Saul's first test

In the book of 1 Samuel, chapter 11 starts by examining the king of the Ammonites, King Nahash, and how he was gearing up for battle over Israel.

He took over the city of Jabesh, in the Gilead territory.  He then asked for their surrender.

King Saul heard this as he was bringing two of his oxen in from the field and became furious.  He slaughtered his two oxen, divided them up in pieces, and distributed them to all corners of the land of Israel.  And with them became a stern warning against not joining the war with the Ammonites.

Saul gathered up thousands to join in the battle.

He sent one final warning towards King Nahash, that if he would surrender, he would be treated fairly.

That night, Saul sent the men and killed most of the Ammonites.