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Podcast Host / Narrator
This is an Iheart podcast. Guaranteed human
Saul / Narrator
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Jana Kramer (Advertiser)
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Samuel / Prophet
Foreign
Prayer Leader / Religious Host
Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. Matthew 20:26 Dear Lord, you teach us that true greatness comes through humility. Help us lead as you did by serving others with grace, patience and compassion. When pride urges us to seek recognition, remind us that honor in your kingdom is found in putting others first. Give us the courage to lead with integrity and the strength to carry the burdens of those we serve. Fill us with wisdom so our guidance reflects your heart. May our words and actions point others not to ourselves, but to you, the true servant king. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Chosen People. Remain here for a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Be sure to leave a review and share your journey of faith today.
Narrator / Storyteller
Previously on the Chosen People.
Samuel / Prophet
Samuel, you have led us well, but your years are advancing. And though I do not want to insult you, your sons do not walk in your ways. With no one to take your place. The elders and I request that you you appoint a king to judge us. What do kings bring? Tyranny, chains, burden? Is it another pharaoh you would have over?
Saul / Narrator
You
God / Divine Voice
heed the people's voice in everything they ask.
Samuel / Prophet
What? But why?
God / Divine Voice
Surely they have not rejected you. They have rejected me and desire that I should not reign over them. Obey their voice and make them a king. Take heart, Samuel, for I will guide you in this. Even in their wicked ways, my purposes shall prevail. Tomorrow at this time, I will send you a man from Benjamin. He is the one who will reign over the people, the one they have begged for. He shall restrain them, deliver them from their enemies, and bear the weight of their ingratitude.
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Podcast Host / Narrator
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Advertiser / Sponsor Voice
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Narrator / Storyteller
the Plains of Benjamin lay beneath the midday sun, a patchwork of green fields and shadowed hills that stretched toward the borders of Ephraim. In the heart of these lands stood the estate of Kish, a wealthy farmer and merchant whose name carried weight among the Benjamites. His lands were vast, his herds numerous, and his lineage respected, at least by Benjamite standards. By the stables, Saul the son of Kish, worked under the merciless heat, his bare arms glistened with sweat as he hefted a new wooden post and drove it into the earth with a solid thud. The fence had been broken the night before, and several of his father's donkeys had escaped into the hills. Saul's broad shoulders strained as he worked. The curves of muscle beneath his sun browned skin tremored with each thud. Saul was a striking figure, taller than any man in his tribe, with dark, intelligent eyes and the chiseled features of a warrior. His reputation preceded him wherever he went. Men admired his strength. Women whispered of his handsomeness. Even now. As Saul carried the broken post to the woodpile, a group of young women passed by with clay jars balanced on their heads. They slowed their steps, giggling behind their hands as they watched him work.
Podcast Host / Narrator
A hinowom is a lucky woman to be betrothed to such a. Oh, magnificent creature. Oh, what I wouldn't do to be his betrothed. My mother tried to arrange it, but Ahinoam beat us to the punch.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul, pretending not to notice the women's swooning, smirked to himself. He raised the axe high, its blade catching the sun, and brought it down with a sharp crack. His satisfaction was interrupted by the sound of his father's voice.
Samuel / Prophet
So what is the meaning of this? What in the Lord's name happened to this fence?
Saul / Narrator
Something must have spooked the donkeys last night. They broke the fence. I mean, I fixed it, but many of them are still missing. They must have likely wandered off into the hills.
Samuel / Prophet
Don't be a fool, boy. The fence can be repaired anytime. But if you don't find those donkeys soon, they may be lost or stolen. I swear, Saul, use your head. Take one of the workers and go after them before they stray too far.
Saul / Narrator
As you wish, Father. Tavi and I will leave immediately.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul tugged a loose shirt over his head and gathered his belongings. Into a leather satchel, he packed dried figs, bread, and a newly tanned water skin. He also took the seal of his father's household, a mark of ownership over the donkeys. Tavi, Saul's right hand man, joined him. Together they climbed into the hills surrounding the estate. The sun beat down on their shoulders as they passed through the countryside, calling out for the missing animals. The hours stretched on, and the search led them beyond Benjamin's borders into the hill country of Ephraim. Here, the land grew lush and fragrant with the blooms of early spring. A breeze carried the scent of wildflowers, and Saul paused at the crest of a hill, stretching his arms and taking a deep breath.
Podcast Host / Narrator
Hmm.
Saul / Narrator
Even donkey chasing has its rewards. I Get to be free from my father's hounding.
Narrator / Storyteller
For a few moments, Tavi chuckled but said nothing. They passed through the regions of Shalesha and Shaleen, stopping in each village to inquire about the donkeys. Saul's reputation as a fighter and leader preceded him. The villagers welcomed him warmly, and the women in particular seemed eager to linger in his presence. Saul greeted them all with humility, but in his heart, he relished the attention. Yet for all their searching, the donkeys remained elusive. By the time they reached the region of Zuf, the sun had begun its descent. Saul's steps slowed as weariness crept into his limbs.
God / Divine Voice
We should return.
Saul / Narrator
My father will begin to worry more for us than for the donkeys.
Narrator / Storyteller
Tavi hesitated, shielding his eyes as he scanned the horizon. His gaze settled on a cluster of buildings nestled in the hillside.
Samuel / Prophet
Wait a second. I know this place. One of the merchants told me about a man of God who lives here. A seer. They say everything he speaks come to pass.
Saul / Narrator
Tabby, we lost our donkeys, not the Ark of the Covenant. Why would a seer of God care care about a few missing donkeys?
Samuel / Prophet
How would we know if we don't ask? We're already here. What harm could it do?
Saul / Narrator
Even if we go to him, we have nothing to offer. A man of God would expect a gift or an offering, right?
Samuel / Prophet
I have a solution to that as well, Master Saul.
Narrator / Storyteller
Tavi rummaged through his belongings and pulled out a small piece of tattered cloth. As he unfolded it, Saul saw a quarter shekel of silver gleaming in the fading light.
Samuel / Prophet
I never go anywhere without it. It's always good to be prepared. I'll give it to the seer if it means we might find the donkeys.
Saul / Narrator
What would I do without you, Tavi?
Narrator / Storyteller
Very little.
Samuel / Prophet
All that muscle left you with little
Narrator / Storyteller
room for a brain. Saul tucked Tavi under his arm and ruffled his hair. The two shoved each other, then jogged down to the city below. The city was nestled in the crook of a hill. As they descended the slopes, they came upon a well where several young women were drawing water into clay jars. Saul leaned against the stone rim of the well, his smile easy and disarming.
Saul / Narrator
Greetings, sisters. We've come to seek the Seer. Is he. Is he here?
Narrator / Storyteller
One of the women turned toward him, her eyes wide with surprise. In her haste to answer, she spilled water down her garment and flushed red. Her companions giggled as she fumbled with her jar. Saul, ever the charmer, offered her a cloth from his satchel. She took it with trembling hands, avoiding his gaze as she stammered yes, my Lord.
Podcast Host / Narrator
He is here. You must be swift though. He has come to the city for a sacrifice at the High Place. The people will not eat until he has blessed the feast.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul inclined his head in gratitude and turned toward the city gates. Tavi followed close behind.
Samuel / Prophet
That charm of yours can get you just about anywhere, can't it?
Saul / Narrator
We all have to work with the gifts we've been given.
Narrator / Storyteller
As they approached the base of the High Place, an old man in worn robes emerged from the shadows, his stride slow but purposeful. Saul stepped forward, his commanding presence impossible to ignore.
Saul / Narrator
Sir, do you know where we might find the Seer? We heard he's coming to make a sacrifice soon.
Samuel / Prophet
Who's asking?
Saul / Narrator
Saul, son of Kish.
Samuel / Prophet
And what do you want with the Seer?
Saul / Narrator
We were hoping he'd help us find my father's missing donkeys.
Samuel / Prophet
Donkeys? Do you really need a prophet to find a few donkeys? Are you really that helpless?
Saul / Narrator
We've looked everywhere else and I'd prefer not to return to my father empty handed. Can you please direct us to the Seer?
Samuel / Prophet
We have some silver to offer him.
Narrator / Storyteller
The old man stopped and looked up at Saul, his weathered face unreadable. For a moment, the silence stretched between them.
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Podcast Host / Narrator
is proudly partnering with the National park foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. Garnier's support of the National Park Foundation's Service Corps program is enabling young adults and veterans to help care for and enhance the national parks that we all love. The National park foundation and Garnier are proud to support these individuals as they explore future careers, gain practical field skills, develop confidence as leaders, and help address priority projects across our national Together, Garnier and the National park foundation are committed to a shared vision of preserving and protecting our most treasured places for future generations. Want to lend a hand? Explore Garnier's partnership with the National park foundation and learn how you can help support our national parks@garnierusa.com NPF support for
Advertiser / Sponsor Voice
the show comes from Public, the investing platform for those who take it seriously. On Public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index with AI. It all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year, you can literally type any prompt and put the AI to work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like ETFs with infinite possibilities, completely customizable and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors, llc SEC Registered Advisor Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not an investment recommendation or advice. Complete disclosures available at public.com disclosures I
Samuel / Prophet
am who you seek.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel's eyes had seen many things. Wars fought for pride and vengeance, blood spilled over faith and folly, and men who claimed power in defiance of Heaven's will. Yet as Samuel stood at the city gates, gazing up at the man before him, a peculiar weight settled in his chest. This soul of Kish was a man apart. His stature alone spoke volumes. Broad shoulders, a chest that rose and fell with steady confidence, a face crafted to inspire loyalty. His voice carried an air of command, but there was something untested in him, an immaturity that Samuel suspected even Saul himself did not recognize. The Lord's voice had been clear the day before.
God / Divine Voice
Tomorrow at this time I will send you a man from Benjamin. He is the one who will reign over the people, the one they have begged for. He shall restrain them, deliver them from their enemies, and bear the weight of
Narrator / Storyteller
their ingratitude and Here he stood, Saul of Kish, bearer of a warrior's frame, yet a stranger to the kind of battle that would be test his soul. Saul cocked his head to the side, taking in Samuel with a perplexed look. No doubt Saul had expected more from such a renowned prophet. Saul had likely expected a grand figure clad in gold threaded robes, bearing jewels to proclaim his authority. What he saw was an old man in plain garb, his weathered face shadowed by the weariness of yellow years.
Samuel / Prophet
I am the seer you're seeking.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel shrugged and turned on his heel.
Samuel / Prophet
Come with me to the High Place. You will share a meal with me and in the morning I will tell you all that is in your heart.
Saul / Narrator
Great Seer, I came only to ask.
Samuel / Prophet
Your donkeys are safe, Saul, son of Kish. They weren't found not long after you departed from your father's house.
Narrator / Storyteller
The words stopped Saul in his tracks. He turned to Tavi, who looked just as bewildered. Saul opened his mouth to ask the obvious question, but was cut off again.
Samuel / Prophet
How do I know you came to ask about the donkeys? How do I know your name? Stupid questions. I'm a seer. It's my job to see such things. Now it's your job to listen.
Narrator / Storyteller
Come.
Samuel / Prophet
I've been expecting you.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel pressed on. Saul padded briskly behind.
Saul / Narrator
What? What do you want with me?
Samuel / Prophet
It's not about what I want, but the people. As it turns out, you're the one whom the entire nation has been pining after the hope of Israel.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul had an inkling of what Samuel was getting at. Groans for a king had been heard from every corner of Israel. Saul replied with feigned humility.
Saul / Narrator
I am of the tribe of Benjamin, the least of the tribes of Israel. My fathers clan is small. I. I'm a nobody.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel turned, his sharp gaze pinning Saul in place.
Samuel / Prophet
False modesty does not suit a man of your stature. Your father is a man of means. Your name is known among the tribes and you stand here before me, head and shoulders above the rest. Do not speak as if you're not. God does not waste his anointing on men without purpose.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul said nothing, and for once his commanding posture faltered. Samuel may have been an older, smaller man, but Saul somehow felt small walking beside him. They continued up the hill without looking back. The high place was alive with the flicker of torches and the hum of voices. The smell of roasted meat mingled with the fragrant herbs that burned in offering. Inside the large hall, 30 men reclined at a long wooden table, their murmured conversations ceasing as Samuel entered Saul followed the prophet hesitantly, his eyes scanning the room. The men stared at him with curiosity, some whispering to one another. Samuel ignored them all, leading Saul to the head of the table.
Samuel / Prophet
Shit.
Saul / Narrator
At the head.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel offered no explanation. The prophet merely gestured for Saul to take his place, then seated himself to the right. A servant brought the choicest portions of meat and bread, placing them before Saul with quiet reverence. Saul's appetite returned with the first whiff of the food, and though he tried to eat with decorum, his hunger betrayed him. Samuel, meanwhile, sat back, answering questions from the other men, but saying little to Saul himself. The seer's face was inscrutable, and Saul could not shake the feeling that he was being watched or judged. When the feast ended, Samuel led Saul and Tavi back into the city. The moon hung high in the night sky, casting silver light over the narrow streets. Samuel stopped before a small home, gesturing to the rooftop.
Samuel / Prophet
I have made a place for you to rest. In the morning, you will go on your way.
Saul / Narrator
Thank you, great Seer.
Samuel / Prophet
Call me Samuel. I'm a prophet, but I'm still a man. Remember, young song. No title elevates you beyond humanity. We are all but dust, and to the dust we shall all return.
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel left unceremoniously, and the two companions scaled the stairs onto the roof. The beds on the roof were simple, nothing more than mats and a single lamp burning low at its head. Tavi lay nearby, snoring softly, but Saul remained awake. He stared at the moon, his heart restless. The words Samuel had spoken echoed in his mind. The hope of Israel. He could not sleep. Something was shifting within him, something he could not yet name. Dawn broke, casting the hills in golden light. Samuel roused Saul with a firm nudge.
Samuel / Prophet
Rise, Saul. It is time for you to go.
Narrator / Storyteller
The three men walked toward the city gates, the streets stirring with the first signs of life. As they approached the edge of the city, Samuel tugged at Saul's sleeve.
Samuel / Prophet
Tell your servant to go on ahead. You and I must speak alone.
Narrator / Storyteller
Saul obeyed, and Samuel led him to a stream that curved lazily around the city. The old man gestured for Saul to sit on a smooth stone by the water's edge. Then, from his robes, Samuel withdrew a flask of oil. Saul watched in silence as Saul. Samuel uncorked the flask and lifted it high. His lips moved in a whisper, his words too soft for Saul to hear. It was not the kind of prayer Saul was used to. This was intimate and powerful. It was as if Samuel was speaking directly to someone, right there by his side. When the prophet's hand Steadied, he poured the oil over Saul's head. The fragrant liquid spilled down, soaking into his hair and trickling over his shoulders. Samuel placed his hands on either side of Saul's face, pulling him close until their foreheads nearly touched.
Samuel / Prophet
The Lord has anointed you. You will reign over his people, Saul. You will deliver them from their enemies. This oil is a sign of his favor, but his spirit will be the true mark of your calling. How can this be?
Narrator / Storyteller
Samuel straightened, lifting Saul to his feet.
Samuel / Prophet
As you return home, signs will follow. They will confirm the Lord's hand upon you. But when the spirit comes upon you, Saul, you will become a man.
Narrator / Storyteller
The prophet's words rang in Saul's ears as he walked away, the oil still clinging to his skin. He had come in search of donkeys. He was leaving with a destiny. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.
Samuel / Prophet
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Narrator / Storyteller
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Podcast Host / Narrator
this is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed human.
Date: May 6, 2026
Host: Pray.com
This episode of The Chosen People offers a dramatic retelling of the biblical story of Saul’s anointing as the first king of Israel. Set against the backdrop of ancient Benjamin, the narrative explores themes of leadership, humility, destiny, and divine purpose, providing a vivid exploration of what it means to be chosen by God for greatness—even amid doubts and shortcomings.
God’s Sovereignty over Human Choice:
Saul’s Reluctant Destiny:
Prophetic Clarity:
On Leadership & Humility:
The storytelling is rich, immersive, and contemplative, laced with both reverent drama and wry humor (especially in the camaraderie between Saul and Tavi). Dialogue is natural, often using biblical language but with a contemporary sensibility that makes ancient events relatable.
This retelling deepens the familiar narrative of Saul’s rise to king, spotlighting not just the overt spiritual drama but the very human struggle with insecurity, identity, and calling. If you're curious about the spiritual relevance of ancient tales in modern life, this episode offers both inspiration and thoughtful questions about how we respond when destiny calls—especially when we feel unworthy.
Notable Quote to Remember:
“God does not waste his anointing on men without purpose.”
– Samuel, 20:25
For further episodes and more immersive biblical storytelling, listen to The Chosen People podcast on the pray.com app or your favorite podcast provider.