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SAUL’S NEW BATTLE WITH THE PHILISTINES
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
1 Samuel 14:24-52

James 3:13-18

 

“…let him shew
out of a good conversation

his works with meekness of wisdom.”

 

SAUL’S NEW BATTLE WITH THE PHILISTINES
 
The king thereafter remembered the Lord and he built an altar to Him. This was an affirmation on his part that Israel worshipped Jehovah.
 
The king gave an order to his men to go after the Philistines at night. The people were agreeable and were ready, but at this point, a priest intervened. He asked them to draw near to God first. Thus, the king asked the Lord if it was the right time to fight the Philistines. All was not well with Israel, and it was not wise to go after the Philistines without putting their house in order. The matter of the oath was not over. The king heard that someone had violated his oath. It was a sin to do so, and inquiry was made. It was discovered that it was the king’s son who had done so. This was punishable by death. Jonathan acknowledged tasting the honey and was ready to die. The king also affirmed that Jonathan had to die. The people intervened and overruled the king to save Jonathan’s life. The basis of their defense was that Jonathan had delivered victory to the nation in fighting alone and winning. The people overturned the king’s decision.
 
In the epilogue, Saul’s style of leadership is summed up. He continued to fight many wars against the enemies. He fought long battles with the Philistines and built a strong army. The family of the king and his senior officers in the kingdom are listed. He had three sons, two daughters and one wife. When the Lord appointed Saul to be king, He knew of his weaknesses and He bestowed grace so that he was able to lead.
 
THOUGHT: Man is limited in his decisions, but God is sovereign.

PRAYER: Father, teach me in decision-making to seek Thy mind.

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