Portland Gazette, And Maine Advertiser

The Monitor.....No. LXXV.
“Is Saul also among the Prophets?”

David, pursued by the cruel envy and malice of Saul, flees for refuge to the School of the Prophets at Naioth, where Samuel presides. Instead of having recourse to arms, he seeks the advice and prayers of that man of God, who had assured him of the throne of Israel. Here the blood hounds of Saul pursue and find him; but, behold the power of God! They are turned into lambs, for “when the messengers of Saul saw the company of prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul and they also prophesied.” Surprising change! It is good to “wait at wisdom's gates, and watch at the posts of her doors,” for there frequently “the Lord commands the blessing,” even upon those led there by curiosity, yea by malice. Hardened Saul, unconvinced, unsubdued, sends a second, and a third time. The event however is the same. They all unite with the inspired company in shouting praises to the God of Israel. At length Saul, probably suspicious of the fidelity of his servants, or charging them with weakness and enthusiasm, undertakes the task himself: when lo! before he reaches the place he also begins to prophecy, strips off the royal robe, and prostrate on the ground for a whole day and night is constrain'd by supernatural agency to become a prophet too. Well might the proverbial phrase “Is Saul also among the prophets?” take its rise from this strange event.
The phrase has its point at this day. Men, carnal and wicked as Saul thrust themselves into the bosom of the church, and even into the sacred office. They perhaps obtain gifts, popularity and success—they are changed, but not sanctified. They ape the conversation of good men, but their hearts approve not the things that are more excellent.
This subject affords two profitable reflections. It teaches us to consider no man a christian from his words only. These are often deceptive. Actions are the only sure test of integrity. It farther teaches us the power of God over the hearts of his enemies, ruling all things according to his own pleasure, bringing good out of evil, and order out of confusion.
E.