Definition: And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel [had appointed]: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 13. It’s a really important story about God's plan and how He works in our lives. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: God had chosen Samuel as a prophet to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. He appointed a specific time for Samuel to come to them, and he promised to be there. What Happened Next: However, Samuel didn't show up when God told him to. The people started to panic! They were feeling lost and uncertain because they weren’t following God's instructions. They were like a group of sheep that wandered off without a shepherd. The Meaning – It’s About Obedience & God’s Timing: This verse is telling us that God absolutely needs his people to obey Him. He doesn’t just want them to want to follow, he needs them to do what He tells them. Here's the key takeaway: God has a specific plan and timing for everything. He doesn't rush things. Sometimes, He needs to give us time to adjust and prepare before moving forward. It’s like planting seeds – you need to let them grow before harvesting. In short: Samuel didn't show up when God needed him. This shows that God is patient and that we should trust in His timing. --- To help me explain it even better, could you tell me: What’s your current understanding of this passage? (Are you familiar with the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt?) What are you hoping to get out of understanding this verse? (Do you want a more detailed explanation of the context, or just a general overview?)