anyway, reminding us that God's help doesn't depend on what we can offer Him first.