(10) В¶ Then came the word of the LORD unto Samuel, saying, (11) It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night.
Let not the Reader imagine, that from these expressions, there is any change in the mind of God, as if that God was liable to alter. The repentance here spoken of, is in accommodation to our language, speaking after the manner of men, and not in reference to him, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. He is in one mind (saith Job) and who can turn him? Job 23:13. But what a precious thought is it, concerning salvation, that the gifts and calling of God are without repentance. Romans 11:29. What a beautiful view is given, in the close of this verse of Samuel. Dear, man! the dismission of himself and his sons from the government; called forth no such concern. But we behold him in tears a whole night, crying to the Lord for Saul. But Reader! turn your views from Samuel, and behold him, of whom Samuel is but a faint resemblance, who spent whole nights in prayers to God: and in that unequalled agony he sustained in the garden, poured out his very soul, until the sweat of his face was, as it were, great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Neither is this all. Samuel's intercession falls infinitely short of our Jesus. Though both prayed for their enemies, and the enemies of our God; yet though Samuel succeeded not, Jesus always prevails. Yes! dearest Lord! thou must ever prosper; neither can one, for whom thou prayest, perish, or come short of thy salvation.