The verb is a form of naba’, “to act as a spokesman for God.” Here reference is not to foretelling future events but to the expression of divine truth in the form of sacred song. The same form of the verb is used in describing the false prophets of Baal, who cut themselves as if possessed by an evil spirit (1 Kings 18:28, 29), although no one would question that it was an entirely different spirit that possessed those heathen prophets. These “sons of the prophets” were singing praises to God when Saul met and joined them in such singing. The many evidences of divine providence upon his pathway during the past few hours had indeed brought about a transformation, which, temporary though it was, gave promise of what God was ready and eager to do for him should he remain humble and submissive.

 There come times in men’s lives when a change of circumstances or some divine gift frees them from former restraints, and they find themselves subject to a change as rapid, fresh, and striking as when a moth emerges from its cocoon, or a night-blooming cereus suddenly begins to unfold its exquisite beauty and send forth its wondrous perfume, where but a few moments before there was nothing of the kind apparent. Every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17). Bezaleel and Aholiab were given special wisdom and skill for the work of the tabernacle (Ex. 31:2-6); almost overnight Moses was changed from a timid herder of sheep to an emancipator, standing fearlessly before the king. Similarly Gideon was changed into a man of great courage, able to lead an army to victory—not by his own wisdom and skill, it is true, but by inspiration of God. The egotistical, self-righteous Peter was changed similarly into a fearless leader of the early church. Such changes are wrought when the Spirit of God imparts to men a vision of new possibilities, and their souls respond in sacred joy and gladness, delighting in the acceptance of God-given responsibility.

 The reality of the transformation becomes apparent as changes occur in the thoughts, the habits, the life. Old things pass away; all things become new (1 Cor. 5:17). But it must be remembered that such a change becomes permanent only with the daily reaffirmation of the choice thus made. Gideon, for instance, led the Israelites of his day into idolatry as great as that from which he had but recently delivered them (Judges 6:1, 10, 25; 8:24-33). Saul likewise refused to follow on to know the Lord, and as a result finally arrived at the place where he was entirely under the control of Satan. How many men, today as in ancient times, wear the badge, “might-have-been”.