READ 1 SAMUEL 31
GO DEEPER
In the reading for today, we witness the conclusion of the book of 1 Samuel and the end of Saul's troubled reign as a king. What caused problems during Saul's rule? It becomes evident in 1 Samuel that Saul's downfall stemmed from his tendency to act independently rather than entrusting God to guide him. This arrogance led to Saul's loss of his kingship, his sanity, and ultimately, his life.
As the conflict escalated in our reading today, all of Saul's sons perished. To add to the tragedy, it is highly likely that they passed away right before Saul's eyes. The Scriptures do not mention Saul's reaction to their deaths, only that he was injured shortly afterward. After being wounded, Saul once again directed attention to himself, entreating his sword-bearer to end his life before the Philistines could inflict torment upon him. When the sword-bearer understandably froze in fear, Saul, displaying his typical authoritative behavior, took matters into his own hands and ended his life. With no other course of action apparent, the sword-bearer tragically followed suit.
This book concludes on a sorrowful note, yet it offers a valuable lesson for us to reflect on. News quickly spread throughout ancient Israel after the Philistines took Saul and his sons' bodies and displayed them in their temples. Reacting, the people of Jabesh-Gilead sought to rectify the situation. To understand their actions, we can refer to 1 Samuel 11, where Saul had previously come to the aid of Jabesh-Gilead against the Ammonites. Now, in a reciprocal gesture, the inhabitants of Jabesh-Gilead ventured into Philistine territory, retrieved the bodies of Saul and his sons, and gave them a proper burial in their own land.
In the concluding chapter of Saul's life, we witness the notable difference between yielding control to God and asserting control ourselves. Saul even took his own death into his own hands, yet it was God who orchestrated his burial. Despite Saul's demise in shame, it was ultimately the Lord who had the final authority, as is always the case. While it may seem like a small consolation to us, Saul, a king who received what he deserved, was granted a proper burial due to God's love, generosity, and steadfastness. After observing the consequences of Saul's attempts to control every aspect of his life, let us choose a different approach. Let's relinquish control and permit God to reign over all aspects of our lives.
QUESTIONS
1. In which aspect of your life have you not surrendered control to God? What would it look like to relinquish control?
2. Take time to reflect on this aspect. What is preventing you from allowing God to be in charge?
3. Do you have a trustworthy person you can discuss the matter with?