Saul’s Victory at Jabesh: The Spirit’s Empowerment
April 30, 2025
Dr. Bradford Reaves
Crossway Christian Fellowship
1 Samuel 11
Introduction: The Power to Lead Comes from God
History is filled with leaders who, at the right moment, rose to the challenge with courage. One such leader was Winston Churchill, who, despite skepticism, rallied Britain in its darkest hour with bold leadership. Yet, true empowerment comes not from charisma or human strength alone, but from God’s Spirit working through a person.
In 1 Samuel 11, Saul, the newly anointed but hesitant king, faces his first real test—the Ammonite threat against Jabesh-gilead. What follows is a powerful display of God’s Spirit transforming Saul from reluctant leader to victorious king.
I. The Threat from Nahash the Ammonite (1 Samuel 11:1-4)
The men of Jabesh-gilead are besieged by Nahash, king of the Ammonites (v. 1).
Nahash offers brutal terms: “I will make a treaty with you only on the condition that I gouge out every man’s right eye” (v. 2).
The elders of Jabesh ask for seven days to seek help (v. 3), showing their desperation.
News reaches Saul, and the people weep in fear (v. 4).
Key Lessons from the Ammonite Threat
The enemy seeks total dominance.
Nahash’s demand wasn’t just to defeat them—it was to humiliate and disable them.
Satan’s attacks today seek to rob, blind, and enslave (John 10:10).
Fear often paralyzes God’s people before deliverance comes.
The people of Jabesh felt hopeless, not realizing that help was already on the way.
Like them, we sometimes focus more on the enemy’s power than on God’s deliverance.
Reflection Question: What “enemy” in your life seems overwhelming right now? How does this passage encourage you to trust in God’s deliverance?
II. The Spirit Empowers Saul for Battle (1 Samuel 11:5-11)
When Saul hears the news, “the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and his anger was greatly kindled” (v. 6).
Saul cuts up oxen and sends pieces throughout Israel as a call to arms (v. 7).
Fear of the Lord unites the people, and 330,000 men gather (v. 8).
Saul devises a surprise attack, and by morning, the Ammonites are completely defeated (v. 11).
Key Lessons from Saul’s Spirit-Empowered Leadership
The Holy Spirit equips us for the battles we face.
Before this moment, Saul was uncertain and even hid at his coronation (1 Samuel 10:22).
But now, the Spirit emboldens him to lead courageously
Zechariah 4:6 – “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord.”
Righteous anger is a response to injustice.
Saul’s anger was not fleshly rage but a Spirit-driven passion for justice.
We, too, should be moved by godly concern when evil threatens God’s people.
Obedience and bold leadership inspire others to action.
When Saul steps up, others follow.
God often calls one person’s obedience to spark revival and victory.
Reflection Question: Have you ever experienced the Spirit empowering you for a moment of boldness? How did it change your perspective?
III. The Renewal of Saul’s Kingship (1 Samuel 11:12-15)
After the victory, some demand revenge on Saul’s early critics (v. 12), but Saul refuses to retaliate.
Saul declares, “Today the Lord has worked salvation in Israel” (v. 13), showing humility.
Samuel leads the people in renewing the kingship (v. 14).
At Gilgal, the people confirm Saul’s leadership, offering sacrifices in celebration (v. 15).
Key Lessons from the Renewal of Saul’s Kingship
Victory is from God, not man.
Saul does not claim credit—he points to God as the true Deliverer.
1 Corinthians 15:57 – “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
True leadership involves humility and restraint.
Saul could have exacted revenge but chose grace instead.
A great leader does not use power for personal gain.
Spiritual renewal often follows great victories.
The people recommitted themselves to God’s leadership through Saul.
Likewise, after spiritual breakthroughs, we must renew our commitment to God.
Reflection Question: After victories in your life, do you take time to reflect and rededicate yourself to God’s purpose?
IV. Application: What Can We Learn from Saul’s Victory?
1. The Enemy Seeks to Intimidate, But God Brings Deliverance
The Ammonites wanted to enslave Israel, but God had other plans.
No matter how impossible the odds seem, God is greater than any enemy we face.
2. The Holy Spirit Transforms Weakness into Strength
Saul was hesitant before, but bold after the Spirit empowered him.
The same Spirit is available to us today (Acts 1:8).
3. Leadership Requires Both Boldness and Humility
Saul showed courage in battle and humility in victory.
Godly leaders point people to God’s power, not their own achievements.
4. Victories Should Lead to Deeper Commitment
The people renewed Saul’s kingship, but true revival happens when we renew our walk with God.
How do we respond when God gives us victory?
Challenge: How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit’s power in your own life?
Conclusion: Spirit-Empowered Victory
Saul’s victory at Jabesh-Gilead is a testimony of what happens when God’s Spirit transforms an ordinary person into a courageous leader.
This passage reminds us that:
God empowers us for the battles we face.
The Holy Spirit turns fear into faith.
Victory is for God’s glory, not ours.
Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Closing Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminding us that victory comes from You. Empower us with Your Spirit to face challenges with courage and faith. Teach us to trust in Your deliverance and respond to victory with humility and worship. May we lead with boldness, always pointing others to Your power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
