15 and Jehovah had uncovered the ear of Samuel one day before the coming of Saul, saying, 16 'At this time tomorrow, I send unto thee a man out of the land of Benjamin—and thou hast anointed him for leader over My people Israel, and he hath saved My people out of the hand of the Philistines; for I have seen My people, for its cry hath come in unto Me.' 17 When Samuel hath seen Saul, then hath Jehovah answered him, 'Lo, the man of whom I have spoken unto thee; this 'one' doth restrain My people.'
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 9:15-17
Commentary on 1 Samuel 9:11-17
(Read 1 Samuel 9:11-17)
The very maid-servants of the city could direct to the prophet. They had heard of the sacrifice, and could tell of the necessity for Samuel's presence. It is no small benefit to live in religious and holy places. And we should always be ready to help those who are seeking after God's prophets. Though God had, in displeasure, granted Israel's request for a king, yet he sends them a man to be captain over them, to save them out of the hand of the Philistines. He does it, listening graciously to their cry.