Read 1 Chron. 10
Finally, we get a story instead of the genealogies! And what a story! Right in the middle of all the lists we have the conclusion of Saul's life. Chronicles remind me of my journals: right in the middle of my notes on the Bible I have a dream written out or a grocery list. So let's look at this insert.
The Philistines were God's tool to accomplish His purposes in the lives of the Israelites. God was pouring out his judgment and promise on the house of Saul. (I Sam 13:13-14) The Israelites died at mount Gilboa which means "fountain of pouring forth". Saul's sons were killed which is ashamed because Jonathan was such a godly man, but he was the son of Saul so he had to die. David was God's choice for the next king, not a descendant of Saul's.
It was a popular thing to kill yourself in battle back then which is what Saul and his armour bearer did. (Armour bearers seem to be extensions of their masters sort of like a conscience.) Suicide is the devil's plan for your life. Jesus came that we might have abundant life. The devil comes that he might steal life and make it unfruitful. Once Saul and his sons were dead there was no one to stand with the people for their land so they lost that too. The devil is not merciful, he will kick you when you are down. When the Philistines found the body of Saul on the battlefield they took his head and his armour back home to place in their idol temple. That is all the devil cares about your head - your God; and your armor - the Word of God in you. That is what he wants to steal.
Look at the reason God had to take Saul's life for: he didn't keep the word of the Lord, he asked counsel of a witch instead of asking God. Saul was judged harshly because as the leader he led the people in the same sins he committed. As the king goes, so the country goes. With much power comes much responsibility and Saul abused both. I wonder how many times we fall into the same sins Saul did: not keeping or believing what God has told us and seeking the world's counsel.
Lord, write your word on the tablets of our hearts that we won't sin against you.
1 comment:
I think believing is so hard sometimes when the circumstances around us are not coinciding with what we are being told. Over the last 2 years, God has been writing on my brain and heart to, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, but in everything acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight" Proverbs 3:5-6. It is always good to get extra encouragement to believe in HIM.
Post a Comment