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20. They are found. Samuel states that the asses had been lost for three days, literally, “today, three days.” Before telling Saul of his high calling, Samuel put his mind at rest concerning the practical purpose of his visit. Christ always ministered to the physical needs of His hearers as well as to their spiritual yearnings. The very fact that He was interested in their physical welfare did much to cause them to listen while He ministered to their spiritual needs. Thus the information that the asses were found did much to convince Saul of the divine origin of Samuel’s message concerning the kingdom.

The desire of Israel. Though himself a prophet and a judge, Samuel accepted the counsel of the Lord that Israel be granted the desire of their hearts. He expressed no feelings of regret or jealousy at meeting the young man who was to take over the responsibility of delivering Israel from the hand of the Philistines (v. 16). Instead, he accorded Saul evidences of honor and respect (see vs. 20-24). Here Samuel demonstrated the true spirit of unselfishness. Like Moses, he was anxious that the Spirit of the Lord come upon all men (Num. 11:29). Christ did not count equality with God the Father a thing to be grasped after, but manifested the true principle of selflessness, in order that the overcome might sit with Him on His throne (Rev. 3:21). Similarly, Samuel not only indicated that he was willing to give Saul the responsibility, but also that he would do all in his power to prepare the future king for his duties.