Then [Saul] waited seven days, according to the time set by Samuel. But Samuel did not come to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him. So Saul said, "Bring a burnt offering and peace offerings here to me." And he offered the burnt offering.
- I Samuel 13:8-9
Saul took matters into his own hands when he saw the people scatter. Leaders need to maintain stability for their people. When the people sway (and they will sway) you need to remain steadfast to what the Lord would have you to do. Even if all the people left, Saul's whole organization crumbling, it would have been better for him to remain faithful to the Lord. The consequence - the Lord had planned to bless him with someone on his throne forever, but now he will lose that honor. It amazes me, the sins we think are so small and the large consequences they have. His children would die (including Jonathan!) and the throne would be passed on. Oh what a different world it would have been if Saul had remained faithful one more hour.
We might just imagine that in the early part of the week, Saul explained his thinking in a pep talk to the troops: “Men, we’re going into battle against the Philistines. They have more men, more chariots, more horses, and better swords and spears than we have.” So we have to trust God and make a quick attack before they can get organized. Soon Samuel will come and lead us in sacrifice before God. Then we’ll go out and whip the Philistines!” But it didn’t happen like that. The days dragged on, and Samuel hadn’t come yet. The troops were losing confidence in Saul as a leader, and beginning to scatter. Saul felt he was in a lot of trouble! - David Guzik
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