18. Samuel told the Israelites, “The Lord, the God of Israel says, ‘I led Israel out of Egypt. I saved you from Egypt’s control and from the other kingdoms that tried to hurt you.’
19. But today you have rejected your God. Your God saves you from all your troubles and problems. But you said, ‘No, we want a king to rule us.’ Now come, stand before the Lord in your family groups and tribes.”
20. Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel near. Then Samuel began to choose the new king. First, the tribe of Benjamin was chosen.
21. Samuel told each family in the tribe of Benjamin to pass by. Matri’s family was chosen. Then Samuel told each man in Matri’s family to walk by. Saul son of Kish was chosen. But when the people looked for Saul, they could not find him.
22. Then they asked the Lord, “Has Saul come here yet?” The Lord said, “Saul is hiding behind the supplies.”
23. The people ran and took Saul out from behind the supplies. Saul stood up among the people. He was a head taller than anyone else.
24. Samuel said to all the people, “See the man the Lord has chosen. There is no one like Saul among the people.” Then the people shouted, “Long live the king!”
25. Samuel explained the rules of the kingdom to the people. He wrote the rules in a book and put the book before the Lord. Then Samuel told the people to go home.